iSpeech Brings Speech Recognition and Human Quality Text To Speech to iOS, Android and BlackBerry Apps
With over 3,000 registered developers and 1 billion conversions made on the cloud, iSpeech launches free, self-service TTS and ASR platform for mobile developers
NEW YORK, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- iSpeech, creator of the award winning and popular mobile apps, DriveSafe.ly and iSpeech Translator, just announced its new self-service platform for developers to quickly and easily integrate its human quality text to speech and speech recognition into their own apps. The service is free to all mobile developers with support for iOS (iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch), Android and BlackBerry devices. Web developers will also be able to take advantage of the powerful technology through the iSpeech API and online payment system.
Mobile developers can download the iSpeech SDKs and get unlimited access to the cloud-based services free of charge. iSpeech is already one of the leading mobile speech development platforms with over 3,000 registered developers, over 1 billion text to speech and speech recognition conversions made, and major customers and popular mobile apps including TeleNav, Car and Driver, DailyHoroscope and Beat the Traffic (who is planning to release a speech-enabled version this Fall).
"Speech is transforming the way people interact with mobile apps and connected devices, however, speech technology has historically been very expensive and time consuming to implement," said Heath Ahrens, Chief Executive Officer at iSpeech. "We are very excited to be able to make this technology easily accessible to the vast majority of developers and businesses who find themselves unable to afford other solutions."
The iSpeech SDKs and APIs currently provide over 40 text to speech voices and counting with support for more than 25 languages. Premium services are also available, including celebrity and custom text to speech voices, as well as the ability for developers to increase speech recognition performance specific to their use case.
About iSpeech®
iSpeech (http://www.iSpeech.org) is a leading provider of cloud-based speech technology and mobile apps, including the award winning app, DriveSafe.ly® (http://www.DriveSafe.ly). Founded in 2007, the company began as a vision to help college students learn by enabling them to listen to text-based study materials. Today, developers, organizations and consumers worldwide choose iSpeech for its high quality, scalable and easy to use text-to-speech (TTS), automated speech recognition (ASR) and voice to text solutions. The iSpeech Cloud has been used over a billion times. iSpeech® is a privately held company headquartered in Newark, NJ with offices in San Francisco and New York.
Contact:
Vanessa Rose
iSpeech, Inc.
(908) 334-0854
vrose@iSpeech.org
AskMen Launches New 'Manalytics' Site Offering In-Depth Insights About Today's Man
-Annual Great Male Survey feature transformed into a data-informed site for marketers, journalists, professionals and others seeking information on the male 18-35 audience-
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- AskMen, the leading men's lifestyle site, today unveiled a data-informed site for 'manalytics' - http://www.greatmalesurvey.com - a definitive source for the latest insights to manhood, generated from polling, analyzing and serving the largest men's lifestyle readership on the web.
Stemming from AskMen's annual "Great Male Survey" feature - the world's largest online survey for men on dating, sex, technology and other lifestyle habits - the new site is a one-stop-shop for marketers, journalists and industry professionals seeking comprehensive, curated research and expert analysis about today's man.
"We believe that data makes great ideas possible, and we wanted to create a destination that provides users with a deeper understanding of who the modern man really is," said Ricardo Poupada, General Manager of AskMen. "We are excited to share our expertise resulting from over a decade of interactions with our male audience, as well as research from some of the data industry's brightest minds."
Demonstrating its deep understanding of men 18-35, the site will provide timely, relevant, industry-focused content based on AskMen's own data; as well as research from leading thinkers and interviews with some of the brightest minds. The site will explore how data is used by professionals in the men's space through sections including (but not limited to):
-- The Pitch - A monthly feature that highlights one great campaign, deep
dive into why it's relevant and relate back to trends and data.
-- The Infograph - A monthly visual graph or chart, based on AskMen polls,
internal research and more.
-- The Expert - A monthly interview with a luminary in the data field;
people doing inspiring projects relating to the men's market.
-- The Blog - Curated tidbits of relevant data and research to men, updated
2-3 times per week.
To inform the site, AskMen will pull insights from a variety of on-site features, including its Ipsos OTX MediaCT endorsed "2011 Great Male Survey" (which launched in July with over 80,000 responses); its "Top 49 Most Influential Men" (an annual reader poll of male influencers with nearly three-million responses to date) and the "Top 99 Most Desirable Women" (an annual reader poll of the women men find most attractive, with more than 25 million responses to date).
Since its launch more than a decade ago, AskMen has grown to become the leading men's lifestyle site in the world, reaching more than 16.4 million men every month.
About AskMen
AskMen (http://www.askmen.com), a division of IGN Entertainment, is the world's No. 1 lifestyle site for men. Dedicated to helping readers become better men on subjects such as fashion, health, dating, career, fine living, and entertainment, AskMen has the widest reach in the men's lifestyle category, attracting over 16 million unique visitors worldwide. A foremost content provider with an archive of more than 80,000 articles, AskMen updates daily and works with partners like Yahoo!, Sports Illustrated and Fox News, among others, to promote its content.
Reveille and Break Media Announce Development Deal for Original Digital Series
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Reveille has inked a development deal with Break Media to create original digital series for the vast publishing network that connects over 140 million people each month. Reveille will develop a slate of original digital pilots for Break playing to their established comedy-focused audiences.
Reveille is responsible for award-winning hit television series including MasterChef, The Biggest Loser, The Office, and Ugly Betty. With digital series such as Who Knew?, Fit to Boom and Real-Life Makeover with Holly Robinson Peete, Reveille develops digital content spanning all genres from pop culture, fitness and fashion to men's interest, sports and financial planning. The production company recently launched the online series It's Everybody's Business with Jack and Suzy Welch from online to air on CNBC.
Break Media is a leading creator and distributor of digital video content. Break.com, the company's flagship site, is currently the number one comedy video destination on the web, according to comScore. Break Media's network of sites reaches a variety of unique audiences across the web as well as across a variety of digital platforms, including mobile.
"This collaboration brings together the best of both worlds in digital video," said Greg Siegel, SVP Entertainment Development for Break Media. "We're thrilled to partner Reveille's strengths in developing successful online series with Break's strengths in reaching and engaging with massive audiences across platforms."
"Working with Break gives us the opportunity to bring premium content to an engaged and passionate audience. We are excited to work with a partner who shares our vision that great programming can begin on the web, and extend across all platforms, and meet the audience wherever they are," commented David Anderson, Senior Vice President, Head of Digital at Reveille LLC.
This deal follows Reveille's hiring of Anderson and Break's hiring of Siegel, both in early 2011. The collaboration continues the executives' goals to develop partnerships in distribution and premium content development.
ABOUT BREAK MEDIA:
Break Media is a leading creator, publisher, and distributor of digital entertainment content including video, editorial, and games. The company's properties include the largest humor site online--Break.com--as well as Made Man, Game Front, Holy Taco, Screen Junkies, Cage Potato, All Left Turns, Chickipedia, and Tu Vez. The Break Media Creative Lab is an in-house production studio creating original videos that range from award-winning branded entertainment to celebrity-driven web shorts to viral one-offs. The Break Media Network represents hundreds of publishers as one of the largest video advertising networks online, reaching more than 140 million visitors each month. For more information, visit http://www.breakmedia.com.
ABOUT REVEILLE DIGITAL:
Producing over 20 web series including Who Knew?, Fit to Boom, Real-Life Makeover with Holly Robinson Peete, Appetite for Life with Andrew Zimmerman and many more, the Reveille Digital team has created award-winning digital content spanning all genres from pop culture, fitness and fashion to men's interest, sports and financial planning. As a leader in the digital content revolution, Reveille engages innovative opportunities delivering high quality, cost effective digital series and collaborating with top talent including Carson Daly, Jay Mohr, Bob Harper, Cat Cora and Jeff Corwin and world-class brands such as Toyota, M&M's, Walmart, Domino's, Pepsi, Kraft, Morningstar Farms, P&G and Volvo.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
For Reveille: Julie Holland, 310.571.8217 | Julie@triple7pr.com
For Break Media: Andy Tu, 310-360-4146 | atu@breakmedia.comwww.twitter.com/breakmedia
CAMEROBOT Sets New Standards in Broadcasting Automation
BAYREUTH, Germany, August 8, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
Bavaria-based Camerobot Systems GmbH has introduced a radical new
approach to broadcasting - by bringing state-of-the-art robotics into the
studio. Camerobot, a robotic system for automating cameras, features a
variety of new technological solutions for longstanding challenges on live
and virtual sets.
At a time of intense competition among networks, particularly those
offering daily news programming, robotic automation opens up new creative
possibilities. Camerobot, which was recently updated, ensures constant
quality of pictures and frames, thanks to its precision, smooth motion, and
ability to shoot from a variety of angles beyond pan and tilt.
A 4-meter operating diameter makes it possible to capture broad sweeps
of movement. Tracking shots are programmed in 4ms resolution, guaranteeing
smooth motion and flawless synchronization of real time images and virtual
overlays, even those containing movement. Camerobot can be controlled either
manually with a joystick or in automatic mode via studio automation, wherein
an operator programs a pre-set series of locations. An optional aircushion
system enables the camera to "walk" through the studio.
A newly redesigned robotic arm from Staubli Robotics features a more
force-resistant tilt unit, which minimizes vibration while providing greater
agility with lower weight and fewer cables around the attachment interface.
The tilt unit is integrated into the control loop of Camerobot's CS8C robot
controller - a real-time control system five times faster than video imaging
speed, enabling pinpoint precision.
About Camerobot Systems GmbH
Camerobot Systems was founded in 2010 on the basis of technology
pioneered by rtLeaders, bringing vast automation expertise to the
broadcasting industry. Providing turnkey robotic camera solutions, Camerobot
is a global leader in broadcasting automation and studio integration. For
more information, visit http://www.camerobot.com.
Source: Camerobot Systems GmbH
Mr Peter Puhringer, Senior Manager for Project and Sales, Camerobot Systems GmbH, +49-921-883-379, info@camerobot.com
Verizon Wireless Expands 3G Coverage in Orange County
4G LTE expansion also continuing in Upstate New York
- New cell site improves coverage and capacity in Middletown
- Provides access to 3G wireless broadband service
- Meet one of Upstate New York's local Test Men, Jack Brandes
MIDDLETOWN, N.Y.,Aug. 8, 2011/PRNewswire/ --Verizon Wireless is investing in Orange County and expanding its local coverage with a new cell site in Middletown. The new site improves coverage and capacity in the Village of Washington Heights along Route 17M from Webb Road to Maples Road. The new site also improves capacity along Route 211 from Wisner Avenue to Ingrassia Road in the City of Middletown.
This network expansion is part of the company's aggressive multi-billion dollar network investment each year to stay ahead of the growing demand for Verizon Wireless' voice and data services. The company has invested more than $65 billion nationwide since it was formed - $6 billion on average every year - and invested more than $125 million in Upstate New York in 2010.
In addition to ongoing investment in its 3G network, Verizon Wireless continues to roll out its 4G LTE network nationwide. 4G LTE is currently available in 102 metro markets, including Rochester, Saratoga Springs and the New York City area. The company recently announced it will launch 4G LTE in Albany, Syracuse and Ithaca on August 18. Full nationwide 4G LTE deployment is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2013.
"We've always believed even the most advanced device is only as good as the network it runs on. We continue to aggressively invest in our Upstate New York network to increase coverage and capacity for our customers, add new services like 4G LTE, and maintain our existing 3G network leadership," said Gene Fassett, executive director of Network for Verizon Wireless' Upstate New York Region.
Verizon Wireless recently earned recognition from J.D. Power and Associates for ranking highest in customer care among the major national wireless phone service providers.
In addition to voice and wireless data services such as V CAST Video and V CAST Music with Rhapsody, the company offers MobileBroadband, its high-speed wireless broadband network geared toward mobile professionals and business customers. In 4G LTE coverage areas, it provides average speeds of 5-12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2-5 Mbps on the uplink in real-world, loaded network environments. In 3G coverage areas, it provides average download speeds of 600 kilobits per second (kbps) to 1.4 Mbps, and average upload speeds of 500-800 kbps.
Strong demand for Verizon Wireless' services continued during the second quarter of 2011 as the company added more than 1.3 million net new customers.
