Innovation is Different for Small Business - National Survey Results

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Does Innovation Need to Be Disruptive to Make an Impact? 97% of Small Businesses Say No
 
In Celebration of Small Business Week, Intuit Offers Tips to Help
Innovate for Impact
 
MISSISSAUGA, Ont. – Oct. 17, 2011 – For many, “innovation” evokes notions of “radical change” or “transformation,” but Canada’s 2.4 million small business owners have a different definition. For them, innovation is less about disrupting markets and more about changes that generate the greatest impact for them and their livelihood.
These are among the findings in a Canada-wide survey commissioned by Intuit Inc., makers of QuickBooks®, uncovering how the nation’s small business owners define innovation, their goals and its effects on the bottom line. The results are to be the foundation of a small business roundtable discussion to be held in Toronto, Ontario, during Small Business Week (Oct. 17 – 21).
The poll revealed near-unanimous agreement (97 per cent) among Canada’s small business owners that innovation is a key to success but it’s not about massive change or innovation for its own sake. Rather, it’s the innovations that impact business, which respondents defined as new or different strategies, processes or practices enacted for positive business results.
Instead of radical disruption of the status quo, they have taken a more subtle approach by making changes to existing products and services, upgrading technology, or improving customer relations and internal processes. Overwhelmingly, among those who have applied this type of approach to innovation, 98 per cent found that it positively affected their business.
“Clearly, they believe very strongly in the value of innovation, but only when it makes sense for their business,” said Pamela Bailey, experience design manager at Intuit Canada. “Small business owners innovate to sustain their business. Their main goals when making innovative changes were to be more efficient and to drive growth.”
“There can be a perception that innovation is too costly or time consuming to implement,” added Bailey. “In the survey, those who had not made any innovative changes during the past year, 33 per cent cited financial reasons and 19 per cent said time was a big challenge.”
 
Size impacts innovation
        Many small business owners, particularly sole proprietors, tend to manage everything from dealing with customers to shutting off the lights at the end of the day. When asked to describe the current state of their business, results show that more sole proprietors see their businesses slowing down compared to their larger counterparts (6-100 employees) who are more likely to be growing or booming. Over the past year, 53 per cent of sole proprietors made innovative changes versus 90 per cent of those with 6-100 employees, suggesting that larger staffs sharing the workload may free up time for owners to concentrate on innovating for impact.
 
Tips for Igniting Innovation
“Unless you’re trying to change the rotation of the Earth, experimenting with a series of impactful, strategic changes can be extremely effective in actually saving time and making money,” added Bailey. “In working with numerous small businesses in Canada and around the world, we’ve found a few recurring themes that have proven to help small business owners ignite further innovation.”
 
  • Place your bets and lots of them: Putting all your eggs in one basket can be a big gamble. Small business owners tend to experiment with a number of small changes. If one doesn’t quite pan out, the risk is less. These could include revising work flow, adding just a few more products to your offering, updating software and/or increasing your online presence.
  • Bigger, faster or better? Some of the most successful innovation doesn’t come from an overhaul, but simply concentrating on doing something better. That can be as simple as improving customer service to deliver greater value.
  • Save time on the back end: Administrative and financial management tasks eat up a lot of time. Greater efficiency leaves more time to devote to actual business. Tools such as QuickBooks financial software can put the clock back on your side with a one-stop snapshot of money coming in and going out of your business.
 
 
Discussing Innovation for Impact
For the second consecutive year, Intuit is teaming with George Brown College to host “The Spirit of Canadian Entrepreneurs: Innovating for Impact,” an interactive panel discussion that will explore innovation as it relates to Canada's small businesses.
       
This roundtable discussion will feature a diverse group of local and well-known entrepreneurs and experts, including Jennifer Ger, co-founder of renowned Canadian jewelry company, Foxy Originals, Ali McEwen, CEO of Baby On Board Apparel and George Brown College’s own Mark Simpson, founder, coordinator and professor, Institute of Entrepreneurship and Community Innovation.
       
The panel will share stories of entrepreneurial achievement, surprises, challenges as well as opinions and insights on what innovation actually means to the nation's small business owners. You can follow the round-table live on Twitter at #quickbooksCA.
       
The event, to be held October 19th in Toronto, Ontario, is open to the public, but space is limited. To learn more, visit the event page on LinkedIn (http://linkd.in/pVbuxl). To reserve a seat, contact Michael Thomson (michael.thomson@edelman.com) or Laura Casselman (laura.casselman@edelman.com).
 
About Intuit Canada
Intuit Canada ULC is a leading provider of business, financial and tax management solutions for small- and mid-sized businesses, consumers and accounting professionals. Its flagship products and services, including Quicken®, QuickBooks®, QuickBooks® Enterprise Solutions, SuccèsPME, TurboTax, and ImpôtRapideMC, simplify personal finance, accounting software and tax preparation and filing.
        Additional offerings include ProFile®, a professional tax preparation software suite, the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Program and the Intuit Developer Network for professional users and developers. All are provided by Intuit Canada or through its partners.
Intuit Canada has employees across Canada and offices in Edmonton, AB, and Mississauga, ON. Intuit Canada is an affiliate of Intuit Inc., which is listed on the Nasdaq stock market under the symbol INTU. More information can be found at www.intuit.ca.
Stay up to speed with QuickBooks on Twitter or like us on Facebook!
 
About Intuit Inc.
            Intuit Inc. is a leading provider of business and financial management solutions for small and mid-sized businesses; financial institutions, including banks and credit unions; consumers and accounting professionals. Its flagship products and services, including QuickBooks®, Quicken® and TurboTax®, simplify small business management and payroll processing, personal finance, and tax preparation and filing. ProSeries® and Lacerte® are Intuit's leading tax preparation offerings for professional accountants. Intuit Financial Services helps banks and credit unions grow by providing on-demand solutions and services that make it easier for consumers and businesses to manage their money.
            Founded in 1983, Intuit had annual revenue of $3.9 billion in its fiscal year 2011. The company has approximately 8,000 employees with major offices in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, India and other locations. More information can be found at www.intuit.com.
 
