Microsoft Maps Out 'Project Green'

Monday at Convergence 2005, Microsoft outlined its business applications roadmap for its next-generation "Project Green" Business Solutions development efforts. Project Green will arrive in two waves: The first waves crests in the 2005 to 2007 timeframe; the second will begin shipping in 2008.

Throughout the roadmap, new releases of Axapta, Great Plains, Navision, Solomon, Microsoft CRM and other products will surface. Current generation business management solutions will remain supported until 2013 at the earliest.

Between 2005 and 2007, Microsoft will introduce a common role-based shared user interface with Office integration and interoperability with service-oriented applications. SQL Server Reporting Services will provide a default reporting environment, with SharePoint Portal Server as the standard intranet and extranet environment for collaboration.

According to Microsoft, the second wave is aligned with Microsoft's upcoming "Longhorn" Windows release and will be using its WinFX managed application programming model. Also slated for release in that timeframe are the "Whidbey" Visual Studio .NET update and Office 12.

Speaking on the business roadmap, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates said, "Windows and Office are a powerful foundation for productivity and a rich platform for partners to build great solutions and add value."

"The Microsoft Business Solutions group builds on that foundation to deliver world-class business applications that are simpler and less expensive, offering more companies new ways to enhance the way they work," Gates said.