The company's "nation's most reliable wireless network" reputation is based on network studies performed by real-life test men and women throughout the country. These engineers drive nearly 100 specially equipped vehicles more than 1 million miles annually on Interstate, U.S. and state highways, as well as major roads and surface streets. Test vehicles are equipped with computers that automatically make more than 3 million voice call attempts and more than 16 million data tests annually on Verizon Wireless' network and the networks of other carriers. Check out our video of Western New York Test Man, Jack Brandes.
For more information about Verizon Wireless products and services, visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or go to http://www.verizonwireless.com.
SOURCE Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless
CONTACT: John O'Malley, +1-585-321-7264 or +1-585-261-5899, john.omalley@verizonwireless.com, http://twitter.com/VZWjohno, or Meredith Dropkin, +1-315-413-4293, mdropkin@mower.com
AT&T Continues Its Ongoing Investment in Mississippi With Local Wireless Network Enhancements
Local Enhancements Contribute to AT&T's Planned $20 Billion Investment in its U.S. Wireless and Wireline Networks
JACKSON, Miss., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --AT&T* continues its ongoing investment in Mississippi with local wireless network enhancements, including expanded backhaul to enable 4G speeds, increased mobile broadband capacity and new and upgraded cell sites.
The improvements plans are part of AT&T's plan to invest in the $20 billion range in its wireless and wireline networks in 2011. This investment includes the initiative to deliver the nation's most advanced mobile broadband experience and make the nation's fastest mobile broadband network even faster.
From January through July, AT&T has completed the following network improvements in Mississippi:
-- Mobile broadband launched at 112 existing cell sites across 40 counties.
-- Added thirty-two new cell sites in 23 counties.
-- Added network capacity at 15 sites.
For the remainder of the year, AT&T plans to:
-- Deploy enhanced backhaul connections to enable 4G speeds and add
capacity to support more mobile traffic, like adding traffic lanes to a
highway.
-- Install additional new cell sites to improve network coverage.
-- Add spectrum carriers or an extra layer of channels to support more
traffic.
"A more advanced mobile broadband experience drives economic growth, stimulates jobs and equips Mississippi businesses to meet the network demands of today and tomorrow," said Mayo Flynt, president, AT&T Mississippi. "We've significantly ramped up our wireless investments to enable an experience that offers Mississippi consumers better speed, better reliability and better availability. In addition, our recently announced agreement to acquire T-Mobile USA also represents a major commitment to strengthen and expand our network in Mississippi. If approved, this deal means that we'll be able to expand the next generation of mobile broadband - 4G LTE - from our current plan of 80 percent of the U.S. population to more than 97 percent."
AT&T invested more than $825 million in its Mississippi wireless and wireline network from 2008 through 2010 as part of its commitment to superior service in the area.
AT&T's mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T has the broadest international coverage of any U.S. wireless provider, providing access to voice service in more than 220 countries and data service in more than 200 countries. AT&T also offers voice and data roaming coverage on more than 135 major cruise ships, as well as mobile broadband services in more than 130 countries.
AT&T also operates the nation's largest Wi-Fi network** with more than 26,000 hotspots in the U.S. and provides access to nearly 190,000 hotspots globally through roaming agreements. Most AT&T smartphone customers get access to our entire national Wi-Fi network at no additional cost, and Wi-Fi usage doesn't count against customers' monthly wireless data plans.
For more information about AT&T's coverage in Mississippi or anywhere in the United States, consumers can visit the AT&T Coverage Viewer. Using the online tool, AT&T customers can measure coverage quality from a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.
For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit the AT&T network news page.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
** Largest based on company branded and operated hotspots. Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See http://www.attwifi.com for details and locations.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE :T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile broadband and emerging 4G capabilities, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.
SOURCE AT&T Inc.
AT&T Inc.
CONTACT: Sue Sperry of AT&T Public Relations, Mobile: +1-601-961-1184, sue.sperry@att.com
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - Samsung Mobile Canada has
announced five more great reasons to hit the street for its series of
pop-up concerts in Calgary, Vancouver and Montreal. At the free
concerts which feature The Midway State, fans will get the chance to
use their artistic flare to win five soon to be released Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1s.
"Samsung is thanking technology fans for helping make it the Android
vendor of choice in Canada with this series of free pop-up concerts,
plus the chance to win our new Galaxy Tab 10.1 that has tech
enthusiasts buzzing," said Paul Brannen, vice-president of Samsung
Mobile Canada. "The Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1, with its unparalleled
screen and dual core processor, is the ideal tool for enjoying music
videos on, so we are asking concert goers to be part of making the new
video for The Midway State's hit single Atlantic in celebration of the
device."
Remaking the Atlantic
Five lucky people will win the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 by showing off
their artistic talents for creating music videos. Individuals who want
to enter the contest should join music fans at tonight's concert and
film or take photos of The Midway State performing their new song, Atlantic, then submit them to http://www.samsung.com/videomashup. Winning entries will be used in Samsung's final video mash-up of
Atlantic.
The final videos for each city will be posted online on August 22 for
Canadians to vote on, and the winners will be announced on August 29.
What's a party without a loot bag?
Along with the chance to win the new tablet, a limited number of social
media savvy concert goers in each city will leave with surprise bags of
Samsung swag. To win, consumers should stay tuned to Samsung Mobile
Canada on Twitter and Facebook for details and follow #samsungconcert
The free concert hits Calgary's Olympic Plaza today at 4:30 p.m.,
Vancouver's Robson Square tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. tomorrow and Montreal's
Place des Vestiges on August 11 at 5:30 p.m.
About Samsung Electronics Canada Inc.
Samsung Electronics Canada, Inc. (SECA), a wholly owned subsidiary of
Samsung Electronics Co., markets a broad range of award-winning digital
consumer electronics, information systems, telecommunications and home
appliance products. SECA upholds Samsung's mission to provide consumers
with innovative digital convergence products that possess exceptional
technology, quality, features, performance and value. The company
oversees the Canadian operations of Samsung's consumer electronics and
home appliance division, as well as its wireless terminals and
information technology division.
Samsung has been a global TOP sponsor of the Olympic Games since 1997
and has been a presenting sponsor of the Olympic Torch Relay from 2004
to 2008. Samsung is also a proud sponsor of Hockey Canada, Stars on Ice
and is the official HDTV sponsor of the NFL.
For customer service inquiries, please call 1-800-SAMSUNG
(1-800-726-7864), and for more information, please visit http://www.samsung.com.
AT&T Continues Its Ongoing Investment in Alabama With Local Wireless Network Enhancements
Local Enhancements Contribute to AT&T's Planned $20 Billion Investment in its U.S. Wireless and Wireline Networks
BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- AT&T* continues its ongoing investment in Alabama with local wireless network enhancements, including expanded backhaul to enable 4G speeds, increased mobile broadband capacity and new and upgraded cell sites.
The improvements plans are part of AT&T's plan to invest in the $20 billion range in its wireless and wireline networks in 2011. This investment includes the initiative to deliver the nation's most advanced mobile broadband experience and make the nation's fastest mobile broadband network even faster.
From January through July, AT&T has completed the following network improvements in Alabama:
-- Mobile broadband launched at 467 existing cell sites across 54 counties.
-- Added 19 new cell sites in 16 counties.
-- Added additional network capacity at 34 sites throughout the state.
For the remainder of the year, AT&T plans to:
-- Deploy enhanced backhaul connections to enable 4G speeds and add
capacity to support more mobile traffic, like adding traffic lanes to a
highway.
-- Install additional new cell sites to improve network coverage.
-- Add spectrum carriers or an extra layer of channels to support more
traffic.
"A more advanced mobile broadband experience drives economic growth, stimulates jobs and equips Alabama businesses to meet the network demands of today and tomorrow," said Fred McCallum, president, AT&T Alabama. "We've significantly ramped up our wireless investments to enable an experience that offers Alabama consumers better speed, better reliability and better availability. In addition, our recently announced agreement to acquire T-Mobile USA also represents a major commitment to strengthen and expand our network in Alabama. If approved, this deal means that we'll be able to expand the next generation of mobile broadband - 4G LTE - from our current plan of 80 percent of the U.S. population to more than 97 percent."
AT&T invested more than $1.3 billion in its Alabama wireless and wireline network from 2008 through 2010 as part of its commitment to superior service in the area.
AT&T's mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T has the broadest international coverage of any U.S. wireless provider, providing access to voice service in more than 220 countries and data service in more than 200 countries. AT&T also offers voice and data roaming coverage on more than 135 major cruise ships, as well as mobile broadband services in more than 130 countries.
AT&T also operates the nation's largest Wi-Fi network** with more than 26,000 hotspots in the U.S. and provides access to nearly 190,000 hotspots globally through roaming agreements. Most AT&T smartphone customers get access to our entire national Wi-Fi network at no additional cost, and Wi-Fi usage doesn't count against customers' monthly wireless data plans.
For more information about AT&T's coverage in Alabama or anywhere in the United States, consumers can visit the AT&T Coverage Viewer. Using the online tool, AT&T customers can measure coverage quality from a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.
For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit the AT&T network news page.
* AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
** Largest based on company branded and operated hotspots. Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See http://www.attwifi.com for details and locations.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile broadband and emerging 4G capabilities, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T |DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.
SOURCE AT&T Inc.
AT&T Inc.
CONTACT: Sue Sperry of AT&T Public Relations, +1-601-961-1184, sue.sperry@att.com
Claraview Introduces Business Intelligence Competency Center Services
Capitalizing on the promise of business intelligence and analytics
RESTON, Va., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Claraview, a division of Teradata Corporation (NYSE: TDC), a strategy and technology consultancy focused exclusively on business intelligence (BI) and analytic solutions, now offers consulting services and solutions to help organizations build a Business Intelligence Competency Center (BICC). According to Gartner Research (Gartner Market Trends: Business Intelligence, Worldwide, 2011-2014), "An ongoing revolution in information consumption and usability will result in the number of users of BI, analytics and performance management solutions doubling by 2014."(i)
BI has consistently remained a top five spending priority for CIOs, however, companies are still struggling to achieve the full potential of their BI investments. One reason for this is that organizations do not have the proper alignment of people, processes and technology. The value of a Claraview-enabled BICC is that it helps propel this alignment by having an integrated focus on driving business decisions through analytics. A BICC will typically act as a "hub" for BI prioritization, development, implementation, governance and support for BI functions. This includes architecture and design, data management, BI methodologies, skills, tools, metadata, models, organizational alignment, advanced analytics and data warehouse performance.
Creating a BICC is not a 'one-size that fits all' approach, but a carefully tailored engagement. Claraview offers consulting services to help assess and analyze a customer's existing BI environment against best practices captured from hundreds of successful BI design and implementation experiences. Claraview consultants then assist the customer in organizing a BICC customized for the needs and priorities of that organization. On a high level, Claraview's BICC consulting services include:
-- BI Assessment: Employs a 4-8 week assessment that clearly identifies
the qualities of a BI environment and how business users are receiving
value from it
-- BI Strategy: Delivers a high-level business vision, BI architecture, and
BI strategic roadmap to help maximize return on present and future BI
investments
-- BICC Consulting: Assists in creating the scope, change management,
roles, processes, and targeted standards, plus rolls out a deployment
plan for a BICC. The team also assists with change management and BICC
staffing, leveraging pragmatic experience and valuable knowledge in data
migration, data management, BI solution development and analytical
application support
"Creating a BICC is a maturity milestone for an organization," said Dan Ross, managing partner of Claraview. "A common issue our clients face is the inability to react fast enough to changes in their business with existing BI/Analytics-related processes and standards. Our BICC services expertise can help an organization manage this change in order to become more nimble and efficient in delivering business value to all levels of an organization."
Claraview will showcase its BICC services at the TDWI Business Intelligence Executive Summit on August 7-12, 2011 in San Diego, CA.
About Claraview
Claraview, a division of Teradata, is an industry leading consultancy that delivers best in class business intelligence, analytics and data warehousing strategy, architecture and implementation services that enable organizations to realize the full benefits of their data and information assets. Learn more at http://www.claraview.com.
