Obtaining a Development Copy of Oracle Apps

Hello fellow Oraclers

I recently left a job as an Oracle Application developer to start a company of my own. I would like to go about building a bolt-on tool for the Oracle applications. For example, my application will interface with several Oracle apps via open interface tables, reading their tables, etc... Similar to a Rhythm or Trilogy, I would like to develop a "best-of-breed" product.

My difficulty is now that I'm on my own, I don't have access anymore to an Oracle schema. In order to develop my bolt-on application, I need at least a demo copy of the Oracle applications. For example, just an export of the database for all users' objects. Can anybody help me determine my alternatives for obtaining this?

I tried the usual route. I talked to Oracle, and was told that I need to be at least a level two alliance partner (not sure what this means -- does this equate to a certified partner, or an advantage partner?), and also that it would be "very very expensive" (although no quote was given). If I was the right level partner, and I had enough money to buy the development copy, then the process would still take several weeks. Something about my history of dealing with Oracle tells me that my small company won't be able to afford a development copy of their apps, even if I spend the $10-15,000 to take the classes to pass their certification test and buy a level two partnership. They give the distinct message that they don't want to deal with any smaller firms.

Can anyone point me in the right direction for obtaining a development or demo copy of their apps for a small company budget (if this is possible)? Should I look for a willing client to participate in a co-development opportunity, and use their database? Please e-mail me at macphersonp_at_hotmail.com.

Thanks much,

Pete Received on Sun Apr 11 1999 - 01:35:04 CDT