NetSuite expands SaaS with add-on marketplace

Stephen Withers
Thursday, 19 March 2009 09:54

IT Industry - Development

On-demand business software provider NetSuite has expanded its developer program and introduced an online marketplace. The company has also announced the first two add-ons that specifically address the Australian and New Zealand markets.

NetSuite's core suites cover ERP, CRM and e-commerce, but the company realises that it can't provide every related function its customers might require or benefit from.

The SuiteCloud Developer Network helps independent software vendors create and market products that expand on NetSuite functionality.

Some SuiteApps run on NetSuite's servers, others serve as bridges between NetSuite and other SaaS products.

"The SuiteCloud development platform has allowed us to create a tightly integrated solution for any call centre handling front-office or back-office functions," said Jim Dvorkin, CTO of Five9, a provider of on-demand call centre software for telemarketing, customer service, and business continuity.

Both NetSuite and the ISV benefits from such arrangements.

"The great thing about an online solution like NetSuite is its ability to grow ever stronger through the addition of extra tools developed by specialists like us," said Guy Mucklow, CEO at Postcode Anywhere.

"The SuiteCloud Developer Network is a vibrant developer community and we're delighted to be joining it," he added.

Following the lead of other parts of the industry, NetSuite has set up SuiteApp.com, an online marketplace for add-ons that address the requirements of specific verticals or implement particular business processes.

So what about the developers addressing the Australian market? Please read on.