Progress OpenEdge Partners Unveil SOA-based Solution

Epicor, BMH offering manufacturers an integrated human resources information app

Epicor, BMH offering manufacturers an integrated human resources information app

Bedford, MA — March 11, 2005 — The OpenEdge Division, an operating unit of Progress Software Corp. and a supplier of technology for business applications, along with Epicor Software Corp. and BMH Inc., unveiled a new collaborative product this week at the manufacturing industry trade show National Manufacturing Week in Chicago.

Epicor provides integrated enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship management (CRM) and supply chain management (SCM) software solutions to midmarket companies, and BMH Inc is the provider of the Open4 comprehensive human resource information system (HRIS).

The new module the companies created, Vantage HRIS, complements Epicor's Vantage manufacturing products by integrating Open4's HRIS product with its support for HR functions such as applicant tracking, benefit programs management, workforce training and development, and simplifying complex calculations such as union dues and benefits.

It also allows Epicor's customers to comply with governmental regulations such as Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS), Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), and Affirmative Action Program reporting (AAP).

"We selected BMH's Open4 solution to power our new Vantage HRMS offering because of its track record in providing an integrated HRIS with the full functionality and flexibility that are the hallmarks of Progress OpenEdge applications," said John Hiraoka, senior vice president of worldwide marketing for Epicor. "Vantage HRMS will empower Epicor customers to streamline human resources processes for more cost effective and strategic management, further strengthening our offering to manufacturers."

Based on the OpenEdge platform, Epicor's Vantage 8.0 technology marries Progress' database with a .NET user interface to develop a manufacturing solution based on a service-oriented architecture (SOA). Vantage said it addresses the core business needs of make-to-order and mixed-mode manufacturers with built-in workflows managing the entire order cycle from marketing and sales through production and planning, sourcing and procurement, installation and service, through to financial recognition. Because Open 4 is also based on the OpenEdge platform and has HR industry expertise built-in, Epicor is able to integrate it, offering Epicor customers manufacturing and HR technologies.

"Progress is particularly pleased to see members of our application provider community forming their own partnerships to integrate complementary applications and form suites of best-of-breed, modular OpenEdge-based application components," said David Ireland, president of the Progress OpenEdge Division, and senior vice president of Progress Software. "This is a great illustration of how our partners and their customers can benefit from SOA. Epicor and BMH have the advantage the OpenEdge SOA architecture to offer a competitive advantage their customers and each other."

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