ADVISORY/Nominations Now Being Accepted for Deloitte & Touche Silicon Valley Technology Fast 50 Rankings of Fastest Growing Technology Companies; Nominations due May 15, 2000.

News & Assignment Editors

ADVISORY...for Monday (May 15)

--(BUSINESS WIRE)

    WHAT: Nominations are now open for the 6th Annual Deloitte &
        Touche Silicon Valley Technology Fast 50. The Fast 50 ranks
        the fastest growing technology companies in the Silicon
        Valley.

    HOW: Winners are selected based on the percentage of growth in
        revenues from 1995-1999 (five-year period). To be considered
        for the Fast 50, entrants must meet the following criteria:

    --  Have revenues of at least $50,000 in 1995 and at least
        $1,000,000 in 1999.

    --  Be public or private companies, headquartered in Silicon
        Valley. Subsidiaries and divisions are not eligible, unless
        they have some public ownership and are separately traded.

    --  Be "technology companies,"specificaly defined as companies
        that produce technology, manufacture a technology-related
        product, are technologically intensive use technology in
        problem-solving, or devoting a high percentage of effort to
        research and development of technology.

        Ten "Rising Star" winners will also be chosen. Criteria is the
        same, except that "Rising Star" winners are selected based on
        the percentage of growth in revenues for just three years,
        from 1997-1999.

        All U.S.-based Fast 50 companies will automatically be entered
        in the Deloitte & Touche Technology Fast 500, a raking of the
        500 fastest growing technology companies in the United States.
        Companies can nominate themselves or be nominated by a third
        party. Winners will be determined by Deloitte & Touche based
        on a detailed review of qualifying nominations realted to
        revenue growth over the five year period.

    WHEN: Nominations for the Silicon Valley Fast 50 are due by May
        15, 2000. Winners will be announced in September 2000.

    WHERE: Visit www.fast50.com to complete the online nomination form
        or call Deloitte & Touche LLP at 408/795-4696 to request a
        form.

    SPONSORS: The Silicon Valley Fast 50 is sponsored by Deloitte &
        Touche's Technology & Communications Group. Merrill Corp., and
        Joint Venture: Silicon Valley Network.

    PR CONTACT: Teri Bruno, Teri Bruno Public Relations --
        714/536-8407 or [e-mail].