Oracle has filed suit against SAP for "corporate theft on a grand scale". The complaint alleges "software and technical support materials, which have limited download rights, were downloaded en masse from an IP address originating in Bryan, Texas, home of SAP's TomorrowNow (SAP TN) subsidiary, which offers support to PeopleSoft and J.D. Edwards customers."
It is a sad day for the industry. I was an expert witness for PeopleSoft during its suit against Oracle during the hostile takeover process. I saw the two sides spend over $ 250 million in legal fees. Customers suffered as both sides were distracted for a long time.
SAP needs to come down heavy on the alleged misuse, if true. I also hope Oracle does not overblow this in the media in the coming months.
Andrew Nelson, the CEO of TomorrowNow made a nice case for third party maintenance in his guest column on Monday. Hopefully, he does not support questionably obtained or developed IP.
Third party maintenance is an important new trend in the enterprise software business. It could stall if customers get spooked by this. All the more reason to feel glum for the industry today.
