SQL delay helps Oracle ISV hunt

Microsoft has delayed the release of relational database SQL 7 until the middle of 1998, three quarters later than the original shipping date.

But the hold-up will help database giant Oracle?s stated intention of stealing independent software vendors (ISVs) from Microsoft. It has previously stated it wants to recruit 2,000 of Microsoft?s ISV partners.

In retaliation, Microsoft is targeting SQL 7 at Oracle?s customer base. Gordon Smillie, head of Microsoft?s applications customer developer unit, is recruiting sales and marketing staff to target the market.

Oracle UK product marketing manager Andy Bailey said: ?This is going to upset a lot of Microsoft?s customers, channel partners and ISVs. But it gives us an opportunity to recruit them for Oracle.?

A limited beta for ISVs and major corporate customers has been released to about 200 sites. The vendor is expected to ship a second beta later this summer.