mAXBridge™ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is mAXBridge™?

mAXBridge™ is a mobile Application XML Bridge.  The mAXBridge™ server connects the BlackBerry^® client screens with application interfaces.  It allows data to be transferred between a backend application and the BlackBerry^® Handheld client screens and ensures that any business rules handled by the application are still applied to the data.

Why use mAXBridge™?

mAXBridge™ provides a unique integration of data integration with powerful, intelligent BlackBerry^® user screens. No other system allows such highly tailored functionality on the BlackBerry^® Handheld.

Is mAXBridge™ expensive?

No, mAXBridge™ is the most cost effective way to deploy systems to the BlackBerry^® platform since there is no unnecessary functionality. Each system uses the required components of the mAXBridge™ framework, no more no less.

What makes mAXBridge™ different to other mobile solutions?

mAXBridge™ is not a web-based solution and does not use any related technologies like WAP or WML.  Instead, it is integrated with each vendor's application in a way that best suits the application.  This is done both at the Application Server tier, and at the BlackBerry^® Client Interface using J2ME.  By integrating many systems, our consultants have the ability to draw on a large code base and a lot of expertise to enable applications quickly, efficiently and cost effectively.

How long does mAXBridge™ take to install?

Installing a mAXBridge solution onto a BlackBerry can be done over-the-air onto any stand-alone BlackBerry^® in 2 or 3 minutes but the solutions only integrate with data when the mAXBridge™ server is installed. The mAXBridge™ server typically takes 20 - 30 minutes to install an application and configuring the BlackBerry^® Enterprise Server (BES). This however, does not include installing the BES.

How long does a mAXBridge™ solution take to tailor to our requirements?

mAXBridge™ solutions can usually be deployed with very little tailoring as there are a number of options which can be set in each solution. However, if the solution does not match your business processes, a complete solution can be developed by using templates which typically takes 2 - 5 days to tailor and test.

How does mAXBridge™ integrate with applications?

mAXBridge™ solutions normally write data to a couple of SQL Server database tables and these can be integrated by in-house IT staff. However, our consultants can intgrate the data for you or provide connection into existing backend applications using XML or SOAP.

Can mAXBridge™ enable any business software on BlackBerry^® Handheld Devices?

Yes, mAXBridge™ solutions can be deployed against any application that runs on a structured data source ranging from an Excel Spreadsheet to an Oracle or DB2 database. However, the solutions are designed to match particular business processes and have been developed to provide most of the functionality required as an out-of-the-box solution. Therefore, other specific business requirements may require a tailored solution to be developed.

Why does  mAXBridge™ currently only support BlackBerry^® Handheld Devices?

BlackBerry^® technology offers 4 key benefits over other mobile devices:

• Security - BlackBerry^® has a security model that allows an administrator to delete data on the device remotely giving companies the assurance that their data is not exposed if the device is lost. (Read more here)

• Reliability - BlackBerry^® has the reliable 2 way push technology which give the user the assurance that they have the latest data on the device and any changes they have made are in the system without having to consciously synchronise the device.

• Longevity - BlackBerry^® devices are known for their ruggedness and durability lowering the cost of replacement and giving users the confidence of knowing that they can rely on the devices for consistent day to day use.

• Convenience - BlackBerry^® has a longer battery life; so much so, that Intel have licensed the technology to improve the battery life of Laptop PC's. The device is also "always on, always connected", and does not need to be re-started or booted-up yet still has a standby time of around 3-5 days.

How is mAXBridge™ different to other systems that enable applications on BlackBerry^® Handheld Devices?

mAXBridge™ does not come as a single homogenous system but rather as a series of components that allow specific matching of requirements for each solution deployed. This produces an efficient and cost effective deployment for all types of systems.

Who can benefit by deploying mAXBridge™ to enable their applications?

mAXBridge™ should be deployed by application vendors wishing to provide a mobile solution on BlackBerry^® handhelds.  Rather than application vendors each developing a solution from the ground-up, mAXBridge™ provides a framework which gives a head-start for development.

Find out more about why mAXBridge™ can benefit you by sending an E-mail to info@mAXBridge.biz