(i) Gartner Market Trends: Business Intelligence, Worldwide, 2011-2014, June 2011.
Survey: More than Half of U.K., France and Germany Adults are Gamers
DUBLIN, August 8, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
United Kingdom has the Highest Ratio of Gamers in Europe, With 68% of
men and 59% of Women Playing Games.
PopCap Games, the worldwide leader in casual video games, today
announced the results of the National Gamers Surveys which found more than
half of all adults in the United Kingdom, France and Germany play games,
with over 153 million men and women estimated to play consoles, casual game
sites, social networks and mobile devices. The survey, conducted by Newzoo,
also found that there is no one dominant gaming platform in Europe, with
gamers splitting their time between all types of devices - but spending more
money on console games.
Overall, the United Kingdom has the highest ratio of gamers, with 68% of
men and 59% of women playing games. In Germany, 63% of men and 54% of women
play games. In France, 61% of men and 52% of women play games. But while
there are more gamers that spend more in total in the United Kingdom and
Germany, it's the French that spend the most money per player, spending an
average of GBP22.3 per month, which is more than the United States, where
players spend an average GBP17.5 each month. The United Kingdom spends
GBP18.6 per player each month while Germany spends GBP13.9/month.
"What these results tell us is that a one size fits all strategy for
Europe doesn't work as there are quite different platform gaming habits,
needs and expectations between France, Germany and the UK," stated Paul
Breslin, General Manager of PopCap Europe. "This is clearly a maturing
market that has by no means finished evolving. People want to play a range
of different games across different platforms. From a publisher's
perspective, this shows the importance of having diversity and
multi-platform solutions to reach individual markets in these important
regions."
Among the survey's findings,
- In Europe, the United Kingdom has the highest ratio of
gamers, with 68% of men and 59% of women playing games. In Germany, 63%
of men and 54% of women play games. In France, 61% of men and 52% of
women play games. That's an estimated total of 153,133,640 gamers in
these three regions alone.
- In Europe, games are most popular in the age group between 10
and 20-years-old, with 87% of 10 - 20-year-olds in in the U.K., 81% in
France and 78% in Germany all playing games.
- European gamers split their time evenly between game consoles,
casual game sites, social networks, mobile devices, downloadable games
and boxed games, with no one platform attracting more than 50% of play
time.
- Behind the US, which spends GBP13.2bn per year on gaming, the
biggest gaming economy is Germany (GBP4bn from 24m payers), followed by
the United Kingdom (GBP3.6bn from 16.1m payers), and France (GBP2.8bn
from 10.4m payers).
- European gamers spend more money towards gaming on console games
than on casual, social or mobile gaming, with German gamers spending 34%
of their gaming money (GBP4bn 2011 estimate) on console games compared
to 8% on casual game sites, 4% on social networks and 8% on mobile
games.
- U.K. gamers spend 44% of their gaming money (GBP3.6bn) on
console games compared to 11% on casual game sites, 6% on social
networks and 10% on mobile games.
- French gamers also spend 44% of their gaming money (GBP2.8bn) on
console games compared to 10% on casual game sites, 6% on social
networks and 10% on mobile games.
- While the number one reason to play most games - casual game
sites, social networks, gaming consoles, boxed games, and downloaded
games - is to relax and unwind, the main reason European gamers play
games on mobile devices is because they're bored.
Survey Methodology
This international research was conducted by Newzoo in co-operation with
Survey Sampling International Inc. (SSI; http://www.surveysampling.com)
for PopCap Games. The results are based on 20,000 online surveys completed
by consumers aged between 10 - 65 in 10 countries: US, UK, France, Germany,
Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Brazil, Mexico and Russia in March, 2011. The
sample size per country was greater than 1500 respondents. To arrive at
projected absolute population numbers (e.g. number of gamers on a specific
platform), the survey results were multiplied with the estimated internet
population for each age group. These figures were derived from national
consensus data on age distribution combined with estimated internet
penetration per age group. The estimated margin of error is 2 - 3 percent.
Smaller subgroups reflect larger margins of sampling error. Other sources of
error, such as variations in the order of questions or the wording within
the questionnaire, may also contribute to different results.
About PopCap
PopCap Games is the leading global developer, publisher and operator of
casual video games: fun, easy-to-learn, captivating games that appeal to all
ages across PC, mobile, social and other platforms. Based in Seattle,
Washington, PopCap was founded in 2000 and has a worldwide staff of more
than 400 people in Seattle, San Francisco, Vancouver, B.C., Dublin, Seoul,
Shanghai and Tokyo. PopCap's games have been downloaded over 1.5 billion
times by consumers worldwide, and its flagship franchise, Bejeweled(R), has
sold more than 50 million units.
The PopCap logo and all other trademarks used herein that are listed at http://www.popcap.com/trademarks are owned by PopCap Games, Inc. or its
licensors and may be registered in some countries. Other company and product
names used herein may be trademarks of their respective owners and are used
for the benefit of those owners.
Shooger Animated Videos Showcase Merchants' Best Offers on Growing Crowdsourced Mobile Loyalty Network
Original Vignettes Leverage Shooger Founders' Animation Experience to Tell the Fun Inside Story About What Makes Merchants Truly Unique; White Board Chalk-Talk Videos Enable Shooger Community and Merchants to Get in on the Conversation Via Social Media
MIAMI, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobile community-powered loyalty network Shooger today announced the launch of its animated video vignettes that offer a lighthearted look at what makes Shooger merchants unique, and highlights their best deals, exclusive specials and fun offerings.
These original 30-second spots offer a review of select Shooger merchants with a white board style animation that engages users with snappy dialogue and an authentic, fresh perspective that reveals an inside look at each merchant's distinctive offerings. More entertaining, memorable, and sharable than a traditional canned TV commercial, Shooger videos leverage the deep animation background of the company's founders to bring a whimsical twist to the marketing mix for local merchants.
"We're highly focused on building a long term relationship between merchants and consumers. By telling their unique stories in a fun, engaging way, we help to make that connection", said Shooger CEO Alex Stancioff.
Featured merchants are recommended by Shooger users and selected by a team of reviewers. Shooger's in-house animation team produces these videos. Featured merchants are encouraged to share the vignettes liberally on email and social networks to help build social media engagement with their customers.
"There's something about animation that draws you in, unlike any other medium," said Donick Cary, Executive Producer of Shooger and Emmy-winning writer for "The Late Show with David Letterman" and "The Simpsons." "The chalk-talk videos give merchants and users something fun to share on their blog, Facebook or Twitter, and the friendly, conversational style doesn't feel like a commercial at all - it's engaging, useful content that gives viewers the inside scoop on local merchants in a small package that's easy to share with viral potential."
Each Shooger merchant video is posted to the Shooger blog, YouTube channel, Facebook and Twitter, with a link provided to the merchant for easy sharing with their audience.
"Mastering social media is a huge priority for even the smallest businesses right now, but it can be a challenge," Stancioff said. "This program not only gives merchants a distinct advantage with professionally crafted content with a unique hook, but makes it incredibly easy for them to leverage social media to grow their customer base."
Shooger Sweet Deal videos are currently being rolled out to merchants in South Florida near Shooger headquarters, but the company plans to quickly expand to other locations.
"Shooger is all about the community's input," Stancioff said. "We'd love to hear from Shooger users about which places in their town we should feature with a Sweet Deal video, and if we use your suggestion, we'll even mention in the video that you recommended the merchant and why."
Shooger is free and available on the iPhone and the web (with Android and BlackBerry versions coming soon), allowing smartphone users to easily and instantly tap into the sweet life. To download the app, visit http://www.shooger.com.
About Shooger
Shooger is a rapidly growing network of real people who share local finds that help save people time, money and give them the latest inside scoop. We work on behalf of our community by negotiating deals and special access to these local hot spots so our users can buy them instantly on their phones and online. Shooger offers merchants a powerful platform to communicate with our users to build better engagement and loyalty.Shooger is headquartered in Miami, Fla. For more information, visit http://www.shooger.com.
SOURCE Shooger
Shooger
CONTACT: Mindy Franklin of SS | PR, 1-800-287-2279, ext: 9328, mindy@sspr.com
A new Legend is Born: Drakensang Online Launches its Open Beta
HAMBURG, Germany, August 8, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
Bigpoint's (http://www.bigpoint.com/) quest for heroes and warriors to
step into battle against the dark forces of the Anderworld has begun!
With the long-awaited launch of the Open Beta, fans of action RPGs will
be able to explore the world of Drakensang Online ( http://www.drakensang-online.com), the free-to-play online browser game.
The international release of the game will be offered in 19 different
languages including German, English, French, Spanish and Italian.
"Drakensang's going online!" rejoiced Bernd Beyreuther, Head of
Development at Bigpoint Berlin "The launch of this game allows us to realize
a long-held ambition of developing a fully immersive action RPG game that
can be enjoyed by all players from the first moment of playing, and is
brought alive by its large community."
Drankensang Online has been wowing fans in Closed Beta with a variety of
different character skills, exciting quests, an impressive armoury of
weapons and magic, and over 100 hours of gaming content. The visually
stunning game world was developed by Bigpoint using their in-house "Nebula3"
engine, impressing players with a level of 3D graphics and effects that have
not been seen in browser games before.
Players can meet up in public gathering sites to get to know each other,
take on challenges together and hatch plans to march into battle united.
Gamers can also test their mettle against each other in the PvP arena
located in the capital of Kingshill and find out who is the mightiest hero
in Drankensang Online.
The start of the Open Beta is just the beginning: The team at Bigpoint
Berlin is currently working on the first updates in order to expand the
world of Drankensang Online on a weekly basis.
Vision Research Raises the Bar in the High-Speed Imaging Industry With the Introduction of Two New Phantom® v-Series Cameras
New Phantom v1610 Is 60 Percent Faster than Any Other Digital High-Speed Camera in Its Class
WAYNE, N.J., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Vision Research, a leading manufacturer of digital high-speed imaging systems, unveils two additions to the company's Phantom® v-Series line of digital high-speed cameras with the introduction of the Phantom v1210 and v1610. These top-of-their-class cameras are the world's fastest 1 megapixel digital high-speed cameras. They feature high definition and widescreen 1280 x 800 CMOS sensors. The Phantom v1610 is 60 percent faster than any other camera on the market, with the ability to acquire more than 16,000 frames-per-second (fps) at full resolution and up to 1,000,000 fps at reduced resolution.
"Vision Research's innovations in the high-speed imaging industry and its launches of the v1210 and v1610 add advanced capabilities to the market," says Rick Robinson, Division VP Marketing, Vision Research. "With the ability to capture high-resolution images at ultra-high-speeds, the v1210 and v1610 bring new tools to scientists, researchers, engineers and others who need to see phenomena invisible to the human eye."
Both cameras are based on Vision Research proprietary sensors offering not only high speeds, but larger 28-micron pixels that allow for superior sensitivity when shooting in low light, which is often a problem with high-speed imaging. The v-Series additions make possible image capture at more than 12,000 fps (12 gigapixels/second) in full resolution when utilizing the v1210, and more than 16,000 fps (16 gigapixels/second) when the v1610 is called into action. If higher speeds are needed, reduced resolution images are available up to 650,000 fps or up to 1,000,000 fps when the FAST option is used.
The v1210 can be configured with 12GB, 24GB, or 48GB of memory, and the v1610, with 24GB, 48GB, or 96GB of memory. That memory can be segmented into as many as 63 partitions and allows continuous shooting of back-to-back shots without the need for constant downloading. The cameras offer 12-bit pixel depth standard.
Phantom CineMag Workflow
Both cameras come standard with Vision Research's breakthrough CineMag interface allowing a user to save a high-speed shot from camera memory to non-volatile storage in a matter of seconds. With a CineMag mounted on the camera, a user can continue to conduct tests and experiments without the time-consuming task of downloading large amounts of data over Ethernet.
Camera Control
The cameras come with built-in on-camera controls (OCC), allowing most camera settings to be set or changed with the turn of a knob - eliminating the need for connection to a PC or laptop for camera control.
Phantom v1210 and v1610 Outputs and Inputs
The Phantom v1210 and v1610 connections are conveniently located on the back panel of the camera. These include timecode, dual power inputs, HD-SDI, GPS input, camera synchronization, and trigger.
