Two main underlying technologies of .NET are XML (Extensible Markup Language), the data format that enables different computers to understand each other; and SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol), which enables the distribution of information across computers.

Don't look at .NET as a series of products; it is more of a package of solutions customized to fit your business. It is understanding that the activities previously limited to desktop and laptop computers can now be extended to any Web enabled device. It is understanding that Business logic is not reliant upon the platform that each application runs on. It is understanding that the technology will move as fast or slowly as your business will allow.

.Net Technologies do not require you to throw away all previous application logic, and structure. As you update your information-technology system, you incorporate the latest versions of Windows, Office and various other .NET components. You have applications built with Visual Studio .NET and the .NET Framework — applications that can be built in some 20 different programming languages.

XML Web services are software modules built using XML for data exchange to help applications, services, and devices work together. Sharing data through XML allows them to be independent of each other while simultaneously giving them the ability to loosely link themselves into a collaborating group that performs a particular task.

In some businesses, Web services could be a radical shift — particularly those that don't use technology to any degree now. For others, it will be more of an evolution. For most businesses, it will be a seamless transition to increased computing power. We think businesses will lead the way with their own innovations to capitalize on what Web services can offer. We look forward to seeing what applications businesses come up with.