Microsoft Commerce Server is the definative e-commerce platform developed over a number of years by Microsoft.  At Alltern8 our developers have practical experience in the installation, design, development and implementation of Commerce Server 2009 stores.  The shops we have been working on then integrate into other ERP systems such as Navision via technologies such as BizTalk, all of which we have experience in.  Please visit the BizTalk page for more information on how we've worked with this.

As anyone that has tried to install the Commerce Server platform knows, this is not an easy process.  Which Operating System to use, which version of Commerce Server (Standard/Enterprise), which SQL Database to install, whether to use MOSS or WSS services... and the online help requires hours of patching together to get it right.  We have experience in rolling out stable Commerce Server platforms and is a consultancy service we can offer to any company.

Starting from the example deployment we can then use the Sharepoint Web Part environment or the Commerce Server C# SDK to extend the functionality of the site, and offer exactly the features, without needing to use the "out of the box" functions.

Commerce Server (2009) is just part of the overall solution that the Microsoft platform offers and by using the BizTalk adapters we are able to extend many of the base features so that (for example):

• Orders go directly into the ERP solution
• Customer data comes out of your existing CRM database
• Third parties can integrate into the order process without needing to place orders via the website
• Management reports can be created using external software

So if you need any help with your Commerce Server implementation please contact us on 01243 772200 and ask about our Consultancy services.