It still seems to be acquisition time for many companies. Ariba insources hosting operations and buys Alliente.

"Alliente, which formed a partnership with Ariba three years ago, specializes in implementing and maintaining software--including Ariba's--that's designed to streamline the purchase of business supplies. The Colorado Spring, Colo., company sells services aimed at easing many of the difficult tasks involved with e-procurement software projects, such as setting up electronic catalogs and making digital connections with suppliers."

The only reason in my opinion for doing this, is a close insolvency of Alliente otherwise. Why to have the hassle with your ASP performance once again, if so many providers can do it properly?