Scala Participation Validates Microsoft Strategy to Empower ISVs


DUBAI, SEPTEMBER 25:  Scala Business Solutions, with Middle East headquarters in Dubai, UAE, is among the early adopters of Microsoft’s forthcoming development framework for business applications, code-named “the Microsoft Business Framework” (“MBF”).
 
“The Microsoft Business Framework” is the working name for the common framework, tools   and set of runtime services that enable developers to focus their efforts and more rapidly build solutions that add value to their end customers, rather than re-creating the common framework logic required in all business applications. 
 
Scala will use this technology to develop the next generation of its flagship business solutions, built on the Windows® platform.
 
The news was announced on September 18th at a Microsoft partner event in Rome. As part of the agreement between the companies, Microsoft will also support those developments and assist in promoting the solutions in the marketplace.
 
Scala plans to further develop the global human resources management and payroll functionality of its iScala ERP product to make both applications available on the “MBF.”
 
“Microsoft and Windows are key to our strategy to increase revenues 20 per cent by 2005,” said Andreas Kemi, CEO at Scala Business Solutions. “We are delighted that Microsoft is committed to helping us to bring the proven strengths of the iScala® Collaborative ERP system to more Windows users giving us access to more customers and making Windows an even more compelling choice for small- and midmarket business users.”
 
Today’s announcements also underscore the continued momentum for Microsoft’s ISV partner strategy in the European small- and mid market business segment. That strategy is to further empower partners with new programmes, products, services and solutions that help them build Windows-based solutions more quickly and profitably.
 
“Scala is one of the most innovative and important software providers in Europe,” said Jean-Philippe Courtois, CEO of Microsoft EMEA. “Its valuable participation will not only enable us to ensure that our platform provides a rich foundation of components for business application developers, but accelerates the availability of more high-value Microsoft® .NET-based business solutions for European customers.”
 
-Ends-
 
About Scala Business Solutions
Scala Business Solutions creates collaborative ERP software – integrating Internet technology and traditional ERP functionality  to make global business simple. With Scala, global companies can fully integrate all their ERP systems anywhere in the world, whether in a subsidiary, division or headquarters, and extending to their partners and suppliers. Scala’s collaborative ERP software makes it possible for global companies to meet the requirements for advanced e-business as well as use a standard ERP product for managing traditional business processes. This enables them to gain measurable benefits from trading electronically, building a private exchange or global portal, or optimizing the supply chain.
 
From offices in Europe, North America and the Far East, and through its network of partners and dealers, Scala delivers software and services that are available in over 30 languages in more than 140 countries.
 
Scala is listed on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange (symbol: SCALA). 2002 revenue was USD 73.4 million (EUR 77.8 million).
 
Visit Scala’s website at www.scala.net for press information including press releases, information for investors, and company and product information.
 
© 2003 Scala Business Solutions, NV. All rights reserved. The Scala logo, Scala® and iScala® are registered trademarks. Other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
 
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software any time, any place and on any device.
 
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries. The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
 
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© Press Release 2003