The new Hyperion System 9 Smart Space will allow users to create small, single-purpose applications called "gadgets" or "widgets" that will sit on the desktop and feed customized BI data to users continuously, according to Hyperion.

Smart Space is based on service-oriented architecture and runs on Microsoft Windows XP and Vista and will allow users -- without the intervention of IT -- to link multiple gadgets to access additional data, said Srikant Gokulnatha, Hyperion's senior director of product marketing. The new technology, set for release by mid-2007, is designed to replace traditional BI systems that typically have a separate user interface and require substantial training, allowing more users to access BI, Gokulnatha said.

"If we can provide a much wider range of functionality to end users and bring BI into their world very seamlessly ... then you could reach the 80 percent [of users in a company] who don't use BI," he said.

For example, a manufacturing analyst could create gadgets that feed production plan data and supply chain information to the desktop, while a financial analyst might have a gadget with financial data. Users can also opt to have key performance indicator data displayed as a desktop ticker.

In addition, the new software adds secured and auditable instant messaging support so users can use IM to share BI data such as reports and analysis, Gokulnatha said. All of the IMs are saved and documented for auditing and archiving.