Business Objects Adds MySQL To Linux-Based BI PlatformBusiness Objects Adds MySQL To Linux-Based BI Platform

Business Objects inked a deal with MySQL AB to embed that company's open-source database technology into Business Objects XI, the latest reporting and analytics package from the BI giant.

Business Objects XI, which debuted this year, is designed to merge Business Objects' proprietary business intelligence product line with that of former rival Crystal Decisions, which it acquired in 2003.

MySQL technology is now embedded into Business Objects XI as a supported database for its system repository on the Unix platform, a Business Objects spokesman said. Similar plans for the Linux platform are to follow. There is no cost added to Business Objects XI for the integration, the company said.

MySQL, of Uppsala, Sweden, claims to make the world's most widely used open-source database, with more than six million installations. As part of the firms' partnership, Business Objects and MySQL will collaborate on building interfaces between various MySQL and Business Objects products. Each will join the others' alliance and partner programs, the companies said in a joint statement.

The combined product targets companies trying to lower the cost of building and maintaining their data infrastructure. The vendors are betting they can deliver a less expensive BI and data platform while still reassuring potential customers about reliability.