Thursday, September 07, 2006

SAP: If you can't beat 'em, sue 'em

i2, once a leader in the supply chain management space and a high-flyer in the dot-com days, has shrunk to a fraction of its former self. During the same period, SAP has built out its supply chain management functionality, leaving little room for a best-of-breed player such as i2 in the large SAP installed base.

Now, i2 is claiming that not all of that functionality was invented by SAP. i2 is suing SAP for infringement of seven U.S. patents awarded to i2 between 1998 and 2006. The patents cover technology for process planning, factory planning, sales negotiation and tracking, manufacturing allocations, and management of available to promise (ATP).

In a press release, i2 CEO Michael McGrath said,
i2 is proud of its nearly 20 years as a global innovator and leader in supply chain management. Much of this leadership position was built upon our pioneering ability to solve complex business problems, which was recognized by the awarding of patents for these innovations. We believe that it is critical to protect our patented innovations, and accordingly took these actions today against SAP.
SAP says it is looking into i2's claims.

Related posts
i2 kills off its SRM business
i2 fires 300, struggles to refocus
i2 founder gives up top spot to new CEO

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Yeah - and I remember when i2 was possibly the most arrogant, self-centred company on the planet. Especially under uber-sales-jerk Greg's command. Ken Sharma must be turning in his grave.