The enlarged vendor promises software with a better combination of supply and contract management functionality.

Supply management software vendor Emptoris yesterday announced it has merged with contract management software specialist and long-term technology partner diCarta.

The news came as the two companies unveiled the results of months of behind-the-scenes joint development by launching a new supply management suite, Emptoris 6, featuring integrated functionality from both vendors' portfolios.

The enlarged company, which will retain the Emptoris brand, said the new suite would provide a combination of supply and contract management functionality, including tools for spend analysis, sourcing, contract management, compliance and supplier performance management.

Analyst firm AMR Research welcomed the news. In a research note it said the two companies' complementary portfolios and track record as partners should lead to a relatively smooth integration process.

Meanwhile, president and chief executive of the company Avner Schneur said in a statement that the new suite would help firms comply with regulations and policies. “Contracts are at the root of strategic relationships – and visibility and control over contracts are essential to a healthy compliance programme," he added. "Emptoris now delivers more value to customers by integrating the strategic contract relationships with the day-to-day operations of the enterprise, ensuring that what is agreed to in the contract is what is executed in the transaction.”