The BizTalk Roadmap - Where is BizTalk Headed?

It's hard to believe that Microsoft BizTalk has been around for over six generations. While the introduction of Microsoft BizTalk 2009 introduces dozens of new enhancements, Microsoft has a long-term strategy in mind for this product. Microsoft BizTalk Server 2009 significantly improves interoperability and connectivity and you can expect even more enhancements in the years to come. In fact, Microsoft has even laid out a roadmap describing its journey and ultimate destination. Expect to see continuous BizTalk improvements and new releases every two years or so.

With the continuous improvements and technological gains, expect also to enroll in Microsoft training to keep up with the changes. After all, tomorrow's technology hasn't been invented yet, so you will need to build on today's skills. Learning what Microsoft has in mind for the future of BizTalk can give you an idea of the challenges ahead and help you plan for your future training needs.

Before looking at where Microsoft BizTalk is headed, let's look at recent innovations. Starting with BizTalk Server 2004, the third generation, Microsoft introduced integration with Microsoft Office and Visual Studio .NET 2003 as well as Business Activity Monitoring (BAM) features. In 2006, additional connectivity improvements were made along with the introduction of a new management console. Extended BAM features were offered along with over 20 application and technology adapters for improved integration between applications and platforms. Support for the newer versions of Visual Studio, SQL Server, Virtual Server, and the .NET Framework were also incorporated. BizTalk Server 2006 R2 added even more functionality including integrated support for EDI and AS2 and tools for RFID connectivity to RFID devices.

The latest edition of BizTalk Server, the 2009 edition, builds on the foundation previously laid over the preceding five generations. It continues its tradition of providing upgraded support for the .NET Framework, Visual Studio, Windows Server, and SQL Server as well as adds support for Hyper-V virtualization, SWIFT, new RFID standards. In addition, device management and additional Line of Business adapters have been added.

CurrentMicrosoft BizTalk training programs are in place to help you master the existing versions in use today including BizTalk 2006 and 2009. Future plans for later editions of BizTalk include improvements to: developer productivity, B2B support, ESB, messaging, asset tracking, device management, BI and BAM, and integration with Microsoft platforms. A new modeling platform code-named “ Oslo” is an integration platform that will include a set of tools, a language, and a repository and allow for greater leveraging of services into new applications.

BizTalk 2009 has evolved and will continue its evolution to an ultimate goal of interoperability made simple. While connectivity and integration have become easier with these tools, proper training and earning an MCTS certification are two steps that you can take to ensure that you have the know-how to implement BizTalk and take advantage of its current and future features.

CBT Planet can help you with all of your Microsoft BizTalk Server training needs.