Summary Bullets:
- Microsoft’s app platform business continues to grow within Microsoft Consulting Services.
- The BizTalk Server app development platform now includes a cloud-based version available through Azure.
Did you know that over 40% of Microsoft’s current professional/consulting services business is focused on app platform adoption? That includes app servers, platform refresh, new development projects on current platforms, and movement to cloud platforms (namely Azure). Under the Microsoft Consulting Services (MCS) business, application development projects continue to be a growing component.
I was given a little peek inside the professional services organization, where Microsoft told me that most custom line-of-business solution engagements with enterprise customers include requirements to implement business process logic/rules. This is typically fulfilled through BizTalk and business process orchestration. Even when BizTalk is not a major element of the solution, the business logic and rules are typically implemented using existing technology (integration, ALM, community implementation guidance) and SOA principles.
One more fun fact: MCS currently employs 15,000 people and 6,500 consultants working directly with Microsoft enterprise customers to help drive business value.
While Microsoft does not field a true SOA suite on par with rivals IBM and Oracle in terms of combined packaging and pricing programs or unified installation and management tools, Microsoft has enjoyed great success with the keystone of its SOA portfolio, BizTalk Server. The product includes a total installed base of over 12,000 customers worldwide, including 81% of the Fortune Global 100. Most notable in recent BizTalk news is the fact that Microsoft has added to its integration proposition a cloud-based version of the B2B integration platform available through Microsoft Azure, so developers can develop, manage, and access apps between various devices and numerous data sources. Microsoft’s app platform business will continue to grow, especially now that BizTalk has found its way into the clouds.
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