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Summary - IBM's Java-based WebSphere Commerce Suite Pro 5.1 combines quick out-of-the-box setup with deep customization features, but its catalog management tool falls short. (1,300 words)
In the midst of an economic cooling, it can be pretty difficult to justify updating an existing commerce infrastructure. Nevertheless, IBM's WebSphere Commerce Suite Pro 5.1 delivers a solid vehicle for broadening revenue streams by leading global e-initiatives out of the stateside doldrums and across the big blue seas.
The Bottom Line
WebSphere Commerce Suite Pro 5.1
Business Case
This e-commerce component suite reduces time to market for deploying sites. Out-of-the-box integration eases setup requirements, and multicultural features enable global-commerce initiatives.
Technology Case
WebSphere can be configured with very little effort or training. Building beyond the basics will demand an additional development environment, and catalog construction will benefit from a stronger toolset.
Pros
Supports global commerce
Provides out-of-the-box functionality
Contains many wizard-driven elements
Has solid messaging, payment, and reporting capabilities
Is available in a much less expensive Start Edition
Cons
Is costly
Could benefit from more catalog management tools
Lacks integrated Java toolset
Cost
$45,000 per processor, $8,000 per store
Platforms
Windows NT, Windows 2000, AIX, Solaris
IBM Corp., Armonk, N.Y.; (800) 426-2255; www.ibm.com
This Java-based, e-commerce solution is an infrastructure for building, deploying, and administering e-commerce sites. It can integrate with existing internal and partnered systems, which can be easily expanded with add-ons to meet future needs.
WebSphere Pro includes many enterprise-level provisions and tools, including support for auctions, business intelligence, personalization, and marketing campaigns. Although none of these additions are particularly new, IBM has done a great job of making these functions sophisticated enough to address the needs of maturing e-commerce.
Version 5.1's improved user-access control and easier administration will help lower TCO, and cookieless session management will address privacy concerns, thereby bolstering shopper confidence.
Although workability of the new catalog subsystem falls short of comparable offerings in Microsoft's Commerce Server, the suite goes a long way toward surmounting the idiosyncrasies of conducting business beyond native borders and allows broad functionality to be...