Conchango Brings the Corporate Directory to Any Device, Anywhere; Creates Enterprise Solution for Instant Information Retrieval.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 22, 2003

Conchango is keeping the distributed enterprise connected by harnessing the real-time capabilities of Microsoft Instant Messenger.

'I-Ask' from the business technology solutions provider, capitalizes on the speed and convenience of the ubiquitous Microsoft product by linking it to back-office systems. This means that staff can call up corporate information instantly - from any directory, at any time, on any device - simply by keying in as little as a two word request. Administrators now need only ensure that their central directory is up-to-date, rather than distributing contact lists and personnel updates direct to staff on a regular basis.

Built on the Microsoft .Net platform, 'I-Ask' operates without the need for a client application, ensuring ease of use and rapid roll-out at low cost. The solution uses Web Services to connect to existing data stores and, in addition to the IM channel, also offers WAP- and Web browser access. This ensures the widest possible functionality for the whole corporate population from PC, PDA, Smartphone or WAP phone.

'I-Ask' ensures the security and integrity of any data by authenticating access against the corporate directory. In addition, by locating the application at the server level instead of on the client device, there is also no risk of compromising corporate security through loss or theft of the laptop, PDA or phone. Non-sensitive information, such as contact details, can also be forwarded by I-Ask to other users in the organization.

The tool was conceived as an internal corporate contact lookup application to link off-site staff with central information systems. Following successful internal technical and functional trials, the company has decided to commercialize the solution and offer it to customers. The tool can be embedded in existing corporate Intranets and portals, or be accessed as a standalone application via an Internet URL or Instant Messenger contact.

The company anticipates interest from HR departments, who need to call up employee details fast from enterprise directories. Conchango also anticipates rapid take-up from any organization with a mobile workforce that relies on anytime, anywhere access to information to realize improved ROI.

"This solution was developed to address some of our internal pains, namely to link off-site consultants to centralized information in real time," said James Pankiewicz, head of mobility at Conchango. "'I-Ask's appeal lies in its simplicity. It's based on tools that most people find familiar, and employs them to address everyday business needs. That, and the enthusiasm with which it has been met, means we're confident it will become a valuable addition to existing mobile applications and services."

"We have already seen the productivity benefits this simple-to-use application has brought our highly mobile workforce - and it has also reduced the load on our company switchboard," said Juan Carlos Angel, technical architect at Conchango, Inc. "The immediate access to our knowledge workers around the globe means Conchango has been able to improve the cooperation and communication within our global community, delivering increased value to our clients. This is the best solution we have seen so far for providing quick and easy access to corporate contact details, and we are already working with our clients who want to use it too."

About Conchango

Conchango delivers business technology solutions, by helping client design and implement business strategy and technologies using a proprietary consulting process. Conchango's consultants draw on a wide range of technologies and skills to develop integrated solutions in the key areas of e-business (B2B, B2C, B2E), Business Intelligence, CRM, Knowledge Management, Enterprise Infrastructure and Enterprise Portals. As a Microsoft Certified Gold Partner, Conchango's client list spans the financial, retail, manufacturing, services, entertainment and energy sectors. These include Marks & Spencers, JP Morgan Chase Capital Partners, Guggenheim, Cadbury Schweppes and Barclays. Its strategic partners also include Microsoft, Proclarity, Intel Online Services, Bindview, and EC Outlook. With headquarters in London, Conchango US has offices in New York, Boston, and Chicago.