Additional HighPerformance Features:
-- Full Resolution 1280 x 800 imaging
-- Image-Based Auto-Trigger
-- 10Gb Ethernet port
-- Internal Mechanical Shutter
-- SMPTE & IRIG timecode, Genlock, Ready, and Strobe Outputs
-- Frame Synchronization to internal or external clock (FSYNC)
-- HD-SDI video outputs
-- Component Viewfinder Port
-- Nikon F-mount lens connection with Canon EOS, PL, and C mounts available
About Vision Research
Vision Research designs and manufactures high-speed digital imaging systems used in applications including defense, automotive, engineering, science, medical research, industrial manufacturing and packaging, sports and entertainment, and digital cinematography for television and movie production.
The Wayne, N.J. based company prides itself on the unsurpassed light-sensitivity, image resolution, acquisition speed, and image quality produced by its systems, as well as robust software interfaces, reliability and versatility of its camera family - all which continue to stand as benchmarks for the highspeed digital imaging industry. Known for its innovations in high-speed digital camera technology and sensor design, Vision Research has received numerous research and development awards and was recently honored with an Emmy® Award for its revolutionary technology and engineering.
Vision Research's broad line of digital high-speed cameras, marketed under the Phantom® brand, add a new dimension to the sense of sight. They are used as innovative engineering tools, enabling users to visualize and analyze physical phenomena when it's too fast to see, and too important not to(TM). For additional information regarding Vision Research, please visit http://www.visionresearch.com.
Vision Research is a business unit of the Materials Analysis Division of AMETEK Inc., a leading global manufacturer of electronic instruments and electromechanical devices.
Mobile, Secure Personal Health Record System Puts Electronic Medical Records at Consumers' Fingertips Through Smart Phones and Mobile Devices
WASHINGTON, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- CORAnet Solutions, Inc. announces the release of its mobile personal health record system that has two applications: the CORAVault(TM) that provides private individuals access to their electronic medical records through their smart phones and mobile devices, and the CORAnet Emergency Widget that provides basic medical information in case of emergency. As individuals become more mobile, the need to access personal medical records immediately, 24/7 from anywhere around the world, has increasingly been a major challenge for medical personnel. The problem becomes more acute during an emergency when immediate access to medical records is needed and time is of the essence.
CORAVault(TM) addresses the questions of what will happen to individuals' records when their doctors close their practices or even die, when a hospital closes, when individuals move to different locations or when they travel and happen to get sick. It also allows sharing of medical records for parents who would like to manage their children's records from birth to adulthood, and for children who would like to manage their elderly parents' medical records.
CORAVault(TM) integrates disparate EMR systems and any CCD/CCR compliant medical record from many different sources such as hospitals, doctors' offices and clinics, and unifies them into a single record that is accessed through smart phones and mobile devices in a secure manner. The CORAnet Emergency Widget identifies individuals who are unconscious and unable to speak by showing basic bio data such as name, date of birth, blood type, allergies and current medications. Not only does it identify the patient, it also notifies the emergency point of contact by email and SMS of the location and occurrence of emergency.
The full access to the EMR (CORAVault(TM) application) is soon to come to the Google Market. For an introduction video, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLnA32Rlu6I.
CORAnet Solutions, Inc. is inviting hospitals, clinics, physicians and other health care providers to add the following link to their websites to allow their patients access to their own medical records: http://www.coranetsolutions.com/myaccount.htm
CORAnet Solutions, Inc., founded in 2009, is a leading innovator of EMR solutions and is an affiliate of Aliron International, Inc., a health services management company that has been providing health care services to the US DOD and VA for the last 21 years and environmental technology solutions to some countries in the Far East.
SOURCE CORAnet Solutions, Inc.
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110808/FL48358 http://photoarchive.ap.org/
CORAnet Solutions, Inc.
Hurricane Shutters Florida Unveils Solar Powered Rolling Shutter System
SUNRISE, Fla., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- HurricaneShuttersFlorida.com, a leader in hurricane shutters, storm shutters, and other types of storm protection products, has unveiled a new solar powered rolling shutter system for residential and commercial applications. With the new solar powered system, you can now have all the convenience of a remote-controlled rolling shutter system for the same cost as a standard motorized system, but with none of the cords and electrical installation previously needed for motorized rolling shutters. The system is called AutoSun and is revolutionizing the roll-down shutter industry.
AutoSun is a completely self-contained system for driving roller shutters on any window application and is particularly ideal for skylights and facades that are being renovated. Comprising a solar panel, a battery and a DC wireless controlled motor with electronic travel limit (the T3.5 E HZ DC motor available in 3, 6 and 10 Nm), this system is powered by solar energy and controlled with the SIMU Hz wireless system. No need for cable runs since no wiring is needed to the mains or between the motor and the control panel. Therefore installation does not need an electrician, nor does the installer need to be electrically qualified, which saves time and money for the consumer. Solar energy is clean, renewable and free. A perfect match for the current environmental trend, this system provides a technical ecological answer for assemblers, installers and users. AutoSun has been developed to operate in most geographical regions. For areas without much sunlight or where it is frequently cloudy, 2 solar panels can be connected to the battery to ensure the shutter will operate at all times.
Michael Joiner, owner or HurricaneShuttersFlorida.com says, "We are very excited to offer the solar powered rolling shutter system to our customers. We have already received an overwhelmingly positive response to the new innovation. Now, consumers and businesses can enjoy the convenience and ease of motorized rolling shutters without the wires and electrical expense. This truly is a green innovation we are pleased to offer domestically and internationally."
Rolling shutters are ideal for not only hurricane and storm protection but also home security, business security, and climate control. Rolling shutters are ideal for reducing energy costs because they can be used to block the sun and shade rooms, which reduces the amount of energy needed to cool rooms. They also are great for blocking cold winds from reaching windows and inside of the home. Solar-powered rolling shutters represent the next innovation in storm protection and security shutters. Deal inquiries from contractors are welcome. For more information on solar powered rolling shutter systems, visit Hurricane Shutters Florida.
ThoughtWorks Studios Strengthens Adaptive ALM Suite with New Versions of Go and Twist
More robust Continuous Delivery and automated testing capabilities help software-driven organizations adopt and scale Agile in the enterprise
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- ThoughtWorks Studios (http://www.thoughtworks-studios.com), a global leader in enterprise Agile development products and services, today announced new enhancements to its Adaptive ALM(TM) suite, including upgrades to its Go(TM) Agile release management and Twist® Agile testing solutions. Adaptive ALM, which includes the Mingle® Agile project management solution, is an integrated ALM suite that helps IT organizations improve team productivity, collaboration and the speed-to-market of quality software. It manages the entire application lifecycle while providing a completely flexible approach that allows teams to break free of heavyweight and prescriptive approaches to Agile software development, which stifle productivity and innovation.
"The Adaptive ALM suite was designed with ThoughtWorks' best practices in mind. Our goal is to help teams and organizations manage the broad challenges of the application lifecycle, where supporting disparate, hybrid and evolving processes are crucial," said Chad Wathington, VP of product development for ThoughtWorks Studios. "These new releases support Agile ALM by extending the traceability and audit capabilities for Continuous Delivery and adding support for popular open source automation tools."
Adaptive ALM addresses the shortcomings of traditional ALM solutions that lack the functionality to effectively manage Agile practices in the enterprise. It is a fully automated suite that supports all aspects of the software development and delivery lifecycle - from requirements definition and change management to test automation, quality assurance and release management. For developers and business team members, it provides a holistic set of tools that work in harmony to deliver real-time collaboration and visibility. Adaptive ALM also removes operational silos through cross-functional automation to help enterprise IT organizations effectively meet strategic business objectives.
Go 2.3
Beyond reliably building and deploying software quickly, Continuous Delivery requires a clear, traceable and controlled path to production. Go 2.3 provides a market-leading solution for auditing, traceability and compliance in the software delivery process. In addition, Go's improved configuration interface makes setting up and managing build pipelines, and the Go server itself, even easier. Go 2.3 also introduces a new build visualization to help teams spot trends in build duration over time.
Specific new features include:
-- Automatic verification of every file retrieved from Go's repository:
ensures files haven't been tampered with.
-- Agent history: view complete history and traceability of all work done
by an agent.
-- Recording of configuration history: sees exactly what the configuration
looked like when a given task was conducted.
-- New pipeline wizard: helps build pipelines in only three steps.
-- Clone pipelines: clone existing pipelines with the click of a button.
-- Job time out: Automatically time out jobs that have stopped responding.
-- Auto deletion of old artifacts: configure Go to manage space on the
server automatically.
-- Visualize builds over time: analyze build duration trends for failing
and passing builds.
Twist 2.3
The latest version of Twist extends Agile automated testing with Selenium 2 support and new capabilities to test web sites on Android and iOS (iPhone/iPad) devices. This helps organizations better manage heterogeneous environments by allowing different teams to use the web automation driver that suits them. Twist provides powerful test suite maintenance features to help reduce delays caused by difficult to update test suites.
Specific new features include:
-- Selenium 2 support: supports the popular open source web testing tool,
Selenium 2 - including a rich recorder for the new Selenium 2 Webdriver
API- which drives test automation for Internet Explorer, Firefox and
Chrome, as well as the Android and iOS mobile browsers.
-- Refactoring propagation control: enables fine-grained control of how
test steps are extracted into higher-level concepts.
-- New Twist user interface: more easily update project properties, quickly
change browsers between test executions, configure reporting options,
and allow administrators to edit user-created properties.
ThoughtWorks Studios provides Agile ALM products and training. A division of the Agile consultancy, ThoughtWorks, Inc., it offers the tools, coaching and experience to help companies realize the full potential of Agile-based development in the enterprise. Its Adaptive ALM(TM) suite, Mingle® (Agile project management), Twist® (Agile test automation) and Go(TM) (Agile release management/DevOps), helps organizations manage and automate the application lifecycle through an adaptive approach that supports people and processes. Its Agile Workshops deliver training for all facets of Agile ALM practices. Customers include 3M, Barclays, BBC, eBay, Honeywell, McGraw-Hill, Rackspace and Vodafone. For more information, please visit http://www.thoughtworks-studios.com.
Media Contact:Christie DennistonCatapult PR-IROffice: 303-581-7760, ext. 13Mobile: 303-827-5164cdenniston@catapultpr-ir.com
EB Unveils Specialized Device Platform, a Versatile Android-Based Mobile Platform Designed for Specialized Vertical Markets
New Android-Based Platform Provides Defense, Public Safety Markets Tailor-made Mobile Devices, Specific to Vertical Requirements--All with Minimal Development Risk, Lower Development Costs and Faster Time-to-Market
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- APCO International Conference & Expo -- EB, Elektrobit Corporation (NASDAQ-OMX: EBC1V), a developer of leading edge embedded technology solutions for automotive and wireless industries, today announced the EB Specialized Device Platform, an Android-based mobile device platform for specialized markets. Leveraging mass market mobile device hardware/software technologies and economies of scale, the platform enables vertical markets such as defense, public safety and security to roll-out customized mobile devices that meet specific industry functional or performance requirements - faster and with lower development risks and costs.
"Specialized verticals, particularly those in the defense sector, deploy mobile devices with extended product life cycles - yet they still want mobile solutions that offer the latest technological advancements," said Michael Valenti, senior research analyst with Frost &Sullivan. "EB is well positioned to serve these vertical interests, as the company has a rich heritage in mobile device design, integration, and development as well as a depth and expertise in bringing unique mobile solutions to specialized markets."
A versatile platform, the EB Specialized Device Platform allows EB's customers to benefit from the commercial technologies driving the rapid growth of the consumer wireless device market while giving market specific features and device type customization to specialized market organizations. As a smartphone-tablet platform, organizations get a 'made-to-order' mobile device that incorporates key design features desired for a particular mobile device with specific hardware and software features required by their market segment. For example, military vendors can specify MIL-STD-810G mechanics for a ruggedized Android handset, integration of a proprietary security engine or optimization of a proprietary software application to extend the device battery life.
