Novell promotes e-business with DirXML

SINGAPORE – Novell, Inc., a provider of Net services software, has announced the availability of DirXML. DirXML extends the capabilities of NDS eDirectory allowing companies to integrate business processes and existing applications across the enterprise.

By combining directory technologies with XML, DirXML facilitates secure cross-platform data exchange over the Internet, Intranet and Extranet.

Through its ability to deliver centralized control of all directories on the network, companies would be able to reduce network management costs and customize eBusiness relationships with clients and customers.

"Companies beginning their transformation to eBusiness are looking for ways to solve critical business problems. This includes managing the integrity, consistency and accuracy of information that resides in various directories, automating business processes, and securely extending the enterprise network," said Paul Smart, vice president and general manager, Net Directory business unit, Novell.

DirXML is able to bring the directory to existing applications, without any application programming or modification. This allows business solutions to take advantage of the management and security of directory-based computing.

Companies can now automate business processes by storing their business data in the directory and allowing customers, partners and suppliers to access certain existing data based on security rights defined in the directory. They would also be able to define which business data in their enterprise can be accessed by electronic business applications.

"As enterprises rely more on directories to manage networked applications, they will need access to the XML metadata that increasingly describes networked resources. Novell's DirXML will be the forerunner of the XML-aware directory architecture of the 21st century," commented James Kibilus of The Burton Group. DirXML was also awared best "Category Breaker" in the September, 1999 issue of Network World.

DirXML is based on the widely adopted open industry standard, XML (eXtensible Markup Launguage), making it easy to implement, deploy and integrate. By utilizing XML, DirXML enables companies to connect multiple databases and applications without the need to modify their existing software – thereby getting the most out of their technology investments.

Novell also offers a developer program on line to train consultants and developers in the practice of developing drivers for DirXML.

DirXML is platform independent but requires eDirectory, Novell’s cross-platform directory service.