MarketScape: Microsoft Press Release

Microsoft Picks MarketScape for WebCD Publishing

Solves bandwidth problems for Site Builder Network members with new hybrid Web/CD-ROM

REDMOND, Wash. - March 4, 1997 - Microsoft and MarketScape today announced an electronic publishing agreement in which MarketScape's WebCD software will be used to create Web-connected CD-ROMs for the Site Builder Network. The hybrid Web/CD looks like the Web, connects to the Web, yet has the speed, portability and capacity of CD-ROM. Microsoft is delivering the WebCD as an exclusive benefit of the Site Builder Network.

"We are delighted to offer our customers a more convenient way to obtain Web-based tools and information," said Tod Nielsen, general manager, Internet platforms and tools at Microsoft. "The Site Builder Network CD-ROM reduces time spent downloading files and helps us reach more people. Innovations like this WebCD build developer loyalty and help Microsoft strengthen our leadership position."

Microsoft's WebCD includes the complete Site Builder Web site, including Microsoft software and tools from Adobe, Interse', Macromedia and NetObjects.

"The customer's number one problem with our Web site is speed. The Web is inconvenient for getting large downloads," said Mary Haggard, webmaster for the Site Builder Network. "WebCD increases reliability 100-fold, providing a better way to deliver our Internet tools to people than the Web."

To ensure content is never out of date, Microsoft created a Web-connected CD. "Though the big files don't change frequently, we update the Site Builder site every day," said Haggard. "WebCD's ability to jump directly to our live site helps users get up-to-date information. It provides the best of both worlds."

"MarketScape solved the Web-to-CD publishing issues so the Site Builder developers could focus on content," said Pete Hallett, MarketScape's director of marketing. Microsoft's Haggard agrees. "Before MarketScape a ton of people worked a ton of hours on this, but what we came up with wasn't as good as WebCD," she said.

MarketScape was formed in 1995 to make hybrid Web/CD-ROM publishing easy. WebCD, released in 1996, combines the connectivity and familiar interface of the Web, with the speed, portability and capacity of CD-ROM. The company is venture-backed and focused on solutions for interactive marketing and electronic publishing. Visit www.marketscape.com or call 719-593-9890.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing every day. For details see www.microsoft.com/sitebuilder.

Click here to see this press release on Microsoft's Web site.