Hi All, Wanted to give a quick update on the expected release timeframe for AR System 7.5.00 as it has moved out a little. The new tentative delivery timeframe for AR System 7.5.00 will be 2nd half of 2008, most likely in the Autumn time frame. Here's some FAQ's that are typically asked right after that statement is made: Q: Can I get it earlier? A: The Generally Available (GA) release is made available to all customers at the same time. However, we're tentatively planning an open beta in the Summer 2008 time frame. If you participate in the beta program, you can receive the pre-release code for your testing or development purposes. However, such code (as with all betas) would not be supported in a production environment. Q: What features are planned for 7.5.00? A: Unfortunately, an exhaustive list cannot be shared at this time. However, the primary goals - which are subject to change prior to release - are: - Consolidation of AR System component installers (e.g. Approval Server, Assignment Engine, etc.) into one common shared installation experience - Mid-Tier / web-client enhancements to provide closer perceived parity with the Windows User Tool. - Enhanced UI constructs that enable a web-based experience to more closely meet today's Internet user expectations - Updated support for 3rd party vendor products like Windows 2008 server and Oracle 11g - 64-bit native execution of the AR System server on UNIX platforms - An Eclipse based development studio to replace the existing Admin Tool - DSO performance improvements - The completion of enhancements to a native Java API - A text based debugger for server side workflow - A new Approval Server UI and process enhancements - Right-to-Left support for web clients Q: Can I ask for more details on these? A: No, not really. This is about as much external information as I can release at this time. Q: When's the beta again? A: Summer 2008 is the tentative time frame for the beta. Q: How do I become part of the beta? A: As we get closer to the beta time frame, external information will be released on how to participate in the beta program. Q: Why did the date move? A: After further evaluation of the work required within the release, available resources, and strategic initiatives within BMC; more clarity around the date became available. Q: Is there a chance the date will move again? A: There is always a chance of future events not playing out as expected. However, we have a reasonable confidence in being able to achieve delivery in this time frame. As with all future looking statements, information of this nature is subject to change. Q: I heard that 6.03 becomes unsupported with the release of AR System 7.5.00 - is that true? A: Under the existing support policy, that is a correct statement. BMC supports the current version and two previous. Thus, when 7.5.00 is released, the supported versions would be 7.5.00, 7.1.00 and 7.0.1. You can review the support policy at: http://www.bmc.com/info_center_support/overview/0,,19097_4736154_4073759 6,00.html Q: Can I ask some additional questions? A: You can certainly ask. However, I may not be able to answer them... I'm sure everyone understands and respects the sensitivity of future-looking information. -David J. Easter Sr. Product Manager, Service Management Business Unit BMC Software, Inc. The opinions, statements, and/or suggested courses of action expressed in this E-mail do not necessarily reflect those of BMC Software, Inc. My voluntary participation in this forum is not intended to convey a role as a spokesperson, liaison or public relations representative for BMC Software, Inc.
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