Microsoft BizTalk Server enables companies to integrate disparate systems and manage business processes by exchanging documents (e.g., purchase orders, invoices, etc.) between business applications within or across organizational boundaries. BizTalk allows you to communicate with partners, suppliers, components, applications, parts of an operating system, or just about anything that needs access information or exchange data with your company. For example, BizTalk is used to pass data between Microsoft CRM and financial packages such as Microsoft Dynamics GP (formerly Great Plains) and Microsoft Dynamics NAV (formerly Navision).

How does BizTalk work? In order to truly understand the usefulness of BizTalk, try to think of BizTalk as plumbing. This plumbing carries text between participants. Note: This text is actually XML (or 'eXtensible Markup Language'), which means it's a low-risk, stable and reliable way of transporting data. BizTalk can be used as an alternative to a traditional EDI solution for communicating with suppliers and/or customers. This type of BizTalk deployment achieves a substantial savings over the cost of a traditional EDI model in which you are charged per transaction. Real-world ROI Many companies are already realizing the cost effectiveness of a BizTalk deployment. EBSCO, an information service that helps libraries manage their serials collections, achieved 871% ROI in seven weeks from its BizTalk investment by reducing the time and cost to develop its business-to-business integration projects. Compaq achieved 129% ROI in .77 years from its BizTalk deployment by automating its capacity on demand process, reducing sales administration overhead, and increasing revenues by attracting new customers. For more real-world examples and more information on how BizTalk can save your business time and money by improving communication and connecting disparate systems, please contact TrinSoft.