Ariba readies new applications

Ariba expects to release a new batch of software programs in May that build on the company's expertise in corporate procurement systems. One new set of applications is designed to help companies take advantage of special terms and rates they've negotiated for services that are project- or time-based. Such services could include temporary labor, business consulting, market research, corporate travel and call center outsourcing.

Mountain View, Calif.-based Ariba also is updating a program that helps companies keep tabs on contracts for business supplies. The new "contract workbench" gives companies the ability to draft, negotiate and modify contracts more quickly than with previous versions of the program, Ariba said Wednesday. Another new tool is designed to handle the financial settlement of invoices. The company said that prices for the upcoming releases are still being determined.