About the survey
        Angus Reid Public Opinion conducted an online survey from Sept. 30 to Oct. 4, among 508 Canadian small business owners who are self employed or own their own business and are Angus Reid Forum panelists. The margin of error – which measures sampling variability – for a sample of this size is +/- 4.4 per cent, 19 times out of 20. Discrepancies in or between totals are due to rounding.
 
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Michael Thomson
Edelman
 
Jason Chennette
Intuit Canada
 
 

Microsoft Extends Retail Realm’s Distribution Rights of Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS) to Canada and Latin America

Microsoft Extends Retail Realm’s Distribution Rights of Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS) to Canada and Latin America

Retail Realm launches Latin America and Canada divisions to bring leading retail and POS software to new SMB markets in new regions.

Sonoma, CA, October 08, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Retail Realm (www.rrdisti.com), a global software development and distribution company, announces they have just secured extended distribution rights from Microsoft to sell Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management Systems (RMS) in Canada and Latin America. This move was prompted, in part, by Retail Realm’s steady multi-year growth in RMS sales and increased acquisition of resellers throughout North America. With already a strong RMS presence globally as well as sales and marketing teams strategically placed in Canada and Latin America, Retail Realm will now be able to more aggressively promote and distribute RMS beyond U.S. borders.

Andrea Vesga, LATAM Director of Sales for Retail Realm, will spearhead the sales and marketing campaign in the Latin America retail market. Vesga has worked in various computer software and technology fields for almost a decade and holds a MBA degree in International Business Administration. At Retail Realm she will be primarily responsible for creating and implementing an aggressive business and sales plan to introduce RMS to a viable market.

“LATAM is ripe and ready for RMS,” said Vesga. “In fact, they’re hungry for a flexible, scalable, and feature-packed solution, such as RMS. We already have orders lined up; this distribution agreement with Microsoft will allow our Retail Realm LATAM division to meet the demand.”

In 2009, Retail Realm successfully launched their United States division, Retail Realm Distribution. Today, they have a very large reseller channel base, giving retailers not only the industry-leading RMS software but also utility add-ons that enhance and extend it. These features and functionality include advanced ordering, faster and more interactive headquarters and store communications, intuitive item creation, scan to bag, budgeting, dozens of new item property wizards, marketing data collection features, increased system security, expanded payment capabilities, and more.

“We’re excited to extend our reach in the global retail community,” said Louis Piedra, V.P. of Sales and Marketing for Retail Realm, who will initially direct all sales and business decisions in Canada concerning RMS distribution. “After we saw success in Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, and most recently the United States, the next logical step was to go into Canada and Latin America. We saw such a need for retail management solutions there, and we feel Retail Realm will be crucial to building strong customer relationships in those territories.”

Each division will be represented at Retail Realm’s second annual ‘Microsoft Dynamics Reseller and User Conference,’ scheduled for January 27 – 29, 2012 at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas.

Company Info: Retail Realm is a global company specializing in creating and managing a portfolio of vertical business software solutions that are marketed worldwide through a community of resellers.

Sales Inquiries Contacts:
LATAM Director of Sales, Retail Realm at andrea@rrdisti.com
V.P. of Sales and Marketing, Retail Realm at Louis@rrdisti.com

Media / Event Contacts:
Director of Marketing, Retail Realm at cori@rrdisti.com

IP Wavelength technology continues to gain momentum in the marketplace

IP Wavelength technology continues to gain momentum in the marketplace

Allstream to co-host customer event with partner Ciena to unveil the future of business communication

TORONTO, Oct. 14, 2011 /CNW/ - On Thursday, October 20th, some of Canada's most influential business leaders will gather in Ottawa for an exclusive customer event, co-hosted by leading communication solutions company, Allstream, and network specialist, Ciena.  Customers of both Allstream and Ciena will have the opportunity to observe live demonstrations showcasing next generation technology and to listen to technology experts speak about Internet Protocol (IP) Wavelength-based technology and how and why it is gaining momentum in the marketplace.

"At Allstream, we think of ourselves as technology innovators and industry educators— we not only lead the path but also educate our customers along the way. To remain a market leader, we must ensure that our customers are well-prepared for what is to come," said Dean Prevost, President of Allstream.

Allstream uses Ciena's groundbreaking coherent optical technology to increase its network capacity, enabling Allstream to provide higher speed and more resilient broadband IP Wavelength services to customers nationwide. Wavelength services are an important part of Allstream's portfolio of IP connectivity services. Businesses are increasingly transitioning to IP Wavelength services as they are scalable, cost-effective and future ready.

Allstream continues to make strong progress executing its IP strategy with significant sales in the mid-market.  Some of the customers that recently signed contracts to take advantage of Allstream's suite of IP connectivity services include ELAD Canada, Kc Management, Libro Financial Group, Factory Tile Depot and Edgepoint.

Allstream's strong progress in the IP market is in keeping with the company's focus on IP sales and the accelerated expansion of its fibre network in major urban centres across Canada. IP-based communications services are one of the fastest growing segments of the business telecom market.

About Allstream

Allstream is a Canadian leader in IP communications and the only national provider that works exclusively with business customers of all sizes. For more information on Allstream services and solutions, please visit www.allstream.com.

Allstream is a division of MTS Allstream Inc. ("MTS Allstream"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Manitoba Telecom Services Inc. As one of Canada's leading national communication solutions companies, MTS Allstream provides innovative communications for the way Canadians want to live and work today. The Company has more than 100 years of experience, with 5,500 employees across Canada dedicated to a mission of delivering true value as seen through the eyes of our customers. MTS Allstream has nearly two million total customer connections spanning business customers across Canada and residential consumers throughout the province of Manitoba. The Company's extensive national broadband and fibre optic network spans almost 30,000 kilometres. Manitoba Telecom Services Inc.'s common shares are listed on Toronto Stock Exchange (trading symbol: MBT). Customers, stakeholders and investors who want to learn more about MTS Allstream are encouraged to visit: www.mtsallstream.com.

