Google Apps has ramped up its cloud battle with Microsoft with the opening of its business-focused Google Apps Marketplace.

The service was unveiled last week by product manager Chris Vander Mey. More than 50 developers have already signed up, including NetSuite and Tactile CRM.
Apps address areas such as payroll and accounting and enterprise resource planning, with some provided free of charge. Developers can pay a $100 fee plus 20 per cent of each sale to take part.

Vander Mey stated: “In recent years, many talented software providers have embraced the cloud and delivered a diverse set of features capable of powering almost any business. But too often, customers who adopt applications from multiple vendors end up with a fractured experience, where each particular application exists in its own silo.

"Users are often forced to create and remember multiple passwords, cut and paste data between applications, and jump between multiple interfaces just to complete a simple task. Today, we are making it easier for these users and software providers to do business in the cloud."

Google Apps unveiled its channel programme last year, claiming it wanted to sign up Microsoft partners. Quocirca research director Bob Tarzey claimed the value in the Apps Marketplace launch was more than financial.

“I would imagine the driver is for Google to identify itself as a provider of valuable software to businesses, because it is not really seen as mainstream,” he added.