http://www.microsoft.com/TechNet/boes/bo/sql/ypages/gupta_qa.htm (PC Press Internet CD, 03/1996)
| Updated: March 14,1996 |  Go To TechNet Home Page |
What is SQLWindows for Microsoft SQL Server 6.0?
SQLWindows for Microsoft SQL Server 6.0 is a new product offered by Gupta Corporation which combines the top-rated SQLWindows application development environment with a copy of Microsoft SQL Server 6.0 for Windows NT. In one box, developers get everything they need to build powerful, large-scale, client/server applications - an enterprise scale database server and a complete application development environment.
Who will buy SQLWindows for Microsoft SQL Server 6.0?
The product is targeted at corporate developers who plan to build Windows-based applications and use Microsoft SQL Server on Windows NT as the target deployment database. Applications built with SQLWindows for Microsoft SQL Server can easily be modified to work with other leading databases as well.
What are the main benefits of SQLWindows for Microsoft SQL Server?
There are three main benefits that differentiate this product from others:
What is included in the product?
The product includes a license for one copy of the SQLWindows Corporate Edition and a license for one copy of Microsoft SQL Server 6.0 for Windows NT with one client connection. When applications are complete, organizations can deploy them by simply purchasing additional client licenses for Microsoft SQL Server.
Distribution and Pricing
How will the product be distributed?
Gupta will be distributing SQLWindows for Microsoft SQL Server
6.0 throughout the world using both its direct and indirect channels.
Is this a limited-time promotion?
No. There is no time limit set on the product or price.
What is the price for this product?
Gupta will price the product at US$3995.00 -- over $600 off
the price of purchasing existing versions of the two products
separately.
When will the product ship?
Gupta expects to deliver the product 30 days after Microsoft
ships SQL Server 6.0.
Who will provide support for this product?
Gupta will provide customers support of first resort. In
cases where additional expertise in SQL Server is required, Microsoft
will provide support. Both companies are committed to ensuring
customers have access to the support they need.
Business Issues
Why has Gupta chosen to develop this product when it already has a version of its SQLBase database for Windows NT?
Gupta believes that this new product will offer customers the best possible platform for building larger scale applications on Windows NT. While Gupta continues to sell a version of SQLBase under Windows NT (called SQLBase Desktop) it is targeted at desktop developers and client-to-client use, for decentralized applications. For larger scale systems, SQLWindows for Microsoft SQL Server 6.0 will offer users superior upward scalability and flexibility for applications that must be widely distributed across the enterprise.
Why has Microsoft decided to enter into this agreement?
Microsoft continues its strong relationship with Gupta. By combining Microsoft SQL Server on Windows NT Server with SQLWindows, Gupta is giving customers a platform to build tough, demanding, 'Muscle Beach' client/server business applications. This agreement will further increase the availability of Microsoft SQL Server and the Windows NT operating system to corporate developers.
How will Microsoft and Gupta promote the integrated product?
The two companies plan to cooperate in a wide range of programs, including direct mail drops, a press and analyst tour, a seminar program and trade show demonstrations.
How does the integrated product fit within Microsoft's Visual Basic strategy?
Different development projects have different requirements and corporate developers recognize the need to use a variety of tools. Microsoft is committed to providing customers with a choice. Visual Basic is a good development tool and compliments the integrated product offering.
As other leading DBMS products move to Windows NT, will Gupta support them as well?
Gupta has always had a deep commitment to continuing the database-independence of its tools. Since SQLBase is the only database on the market propelled by a strategy to scale downward for best support of decentralized data and mobile computing, Gupta sees other DBMS as complementary to SQLBase. We will build the necessary routers to connect to major corporate DBMS products as they appear, but will only selectively enter into integrated product agreements like this one.
Gupta's components strategy is mentioned in the release. What else can you tell me about it?
Gupta supports OLE which is at the heart Microsoft's object strategy. Gupta firmly believes that a component-based model for application development will be widely adopted. In such a model, development team members will aggregate into two primary functions: 1/ component builders and 2/ component assemblers. Gupta's strategy for leading the way to practical component-based development will be fully unveiled at the company's Developer Conference in June.
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