SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server provides businesses with a modular communication product based on precise customization of the SUSE LINUX Enterprise Server operating system, mail server, and comprehensive groupware functionality, enabling dynamic cooperation and accelerated work flows, increasing productivity and effectiveness.

With SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server 4.1, enterprises can either migrate all of their communication services to Linux, implementing a powerful, comprehensive package at a fraction of the cost for comparable proprietary solutions, or continue to use installed groupware and messaging applications on their PCs while still leveraging the stability and security of the underlying SUSE LINUX Enterprise Server operating system.

In version 4.1 of SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server, a new WebDAV (Web-based Distributed Authoring and Versioning) interface considerably speeds the flow of information between workstations and the server. For the first time, Outlook users can access calendar and contact data as well as tasks and documents stored in SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server in real time. SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server 4.1 even alerts Outlook users to appointment conflicts in real time.

The WebDAV interface also enables the exchange of data sets from project management, ERP, and CRM applications with SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server, automatically integrating key project deadlines and tasks into appointment and task management tools, removing the need to maintain multiple calendars.

Public Folders, a new feature in SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server 4.1, enable team management of appointments, contacts, and tasks, with changes being immediately available to the team.

View templates facilitate the processing of appointments, tasks and projects. With a mouse click, users can access information such as the appointments of a certain group. Another new feature in SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server 4.1 is the ability to display daily calendars of multiple team members and resources next to each other. Thus, overlapping appointments can easily be identified.

The application DyCE Instant Messenger from go4teams provides quick and effective communication between two and more participants at various locations. Apart from the transmission of instant messages, SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server 4.1 also enables on-line conferences in chat sessions where joint ideas, concepts, and drafts can be jotted down on a virtual whiteboard. Cooperation tools such as a shared text editor and joint brainstorming utilities also increase productivity.

Thanks to the integration of the fax/SMS server Ferrari Office Master, users are provided with a fax capable groupware system and fax functionality, which streamlines processes with unwired business partners.

Because the web-based interface of SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server runs on all common browsers, employees can use its services regardless of the operating system of their workstation. When on the road, they can access the entire functionality of SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server with any computer connected to the Internet and any common platform, including Windows, Linux, Unix, MacOS, and PalmOS.

SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server 4.1 will be available from SUSE LINUX Business Partners beginning November 17. The product includes five CDs, detailed manuals, and one year of system maintenance and installation support under the SUSE LINUX Maintenance Programme. The recommended retail price for SUSE LINUX Openexchange Server 4.1 is EUR 1.240,00 plus VAT and includes a base license for ten groupware clients and an unlimited number of e-mail clients. The participation in the SUSE LINUX Maintenance Program can be extended up to five years.