Forward-looking Statements Disclaimer

This news release includes forward-looking statements and information (collectively, the "statements") about our corporate direction, business opportunities, operations, financial objectives,  planned activities, future financial results and performance that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions.  As a consequence, actual results in the future may differ materially from any conclusion, forecast, anticipation or projection in such forward-looking statements.  Examples of statements that constitute forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "believe", "expect", "project", "should", "anticipate", "could", "target", "forecast", "intend", "plan", "outlook", "see", "set", "pending", and other similar terms.

Factors that could cause anticipated opportunities and actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, matters identified in the "Risks and Uncertainties" section and elsewhere in our most recent annual MD&A and any subsequent quarterly MD&As, as well as our most recent Annual Information Form, all of which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Please note that forward-looking statements reflect our expectations as at the date hereof.  We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law.

For further information:

Media:          
Kristin Foster
Corporate Communications
(416) 644-2411
media.relations@mtsallstream.com     

Finning Provides Update on ERP System Implementation in Canadian Operations

press release

Oct. 14, 2011, 11:42 a.m. EDT

Finning Provides Update on ERP System Implementation in Canadian Operations

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA, Oct 14, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- Finning International Inc. /quotes/zigman/17253 CA:FTT -3.00% today provided an update on its enterprise resource planning (ERP) system implementation in Canada, as well as a projection of the expected third quarter financial impact of that implementation and the five-week strike in B.C.

As previously disclosed, following the launch of its new ERP system in Canada on July 4, the Company experienced implementation issues affecting parts supply, warehousing and distribution operations. Finning's Canadian operations have tested and deployed a series of application changes to improve the functionality and reliability of the system to process and distribute parts to customers. With improved functionality in the application, the next phase of work will focus on enhancing user proficiency and introducing controlled system improvements to achieve greater efficiency over time.

The combined impact of the strike and ERP system implementation on revenues and additional system support costs is expected to be a reduction in earnings per share in the range of 20-25 cents in the third quarter of 2011. The ability to process parts orders has grown considerably since go-live and the Company expects fourth quarter parts activity levels to be substantially improved and approaching normal volumes.

"We are extremely grateful to our customers for their patience and apologize for the inconvenience this has caused. We, at Finning, are committed to maintain our customers' loyalty. I also wish to extend my sincere appreciation to our employees for their extraordinary efforts and dedication during the implementation," said Mike Waites, president and CEO of Finning International.

"The ERP platform will drive operational excellence and support our long-term growth objectives. We are confident that the new system will enable us to provide the highest levels of service for which Finning is renowned. Specifically, the new system significantly improves our capacity for planning, service scheduling, and forecasting capabilities, as well as many other facets of the business and will support our strong growth plans into 2012 and beyond," concluded Mr. Waites.


Contacts: Finning International Inc. Mauk Breukels Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Affairs (604) 331-4934 mauk.breukels@finning.com www.finning.com

SOURCE: Finning International Inc.

mailto:mauk.breukels@finning.com http://www.finning.com

HP and Cisco Deliver Cisco Nexus Fabric Extenders for HP BladeSystem

HP and Cisco Deliver Cisco Nexus Fabric Extenders for HP BladeSystem

PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 14, 2011

To ensure choice and interoperability for their joint customers, HP and Cisco today announced another option to bridge their data center server and networking architectures.

The Cisco Fabric Extender for HP BladeSystem, also known as the Cisco Nexus B22 Fabric Extender (FEX) for HP, benefits customers by extending the Cisco Unified Fabric into the HP c-Class BladeSystem.

The solution offers tighter integration for customers investing in HP BladeSystem and Cisco Nexus switch environments by preserving investments with existing data center technology.

Co-engineered by HP and Cisco, this solution allows customers to easily connect and configure their HP BladeSystem c-Class infrastructure and Cisco Unified Fabric.

Benefits of the Cisco FEX for HP BladeSystem includes:

  • increased network bandwidth and resiliency, which is needed for delivering mission-critical applications running on multiple server links;
  • expanded flexibility to address changing business demands with consolidated migration paths from 1GbE to 10GbE networks;
  • reduced network provisioning and maintenance required by IT administrators from the Cisco Nexus parent switch to as many as 24 fabric extenders

HP BladeSystem c-Class provides integration of data center resources including cables, power supplies, fans networking and redundancy for increased efficiency and reduced costs by addressing IT sprawl at the server-to-network layer.

“BladeSystem customers are looking to HP for solutions that easily integrate into existing environments,” said Jim Ganthier, vice president, Marketing, Industry Standard Servers and Software, HP. “This new solution allows industry-standard collaboration options for enterprises choosing HP BladeSystem c-Class infrastructure while simplifying their connections and reducing network costs.”

“Our customers want to easily and cost-effectively take advantage of the latest Cisco Unified Fabric innovations,” said Soni Jiandani, senior vice president, Server, Access and Virtualization Technology Group, Cisco. “By offering the Cisco Nexus B22 Fabric Extender (FEX) for HP, our customers can extend the benefits of the Cisco Unified Fabric across their existing data center infrastructure.”

Pricing and availability

The Cisco Fabric Extender for HP BladeSystem is now available directly from HP and its authorized partners. Pricing begins at $9,799.(1)

About Cisco

Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking that transforms how people connect, communicate and collaborate. Information about Cisco can be found at http://www.cisco.com. For ongoing news, please go to http://newsroom.cisco.com.

About HP

HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world’s largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure at the convergence of the cloud and connectivity, creating seamless, secure, context-aware experiences for a connected world. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com.

Norton 360 Version 6.0 Public Beta Now Available


Norton 360 Version 6.0 Public Beta Now Available

 

All-in-one security suite designed to deliver strongest protection and performance ever

 

TORONTO, ON. – Oct. 10, 2011 – Today Norton by Symantec (Nasdaq: SYMC) released the public beta of version 6.0 of its award-winning all-in-one security suite Norton 360.  The beta is available for free download from the Norton beta website, and includes the powerful core security technology found in Norton Internet Security 2012, in addition to enhanced PC tuneup and backup capabilities.  The Norton 360 beta is designed to deliver the strongest, most comprehensive protection for consumers, without sacrificing speed or performance.  According to Symantec’s internal testing, the version 6.0 beta outperforms the award-winning Norton 360 version 5.0 on key performance metrics, including an average improvement of over 50 percent on file copy impact.

