Last week at the Web 2.0 Expo, Ajax framework vendor Backbase introduced a new application suite called Customer Engagement 2.0. As far as I can tell, the 2.0 in the name has nothing to do with the version, as this is all new; it has everything to do with the suite being about Web 2.0, meaning Ajax and Web-based interactivity. The applications are built on top of Backbase Enterprise Ajax. According to the compan Last week at the Web 2.0 Expo, Ajax framework vendor Backbase introduced a new application suite called Customer Engagement 2.0. As far as I can tell, the 2.0 in the name has nothing to do with the version, as this is all new; it has everything to do with the suite being about Web 2.0, meaning Ajax and Web-based interactivity. The applications are built on top of Backbase Enterprise Ajax.According to the company, Backbase’s Customer Engagement 2.0 “delivers a comprehensive Suite of Rich Applications that brings customer facing web applications to the next level. Customer Engagement 2.0 helps companies create, manage, and deliver online applications more effectively, so they can truly interact and connect with their customers. Customer Engagement 2.0 is about building a strong connection that drives purchase decisions and stimulates active participation. Engaged customers are one of the biggest assets a company or organization can have in today’s competitive marketplace.” The suite has four components: a dashboard or portal presentation tier for mashup applications, including existing widgets and widgets built with the Backbase Enterprise Ajax framework; a forms presentation tier for user-friendly Web applications requiring data capture; a co-browse application; and a chat application. The suite is still in beta, and the products will also be available separately. There is additional information on the company Web site, and the company would be happy to offer in-depth demos. Software Development