Microsoft, SAP get closer on Web services | CNET News.com

Microsoft, SAP get closer on Web services | CNET News.com: "The nitty gritty
Specifically, the deal calls for SAP and Microsoft to do the following:
� This summer, begin testing tools that will let developers use Microsoft's Visual Studio.Net tools to build SAP Web portal applications.
� Offer through SAP a new version of SAP.Net Connector, a tool for linking SAP applications to Microsoft.Net.
� Incorporate what Microsoft calls advanced Web services protocols to handle transactions into SAP's NetWeaver. Microsoft, along with IBM, introduced those advanced Web services concepts last year.
� Make available sample code and a software development kit for integrating Office applications, such as Excel, into SAP's applications. The support extends to Longhorn, as the next version of Windows, expected in 2006.
� Integrate SAP NetWeaver and Microsoft Exchange and Windows SharePoint Services software. Microsoft said it will deliver software to integrate those products later this year.
In addition, the companies will jointly staff a collaboration technology support center in Walldorf, Germany, where SAP is based. SAP and Microsoft will collaborate on marketing and sales calls, publishing technical papers, and funding of marketing development."