 

New protection and usability improvements in the Norton 360 version 6.0 beta include:

-          Norton Identity Safe in the Cloud – Protects personal and financial information from cybercriminals and keeps users safe from fraudulent websites. New streamlined interface, simplified login experience, and ability to store passwords in the cloud make accessibility easy from any computer with Norton Internet Security 2012 or Norton 360 version 6.0 beta installed.

-          Norton Management – New web-based functionality lets users manage their Norton products from anywhere in the world. Users can remotely add Norton products, manage security settings and update subscriptions, making it simple to check on the health of their devices or fix issues without needing to be there in person.

-          Download Insight Stability Ratings – Checks every downloaded file for safety before installation and now provides users with additional data about the predicted stability of the application in their environment based on the stability experiences of millions of other Symantec users.

-          Bandwidth Management – Limits non-critical Norton updates when connected to metered networks to avoid using up monthly data allotments or causing overage fees.

 

In addition, key continuing features include:

-          Norton Insight – Norton’s exclusive reputation-based security technology leverages the anonymous software adoption patterns of millions of contributing Symantec users to automatically identify and block never before seen malicious software. 

-          SONAR – SONAR technology monitors running applications for suspicious behavior to quickly detect and disable previously unknown threats. 

-          Norton User Experience – From the streamlined main user interface, Norton 360 version 6.0 beta offers quick access to Norton Mobile Security Lite, Norton Cybercrime Index, Norton Online Family and website ratings service Norton Safe Web.

 

Beta Availability

The Norton 360 version 6.0 beta is available for free public download now at the Norton Beta Center.  Beta testers are encouraged to share feedback and discuss their product experiences in our online Norton Public Beta Forum.

 

About Norton by Symantec

Symantec’s Norton products protect consumers from cybercrime with technologies like antivirus, anti-spyware and phishing protection -- while also being light on system resources.  The company also provides services such as online backup, PC tuneup, and family online safety.  Like Norton on Facebook at www.facebook.com/norton.

 

About Symantec

Symantec’s Canadian operations are headquartered in Toronto with offices in Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary and Vancouver.  For more information on Symantec products or current promotions, access Symantec’s Canadian Web site at www.symantec.ca. Symantec is an active member of the Business Software Alliance (BSA).


Symantec is a global leader in providing security, storage and systems management solutions to help consumers and organizations secure and manage their information-driven world.  Our software and services protect against more risks at more points, more completely and efficiently, enabling confidence wherever information is used or stored. More information is available at www.symantec.com.

 

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Dell Ups the Ante on Helping Customers Unlock Innovation for the Virtual Era

Dell Ups the Ante on Helping Customers Unlock Innovation for the Virtual Era

- from the Desktop to the Data Center to the Cloud
Date : 10/12/2011
Round Rock, Texas

  • Dell is uniquely positioned and firmly committed to help customers navigate a broad range of IT needs from the desktop to the data center; continues to deliver on $1B solutions investment commitment from earlier this year
  • Data center solutions expand with additions to Dell’s Virtual Integrated Systems Architecture to help customers drive enterprise efficiency; new Dell Storage updates
  • Dell delivers on investments in cloud computing infrastructure and services, with new data centers opening in the United Kingdom and United States
  • New intellectual property added from Force10 Networks, extended global roll-out of KACE Systems Management Appliances and further integration of Ocarina and Compellent assets
 

Tweet This: Dell positioned to address desktop-to-data center, demonstrates momentum against $1B solutions investment #DellWorld http://dell.to/odU99B

On the cusp of Dell World 2011, Dell today announced continued customer and partner momentum for its enterprise and end-point solutions, as well as a broad array of new products and services designed to help customers unlock innovation. Organizations today face new and unique challenges and unprecedented opportunities defined by the Virtual Era, which has accelerated the move to dynamic data center environments and cloud computing architectures. Dell is one of the only companies in the world that can help customers navigate this broad range of IT needs – from the end-point to the data center – and deliver the right solutions to meet businesses’ IT requirements today and with confidence for the future.

“Earlier this year we announced a $1 billion investment commitment to customers, extending the company’s global reach into data center, mobile and cloud environments,” said Michael Dell, chairman and CEO, Dell. “Now, more than ever, these investments are delivering value to customers who demand an end-to-end solutions provider to unlock innovation across their organizations. We’re committed to continuing to listen to our customers and deliver solutions that truly address the problems they are trying to solve each day.”

Dell helps customers free critical IT dollars from maintenance to innovation by offering open, capable and affordable solutions that provide CIOs with the flexibility to invest in technologies that address today’s business needs and deliver the peace of mind to accommodate tomorrow’s unknown requirements. Today’s series of announcements builds on the $1 billion investment commitment Dell made to its customers earlier this year and extends the company’s reach into data center and cloud environments.

Delivering Data Center Innovation

IT organizations are under immense pressure to improve flexibility and scalability of their data centers and ensure employees can access the applications and information they need, no matter location, time or device. Dell has an industry-leading position in data center technologies – the #1 worldwide position in iSCSI SAN storage[1], for the first half of 2011, Dell was #1 in x86 server shipments in North America[2] and the addition of award-winning Dell Force10 networking capabilities – and today’s series of announcements extends this position. Dell is also a leader in data center energy efficiency and recently announced that within a five-year time frame, server performance per watt improved 31X on its PowerEdge servers.

Virtual Integrated System Architecture

Dell is unveiling new product enhancements to its Virtual Integrated System (VIS) Architecture to help customers drive enterprise efficiency. VIS extends the benefits of virtualization by reducing the tools, tasks and time required for daily data center activities, automating and increasing the efficiency of an organization’s entire IT infrastructure. And since it’s built on an open architecture, VIS works with a customer’s existing hardware and software investments. New products available today include:

  • Integrating Acquired Technology into Dell vStart Configurations - Dell vStart is a virtualization solution which allows customers to easily build out virtual infrastructures. The solutions are pre-sized, pre-racked, pre-wired and pre-tested to ease deployment concerns. vStart offerings come in specific configurations that allow organizations to choose the size of their virtualization instance. Dell today announced that Dell Compellent storage and Dell Force10 networking capabilities will be made available in vStart configurations in 2012.
  • Dell Advanced Infrastructure Manager (AIM) Integration - Dell has certified its Dell AIM technology to work with Microsoft System Center Orchestrator and BMC Atrium Orchestrator, in addition to its current support for VMware ESX servers and VMware vCenter Server.
  • VIS Creator - Dell today released a new version of VIS Creator which enables businesses to provision extra compute resource from public cloud facilities. VIS Creator’s delivery and management capabilities now extend to physical workloads and its governance capacity to the cloud, giving enterprises the same control over their public cloud resources as they do for the private cloud.

