CorraTech has started an open source project called OpenSuite under the new GPL 3 license dedicated to the integration of open source applications.

It describes it as the "glue required to make independently developed open source applications act as though they were designed to operate as an integrated suite."

The widgetry is still alpha code, an 0.5 release with limited functionality. It's expecting to have a 1.0 release by January.

The technology is said to take a SOA approach and supply server-to-server middleware-layer functionality. It has a number of packaged business processes that represent logical flows of user actions.

The packs consist of reusable functions combined to create cross-application workflows so users can navigate between apps, add new functions and make productivity improvements.

To start, CorraTech will pre-package and pre-integrate Zimbra e-mail, Centric CRM and KnowledgeTree document management. It will then add Openbravo ERP.

It is also anticipating adding SugarCRM. Ditto Intalio's BPMS.

It will support a five-user software appliance.

The ultimate idea is to create single sign-ons, reduce redundancies, preserve intra-session context, improve productivity and implement cross-application business processes.

Initially the first Business process Pack will offer single sign-on and let users manage multiple workflows linking e-mail and documents to accounts with the customer relationship management system.

CorraTech is looking at building a robust community around the project and will develop and provide tools.

See www.opensuite.com.