Microsoft Adds Support for Two SWIFT Standards

Published: October 18, 2006

by Alex Woodie

Microsoft last week announced that its flagship integration software, BizTalk Server, now supports two additional data transfer standards used in the banking industry. With the addition of SWIFTNet FileAct and InterAct, Microsoft says it supports the full complement of messaging standards maintained by the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT).

The new BizTalk adapters SWIFTNet InterAct and FileAct provide connectivity between Microsoft BizTalk Server 2006 and the SWIFT Secure IP Network (SIPN), using the SWIFTNet link APIs, Microsoft says. SIPN enables financial customers to transfer bulk payment files and messages over a secure, private connection. It also facilitates bilateral communication between financial institutions, industry infrastructures, and customers, Microsoft says.

"The industry is calling for greater automation, more standardized business process flows in the payments area, and the continuation of the drive toward a single market," says David Vander, worldwide managing director of banking at Microsoft. "Microsoft and its partners are working to provide solutions for the industry that are efficient and cost-effective and enable employees to help their companies seize market opportunities, make smart decisions, and realize maximum value from technology investments."

Microsoft made the announcement at Sibos 2006, the annual SWIFT conference that was held last week in Sydney, Australia.