New Dell Storage Compression and De-Duplication Technology

As the amount of data maintained by organizations continues to rise at unprecedented rates, Dell remains focused on delivering technologies that enable easier management of data while increasing efficiency and lowering the total cost for storage. New compression and de-duplication capabilities, obtained through the Ocarina Networks acquisition, play significant roles in Dell’s Fluid Data Architecture and enable customers to better manage and archive meaningful amounts of data with potential cost savings. Dell today announced availability of its first compression capabilities for the Dell DX Object Storage Platform with additional compression and de-duplication solutions for backup and recovery storage expected early next year:

  • Dell DX6000G Storage Compression Node - New data storage compression capabilities help customers drastically reduce data file sizes and the footprint of archival and cloud infrastructure storage. Utilizing industry-leading technology from the Ocarina Networks acquisition, Dell can provide new levels of data size reduction on its DX Object Storage Platform, compressing stored data up to 90 percent depending on file types[3]. With new DX Storage Compression Software, customers can free up space at local and remote sites to significantly reduce their budget for storing infrequently accessed data. The Dell DX6000G Storage Compression Node will be available Oct. 18.

Dell Data Centers Deliver Real Business Value; Solution Centers Enable Customer Innovation

Dell is making substantial investments in its cloud computing infrastructure and services to help customers more quickly realize the benefits of and deploy private, public and hybrid cloud environments. Dell is introducing:

  • New Data Centers – Dell announced the opening of two data centers to deliver on its promise of cloud computing. Dell announced the opening of its first data center in London where Unified Clinical Archiving will be one of the first vertical solutions supported by the data center. In addition, the company will open a Quincy, WA, facility in the United States which is anticipated to become one of the world’s most efficient and environmentally responsible data centers by utilizing Dell’s extensive knowledge of large-scale data center build-outs captured through its Data Center Solutions (DCS) business.
  • Since April 2011, Dell has opened nine Solution Centers in all three major geographies, with three more to follow in the next six months. Demand for meetings at the Solutions Centers has exceeded expectations and customers and partners are already realizing efficiency gains through accessibility to Dell expertise.

Dell Extends Commitment to End User Computing

The Client business represents Dell’s heritage and the company is more committed than ever to investing and supporting customers’ diverse computing needs. IDC expects worldwide total commercial PC shipments to record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.4% through 2015[4]. Dell understands customers’ desires to match trends such as consumerization and desktop virtualization with the current realities of endpoint security and management. To answer these needs, Dell delivers solutions that span technology usage and interaction, tailored services and an overall experience that combines professional tools with consumer appeal. Dell is uniquely positioned to address these concerns and help customers maximize productivity for end users without sacrificing the control, efficiency and security IT manager’s need. Dell introduced a series of new solutions and services including:

  • Dell Desktop Virtualization - Dell announced the availability of Virtual Desktop as-a-Service, the cloud-based delivery model for the Dell Desktop Virtualization Solutions (DDVS) portfolio. The new solution brings enterprise computing to nearly any end-user computing device, anytime, anywhere a network is available -- improving employee productivity, while reducing IT management complexity. Virtual Desktop as-a-Service is operated and maintained via the Dell Cloud from highly secure Dell data centers. IT organizations can enjoy the benefits of a fully managed virtual desktop without sacrificing control and security. New employee and contractor desktops can be quickly provisioned or de-provisioned using new or existing clients to become productive sooner.
  • Dell Data Protection | EncryptionEnd-user devices present one of the greatest data security obstacles to organizations looking for ways to decrease risk associated with lost, stolen or compromised devices and external media. To address these concerns, Dell today added new offerings to its Dell Data Protection | Encryption portfolio that provide organizations with simple, comprehensive and flexible encryption solutions. The new encryption protection features include Full Volume Encryption with Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) 140-2 Level 3 certification for customers who require military-grade security, one of the highest certifications commercially available for full disk encryption solutions, and Microsoft BitLocker Manager. These solutions round out the portfolio that also includes detachable storage protection with External Media Edition and intelligent system drive protection for Microsoft Windows with Data-Centric Encryption.
  • Dell KACE Global Expansion – Dell is expanding the availability of its rapidly growing line of Dell KACE Systems Management Appliances in EMEA and APJ. Dell KACE’s comprehensive and affordable systems management solutions have rapidly gained market share in North America and English-speaking countries around the world. Dell is now making the easy-to-use appliances available in select countries overseas in German, French, Chinese, Japanese and Brazilian Portuguese. Designed to save IT administrators time and money, the appliances help ensure organizations can easily deploy and manage remote client systems globally.

Channel Momentum

As a global solutions provider with more than 40,000 services professionals and more than 95,000 commercial channel partners, Dell offers flexible engagement models for delivering end-to-end technology solutions. As part of this growing momentum, Dell today announced that Dell Force10 networking will be added to its channel network by the end of October. Dell Force10 availability complements the addition of Compellent and KACE capabilities already available and creates a significant advantage for resellers looking for a long-term strategic partner. Dell has recently strengthened its Dell PartnerDirect program to provide increased rewards for certification and training, including new rebates for Premier partners, expanded deal registration terms, financial incentives, and marketing and technical assistance.


Quotes

“Through organic investments and strategic acquisitions, Dell has dramatically reshaped itself to be a true enterprise solutions and services organization from the end-point to the data center,” said Matt Eastwood, group vice president and GM, IDC. “The company has taken consistent and pragmatic steps to help customers solve data center, mobility and cloud computing challenges with a modern architecture. This will serve Dell and its customers well as they look for innovative new technology approaches to drive competitive advantage over the long term.”

