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Information Technology September/October 2009 Linking Old and New Open-source software integrates programs, helps avoid data redundancy By Debra Wood Jitterbit open-source integration software and service links existing and new business systems. It helps construction firms avoid redundant data entry and share information with software programs that help firms manage projects, bid new jobs and track finances. “Jitterbit has improved the efficiency and effectiveness of our business,” says Kasey Bevans, chief information officer at Balfour Beatty Construction, Dallas, a TEXO member that uses JD Edwards EnterpriseOne to manage financial operations and AutoDesk Constructware for project management. “There were a lot of redundancies of data and redundancies of effort for people at our jobsites, entering change orders and costing information,” Bevans says. “They would do that in their own system to manage their projects. Then they would turn around and do the same in the accounting system.” After installing Jitterbit software, accounts, budgets, orders and subcontracts automatically flow to and from the financial system. “Project managers and project accountants at jobsites enter their information in the system they are familiar with and work with,” Bevans says. “Jitterbit takes it out of that system and dumps it into our accounting system, so the accounting world can reflect it as well.” Jitterbit does not require field staff to learn anything new or take additional steps. “Our business is providing an integration platform, and we provide services around that platform, with a goal of reducing the complexities and cost of integration,” says Ilan Sehayek, chief technology officer for Jitterbit, Oakland, Calif. Jitterbit’s open-source platform allows multiple systems to communicate. It can link any application, even databases homegrown by a customer. The source codes are free for anyone to use, and savvy technical experts can download the product and implement it. “The intellectual property of the product is in the public domain, not proprietary,” Sehayek says. “It improves the product because you have more feedback, more people reporting issues.” Sehayek says most companies appreciate the ability to call someone if a problem develops. Jitterbit provides that support. The cost depends on how much help a company needs. The price typically begins at about $20,000. Jitterbit can provide product support, on- and offsite training and consultation, enabling a company to achieve integration quickly. Later, the construction firm’s information technology department may decide to manage other additional integrations. By using open-source software, Jitterbit can take tools it developed for one company and customize it for another. For instance, when Jitterbit began the Balfour Beatty project, it already had integrated EnterpriseOne and Constructware for a previous client. That allowed Sehayek to get the Balfour Beatty job completed much more quickly—within about four months. “It was almost just plug-and-play; there was minimal effort involved,” Bevans said. “It is completely transparent and seamless.” Jitterbit 300 Lakeside Dr., Suite 400
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