The platform is comprised of components specifically focused to extend product life cycle, deliver excellent performance and simplify the platform evolution. It is anchored by the Texas Instruments OMAP(TM) family of application processors and includes both OMAP3(TM) series single-core and OMAP4(TM) series dual-core options. EB chose TI's OMAP processors for their balance between competitive mass market performance and unique features, such as integrated and fully programmable C64x Digital Signal Processor, that appeals to the target vertical markets. Other key features include integrated cellular connectivity options including LTE with Band 14 support for the U.S. Public Safety market, a high-resolution touch-screen enabled display with superior sunlight readability, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and advanced battery and power management features. Additionally, EB offers other advanced features such as integrated mobile satellite connectivity.
"Specific markets such as defense and public safety require unique mobile devices that must meet stringent compliance and regulatory requirements; thereby making it difficult for them to deploy traditional smartphones and tablets across their field teams," said Jani Lyrintzis, vice president and general manager, EB. "EB has solved this problem, by introducing the Specialized Device Platform - that uniquely offers the best of the traditional mobile world, with the Android operating system and key mobile hardware/software/radio features, combined with product-and industry-specific features - which allows these vertical organizations to bring new mobile devices to market quicker, more cost-effectively and with less development risk."
Availability and Engagement Model
The EB Specialized Device Platform is generally available today for devices to be commercialized with the OMAP3 Series applications processor and 3G cellular connectivity options. Devices requiring the OMAP4 Series applications processors or the 4G/LTE cellular connectivity options can be commercialized in the first half of 2012.
EB offers the platform in three engagement models - a complete turnkey solution, in which EB will develop, manufacture (using partners) and supply the end-product; a joint development approach - in which EB and its customer cooperate on the device development, followed by EB handling all aspects of the manufacturing and end-product supply chain cycles; and finally a joint development plus licensing model - in which EB and its customer cooperate on the device development, but the customer is responsible for the end-device manufacturing and supply.
EB develops advanced technology and transforms it into enriching end user experiences. EB specializes in demanding embedded software and hardware solutions for the automotive industry and wireless technologies. The company's net sales for the year 2010 totaled EUR 161.8 million. Elektrobit Corporation is listed on the NASDAQ OMX Helsinki. http://www.elektrobit.com
Further information:
Craig O'Connell
EB Special Terminals
Tel. +1-425-686-3100
Email: craig.oconnell@elektrobit.com
Meghan Callaghan
Ruder Finn Public Relations for EB
Tel. +1 212 715 1608
Email: callaghanm@ruderfinn.com
SMR Launches the Commercial Building Inventory: Detailed Data on All U.S. Commercial Buildings
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- SMR Research Corp. today launched the Commercial Building Inventory (CBI), the nation's most complete database of information on the commercial buildings of the United States.
CBI contains data on nearly 9 million buildings - apartment buildings, office buildings, stores and shopping centers, and more than 100 other categories.
The database includes dozens of information points about U.S. buildings, including:
-- Building owner names and addresses,
-- The estimated market value of each building,
-- The age and size of most buildings,
-- Owner occupancy
-- Structure details: number of stories, roof type, and more.
-- Contact names for many corporate building owners
"We believe this database will fill a huge information gap," declared SMR President Stuart A. Feldstein.
"Previously, few people even knew how many commercial buildings existed in the U.S., let alone what each was worth or who owned them all."
The primary purpose of the CBI is to identify new sales opportunities for manufacturers and distributors of building products, providers of building services, and contractors.
One example: Roofs wear out. The CBI can identify buildings whose age suggests a new roof will soon be needed.
For "green building" initiatives, the CBI will be ideal. It can identify which buildings are old enough to need help, which owners may invest more readily because they also work in the building, and which buildings have enough value to suggest that their owners can afford new investments.
The CBI also provides customers with an analytical capability. By matching CBI records to recent building permits, the CBI staff can assist customers in understanding the characteristics of buildings that will have specific types of improvement needs.
Learn more about the CBI at http://www.CommBuildings.com. The web site includes free research reports on the age and value of the U.S. commercial building stock.
Founded in 1984, SMR has been a leading provider of information on consumer property and consumer lending. The CBI expands SMR's business into the commercial realm.
SOURCE SMR Research Corp.
SMR Research Corp.
CONTACT: Stuart A. Feldstein, SMR Research Corp., +1-908-852-7677, Stuart.Feldstein@SMRresearch.com
Panasonic, Samsung, Sony, and XPAND 3D Join Forces in 'Full HD 3D Glasses Initiative'
Four Companies Will Seek Development of Joint Licensing on 'BLUETOOTH® ENABLED RF' and 'IR' Consumer 3D Active Glasses
NEW YORK, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic Corporation, Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Sony Corporation and X6D Limited (XPAND 3D) today announced their intent to collaborate on the development of a new technology standard for consumer 3D active glasses, under the name, "Full HD 3D Glasses Initiative."
With this new agreement, the companies intend to work together on the development and licensing of radio frequency (RF) system 3D active glasses technology, including RF system protocols between consumer 3D active glasses and 3D displays such as televisions, personal computers, projectors and 3D theaters with XPAND active shutter glasses.
The standardization will also include multiple types of infrared (IR) system protocols between 3D active glasses and 3D displays, ranging from the protocols jointly developed by Panasonic and XPAND 3D*, to the proprietary protocols of Samsung and Sony, respectively.
The license of today's newly announced Full HD 3D Glasses Initiative is targeted to be released in September 2011, at which time the development of new standardization-applied active 3D glasses will begin. Universal glasses with the new IR/RF protocols will be made available in 2012, and are targeted to be backward compatible with 2011 3D active TVs.
Through this initiative, the four companies aim to widely introduce universal active 3D glasses to the market.
Today's announcement marks a unique collaboration of the world's leading 3D TV manufacturers and 3D technology providers for the benefit of consumers. Glasses utilizing 3D active technology benefits consumers in that they enable Full HD 3D picture quality to be displayed to each eye, as well as a greater freedom of movement thanks to Bluetooth® technology.
"Panasonic has been working to standardize 3D glasses technologies, and in March, we announced a joint licensing of IR system protocols with XPAND, backed by several participant companies. We are very pleased that today's latest collaboration will incorporate our previous concept into these new standardization efforts," said Masayuki Kozuka, general manager of Media & Content Alliance Office, Corporate R&D Division, Panasonic Corporation. "We hope the expanded collaboration on this 3D standardization initiative will make a significant contribution toward accelerating the growth of 3D-related products."
"Today's announced collaboration underscores Samsung's promise to meet consumer needs among the ever-changing advancements of home entertainment and consumer electronics technology," said Jurack Chae, vice president, R&D Team, Visual Display Business, Samsung Electronics. "To-date, active 3D technology has proven to be the most popular choice for consumers in the 3D TV market. According to the NPD Group, Active 3D technology took an average of 96 percent share of the U.S. 3D TV market in the first half of this year; and this Full HD 3D Glasses Initiative will help further drive consumer adoption and understanding of active 3D--the technology that provides the clearest and most immersive 3D experience available."
"Through this alliance, we all look forward to addressing critical industry issues to enable a better consumer experience across products. We believe active 3D technology is the most suitable method to deliver full 1080p picture quality to each eye, giving consumers the 3D experience they most desire," said Jun Yonemitsu, deputy senior general manager, Home Entertainment Development Div., Sony Corporation.
"We are delighted to contribute our efforts and technologies to the Full HD 3D Glasses Initiative for both RF and IR technology that we announced today with Panasonic, Samsung and Sony. This initiative reinforces the consumer electronics industry's commitment to highest 3D quality and provides technology consumers and theater-goers with a simple but powerful solution to the challenge of interoperability," said Maria Costeira, XPAND 3D's CEO.
The Bluetooth SIG supports the industry's move to standardize on Bluetooth technology in 3D glasses.
"These market leaders are coming together to make the 3D experience better for the consumer. It makes perfect sense that Bluetooth technology would be a vital component of that solution, both for its mass market ubiquity and the freedom and convenience it provides," said Michael Foley, Ph.D., executive director, Bluetooth SIG. "And while today's news is exciting, this is just the beginning--Bluetooth technology in the living room makes sense in 3D glasses, stereo surround systems, remote controls, and ultimately the hub of the living room--the TV."
*The protocols jointly developed by Panasonic and XPAND: They were announced in March 2011 and supported by eight participant companies: Changhong Electric Co., Ltd., FUNAI Electric Co., Ltd., Hisense Electric Co., Ltd., Hitachi Consumer Electronics Co., Ltd., Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Seiko Epson Corporation, SIM2 Multimedia S.p.A. and ViewSonic Corporation.
About Bluetooth® Wireless Technology
Bluetooth wireless technology is the global wireless standard enabling simple connectivity for a broad range of electronic devices. Version 4.0 featuring Bluetooth low energy technology creates new application opportunities for products within the mobile phone, consumer electronics, PC, automotive, health & wellness, sports & fitness and smart home industries. With nearly two billion devices shipping annually, Bluetooth technology is the only proven wireless solution for developers, product manufacturers, and consumers worldwide. Backed by industry leading companies, the Bluetooth SIG empowers more than 14,500 member companies to collaborate, innovate and guide Bluetooth wireless technology. For more information please visit http://www.bluetooth.com. Bluetooth wireless technology: Simple. Secure. Everywhere.
About Panasonic
Panasonic Corporation is a worldwide leader in the development and manufacture of electronic products for a wide range of consumer, business and industrial needs. Based in Osaka, Japan, the company recorded consolidated net sales of 8.69 trillion yen (US$105 billion) for the year ended March 31, 2011. The company's shares are listed on the Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya and New York (NYSE:PC) stock exchanges. For more information on the company and the Panasonic brand, visit the company's website at http://panasonic.net/.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2010 consolidated sales of US$135.8 billion. Employing approximately 190,500 people in 206 offices across 68 countries, the company consists of nine independently operated business units: Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, Digital Imaging, Memory, System LSI and LCD. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, semiconductor chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit http://www.samsung.com.
About Sony Corporation
Sony Corporation is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, game, communications, key device and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. With its music, pictures, computer entertainment and online businesses, Sony is uniquely positioned to be the leading electronics and entertainment company in the world. Sony recorded consolidated annual sales of approximately $87 billion for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2011. Sony Global Web Site: http://www.sony.net/.
About XPAND
The global leader in the 3D technologies for home, business, education, cinema, military and medical applications, XPAND 3D is committed to advancing the state-of-the art in technology to provide consumers, businesses, educators and medical professionals with the comprehensive advantages of stereoscopic 3D. XPAND 3D provides glasses on a linear scale from the most advanced and feature-packed for sophisticated surgical, training and home theater to more ruggedized and affordable for cinema and mass market use. X6D Limited is a global company whose products and services are marketed under the XPAND brand name. XPAND 3D technology is used by over 4,500 3D cinemas in more than 50 countries and is the 3D solution of choice for post-production houses, educational and professional 3D applications. XPAND designs, manufactures and OEMs a range of consumer electronics 3D solutions that are driving the 3D revolution.
SOURCE Panasonic Corporation
Panasonic Corporation
CONTACT: Bluetooth SIG, Starr Million Baker, INK Public Relations (PR Agency), +1-512-382-8981, starr@ink-pr.com; or Panasonic: Panasonic Corporation, +81-3-6403-3040, Panasonic News Bureau (PR Agency), +81-3-3542-6205, Panasonic Corporation of North America, +1-201-392-6067, Jim.Reilly@us.panasonic.com; or Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Ki-yung Nam, Global Communications Group, +82-2-2255-8289, kiyung.nam@samsung.com; or Weber Shandwick (PR Agency), Kelly Hamor, +1-206-576-5584, khamor@webershandwick.com; or Sony, Corporate Communications, +81-3-6748-2200, Sony.Pressroom@sony.co.jp; or XPAND, XPAND Communications, +1-310-309-6705, info@xpandcinema.com
New Trip Planner Helps Verizon Wireless Customers Plan Their Next Adventures Abroad
Online Tool Puts Information at Customers' Fingertips
BASKING RIDGE, N.J., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless customers now have an online tool that makes it even easier to plan how to make the most of their wireless service when traveling outside of the United States.
The Verizon Wireless Trip Planner gives customers information they can use to plan their travels, including details about global calling and data plans, country-specific coverage and pricing, and device functionality in more than 200 international destinations.