Microsoft Officially Welcomes Skype

News Press Release
Microsoft Officially Welcomes Skype
Microsoft and Skype will empower people and businesses to connect in new ways.

REDMOND, Wash., and LUXEMBOURG — Oct. 13, 2011 — Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq “MSFT”) has closed its acquisition of Skype Global S.à r.l. Negotiations of the definitive agreement under which Microsoft would acquire Skype, an Internet communications company, for $8.5 billion were led by investor group Silver Lake and the transaction was originally announced on May 10, 2011. Boards of directors of both Microsoft and Skype previously approved the acquisition. 

The Internet has changed video calling for millions of people. Explore some of the numbers and stats showing the scope and impact of how Skype is helping people stay connected.
The Internet has changed video calling for millions of people. Explore some of the numbers and stats showing the scope and impact of how Skype is helping people stay connected.
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Microsoft and Skype will remain focused on their shared goal of connecting all people across all devices and accelerating both companies’ efforts to transform real-time communications for consumers and enterprise customers. The completion of the acquisition also marks the official introduction of Skype as a new business division within Microsoft.

“Skype is a phenomenal product and brand that is loved by hundreds of millions of people around the world,” said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. “We look forward to working with the Skype team to create new ways for people to stay connected to family, friends, clients and colleagues — anytime, anywhere.”

Skype CEO Tony Bates will assume the title of president of the Skype Division of Microsoft immediately, reporting directly to Ballmer. The Skype division will continue to offer its current products to millions of users globally. Longer term, Skype will also be integrated across an array of Microsoft products to broaden Skype’s reach and accelerate its growth as a fundamental way people communicate online. Skype employees will continue to be located around the world in offices including Estonia, the Czech Republic, Russia, Sweden, the United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United States.

“By bringing together the best of Microsoft and the best of Skype, we are committed to empowering consumers and businesses around the globe to connect in new ways,” Bates said. “Together, we will be able to accelerate Skype’s goal to reach 1 billion users daily,” Bates said.

Founded in 2003, Skype was acquired by eBay in September 2005, and then acquired by an investment group led by Silver Lake in November 2009. Skype has made impressive progress, developing new products and revenue streams, strategic acquisitions, acquiring the intellectual property powering its peer-to-peer network, and recruiting an outstanding senior management team.

Tony Bates, president of the Skype Division of Microsoft.
Tony Bates, president of the Skype Division of Microsoft.
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Other members of the selling investor group led by Silver Lake include eBay International AG, CPP Investment Board, Joltid Ltd. in partnership with Europlay Capital Advisors; and Andreessen Horowitz.

The acquisition remains under review in a few countries, and will be completed in those countries when such reviews are closed. 

To learn more about Microsoft and Skype, click here.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

For further information regarding risks and uncertainties associated with Microsoft’s business, please refer to the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Risk Factors” sections of Microsoft’s SEC filings, including, but not limited to, its annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, copies of which may be obtained by contacting Microsoft’s Investor Relations department at (800) 285-7772 or at Microsoft’s Investor Relations website.

All information in this release is as of Oct. 14, 2011. The company undertakes no duty to update any forward-looking statement to conform the statement to actual results or changes in the company’s expectations.

Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://www.microsoft.com/news. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft’s Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://www.microsoft.com/news/contactpr.mspx.

Gartner Says Worldwide Data Center Hardware Spending on Pace to Reach $99 Billion in 2011 Analysts to Reveal Latest Global Enterprise IT Spending Forecast on Octo

Gartner Says Worldwide Data Center Hardware Spending on Pace to Reach $99 Billion in 2011

Analysts to Reveal Latest Global Enterprise IT Spending Forecast on October 17 at Gartner Symposium/ITxpo 2011 in Orlando

STAMFORD, Conn., October 13, 2011—  

             Worldwide data center hardware spending is projected to reach $98.9 billion in 2011, up 12.7 percent from 2010 spending of $87.8 billion, according to Gartner, Inc. Data center hardware spending is forecast to total $106.4 billion in 2012, and surpass $126.2 billion in 2015.

Data center hardware spending includes servers, storage and enterprise data center networking equipment.

"Worldwide data center hardware spending will finally reach and surpass 2008 levels," said Jon Hardcastle, research director at Gartner. "Growth in emerging regions — particularly Brazil, Russia, India and China (the BRIC countries) — is balanced by continued weakness relative to pre-downturn levels in Japan and Western Europe. Storage is the main driver for growth. Although only a quarter of data center hardware spending is on storage, almost half of the growth in spending will be from the storage market."

The very largest size category of data centers (which is data centers with more than 500 racks of equipment) will increase its share of spending from 20 percent in 2010 to 26 percent in 2015, driven by the cloud and the shift from internal data center provision to external.

In 2010, 2 percent of data centers contained 52 percent of total data center floorspace and accounted for 63 percent of data center hardware spending. In 2015, 2 percent of data centers will contain 60 percent of data center floorspace and account for 71 percent of data center hardware spending.

"Traditional in-house enterprise data centers are under attack from three sides. Firstly, virtualization technologies are helping companies to utilize their infrastructure more effectively, inhibiting overall system growth. Secondly, data centers are getting more efficient, leading to higher system deployment densities and inhibiting demand for floor space. Thirdly, the move to consolidated third-party data centers is reducing the overall number of midsize data centers. Meanwhile, the largest data center class is, of course, benefitting from the rise of cloud computing," Mr. Hardcastle said.

Additional information is available in the Gartner report "Forecast: Data Centers, Worldwide, 2010-2015" at http://www.gartner.com/resId=1818517.

Peter Sondergaard, senior vice president and global head of research at Gartner, will provide the latest outlook for the IT industry during the opening keynote at Gartner Symposium/ITxpo 2011 in Orlando, on Monday, October 17. Gartner Symposium/ITxpo is the world's most important gathering of CIOs and senior IT executives. This event delivers independent and objective content with the authority and weight of the world's leading IT research and advisory organization, and provides access to the latest solutions from key technology providers. Additional information for Gartner Symposium/ITxpo 2011 in Orlando, October 16-20, is available at www.gartner.com/symposium/us.

