[jsconyers]

This is not really a BES related topic, but I thought I'd post it here as I believe most (the few of us) GroupWise admins look here. Here is an email from our Novell rep.

Gradenko is the code name for Novell’s DataSync engine. This
software is being developed to provide a way to sync data across
a broad range of applications. Read on to find out how this will
provide more functionality to GroupWise customers, as well as
open up a broad range of possibilities for other applications
and data.

The Challenge
Syncing applications with GroupWise is currently problematical. In
fact, one of the main reasons people move to Outlook/Exchange
is the inability to find productivity applications (such as CRM
software) that will sync directly with GroupWise without third party
software. As we move to implement products like Teaming, it is
imperative that GroupWise customers be able to see all of their
relevant data in one interface. Additionally, as network
administrators, we need to be able to respond to requests to sync
GroupWise with any smart phone on the market.

Enter DataSync
DataSync is Novell’s response to this critical challenge. The best
way to describe DataSync technology is IDM for data. The
DataSync engine will be centrally located at the core of the
network, with its connectors touching various applications. The
connectors will enable data to move between those applications.
As a result, DataSync not only will enable GroupWise to connect
to various applications, but will actually allow all the applications to
connect with each other – without going through GroupWise!
Think of the possibilities! Some of the first connectors DataSync
will offer will include the ActiveSync connector for mobile devices,
a connector for Teaming, and a connector for each of the more
popular CRMs, i.e., SalesForce. There will also be a development
platform available so that you can write your own connectors for
applications as needed.

DataSync and Mobile Devices
Since support for the GroupWise Mobile Server will soon be
discontinued, one of the most popular connectors is expected to
be the ActiveSync connector. This connector will support any
device that has an ActiveSync client, including iPhones, Symbian,
Palm webOS, Windows Mobile devices, and Android. Novell is
even going to certify several devices for use with this connector.
However, please note that one device which does not include an
ActiveSync client is the Blackberry. Thus, RIM’s BES for GroupWise will need to be utilized to sync these devices. A compatibility matrix will be published when the software goes to public beta … stay tuned for more info!

How Will DataSync Be Licensed?
Novell plans to provide any customer with current GroupWise and/or Teaming
maintenance with the DataSync engine, the Teaming connector, the GroupWise connector, and the ActiveSync connector. This will enable these customers to sync their data to and from GroupWise, Teaming, and their chosen mobile devices. Finally, data from all of these applications will be working together! Connectors for other applications will be available for additional purchase from Novell and their development partners.

When Can I Get DataSync?
If you are like me, DataSync can’t come soon enough! We don’t have a final release date yet, as the product still needs to go to public beta, but we will keep you updated as information becomes available. The most important thing to note is that Novell is truly committed to their collaboration strategy (including GroupWise) and to Making IT Work.