"Verizon Wireless is committed to ensuring our customers have outstanding wireless experiences both in the U.S. as well as when they travel abroad," said John Stratton, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Verizon Wireless. "That's why we suggest customers who are planning to travel abroad use Trip Planner to learn about their global options, then call us before leaving to ensure they have the right plans, the right devices and are set to go."
Customers can use most Verizon Wireless phones and smartphones to make calls while visiting 40 countries worldwide including Mexico, Canada, China and India. In addition, customers equipped with one of more than a dozen Verizon Wireless global phones or smartphones can use their devices in over 200 countries.
With Trip Planner, customers can input their destinations, the duration of their trips, their devices and the services they will need while traveling. Trip Planner then provides country-specific details about using their devices; international roaming rates; dialing instructions; and helpful tips, including information about Verizon Wireless 24-hour global support, how to avoid unwanted data charges and answers to other, frequently asked questions about wireless use overseas. Customers are always reminded to call Verizon Wireless Customer Service to activate their devices for international use before they travel overseas.
Using Trip Planner, customers can create and print a document customized for their itineraries, detailing roaming rates for voice, data and text, as well as features and benefits of Verizon Wireless global plans - before they leave home.
Trip Planner is yet one more tool Verizon Wireless provides customers to manage their wireless lives and stay connected around the globe in more than 200 destinations. Verizon Wireless also provides customer service support at a dedicated, toll-free number that will put customers in touch with one of the company's U.S.-based global customer support centers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To help track global data roaming charges, Verizon Wireless has recently enhanced its free text alerts that are sent to customers abroad when their data charges exceed certain thresholds. The alerts now notify customers when their global data charges hit $25, $50, $150, $250, $500, $1,000 and additional thresholds of every $1000 thereafter.
To learn more about how Verizon Wireless customers can prepare to use their wireless phones for international travel and how to manage data usage outside the U.S., view the Verizon Wireless video, "Tips For Traveling Overseas." The video is available on the Verizon WirelessTV YouTube channel and in the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's fastest, most advanced 4G network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 106.3 million total wireless connections, including 89.7 million retail customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 83,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
SOURCE Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless
CONTACT: Tom Pica, Verizon Wireless , +1-908-559-7516, Thomas.Pica@verizonwireless.com
GHX Launches New Registration Center, Making it Easier, Faster for Healthcare Providers to Increase Usage of e-Commerce, Better Manage Trading Community
Browser-based portal enables hospitals to better control supply spending by simplifying and expediting the registration of new trading partners, and providing greater visibility
LOUISVILLE, Colo., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Healthcare providers can now directly manage the registration of trading partners on the GHX exchange using Registration Center, a new browser-based portal that significantly increases efficiency in conducting electronic business and controlling spend. By removing the third-party intervention required in the previous registration process, the new Registration Center allows providers to connect with trading partners at their own pace, while also providing real-time visibility into trading partner information.
By maximizing electronic purchasing, hospitals can drive greater cost savings and efficiencies. Registration Center helps facilitate increased usage of the exchange by aiding and maintaining accurate trading partner relationships and initiating requests for new trading partner connections. The portal also provides visibility into trading partner activity, allowing providers to encourage activity in non-active participants.
Derek Smith, GHX executive vice president of Marketing and Product Management, said the new Registration Center, which will be included in any customer's exchange subscription fees, is in line with the company's strategic goal of reducing the cost of healthcare in North America by $5 billion over five years. GHX is measuring this through a tool co-built with and validated by PRTM.
"Hospitals, manufacturers and distributors working with GHX have saved more than $1 billion since January of 2010 by focusing on automation, efficiencies and data synchronization," Smith said. "With this new product, trading partners will be able to derive even greater value from the exchange to begin controlling spend more easily and quickly."
Using the self-serve registration tool, providers can gain several benefits in addition to speed, including:
-- The ability to reach the world's largest healthcare community more
easily than ever
-- Real-time access to view and validate vendor information
-- Increased trading partner satisfaction as providers make it easier for
suppliers to do business with them
-- Increased usage of EDI to help reduce discrepancies and operating
expenses
During a three-month long trial conducted by GHX, 24 participating healthcare providers experienced a 22.4 percent increase in trading partners using the new registration tool. Miya Gray, ERP e-commerce systems administrator at Bon Secours Health System, was one of the top users of the tool during the pilot.
"Prior to Registration Center, I had a lot less visibility into the account registration process, and it was very difficult for me to track requests," Gray said. "Now I can easily determine outstanding requests for EDI vendors and, best of all, I'm able to immediately board and update MetaTrade vendors without the assistance of GHX. Registration Center has allowed me to provide better service to our Materials Management and Accounts Payable organizations and saved me time and effort in vendor account boarding and tracking."
About GHX
Global Healthcare Exchange, LLC (GHX) makes healthcare more efficient by delivering software and services that enable both healthcare providers and suppliers to increase efficiency, lower costs and provide better patient care. With the largest footprint in healthcare supply chain management, GHX connects more than 80 percent of licensed hospital beds at U.S. hospitals, as well as providers in Canada and Europe, with the suppliers from which they purchase the majority of their medical-surgical supplies. GHX is transforming today's linear healthcare supply chain into the industry's only Healthcare Supply Cloud(SM), providing 360-degree visibility into areas affecting both clinical and financial performance. Working with GHX, organizations can improve business processes, automate supply chain systems and collaborate to solve the tough challenges facing healthcare today. GHX is owned by members of the healthcare industry, including Abbott Exchange, Inc.; AmerisourceBergen Corp.; Baxter Healthcare Corp.; B. Braun Medical Inc.; BD; Boston Scientific Corp.; Cardinal Health, Inc.; Covidien; C.R. Bard, Inc.; Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.; GE Healthcare; HCA; Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems Inc.; McKesson Corp.; Medtronic USA, Inc.; Owens & Minor; Premier, Inc.; Siemens; University HealthSystem Consortium; and VHA Inc. For more information, visit http://www.ghx.com. Follow GHX on Twitter @GHX_LLC and on Facebook @GHX.
USB-1608G Series Sets a New Standard for Low-Cost, High-Speed DAQ
NORTON, Mass., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Measurement Computing Corporation, the value leader in data acquisition, today announced the release of three, high-speed, 16-bit USB DAQ devices with sampling rates up to 500 kS/s. Starting at only $399, the USB-1608G Series set a new standard for low-cost, high-speed multifunction DAQ.
The USB-1608G Series offers 16 analog inputs and up to two analog outputs, plus eight digital I/O, two counter inputs, and one timer output.
A range of software options are included with the USB-1608G Series including out of the box TracerDAQ(TM) along with comprehensive support for Visual Studio® and Visual Studio® .NET, DASYLab®, NI LabVIEW(TM), and MATLAB®. Also included is Measurement Computing's DAQFlex open-source software framework which provides support for Windows®, Linux®, and Mac® operating systems.
USB-1608G Series
Analog Sampling Analog Digital
Model Inputs Rate Outputs I/O Counters
----- ------ -------- ------- --- --------
16 SE/8 Up to 250
USB-1608G DIFF kS/s 0 8 2
--------- -------- ---------- --- --- ---
16 SE/8 Up to 500
USB-1608GX DIFF kS/s 0 8 2
---------- -------- ---------- --- --- ---
USB-1608GX- 16 SE/8 Up to 500
2AO DIFF kS/s 2 8 2
----------- -------- ---- --- --- ---
About Measurement Computing
Measurement Computing is the market leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of value-priced data acquisition hardware, and test and measurement software solutions for both programmers and non-programmers. More information about Measurement Computing is available on the Web at http://www.mccdaq.com.
New Course Emphasizes 21st Century Media Skills in MBA Communications Course at Touro University Worldwide
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dr. Greg Zerovnik, Director of Business Programs at Touro University Worldwide, today announced a new course in graduate Professional Communications in the TUW MBA program.
"We are particularly proud of this important new addition to the MBA program," said Zerovnik. "The way we conduct business and communicate electronically has changed. Our course covers contemporary communications platforms, including Twitter, blogs, emails, professional abstracts, new business proposals and executive summaries," Zerovnik explained.
"In addition, we will upgrade writing skills through a review of formats, report writing, salutations and complementary closes and titles. The fundamentals of writing are important," added Dr. Bernie Luskin, CEO and Chief Academic Officer of Touro University Worldwide.
"Touro's MBA program launched in January of this year and is experiencing significant growth. Students are choosing our online programs in order to receive an education while continuing with their career and life responsibilities. The program is targeted toward the adult learner. Our new course covers 21st century media in a variety of professional contexts, not just the world of business. We also include inter-generational and cross-cultural concepts, and emphasizing effective writing in any medium, for any purpose," Zerovnik added.
"Many of today's students will benefit from exposure to elements of professional style. Our advisory committee identified writing skill as an imperative needing improvement among middle managers," said Luskin. "We have also learned that the investment, commercial, public administration and health care communities would like to see better-prepared written communications, including reports and plans."
The new Professional Communications course is one of the nine core courses in the Touro University Worldwide MBA program. Five concentrations are available. They are Business Strategy, Finance, Management, Marketing and Communications & Media.
TUW courses are 3 units each, offered in 8-week terms. The next term begins on August 22, 2011.
To enroll in classes or request scholarship information, please call or email:
Matteo Indelicato, Program Advisor at Matteo.Indelicato@TouroW.edu, (818) 874-4118, or Heather Hoglund, Director of Enrollment Management at Heather.Hoglund@TouroW.edu, (818) 874-4121.
Touro University Worldwide a division of Touro College Los Angeles, accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). TUW presently offers online Masters' Degree Programs in Business (MBA), Organizational and Leadership Psychology, Media and Communications Psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy. For program and enrollment information, visit:www.TouroW.edu.
About the Touro College and University System (TCUS)
Touro is a system of non-profit institutions of higher and professional education. Touro College was chartered in 1970 primarily to enrich the Jewish heritage, and to serve the larger American and global community. Approximately 19,000 students are currently enrolled in its various schools and divisions. Touro College has branch campuses, locations and instructional sites in the New York area, as well as branch campuses and programs in Berlin, Jerusalem, Moscow, Paris, and Florida. Touro University California and its Nevada branch campus, as well as Touro College Los Angeles and Touro University Worldwide as separately accredited institutions within the Touro College and University System. For further information on Touro College, please go to:http://www.touro.edu/media/.
SOURCE Touro University Worldwide
Touro University Worldwide
CONTACT: Alisa Weinstein, CMO and Director of Communications, +1-818-575-6800 x85105, Alisa.Weinstein@TouroW.edu
New EMC Disk Library for Mainframe is First Integrated Solution for All Tape Use Cases
EMC DLm6000 2x Faster than Competition and Reduces Reliance on Mainframe Tape
HOPKINTON, Mass., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --
News Summary:
-- The new DLm6000 is the only solution that can address the full range of
mainframe tape workloads with a single, consolidated all-disk system
-- Designed for use in IBM z/OS environments, the new EMC DLm6000 is the
industry's fastest mainframe VTL
-- Integrates EMC VNX7500 and/or EMC Data Domain DD890 storage systems to
support all mainframe use cases
-- Matches different workloads to the most appropriate storage
Full Story:
EMC® Corporation (NYSE: EMC) today announced its next generation mainframe virtual tape library (VTL). Designed for use in IBM z/OS environments, the new EMC DLm6000 is the industry's fastest mainframe VTL with 2x the performance of its nearest competitor. By leveraging the latest advances in EMC Data Domain® and EMC VNX® storage systems, the DLm6000 enables mainframe users to minimize their storage and replication costs and dramatically improve their disaster recovery capabilities. Unlike competing products, the DLm6000 is the only solution that can address the full range of mainframe tape workloads with a single, consolidated all-disk system. By matching different workloads to the most appropriate storage, the DLm6000 maximizes system performance and accelerates data retrievals and backup and recovery times.
