Microsoft contemplating 'sharing' source of SQL Server

SQL Server 2005 is a candidate for Microsoft's shared-source programme, according to senior Microsoft sources within the unit responsible for the database product

Will the software industry's wave of open source databases spill onto Microsoft's turf?

Perhaps. The software giant is considering making the source code for its SQL Server database available to customers, according to Tom Rizzo, director of product management in Microsoft's SQL Server unit. In an interview with Builder UK sister site CNET News.com, Rizzo said that the company is thinking about including the forthcoming SQL Server 2005 in Microsoft's shared-source programme for disclosing product source code to customers.

"It's not finalised. It's not anything there, but if a lot of customers demand it, we'll definitely look at doing shared source with SQL Server," Rizzo said.