Gartner analysts will provide more detailed analysis regarding the overall IT spending outlook during the Gartner webinar "IT Spending Forecast (3Q11 Update)" on October 18 at 11 a.m. EDT. To register for this complimentary webinar, please visit http://my.gartner.com/portal/server.pt?open=512&objID=202&mode=2&PageID=5553&resId=1785914&ref=Webinar-Calendar.

 

Contacts:

Christy Pettey
Gartner
+1 408 468 8312
christy.pettey@gartner.com

Laurence Goasduff
Gartner
+ 44 1784 267 195
laurence.goasduff@gartner.com


About Gartner:
Gartner, Inc. (NYSE: IT) is the world's leading information technology research and advisory company. Gartner delivers the technology-related insight necessary for its clients to make the right decisions, every day. From CIOs and senior IT leaders in corporations and government agencies, to business leaders in high-tech and telecom enterprises and professional services firms, to technology investors, Gartner is a valuable partner to 60,000 clients in 11,500 distinct organizations. Through the resources of Gartner Research, Gartner Executive Programs, Gartner Consulting and Gartner Events, Gartner works with every client to research, analyze and interpret the business of IT within the context of their individual role. Founded in 1979, Gartner is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.A., and has 4,500 associates, including 1,250 research analysts and consultants, and clients in 85 countries. For more information, visit www.gartner.com.

SAP Reports Record 32% Growth in Third Quarter 2011 Software Revenue at Constant Currencies

SAP Reports Record 32% Growth in Third Quarter 2011 Software Revenue at Constant Currencies

WALLDORF, Germany - October 14, 2011 -

After a preliminary review of its 2011 third quarter performance, SAP AG (NYSE: SAP) today announced the following preliminary financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2011. All figures are approximate due to the preliminary nature of the announcement.

  • Third Quarter 2011 Non-IFRS Software and Software-Related Service Revenue Increased 14% (18% at Constant Currencies)
  • Third Quarter Non-IFRS Operating Profit Increased by 26% at Constant Currencies Resulting in an 2.9 Percentage Point Increase in Non-IFRS Operating Margin at Constant Currencies
  • Third Quarter IFRS Operating Profit and Operating Margin Positively Impacted by Reduction of TomorrowNow Litigation Provision by €723 million
  • SAP Reiterates the High End of its Full Year 2011 Outlook

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – Third Quarter 2011

 
Third Quarter 20111)

IFRS
Non-IFRS2)
€ million, unless
otherwise stated
Q3 2011 Q3 2010 % change Q3 2011 Q3 2010 % change % change const. curr.3)
Software revenue 841 656 28% 841 656 28% 32%
Software and software-related service revenue 2.691 2.316 16% 2.692 2.352 14% 18%
Total revenue 3.409 3.003 14% 3.410 3.039 12% 15%
Operating profit 1.755 716 145% 1.127 915 23% 26%
Operating margin (%) 51,5 23,8 27,7pp 33,0 30,1 2,9pp 2,9pp

1) All figures are unaudited.

2) Adjustments in the revenue line items are for the support revenue that would have been recognized had the acquired entities remained stand-alone entities but that SAP is not permitted to recognize as revenue under IFRS as a result of business combination accounting rules. Adjustments in the operating expense line items are for acquisition-related charges, share-based compensation expenses, restructuring and discontinued activities.

3) Constant currency revenue and operating profit figures are calculated by translating revenue and operating income of the current period using the average exchange rates from the previous year's respective period instead of the current period. Constant currency period-over-period changes are calculated by comparing the current year's non-IFRS constant currency numbers with the non-IFRS number of the previous year's respective period.

Third Quarter 2011

  • IFRS software revenue was €841 million (2010: €656 million), an increase of 28% (32% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS software and software-related service revenue was €2.69 billion (2010: €2.32 billion), an increase of 16%. Non-IFRS software and software-related service revenue was €2.69 billion (2010: €2.35 billion), an increase of 14% (18% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS total revenue was €3.41 billion (2010: €3.00 billion), an increase of 14%. Non-IFRS total revenue was €3.41 billion (2010: €3.04 billion), an increase of 12% (15% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS operating profit was €1.76 billion (2010: €716 million), an increase of 145%. Non-IFRS operating profit was €1.13 billion (2010: €915 million), an increase of 23% (26% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS operating margin was 51.5% (2010: 23.8%), an increase of 27.7 percentage points. Non-IFRS operating margin was 33.0% (2010: 30.1%), or 33.0% at constant currencies, an increase of 2.9 percentage points (2.9 percentage points at constant currencies).

Third quarter 2011 non-IFRS operating profit excludes a deferred support revenue write-down from acquisitions of €1 million, acquisition-related charges of €110 million, profit from discontinued activities of €723 million, share-based compensation expenses of -€17 million and restructuring expenses of €1 million (2010: €36 million, €89 million, expenses of €45 million, €31 million and -€2 million). For more details on discontinued activities see separate section below.

"The record quarter was driven by strong results across all regions. Customers recognize the value that they get from the global leader in enterprise software. Innovation in our core products combined with breakthrough solutions such as HANA and mobility are allowing our customers to run their businesses better and to grow in uncertain times. Innovative software matters more than ever and we are at the forefront of this trend,” said Bill McDermott and Jim Hagemann Snabe, Co-CEOs of SAP.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS – Nine Months 2011


Nine Months 20111)

IFRS
Non-IFRS2)
€ million, unless
otherwise stated
9M 2011 9M 2010 % change 9M 2011 9M 2010 % change % change const. curr.3)
Software revenue 2.226 1.757 27% 2.226 1.757 27% 31%
Software and software-related service revenue 7.597 6.521 17% 7.623 6.557 16% 18%
Total revenue 9.733 8.406 16% 9.759 8.442 16% 18%
Operating profit 3.208 2.047 57% 2.924 2.386 23% 25%
Operating margin (%) 33,0 24,4 8,6pp 30,0 28,3 1,7pp 1,7pp

1) All figures are unaudited.

