Business software for smartphones, in-memory databases, and cloud computing are the main topics at SAPPHIRE NOW 2010. Customers, partners, and other IT experts are currently coming together on two continents to get the latest on new SAP technologies, software, and updates. As a special highlight, all keynotes will feature simultaneous live transmission. Whether in Orlando or Frankfurt, none of those in attendance at today’s opening events had to miss anything due to the difference in time zones. This is made possible by a highly technical broadcast system that also enables attendees to experience every presenter on giant screens in high definition.

Snabe: Create synergies

Bill McDermott and Jim Hagemann Snabe – checking in from Orlando and Frankfurt, respectively – held a joint press conference to kick off SAPPHIRE NOW.

The two CEOs offered a brief preview of SAP’s customer and product strategy – Tuesday’s scheduled topic – and also allotted time for some critical questions on subjects such as SAP Business ByDesign. For SAP, the future lies in mobile software: Fewer and fewer companies are outfitting their workstations with large desktop computers, opting instead for laptops and smartphones their employees can use while on the move. Particularly in sales and elsewhere out in the field, mobile devices are indispensable. SAP is thus looking to adjust even more to customer needs by focusing on mobile applications. The company’s purchase of Sybase, the world’s leading provider of mobile software solutions, reflects its aim to develop more software for iPhone, BlackBerry, and other popular devices. Looking back on the acquisition of Business Objects three years ago and how it complemented SAP’s product portfolio in business intelligence, Snabe described the Sybase purchase as another building block in the company’s overall strategy of creating synergies.

Read On: SAP Business ByDesign comming July 2010

Two continents, one voice: Jim Hagemann Snabe and Bill McDermott (photo: Christiane Stagge)