Novell scores big with DTI contract

Companies House gets DTI makeover for network infrastructure.

Companies House - where all UK firms are registered - is installing an Intranet based on Novell software.

It rejected Microsoft and Lotus products, claiming they lacked equivalent browser facilities and directory services.

The Intranet will be a PC network running Novell IntranetWare, GroupWise and ManageWise.

It is intended to improve working practices at the organisation, which is responsible for registration of company documents, and for search facilities to give the public access to filed documents.

The Novell system was chosen by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Executive Agency after it commissioned IBM Global Services to select the best system for its needs. IBM was briefed by Companies House to develop a strategy for an effective communications infrastructure.

It rejected Windows NT for the NOS, and Microsoft Exchange and Lotus Notes for messaging, saying the products were lacking on browser facilities and the benefits of Novell NDS.

The Companies House system will be used to improve work practices among the 1,000 staff at its seven locations throughout the UK. Staff will be trained to use the email, calendaring and scheduling facilities of the system.

Companies House will also build an Intranet using IntranetWare, which will create internal documents, training manuals and corporate information.

"The system enables the government organisation to pull together its nationally-dispersed offices over a single infrastructure," said Novell's major market sales manager Steve Brown.

"The scheduling and workflow capabilities of the system improve internal efficiency and effectiveness."