Users will be able to engage in complex auctions by including not only price and quantity but product quality, delivery, and more in the mix. It also includes decision support for reverse auctions that helps buyers determine the best bid according to the importance of different variables. Version 4.0 will be available in 12 international versions. Commerce One's enhanced content management application, Content Refinery, adds workflow and product classification capabilities. The vendor is also building a Global Content Network that will let customers of Content Refinery share catalogs with other Commerce One customers.
Analysts say it's a promising concept.
It's a good first step to fulfilling the promise of the interoperablility of exchanges. Auction Services 4.0 pricing will be based on transaction fees.