For the multimedia version of this press release and related content, please go to:www.emc.com/about/news/press/2011/20110808-01.htm
Use cases such as backup and recovery, batch processing, DFHSM migration and data archive have required mainframe users to implement multiple storage systems to support all of their tape workloads. The numerous challenges with physical tape systems, including reliability issues and poor performance, have led to the addition of disk systems. Some organizations have also added stand-alone deduplication systems resulting in as many as three systems to manage, which complicates storage management while still leaving protracted disaster recovery processes unaddressed. It is against this backdrop that EMC introduces the DLm6000, a superior alternative to existing mainframe tape solutions.
The EMC DLm6000 is the only mainframe virtual tape library that offers concurrent support for both primary and deduplication storage within the same platform, enabling a consolidated systems approach. Tape data can be directed to the appropriate storage type based on its intended use. Backup operations can be directed to the deduplication storage where the data footprint will be minimized, which reduces storage and transmission costs. Unique data types, such as DFHSM migration, can be directed to the primary storage and be available for near-instantaneous recalls.
Product Highlights and Benefits
-- Integrates VNX7500 and/or Data Domain DD890 storage systems to support
all mainframe use cases
-- Over 2 GB/s throughput is 2x faster than closest competitor
-- Logical capacity scales to 5.7 petabytes
-- z/OS Console Support centralizes platform management
-- Integrated system reduces footprint, power and cooling requirements
-- Reduces replication costs by using deduplication
Customer Quote
Braintree, Massachusetts-based MIB Group, Inc. is the premier provider of fraud protection information for individually underwritten life, disability income, long-term care and critical illness insurance. "By moving to a disk-based solution for our mainframe environment, the elimination of physical tape has already allowed us to reallocate a staff position and do away with third party tape management costs--as well as the inherent security concerns that go with external tape management services. As a current EMC DLm user, the availability of the DLm6000 demonstrates distinct improvements for mainframe users in general and for us here at MIB. We see the improved performance of the DLm6000 helping us address our ever-shrinking batch windows. In addition to performance benefits, the consolidated management will add new levels of visibility and reduce the complexity associated with managing multiple workload types. We expect EMC to be a long- term partner of ours and to continue to address our future needs through new and innovative mainframe solutions that solve real-world issues."
--- Rod Feak, Senior Systems Programmer, MIB Group, Inc.
Industry Analyst Quote
"Mainframe users grapple with unabated data growth, aging tape infrastructure and inadequate disaster recovery solutions. EMC's DLm6000 provides mainframe customers an optimized storage platform with deduplication and replication as a viable alternative to existing and cumbersome recovery solutions."
--Robert Amatruda, Research Director, Data Protection and Recovery, IDC
EMC Executive Quote
"The new DLm6000 not only delivers new deduplication capabilities and faster performance for mainframe users, but also a new and unmatched approach to mainframe storage and data protection. The complexity of managing two or three separate platforms imposed by competing solutions is eliminated and reducing tape use removes a host of limitations that made it difficult for mainframe users to meet their SLAs for batch processing, backups and data access."
-- Shane Jackson, Vice President of Marketing, EMC Backup Recovery Systems Division
Availability
The new EMC DLm6000 will be available in September, 2011.
About EMC
EMC Corporation is a global leader in enabling businesses and service providers to transform their operations and deliver IT as a service. Fundamental to this transformation is cloud computing. Through innovative products and services, EMC accelerates the journey to cloud computing, helping IT departments to store, manage, protect and analyze their most valuable asset -- information -- in a more agile, trusted and cost-efficient way. Additional information about EMC can be found at http://www.EMC.com.
EMC, Data Domain and VNX are registered trademarks or trademarks of EMC Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.
This release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined under the Federal Securities Laws. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain risk factors, including but not limited to: (i) adverse changes in general economic or market conditions; (ii) delays or reductions in information technology spending; (iii) the relative and varying rates of product price and component cost declines and the volume and mixture of product and services revenues; (iv) competitive factors, including but not limited to pricing pressures and new product introductions; (v) component and product quality and availability; (vi) fluctuations in VMware, Inc.'s operating results and risks associated with trading of VMware stock; (vii) the transition to new products, the uncertainty of customer acceptance of new product offerings and rapid technological and market change; (viii) risks associated with managing the growth of our business, including risks associated with acquisitions and investments and the challenges and costs of integration, restructuring and achieving anticipated synergies; (ix) the ability to attract and retain highly qualified employees; (x) insufficient, excess or obsolete inventory; (xi) fluctuating currency exchange rates; (xii) threats and other disruptions to our secure data centers or networks; (xiii) our ability to protect our proprietary technology; (xiv) war or acts of terrorism; and (xv) other one-time events and other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time in EMC's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. EMC disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements after the date of this release.
SOURCE EMC Corporation
EMC Corporation
CONTACT: Ed Luboja, +1-203-210-7404, edward.luboja@emc.com
NETGEAR Introduces the Industry's First Smart Switch with 10-Gigabit Connectivity
Mid-market companies dependent upon data replication, virtualization and video on demand tasks may now build reliable and affordable 10-gigabit infrastructures with the NETGEAR ProSafe 52-Port Gigabit Stackable Smart Switch (GS752TXS)
SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR),a global networking company that delivers innovative products to consumers, businesses and service providers, today introduced the industry's first 10-gigabit smart switch for mid-market networks. The NETGEAR ProSafe® 52-Port Gigabit Stackable Smart Switch (GS752TXS) is the ideal companion to the rapidly emerging class of 10-gigabit servers, delivering maximum throughput from server to switch for demanding tasks such as data replication and backup, virtualization, video on demand and high-volume transaction processing.
At less than half the cost of a managed switch, the ProSafe 52-Port Gigabit Smart Switch provides 48 gigabit ports for connecting devices to the network, along with four 10G SFP+ ports for stacking or uplink to servers. As many as six switches can be stacked for a total of 288 network ports, with full redundancy for maximum reliability.
"Web-managed (smart) switches are extremely attractive to mid-market companies looking for a balance of performance and value. However, a serious downside across the industry has been the lack of 10G connectivity in this product segment," said Matthias Machowinski, Directing Analyst for Enterprise Networks and Video at Infonetics Research. "With NETGEAR's latest smart switch, buyers no longer have to compromise on 10G connectivity, ensuring they can get the highest performance out of their servers, NAS appliances, and network up-links."
"I see this switch as a perfect balance between satisfying low per-port costs for gigabit users while attaching to a 10-gigabit backbone," said Ted Spence, Chief Information Officer of Electronic Entertainment Design and Research (EEDAR), a specialty video game research firm in Carlsbad, Calif. "The smart management tools in particular offer exactly the right level of monitoring that we need, with a price that makes the product attractive for growth."
"As part of our commitment to smart IT, not big IT, we are supporting our mid-market customers as they bring 10G servers on line," said Maggie Wu, Senior Product Line Manager for Switching Products at NETGEAR. "Going forward, we will accelerate the introduction of 10G switching and storage solutions that are reliable, affordable and simple."
Pricing and Availability
The NETGEAR ProSafe 52-Port Gigabit Stackable Smart Switch (GS752TXS) is now available worldwide and is priced at $2,100 in the United States.
NETGEAR (NASDAQGM: NTGR) is a global networking company that delivers innovative products to consumers, businesses and service providers. For consumers, the company makes high performance, dependable and easy to use home networking, storage and digital media products to connect people with the Internet and their content and devices. For businesses, NETGEAR provides networking, storage and security solutions without the cost and complexity of Big IT. The company also supplies top service providers with retail proven, whole home solutions for their customers. NETGEAR products are built on a variety of proven technologies such as wireless, Ethernet and powerline, with a focus on reliability and ease-of-use. NETGEAR products are sold in approximately 28,000 retail locations around the globe, and through more than 37,000 value-added resellers. The company's headquarters are in San Jose, Calif., with additional offices in 25 countries. NETGEAR is an ENERGY STAR® partner. More information is available at http://www.NETGEAR.com or by calling (408) 907-8000. Connect with NETGEAR at http://twitter.com/NETGEAR and http://www.facebook.com/NETGEAR.
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for NETGEAR, Inc.:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Specifically, statements concerning NETGEAR's business and the expected performance characteristics, specifications, reliability, market acceptance, market growth, specific uses, user feedback and market position of NETGEAR's products and technology are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, the following: the actual price, performance and ease of use of NETGEAR's products may not meet the price, performance and ease of use requirements of customers; product performance may be adversely affected by real world operating conditions; failure of products may under certain circumstances cause permanent loss of end user data; new viruses or Internet threats may develop that challenge the effectiveness of security features in NETGEAR's products; the ability of NETGEAR to market and sell its products and technology; the impact and pricing of competing products; and the introduction of alternative technological solutions. Further information on potential risk factors that could affect NETGEAR and its business are detailed in the Company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, those risks and uncertainties listed in the section entitled "Part II - Item 1A. Risk Factors," pages 35 through 51, in the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended April 3, 2011, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 10, 2011. NETGEAR undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
CONTACT: Claudia Oropeza, Weber Shandwick for NETGEAR, +1-408-685-0618, coropeza@webershandwick.com, or U.S. Sales Inquiries, +1-408-907-8000, sales@netgear.com, or U.S. Customer Inquiries, 888-NETGEAR
SmartDraw Software to Host Free Webinar: "Project Planning Made Simple"
Learn how to plan for success by implementing proven, yet simple, techniques that can be applied to projects of any size
SAN DIEGO, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- SmartDraw Software, creators of SmartDraw VP, the world's first visual processor(TM), today announced it will host a webinar aimed at teaching attendees how to simplify project planning and management. This will be held Tuesday, August 16th, at 10:00am PT.
Due to the rapid registration rate for the first session, a second webinar featuring the same content has been scheduled for Tuesday, August 23rd, at 10:00am PT.
The 30-minute webinar titled "Project Planning Made Simple" will highlight:
-- How to minimize meetings and maximize impact;
-- How to properly scope out tasks so nothing is overlooked;
-- How to foster collaboration to get the most out of your team.
"We're all familiar with the saying, 'If you fail to plan, you plan to fail,'" said Sarah Maynard, Manager of Social Media Marketing for SmartDraw. "During this webinar, we'll highlight basic, yet powerful, techniques that organizations of all sizes can implement for any project, regardless of the size or requirements. Better project management can be as simple as creating project charts and timelines that clearly define roles and responsibilities. We'll show you the tools available for this and how to maximize their potential."
Hosted by Maynard and RuthJoy Razon, Training and Development Manager for SmartDraw, the webinar will include time for Q&A following the presentation.
Through the innovation of the world's first visual processor(TM), SmartDraw Software brings the power of visual communication to every desktop, helping businesses increase their bottom line by improving communication, refining operations, completing projects on time, and successfully implementing their plans. SmartDraw VP automates the creation of 70 different types of business visuals including flowcharts, mind maps, project charts, timelines, floor plans, data charts and more. Built-in integration with Microsoft Office® and Adobe PDF allows users to create and then share SmartDraw visuals with a single click.
SmartDraw Software, LLC helps businesses increase their bottom line by improving communication, refining operations, completing projects on time, and successfully implementing their plans through the everyday use of visual communication. Publisher of SmartDraw VP, the world's first visual processor(TM), SmartDraw Software enables business professionals to easily and automatically create more than 70 types of common business visuals, including flowcharts, project charts, mind maps, org charts, timelines and more. SmartDraw lets anyone achieve professional-quality results in just minutes. SmartDraw is used by more than half of the Fortune 500, as well as thousands of law firms, police departments, health systems and private enterprises of all sizes. SmartDraw Software, LLC is privately-held, with headquarters in San Diego, California. For more information or to download a free trial of SmartDraw, please visit http://www.SmartDraw.com.
SOURCE SmartDraw Software
SmartDraw Software
CONTACT: Megan Parker of SS|PR, +1-847-415-9326, mparker@sspr.com, for SmartDraw Software
ViXS Systems Introduces Turnkey Hardware and Software Blu-ray & Personal Video Recorder (PVR) Reference Design available for Set-top and Consumer Electronics Manufacturers
TORONTO, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - ViXS Systems Inc., a leading provider of
smart network multimedia processors, announces today the availability
of its Blu-Ray PVR Reference Design for consumer electronic OEMs, ODMs
and Set-top Box manufacturers. This unique reference design offers our
customers a powerful Blu-ray PVR solution with the ability to add other
features such as Multiple HD Transcoding , 3D Graphical user
interfaces, live video streaming to iPAD and Tablets together with 3D
TV support all on a single XCode(®) 4210 System on Chip (SoC).
