News

Informix Realigns: Now There’s Two

• By Scott Bekker
• 09/20/2000

The first company, named Informix Software, will handle the database management systems for data warehousing, transaction processing, and e-business applications. It plans to improve on existing Informix databases; deliver a new unified database engine based on existing Informix databases; increase its partnerships with ISVs; and develop its business services offerings related to its databases.

The second company – a new launch that has not been named yet – is expected to provide database and platform independent software solutions and e-business marketplace infrastructure. The e-business solutions company will focus on developing e-business software that supports most databases – including those from Oracle Corp., Microsoft Corp., Sybase, and Informix. The new company also plans to provide an integrated solution that combines Web publishing, e-commerce, and business intelligence (BI).

Initially, both companies will be subsidiaries owned by Informix Corp. (www.informix.com), although there is the intention of eventually developing two independent publicly traded companies. Informix is currently assessing how to divide the capital structure of the new enterprises so that shareholders get the most value. The finalized plans are expected to be released by the end of 2000.

Informix made the decision to split into two separate entities partially because of a slide downward in its market position, but also so that it could hone its product offerings and address different customer needs. –Alicia Costanza