Microsoft Corp. unveiled new business intelligence (BI) software yesterday that was designed to let midmarket companies use analytics and scorecards to study business data through various organizational roles.

BIO (Business Intelligence Optimization) for Microsoft Dynamics SL, slated for release to manufacturing in May, allows business users to build, manage and use scorecards and reports, according to Microsoft officials. Users can then view the analytical reports with Microsoft tools such as Excel, Office SharePoint Services and other Office products or directly within the BIO application

Microsoft developed the new BI software with channel partner NexVue Analytics. BIO is built on SQL Server Analysis Services and integrates with SQL Server 2000 and 2005, Microsoft said.

The software is scheduled for general availability in June. Pricing for the BIO Foundation, an entry-level option, starts at $3,600 and includes financial analytics and a two-user license. Additional users and project, distribution, and field service analytics solutions can be licensed for additional fees.

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Prashanth Rai

Tag(s):BI, Microsoft