Apple retail, support switch to PeopleSoft
Kasper JadeExclusive - After almost a year of planning and discussion, Apple Computer, Inc. last week completed a transition of its customer relationship management software from an aging client and server solution over to web-based PeopleSoft applications, reliable sources told AppleInsider.
Both the Apple phone support and retail divisions were said to have partaken in the switch last Monday, which sought to replace the company's sluggish client and server combination with a speedier, more flexible solution.
Workstations behind the Apple corporate firewall were permitted to download Vantive clients for several flavors of Mac OS 9 and Mac OS X. The client applications would display Vantive interface windows with content remotely designed and served from the Apple's corporate headquarters.
Apple's new approach to customer relationship management will use PeopleSoft applications and serve content to Apple workstations and terminals through the company's Safari web browser.
Just last month PeopleSoft announced that it has certified version 1.2 of Apple's Safari Web browser for use with its PeopleSoft EnterpriseOne solutions, which features a series of modular, industry-specific applications. The two corporations reportedly worked together to ease Apple's transition to PeopleSoft, sources said.
While Apple's support sectors certified employees in the new PeopleSoft-based support system, most Apple retail employees were offered self paced training prior to the switch.
PeopleSoft is currently fending off a proposed $7.7 billion hostile takeover bid from Oracle Corp., with closing arguments being heard this afternoon in a federal lawsuit aimed at blocking the merger.
Earlier this month, PeopleSoft warned investors that its second-quarter earnings would miss expectations, citing Oracle's takeover attempt.
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