A database server, SQL will use the directory to centralize configuration, location and maintenance information. Earlier this year, Microsoft detailed how another BackOffice server, Exchange 2000, will be wed to Active Directory, and how Exchange, SQL and Office 2000 will be integrated into a knowledge management platform. The moves highlight Microsoft's attempts to add substance to its product integration, which has been more concept than reality for most enterprise users. There has always been the promise that Microsoft products would work well with other Microsoft products, but that has not always been the case. The overall effort now is to simplify the mass of products they have.
Customers are hopeful but skeptical.
Goldberg has a host of SQL Servers, but is delaying the rollout of Win 2000 until after the network operating system proves itself in the market. Microsoft will face its litmus test on integration next year. The test will include Windows DNA 2000, an integration of servers and services to create a platform for building and managing Web-based applications. Microsoft also will embrace XML as a key integration tool. SQL Server 2000, for example, will support XML-based queries.