Oracle Adds Sales, Product, Customer Applications

Database giant Oracle Corp. has unveiled plans for the next release of its enterprise software. The new version will contain applications for sales force automation, product configuration, and customer asset management. With Oracle Applications Release 11 due in early 1998, the Redwood Shores, Calif.-based software firm will add updated support for globalization, new self-service capabilities, beefed-up workflow features, and support for networked supply chain operations. Finally, the company will offer a self-guiding Implementation Wizard designed to speed implementations and reduce their cost. For manufacturers, the new applications will contain multimode manufacturing styles for companies managing make-to-order projects, such as those in aerospace and construction. Release 11 also will offer Flow Manufacturing for companies in work-orderless, repetitive environments.