CNET Networks Announces 'Builder.com,' Serving the Evolving Needs Of Enterprise Software Developers; New Site Goes 'Beyond the Code,' Offering Real-World Expertise to Help Developers Make High-Stakes Technology Decisions.

SAN FRANCISCO -- CNET Networks, Inc. today announced Builder.com, the premier community and information resource serving the evolving business-critical needs of enterprise software developers and their managers.

The Web site (http://www.builder.com/) combines editorial coverage on topics ranging from architecture and management issues to coding, as well as access to a large community of peers and a broad range of tools -- such as the latest downloads. It was designed to become developers' definitive source for information and discussion on topics such as Web services, Java, XML, and Extreme Programming (XP), which impact their technology environments and influence their purchasing decisions.

Developers are among the fastest growing and most influential IT categories. The more than 2.2 million developers who have business purchase influence in the U.S.(1) have evolved from behind-the-scenes code writers to strategic business influencers who determine standards, architect overall business solutions, and deliver technology innovations that boost business efficiency. In this role, they are responsible for not only finding solutions to technology problems, but also understanding and applying global best practices. CNET Networks currently reaches more than half of this developer audience through its leading IT-focused Web sites, positioning Builder.com to attract an even larger percentage of this critical audience through cross-network promotion.

The registration-based Builder.com site is a key addition to CNET Network's global content brands. It integrates from and builds upon the authoritative developer-specific content and community offerings of ZDNet and TechRepublic, the company's top brands for IT professionals, as well as relevant content from other top CNET Networks brands, such as News.com and Download.com. In addition to its aggregation of product reviews, news, tools and peer-to-peer discussions on the hottest technology topics, Builder.com fills an industry-wide need for architecture and management advice from experienced developers. A series of articles by developers go "Beyond the Code," covering real-world experiences, from the architectural and business situation that created a programming challenge, to the solutions used to overcome the challenge.

"At Builder.com, not only are we providing word-class, original content, we are also creating a community where developers can share information with their peers and get the mission-critical answers they need," said Bob Artner, Vice President of Builder.com and TechRepublic. "Developers trust and value the opinion of their peers. By providing a resource where they can learn from the real-world experiences of others and gain insight on how the latest technologies are used in business, Builder.com facilitates developer's role in high-stakes technology purchase decisions."

Marketers have responded with early enthusiasm to the Builder.com launch, including some of the largest players such as Sun, Macromedia and others.

"Builder.com speaks directly to developers with clear, no-nonsense language that reflects the way they want to receive information," said Dominic Gallello, Executive Vice President of Macromedia. "Macromedia is excited by the potential of the new site and we look forward to building a direct relationship with Builder.com users as we all rally together around the promise of the Web."

About CNET Networks, Inc.

CNET Networks, Inc. is the global source of information and commerce services for the technology industry. As a top 10 Internet company with established Web sites in 20 countries and content in 18 languages, CNET Networks connects buyers, sellers and suppliers throughout the IT supply chain with award-winning content via the Web, wireless devices, broadband, radio and print. Its respected brand portfolio includes CNET, ZDNet, TechRepublic, mySimon, News.com, download.com, shopper.com, GameSpot, Computer Shopper magazine, CNET Radio, and CNET Channel.

  (1) Intelliquest, October, 2001
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Website: http://www.builder.com/

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