Ernst & Young's Data Warehouse Practice Expands Capabilities to Support Microsoft SQL Server 7.0.

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 24, 1998--

Leverages Firm's Microsoft Advanced Development Centers and Data

Warehouse Centers of Excellence to Offer Industry's Most

Comprehensive Microsoft Solution Capability

Ernst & Young LLP's data warehouse practice today announced it has expanded its capabilities to support Microsoft SQL Server 7.0, the latest Microsoft database platform for implementing strategic line-of-business and infrastructure solutions.

For Ernst & Young's data warehouse practice, SQL Server 7.0 support is part of a broader strategy to deliver the most comprehensive Microsoft business solutions for enterprise customers. Earlier this year, the practice expanded its Data Warehouse Center of Excellence in Chicago, adding a research and development laboratory dedicated to testing Microsoft's BackOffice platform, including SQL Server 7.0. The lab focuses on vertical application compatibility, third-party OLAP integration and stress testing products.

Through its Microsoft Advanced Development Centers, the firm offers specialized services dedicated to rapid design and implementation of Microsoft-based enterprise solutions, particularly in the areas of electronic commerce, knowledge management, data warehousing and ERP.

"Ernst & Young brings an impressive array of field-tested vertical products and technology delivery capabilities to the Windows NT Server platform," said Jim Ewel, director for SQL Server at Microsoft. "Ernst & Young's deep data warehousing and industry content expertise, combined with the reliability and scalability of SQL Server 7.0, will enable delivery of the most advanced mission-critical solutions for large corporations."

To further strengthen its competencies around Microsoft SQL Server 7.0, Ernst & Young is establishing an SQL Server training program. This program will be rolled out globally to Ernst & Young's data warehouse practitioners.

Data Conversion Services

With SQL Server 7.0, Ernst & Young will continue to provide industry-leading conversion services from other non-SQL Server relational database products. EY|Decide(R), a leading-edge solution developed by the practice to provide data warehousing, electronic audit and medical claims data reporting for healthcare payors and employers, was easily ported to SQL Server 7.0. Businesses that have implemented EY|Decide(R), including TWA, identify significant savings from recovering costs typically associated with incorrectly paid, duplicate and potentially fraudulent claims. A second vertical application recently converted by the practice, the Telecommunications Decision Support System (TEDS), offers telecommunication companies a robust performance measurement application to manage regulatory reporting and operational decision support.

Ernst & Young LLP (www.ey.com) provides assurance and advisory business services, tax services and consulting for domestic and global clients. The firm has 30,000 people in 87 U.S. cities. Ernst & Young LLP is a member firm of Ernst & Young International (www.eyi.com), a global organization whose member firms have more than 85,000 people working in 675 cities.