Open Source ERP Meets Google Chrome

Compiere, which specializes in open source ERP (enterprise resource planning) software, is building a reseller channel and jumping on the Google Chrome web browser bandwagon. Here’s how.

Based on internal tests (and a timely marketing spin?), Compiere is “announcing full support for Google Chrome, along side continuing support for Mozilla Firefox and Microsoft Internet Explorer.” Hmmm. Is there really news here, or is this a case of an open source company trying to ride Google’s coattails?

Actually, The VAR Guy thinks the Compiere folks are pretty darn smart. Google Chrome is generating big buzz and four percent of The VAR Guy’s readers already use the new Google browser. Meanwhile, ERP can be a dry subject. And open source ERP is a super niche solution that many reporters (other than The VAR Guy) overlook.

Nevertheless, Compiere has generated some reasonable buzz in recent weeks, announcing 14 channel partners across the globe. Now, a Compiere spokeswoman is back with the following claim:

Sweet. But shouldn’t all major browser-based applications work in Google Chrome? Or is that too much to ask?

Perhaps the answer doesn’t matter. Compiere wanted to link its name to Google’s hot browser. And The VAR Guy took the bait.