QAD Adds .NET-based User Interface to Flagship ERP Software

Published: May 17, 2006

by Dan Burger

In a move that extends its support for the Microsoft .NET platform, ERP software vendor QAD announced the general availability of its flagship product, Global Enterprise Edition, or QAD GXE, with a Microsoft .NET framework-based user interface. That's the first piece of the GXE for .NET pie. QAD officials promise support for SQL Server 2005 within a year. The commitment to .NET is tied to the company's efforts to simplify enterprise technology for manufacturers, as well as a response to change in the marketplace, where Microsoft plays an ever-increasing role in enterprise software.

"Our strategic efforts with QAD will serve manufacturers in established and developing markets," said Robert Bernard, general manager of Microsoft's Global ISV group. "Mutual customers stand to benefit, as the Microsoft platform is the platform of choice for many companies and gaining ground in emerging manufacturing as across the globe."

If organizations, primarily manufacturers, weren't asking for ERP on the Microsoft platform, you can bet QAD wouldn't be going in this direction. Portions of QAD software, such as its supply chain management applications, run on Windows, various Unix flavors, and IBM's OS/400.

For now, the .NET-based version of QAD GXE is primarily about the user interface, which provides the type of easy access to data that most users prefer.

The advantages begin with the familiarity of Microsoft Internet Explorer and productivity applications such as Excel spreadsheets and Web-based navigation. As is usually the case, familiarity breeds productivity. The new user interface also ensures compatibility with the forthcoming Microsoft Windows Vista desktop operating system.

When support for SQL Server 2005 arrives, companies that prefer Microsoft will gain access to production data and database functions that tie manufacturing information to financials, distribution and field service activity.