New version, code-named Pyxis, improves integration Taking another step towards gluing together heterogeneous environments, IBM is building a new version of WebSphere that will better leverage Web services to tie together a patchwork of server-based environments.The upcoming version, code-named Pyxis, will support the most recent Web services communications protocols and will be built on IBM’s messaging software, ESB (enterprise service bus). ESB technology is designed to improve integration.The untitled version, which may or may not be called WebSphere 7, is due late this year or early 2006, according to IBM officials. Some IT executives said they would welcome the new version if it indeed served as an integration vehicle for transfering data across disparate platforms.“We haven’t messed with ESB technology very much [for] integration. But given our investment in IBM server products, which touch a lot of non-IBM software, this might be the time to take a harder look at what it can offer with WebSphere,” said Frank Carvey, a systems architect at a large oil company.Adding to current versions for RFID and mobile data delivery, IBM later this year plans to release versions of WebSphere dedicated to specific application needs. On tap are an improved version of its WebSphere Business Integration server, as well as an enhanced version of its ESB. The latter will reside inside the core version of the WebSphere Application Server. Software Development