MS Delivers XML-Based Protocol for Cross-Platform Analytics

Microsoft Corp has opened the doors for application developers to begin taking advantage of a protocol that will allow the deployment of sophisticated analytical database solutions across multiple computer platforms. Microsoft made available a beta version of the XML for Analysis software development kit and an updated XML for Analysis protocol specification. This is the first online analytical processing protocol that enables the transfer of information between analytical databases and client applications, regardless of the computer language used to write the application. Leveraging open Internet standards -- such as XML, SOAP and HTTP -- XML for Analysis is a new protocol that is designed to standardize the data access interaction between a client application and an analytical data provider (OLAP and data mining). With input from more than 50 industry-leading vendors, XML for Analysis is a vendor -- and platform -- independent extension to Microsoft's OLEDB for OLAP and OLEDB for Data Mining protocols. Developers are now able to provide analytic capabilities to any client on any device or platform using any programming language, such as the Microsoft Visual Basic development system, C++, C## and Java. Microsoft is a leader in the development of XML-based technologies that simplify the development, deployment and integration of enterprise information systems. A beta version of XML for Analysis is available for download at www.microsoft.com/data/xml/XMLAnalysis.htm.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is a 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. For more information on Microsoft SQL Server: Visit www.microsoft.com/sql.

Contact Eleanor Davis, 503-412-3663, eleanord@wagged.com of Waggener Edstrom, for Microsoft Corp.