Comdisco's CLASS 4.5 Asset Management Software Sets Foundation for Improved IT Decisionmaking.

ROSEMONT, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 20, 1998--

Expanded Reporting, Real-Time Write API, Detailed Software Asset Tracking Among Added Features

Comdisco, Inc., today announced the availability of CLASS(R) 4.5, the company's Internet-enabled asset management repository, offering an integrated, enterprise-wide solution for managing distributed assets. Each of the new features is specifically designed to provide IT executives the information needed to strategically plan and manage distributed assets, whether the organization's goal is to improve vendor management, implement stricter contract compliance or be prepared to roll out strategic applications such as Windows NT, enterprise resource planning or e-commerce.

Among the new features and enhancements to CLASS are flexible and expanded attribute fields that enable even more detailed description of each asset, a real-time write application programming interface (API) that automatically updates the asset repository with asset information changes as they occur, and dynamic software asset tracking capabilities for improved tracking of software packages.

The expanded attribute fields in CLASS enable organizations to track asset attributes such as expiration dates, disk space, monitor size or others using up to 999 fields. Specific attribute fields can also be tied to specific types of assets to improve information tracking. Organizations can improve decisionmaking by using this information to evaluate future migrations.

CLASS' real-time write API allows applications, such as help desk or autodiscovery reconciliation tools, to update the CLASS asset repository directly in real-time each time a change has been made to an asset. CLASS integrates with leading help desk and autodiscovery tools such as Remedy Corporation's Action Request System help-desk application and Microsoft SMS autodiscovery tool, allowing organizations to share information between applications. The write API ensures the referential integrity of asset data and that companies have the most up-to-date information from which to make future technology decisions.

The new software asset tracking feature provides improved management of various software packages, including back- and front-office and desktop applications. In addition to providing a master list of specific software applications and associated detail (e.g., package name and number, version number, file name, etc.), CLASS also allows users to track the number of software licenses purchased versus the number used, enabling organizations to reallocate under-utilized licenses and better negotiate volume purchase agreements for future software acquisitions. The software tracking feature also can accept software asset information that is collected by leading autodiscovery tools, further automating the tracking process and helping companies ensure they are in compliance with their software licenses.

"As a leading provider of asset management services, Comdisco is committed to helping organizations gain control, reduce costs and improve end-user support in their distributed computing environments," said John Kresovsky, vice president and general manager, asset management services, Comdisco. "Our continued commitment and enhancements to CLASS help ensure organizations can effectively manage their ever-changing enterprises."

CLASS Interface and Application Support

CLASS provides support for the Oracle 7, Version 7.3.2 database; Microsoft SQL Server 6.5 on Windows NT 4.0; and Sybase 11 for HP-UNIX environments.

CLASS also offers an open EDI-compliant environment and interfaces with Microsoft Access for custom reports. CLASS EDI capabilities allow customers to automate communication with multiple vendors such as receiving nightly catalog updates, sending approved orders and change orders electronically, receiving order status and planned ship dates, as well as electronic invoicing for payment and reconciliation.

Additionally, CLASS leverages organizations' intranets, offering an easy-to-use intranet front-end that allows end users to submit requisitions online from their desktops. Plus, authorized IT personnel can quickly check the status of orders and make queries about the locations, configurations and users of assets via their organization's intranet.

Comdisco offers a full range of asset management services that enable companies to gain control of their distributed assets and maximize the business impact of technology throughout its useful life. These services include: service management, asset management, physical inventory, technology refresh, configuration, break/fix, moves, help desk, technology financing, procurement, installation/de-installation, disposal, asset service desk and IT effectiveness services.

Comdisco Inc. (NYSE: CDO), a technology services company, is one of the world's leading providers of solutions that help organizations reduce technology cost and risk. In addition to asset management, services include business continuity, network services and equipment leasing. Comdisco's revenue totaled $3.0 billion for the 12 months ended March 31, 1998. For more information, visit Comdisco's web site at http://www.comdisco.com.

    CONTACT: Comdisco Inc.
              Holly Crilly, 847/518-5616
              [e-mail]
                     or
              Jung Communications
              Mary Jung, 773/429-0940
              [e-mail]