Business Object’s (BOBJ’s) acquisition of Cartesis emphasizes its growing commitment to EPM applications (what Forrester refers to as Business Performance Solutions). Cartesis has a very strong global capability in financial consolidations. Overlaps will have to be rationalized in financial planning and budgeting. Culturally, the companies are an excellent fit, both having French heritage. Competitively, the deal puts BOBJ in a better position to battle Oracle/Hyperion and Cognos.

Paul Hamerman

Vice President, Enterprise Applications

Forrester Research, Inc.