As reported by CNET, Borland IntraBuilder is a rapid application development tool for building database applications that run on Web servers and can be used through Web browsers. Announced today at the company's user conference in Anaheim, California, IntraBuilder shields developers from JavaScript syntax by letting users design applications using forms and point-and-click property sheets, while the underlying compiler generates JavaScript code. Developers can also browse and modify JavaScript source code.
In addition to JavaScript support, the tool includes a report generator for assembling database reports on the Web, the Borland Database Engine for obtaining access to SQL databases and network servers, and a series of Experts to guide developers through complex portions of application development.
Later this year, Borland will offer IntraBuilder in three configurations: a low-end version of the tool called IntraBuilder; an IntraBuilder Professional bundle that will include additional development tools; and IntraBuilder Client/Server, which will include the company's InterBase database server. The company announced pricing for any of the IntraBuilder bundles.
All of the versions will come bundled with Web server software, although Borland doesn't make its own Web server and has not disclosed whose Web server it will be using. Netscape would be a safe bet, however, because Borland today also announced a relationship with Netscape to jointly market and sell Netscape's FastTrack Web Server and Navigator Gold browser software, while Netscape will reciprocate by promoting IntraBuilder and other undisclosed Borland tools.
IntraBuilder is not Borland's only foray into the new market for Internet development tools. The company is also planning to ship a tool for creating Java applets called Latte by year's end. But while Latte is targeted directly at Web developers, IntraBuilder will be the company's first attempt to serve corporate developers attempting to bridge the gap between client-server databases and the new breed of intranet applications.
Borland will spend at least part of its user conference spelling out its strategy for helping this category of developers achieve their goal. But the company must also prove that it can face down stiffer competition on its home turf of client-server development tools. Borland recently announced a loss for its last quarter and ousted CEO Gary Wetzel after pressure from Microsoft's Visual Basic sales caused a drop in sales of Borland's Delphi tool.
Microsoft, as well as Powersoft and other Borland competitors, are also rushing to debut intranet tools that support traditional client-server development, along with cutting-edge Java technology.
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