"This reference design provides a go-to-market platform solution for our
customers with unprecedented media processing performance and
concurrency," said Sally Daub, President and CEO of ViXS Systems. "In
addition, it includes a rich software suite of applications that enable
manufacturers to provide a unique and highly integrated media platform
to their end customer."
The ViXS Blu-ray PVR Hardware Reference design includes the following:
-- Single or Dual Tuner support (ATSC, ISDB-T, DVB-T/T2 options)
-- Single 10/100 Ethernet port
-- HDMI 1.4a w/HDCP Output
o Blu Ray 3D support
-- Composite Out
-- Analog L/R Out
-- SPDIF out
-- BD/DVD Recordable Drive
-- SD Card slot
-- Support for External or Integrated HDD
-- Built-in WiFi - 802.11n
To order or inquiry about the new ViXS Blu-ray PVR Recorder design,
please email sales@vixs.com
About ViXS Systems Inc.
ViXS is a multimedia solutions innovator providing technologies for
processing, managing, securing and distributing high quality video and
audio allowing seamless control, conversion, and connectivity between
many classes and sizes of digital entertainment devices.
ViXS supplies advanced System-on-Chip semiconductors, software solutions
and hardware reference designs for the world's top manufacturers of
Digital TVs, DVDs, Set-top boxes, Personal Video Recorders, PCs,
Network-Attached Storage devices, Residential/Home Gateways, Blu-ray
players/recorders, as well as Broadcast and Professional Equipment
OEMs.
ViXS is headquartered in Toronto, Canada with global operations and
offices in Europe, Asia and North America. ViXS has filed more than 275
patents worldwide with over 85 patents being issued to date. Listed for
four years running as one of Deloitte's fastest growing North American
companies, ViXS is setting new standards in the way digital
entertainment is viewed and transmitted across an endless array of
multimedia products.
For more information on ViXS, please visit our website: www.vixs.com
Fasthosts Launches Hosted Microsoft Exchange 2010 Email Packages
GLOUCESTER, England, August 8, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
Fasthosts Internet Ltd, a leading web hosting provider, has launched a
brand new range of high quality email packages based on Microsoft Exchange
2010. The solutions offer businesses and private users alike the very latest
functionality for email, including mobile emailing and can improve
productivity with shared calendars, tasks and contacts accessible from any
computer. The feature-packed and robust email platform is ideal for small or
medium sized businesses to equip their staff with varying levels of mailbox
functionality for different types of user. In addition, Fasthosts new email
packages deliver an efficient mobile email system which can lead to
increased productivity and better response times for businesses in handling
customer enquiries.
Fasthosts is a long-standing expert in delivering hosted Microsoft
Exchange email solutions. The high quality features and reliability of the
platform make it a popular choice for many UK firms. Fasthosts' new
Microsoft Exchange 2010 based packages provide ways to handle email more
speedily and professionally. Free inclusive Microsoft Outlook software for
PC or Mac enables users to synchronize email from multiple mailboxes, track
email conversations, share calendar availability within groups, and manage
work schedules with ease. Auto responders can be used to automatically
respond to incoming emails. Forwarders and Catch-all Email can be used to
distribute incoming emails effectively and manage which addresses are used
as public-facing.
Remote access to email is now an important issue for many firms. All
Fasthosts email packages now benefit from Microsoft Outlook 2010 Web App, a
webmail solution for working flexibly from any computer. Email, contacts and
calendars are updated in real-time so users always have the latest data to
hand. Fasthosts Business email packages feature Microsoft ActiveSync, a
simple to set up software that makes it easy to use the platform from a
mobile device or tablet. The solution provides email, calendar, contacts and
tasks synchronized directly to a mobile device.
For personal users, the Fasthosts Personal Email package is a highly
affordable way to send professional, personalised email from a domain name.
The 2 x 1GB virus and spam protected mailboxes are ideal for handling large
attachments, an additional 5 x 100MB mailboxes included, and 10 email
forwarders. For users whose mobile devices do not support full Exchange,
IMAP Access enables users to access email in a slimmed down format on most
handsets.
The Fasthosts Business email range now starts with the Business Standard
package, which features 1 highest specification Professional mailbox, 5
Starter mailboxes and 20 email forwarders. The Business Premium package
includes 3 Professional mailboxes, 2 Starter Plus mailboxes, a further
unlimited Starter mailbox and unlimited email forwarders. Especially
important for business users, all email data is hosted in Fasthosts' highly
secure state-of-the-art UK data centres, and benefits from industry-leading
virus scanning and multi-level spam filtering. Fasthosts also provides the
reassurance of a dedicated technical support team on hand 24/7.
Steve Holford, marketing director, Fasthosts Internet Ltd, said: "Firms
of all sizes are learning that how email is handled can affect customer
spend and loyalty. Our latest Exchange-powered packages enable a business to
handle email and calendars more effectively across teams, and access
important materials 24/7 from outside the workplace. The newest
functionality can further help drive efficiencies and ensure that maximum
value is had from every email sent and received."
About Fasthosts:
Fasthosts is a leading web hosting
[http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/web-hosting ] provider. Based in the UK and
operating 24x7 from their dedicated UK data centres, Fasthosts keeps over 1
million domain names [http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/domain-names ] running
smoothly and ensures over 42 million emails are delivered safely each day.
All Fasthosts services can be self-managed through the award winning
Fasthosts web-based control panel. Services include domain registrations,
shared web hosting, business-class email, virtual private servers
[http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/virtual-servers ], dedicated server hosting
[http://www.fasthosts.co.uk/dedicated-servers ], software-as-a-service,
online back-up, secure online storage and unlimited broadband.
PR Contact:
Richard Stevenson
Fasthosts
Discovery House
154 Southgate Street
Gloucester
GL1 2EX
+44(0)1452-561-857 http://www.fasthosts.co.uk
Agreement provides for distribution of releases sent by PR Newswire to content platforms for businesses of Agencia Estado
SAO PAULO, Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Agencia Estado (AE), pioneer and national leader in providing information online and in real time for the financial market in Brazil, has just signed a partnership with PR Newswire, global leader in innovative communication and marketing services. As per the agreement, AE will Begin to reproduce releases distributed by Newswire on its content platforms for its own businesses, such as AE Broadcast, AE Midia and AE Comunicacao Empresarial.
The new service will reach the entire portfolio of Agencia Estado clients, such as communications vehicles (newspapers, magazines, sites and radio and TV broadcasters), a total of more than 15,500 subscribers, as well as the readers of the Estado de Sao Paulo, or the Estadao. The information will be made available by content platforms in real time for a highly select and segmented audience.
"These are two great communication and content companies that are going to take advantage of the specificity of the businesses of each one to create a new approach that seeks to disseminate information to markets in general. The new service will reach the trading desks of the financial market, the terminals of the editors of the Brazil's main communications vehicles and the largest media vehicles and content portals in the country," explains Daniel Parke, general manager of Agencia Estado.
To Marco A. Franca, President of PR Newswire in Brazil and Vice President for Latin America, the partnership is a sign of a new positioning of the communications market in the country. "We are still far from changing the culture of sending releases by e-mail, which jam the inboxes of Brazilian journalists, but this partnership demonstrates one more step in the direction of distributing relevant content through segmented technology platforms. That is, journalists and the specific audience in question can obtain information that is sectorized and coming straight from the source on reliable online channels."
About Agencia Estado - A pioneer in the distribution of information online and in real time, and a provider of digital solutions for professional markets, AE has consolidated its leadership through its product AE Broadcast, with more than 15 thousand users in its base, disseminating the best financial information in the country. Founded in 1970, it produces and releases content via advanced distributions systems to a variety of audiences, such as entrepreneurs, executives, financial and governmental institutions, communications media, individual investors and professionals.
About PR Newswire - A global leader in innovative communication and market services, enabling organizations to connect and engage their target audiences in dialogue all over the world. A pioneer in the commercial news industry, PR Newswire has been connecting clients with audiences for 55 years in more than 170 countries and in more than 40 languages, through its unparalleled network of offices. PR Newswire has offices in 16 countries in South and North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, as well as through its exclusive affiliations with the principal news agencies all over the world. PR Newswire is a subsidiary of UBM plc, a leader in global business media serving business professionals all over the world.
Information for the Press:
Lucia Faria Inteligencia em Comunicacao
Marco Barone - marco@luciafaria.com.br
Antonio Saturnino - grupoestado@luciafaria.com.br
Phone: +011-55-11-3277-8891 extensions 29 and 32 http://www.ae.com.br
IOS Acquires Lateral Group to Broaden Product Offering
LONDON, August 8, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
?
Innovative Output Solutions (IOS), a UK-based subsidiary of DST Systems,
Inc. (NYSE: DST), is pleased to announce the acquisition of Lateral Group
Limited ("Lateral Group"). Lateral Group is a UK company with operational
facilities located principally in London, Nottingham and Edenbridge, and is
engaged in integrated, data driven, multi-channel marketing. Lateral Group
is a private company and the terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
IOS (http://www.i-os.com [http://www.i-os.com/_ ]) is one of the largest
direct communications manufacturers within its sector in the UK. It is also
one of Europe's largest variable colour digital printers, specialising in
innovative one-to-one communication solutions for various sectors including
financial services, retail, utilities, travel, charities and local
government.
The addition of Lateral Group is viewed as a complementary fit with
existing IOS operations both in terms of services offered and business
outlook.
"This is an excellent strategic development for IOS," commented IOS
chief executive Mark Felstead. "Lateral Group has a strong presence in the
industry and we are pleased to be able to provide further solutions such as
data insight and online marketing to our client base through this
acquisition."
Commented Nick Dixon, the principal founder of the Lateral Group: "We
have found a great home for the business, and I am absolutely confident that
it will go from strength to strength. We look forward to taking advantage of
new technologies and resources through this transaction and achieving
further scale as a marketing services provider."
Said Felstead: "This move represents the execution of IOS's strategy to
extend and develop our product offering - particularly integrating
communications through print, data and e-solutions - as well as helping to
ensure that we continue to develop a market-leading position in our
traditional services. At a time when there is much structural change taking
place in the industry, it is important for IOS to lead the market. This
acquisition helps us to achieve that. We are now in an even stronger
position to support larger contracts across the entire spectrum of output
solutions in the UK."
Notes for editors:
Innovative Output Solutions (IOS) was formed in July 2010 when
U.S.-based, DST Systems Inc. (NYSE: DST) merged its UK subsidiary DST Output
with dsicmm Group Limited. IOS (http://www.i-os.com) is one of the largest
direct communications manufacturers within its sector in the UK. It is also
one of Europe's largest variable colour digital printers, specialising in
innovative one-to-one communication solutions for various sectors including
financial services, retail, utilities, travel, charities and local
government.
Lateral Group was formed in 2008 following the acquisition of existing
businesses and is an integrated multi-channel marketing services provider,
comprising four companies: Data Lateral, Shift Click, Dialogue Solutions and
Howitt.
Data Lateral is a data specialist which has been working with a growing
list of some of the UK's most skilled direct marketers and biggest brands
for more than 15 years while Shift Click is an online marketing and web
development agency which also provides clients with an established and
powerful email broadcasting capability.
Dialogue Solutions has 27 years' experience in delivering successful
high quality digital communications, workflow technologies and supply chain
management solutions for clients large and small using its marketing
resource management software MarketPower(R).
Howitt is one of the UK's leading print and direct mail producers, with
a 180-year heritage in high-quality, flexible printing, incorporating a
range of print, communication, direct mail, personalisation and fulfilment
services.
DST Systems, Inc. provides sophisticated information processing and
computer software products and services to support the mutual fund,
investment management, insurance, brokerage and healthcare industries. In
addition to technology products and services, DST provides integrated print
and electronic statement and billing output solutions through a wholly owned
subsidiary. DST's world-class data centres provide technology infrastructure
support for mutual fund companies, healthcare providers, banks, mortgage
bankers and insurance companies around the globe. DST is headquartered in
Kansas City, Missouri, and is a publicly traded company on the New York
Stock Exchange.