Microsoft is, by no means, shy about boating the high level of integration of its SQL Server solutions and SAP. In this context, the Redmond company has offered a variety of examples, featuring companies that have successfully turned to SQL Server for running SAP applications. The stress fell on the lack of complexity, associated with the migration process, as well as cutting down total costs of ownership via new resources made available. Of course, customers can only benefit from such advantages by selecting SQL Server as their data platform. Companies, such as TUV NORD Group, Shoprite Group of Companies and Tata Consultancy Services, are among those enumerated by Microsoft as SQL Server success stories.

"Microsoft and SAP have long shared a commitment to delivering superior value to customers through our enterprise-class software and solutions. The benefits of running SAP solutions on Microsoft SQL Server are well understood, and with this collaboration our mutual enterprise customers are able to move their SAP application-based environment to SQL Server 2005 with less risk to achieve a low total cost of ownership," revealed Dan Neault, general manager of SQL Server at Microsoft.

At this point in time, Microsoft is still offering SQL Server 2005, but the company is in the final stages of development for SQL Server 2008. In fact, at the end of November, Microsoft made available a new Community Technology Preview of SQL Server 2008 (download via this link). The official launch of SQL Server 2008 has been scheduled for February 28, 2008, together with Windows Server 2008, and Visual Studio 2008.

"Microsoft highlighted the benefits customers have realized by migrating their data platform to Microsoft SQL Server 2005 to run their SAP applications: enterprise-caliber reliability coupled with significant cost savings. Customers have experienced over 35 percent cost-efficiencies by selecting SQL Server 2005 to run their SAP solutions. These customers represent a growing number of organizations that have committed to SQL Server to support their most essential systems at a low total cost of ownership," the company explained.