Dimension Data i-Commerce Software has formed a partnership to offer XML (eXtensible Markup Language) and WAP (Wireless Application Protocol) technologies to the South African market.
The group is partnering with TranXactive, a young South African company that focuses on the development of Web and voice-based software systems.
"Companies wanting to move into the e-commerce field aren`t looking for products to kick-start their Internet economy operation, but rather partners who can offer a solution," says Renee Pattle, consultant at Dimension Data i-Commerce Software.
"Through its convergence technology skills base, TranXactive will assist Dimension Data i-Commerce Software in extending the local XML and WAP marketplaces. Dimension Data i-Commerce Software`s focus is to bring the enterprise to WAP," says Pattle.
She adds that it is futile embracing new technology if it cannot access existing enterprise information.
"We want users to have access not only to the personalised information widely promised by WAP technology, but also to existing business information," she explains.
As sole local distributor for Software AG (SAG) products, Dimension Data i-Commerce Software can offer middleware such as SAG`s EntireX, for South African companies to extend WAP solutions to access enterprise data via mobile phone without extensive bespoke work.
Last year SAG announced its global partnership with Nokia Corporation on the development of WAP solutions, an important milestone for the convergence of mobile communications and the enterprise.
According to Alastair Koevort, CEO of TranXactive, the combination of Dimension Data i-Commerce Software`s local marketplace positioning and in-depth client base, together with TranXactive`s specific skills in these technologies, makes for an extremely strong partnership.
"Not only is Software AG a world leading data technology company, but Dimension Data is a global information technology group. We are very excited to be working with i-Commerce to bring new and innovative applications to market that leverage the combination of XML and mobile technologies."
TranXactive is also closely tied to Nokia. Working with the local RF-Nokia group, the company has developed three application modules to showcase the use of unified web and WAP technologies. In addition, the companies have jointly developed the WAPHome mobile portal.
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Dimension Data
Dimension Data is a leading global network services and i-Commerce solutions provider, focused on enabling enterprises, telecommunications service providers and new economy companies to communicate and transact effectively in an e-enabled environment.
Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Dimension Data is ranked in FTSE 100 and operates in over 30 countries on six continents. The Group has achieved a compound annual growth rate in US dollars of 78% in revenue and 38% in basic earnings per share over the past two years.