The Mobile Data Now (MDN) platform enables mobile users to access data from a corporate database using the existing IM, SMS, or E-mail utilities on their handheld devices. Administrators can use a Web-based interface to define the users and groups that will have access to the data (or allow the data to be accessed via the general public, more below), what data should be accessible by those users/groups, and how the data should be presented to the end users.

To setup the system, administrators utilize a Web-based, Flash-endowed interface that enables them to define the connections to their databases (both ODBC and JDBC connections are supported), define the available users and groups, define the available DBs, data views and fields accessible to users, and define the actual SQL queries that will be launched as a result of the end user's messages. This last step is accomplished via a built-in query builder that allows the administrator to setup SQL statements using visual point and click definitions from drop down menus of available choices for each query segment and parameter. The SQL statements can also be keyed in and/or edited directly, if the administrator desires.

To access the data, an end user would send an Instant Message, E-mail, or SMS message with a specific subject/keyword to trigger the type of query that should be launched by the MDN Server. The MDN platform receives this message (via its own mail, IM, or SMS service) translates it to the appropriate query, launches the query against the defined DB, and sends the formatted results in a return message back to the user. E-mail messages are protected via SSL encryption (IMAP and push-email software are supported); while SMS support is provided via GSM modems or any GSM phone supporting AT commands. Supported IM clients include Yahoo!, MSN, Jabber, GTalk, ICQ, and AIM.

Two type of access are supported by the system: from named users, and from the general public. For named user access to data, the end user must be authenticated prior to receiving data. For those queries open to the general public, no authentication is required. Submitted queries are logged for each user and group.

The platform is Java based, and initially available/tested/supported on Windows systems (the vendor lists Linux and OS X support as in development). As mentioned, access to the corporate DB is via ODBC/JDBC, with the vendor listing support for SOAP-based communications with Web Services as also in development.

Mobile Data Now can be purchased via annual or perpetual licensing costs; with annual costs starting at $49.95 per named user ($999 buys support for unlimited users). For use with general public access, the product is priced at $999.

A free (unrestricted) version is available for a single user in a home/personal context; and the first 600 public messages are free.

Visit the Mobile Data Now Web site for further information.