2) Adjustments in the revenue line items are for the support revenue that would have been recognized had the acquired entities remained stand-alone entities but that SAP is not permitted to recognize as revenue under IFRS as a result of business combination accounting rules. Adjustments in the operating expense line items are for acquisition-related charges, share-based compensation expenses, restructuring and discontinued activities.

3) Constant currency revenue and operating profit figures are calculated by translating revenue and operating income of the current period using the average exchange rates from the previous year's respective period instead of the current period. Constant currency period-over-period changes are calculated by comparing the current year's non-IFRS constant currency numbers with the non-IFRS number of the previous year's respective period.

Nine Months 2011

  • IFRS software revenue was €2.23 billion (2010: €1.76 billion), an increase of 27% (31% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS software and software-related service revenue was €7.60 billion (2010: €6.52 billion), an increase of 17%. Non-IFRS software and software-related service revenue was €7.62 billion (2010: €6.56 billion), an increase of 16% (18% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS total revenue was €9.73 billion (2010: €8.41 billion), an increase of 16%. Non-IFRS total revenue was €9.76 billion (2010: €8.44 billion), an increase of 16% (18% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS operating profit was €3.21 billion (2010: €2.05 billion), an increase of 57%. Non-IFRS operating profit was €2.92 billion (2010: €2.39 billion), an increase of 23% (25% at constant currencies).
  • IFRS operating margin was 33.0% (2010: 24.4%), a increase of 8.6 percentage points. Non-IFRS operating margin was 30.0% (2010: 28.3%), or 30.0% at constant currencies, an increase of 1.7 percentage points (1.7 percentage points at constant currencies).

Nine months 2011 non-IFRS operating profit excludes a deferred support revenue write-down from acquisitions of €26 million, acquisition-related charges of €332 million, profit from discontinued activities of €711 million, share-based compensation expenses of €67 million and restructuring expenses of €2 million (2010: €36 million, €207 million, expenses of €46 million, €50 million and -€1 million). For more details on discontinued activities see separate section below.

Business Outlook

SAP’s pipeline remains very strong and companies continue to invest in IT, in particular in innovative software solutions. Due to the ongoing uncertain macroeconomic environment, the Company’s outlook for the full year 2011 remains unchanged from its previous guidance reported on July 26th (except for the IFRS effective tax rate):

  • The Company expects full-year 2011 non-IFRS software and software-related service revenue to increase in a range of 10% – 14% at constant currencies (2010: €9.87 billion), but expects to reach the high end of the range.
  • The Company expects full-year 2011 non-IFRS operating profit to be in a range of €4.45 billion – €4.65 billion at constant currencies (2010: €4.01 billion), but expects to reach the high end of the range, resulting in 2011 non-IFRS operating margin increasing in a range of 0.5 - 1.0 percentage points at constant currencies (2010: 32.0%).
  • The Company now projects a full-year 2011 IFRS effective tax rate of 28.5% – 29.5% (2010: 22.5%), whereas the projected non-IFRS effective tax rate remains unchanged at 27.5% - 28.5% (2010: 27.3%).

SAP will provide further details of its third quarter results and outlook for the full-year 2011 on October 26th.

Additional information

Third quarter and year to date 2011 revenue, profit and cash flow figures include the revenue, profits and cash flows from Sybase. For the comparative prior year periods those numbers are only included since the acquisition date (July 26, 2010).

For a more detailed description of the non-IFRS adjustments and their limitations as well as our constant currency and free cash flow figures see Explanations of Non-IFRS Measures online (www.sap.com/investor).

SAP has completed a review of the appropriate re-measurement of the provision recorded for the TomorrowNow litigation following the motion granted by the judge on the original jury verdict. The judge’s decision vacated the original verdict of $1.3 billion but gave Oracle the choice of accepting $272 million or seeking a new trial. The deadline for Oracle to make that choice will vary depending on the outcome and timing of a ruling on Oracle’s motion for an early appeal. If the early appeal is denied and Oracle rejects the reduced damages of $272 million, then there will be a new trial to determine damages.

The re-measurement of the provision additionally reflects currency exchange rate changes, changes in the estimate of related legal expenses and the fact that TomorrowNow reached an agreement in the copyright case with the United States Department of Justice in the third quarter for $20 million. As this amount was paid in the third quarter it is no longer included in the provision recorded for the litigation.

While the resulting re-measurement of the TomorrowNow litigation provision favorably impacts SAP’s IFRS operating profit and margin it does not have an effect on SAP’s non-IFRS operating profit and margin.

About SAP
As market leader in enterprise application software, SAP (NYSE: SAP) helps companies of all sizes and industries run better. From back office to boardroom, warehouse to storefront, desktop to mobile device – SAP empowers people and organizations to work together more efficiently and use business insight more effectively to stay ahead of the competition. SAP applications and services enable more than 172,000 customers to operate profitably, adapt continuously, and grow sustainably. For more information, visit www.sap.com.

Any statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “project,” “predict,” “should” and “will” and similar expressions as they relate to SAP are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. SAP undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. The factors that could affect SAP's future financial results are discussed more fully in SAP's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including SAP's most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of their dates.

© 2011 SAP AG. All rights reserved.
SAP, R/3, SAP NetWeaver, Duet, PartnerEdge, ByDesign, SAP BusinessObjects Explorer, StreamWork, and other SAP products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of SAP AG in Germany and other countries.
Business Objects and the Business Objects logo, BusinessObjects, Crystal Reports, Crystal Decisions, Web Intelligence, Xcelsius, and other Business Objects products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of Business Objects Software Ltd. Business Objects is an SAP company. Sybase and Adaptive Server, iAnywhere, Sybase 365, SQL Anywhere, and other Sybase products and services mentioned herein as well as their respective logos are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sybase, Inc. Sybase is an SAP company.
All other product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective companies. Data contained in this document serves informational purposes only. National product specifications may vary.
These materials are subject to change without notice. These materials are provided by SAP AG and its affiliated companies ("SAP Group") for informational purposes only, without representation or warranty of any kind, and SAP Group shall not be liable for errors or omissions with respect to the materials. The only warranties for SAP Group products and services are those that are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services, if any. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty.

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