We get many questions from customers and partners interested in Domino DB2 integration and its status. Its probably timely to update everyone on where the feature stands and what's being planned.

First thing to clear up is that the feature has been available since Domino 7.0. We have encouraged everyone interested to try it out to understand how and why they could exploit the new DB2 capabilities such as Query Views and DB2 Access views. Many of you have taken advantage of this and there is an actively monitored public discussion forum where you can ask technical questions. The product development team really does read and respond to questions posted in this forum. More information on how to install the feature can be found here.

Additionally, we have accepted a number of customers and partners into our Limited Availability program for Domino and DB2.  (The program name could probably have been better named as the  early deployment assistance program). This program is aimed at customers using the feature to prepare specific applications for deployment.  A number of our participants (including Sirius and Pavone) have presented their applications and experiences at Lotusphere and DNUG conferences this past year.  The qualifications for admission this program are that the customer has a well defined application and need, has existing DB2 skills and is willing to dedicate time to actively participate in providing feedback. In return, they get dedicated support from the development team.

The Limited Availability  program has allowed us to fine tune the features and prepare us for the next phase of the project which is General Availability  - this means  broad deployment by any customer with the full IBM support infrastructure behind it.  General Availability will happen when Domino 8 ships (planned for delivery in 2007).

What's New in Domino DB2 Integration  
Domino 7.0.2 updates - available now
  • Added support for web browser access to DB2 Query Views - Query Views are no longer restricted to Notes client access
  • Simplified Domino/DB2 user ID mapping process

Domino 8 plans
  • We will be adding support for Domino and DB2 Linux servers in addition to existing support for AIX and Microsoft Windows
  • We will be supporting and requiring DB2 9.x for General Availability
  • We will be testing and intend to support Domino DB2 store for custom applications and email databases.
  • We will not be supporting system databases such as the Domino Directory stored in DB2 back ends, due to their critical nature in the functioning of the Domino server.

Other news
  • Domino DB2 integration on i5/OS managed beta program is well underway. The current beta program is fully subscribed.
  • Stay tuned for more DB2 integration news and information at Lotusphere 2007  in January