mrc-Productivity Series Adds XML Capabilities

Tool suite enhancement brings flexibility to e-business

Lombard, IL, September 25, 2001 — e-business software and services leader michaels, ross & cole, ltd. (mrc) today announced that the mrc-Productivity Series now generates XML applications in addition to Java, CGI, HTML, and native RPG ILE applications. The new capability allows business to quickly build e-business applications and provides a platform-independent, Internet-friendly way to enhance and accelerate an organization's B2B initiative.

XML is the universal format for structured documents and data on the Web, and simplifies information sharing and distribution. Web-based reporting of iSeries data is greatly enhanced when that data is wrapped in XML. Since the XML report can be delivered to any type of device, remote staff can easily access information directly from their PDA devices, cellular phones, or laptops. The addition of XML to mrc's tool suite provides these benefits:

• Platform Independent: XML is a product of an open-standards process and continues to be developed as an open source, community effort. Its non-proprietary nature means businesses can work together and share information despite the diversity of their information systems.
• Internet Friendly: XML was created to take advantage of the simple and open transport layers that the Internet provides, such as e-mail, Web, and FTP, and can make use of any of these transport mechanisms as a means for shuttling XML data back and forth.
• Ease of Development: the mrc-Productivity Series will automatically generate XML applications without manual programming to deliver applications more quickly than traditional methods.

The mrc-Productivity Series delivers Web site creation, rapid application development, and report writing capabilities and is available immediately. The product's tier-based pricing begins at $25,000. All product enhancements are free to existing customers who subscribe to the company's maintenance and warranty program.

mrc was founded in 1981 and provides software and services for the IBM iSeries and WebSphere markets. The mrc US-based and international affiliate network serves more than 4000 customers worldwide. For more information, contact mrc at 1920 South Highland Avenue, Suite 203, Lombard, IL 60148; via phone at 630/916-0662; via fax at: 630/916-0663; via e-mail at mrc@mrc-productivity.com; or via the Internet at www.mrc-productivity.com.

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PRESS ONLY: For interviews or more information, contact Heather Gately, mrc marketing manager, at 630/916-0662 or heatherg@mrc-productivity.com.