BIG DATA

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Comshare, Incorporated (NASDAQ:CSRE) a leader in software applications for corporate performance management (CPM), announced today that its distributor in Australia Pty Ltd (Beacon IT) is a new member in the Microsoft Gold Certified Partner Program for Business Intelligence (BI). The program identifies companies that have proven their commitment and expertise in one or more specialized areas when delivering Microsoft technologies. "Gold Certified" is the best indication any Microsoft partner can offer that they are committed to and working closely with Microsoft to deliver world-class customer solutions, and have a proven track record for doing so. It is the highest distinction Microsoft bestows on its partners -- earned by tackling the most complex projects, achieving the certifications, and earning the good customer references. The program is intended to raise visibility and increase awareness of Microsoft's partners' expertise among customers and prospects. Its primary objectives are to make it easier for Microsoft customers to find an appropriate partner to work with, and to increase the credibility of its partners. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners need to meet a higher set of criteria for each category, including enhanced certification and a portfolio of real-world customer references. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners are thus identified as the most skilled partners in specific solution areas. Beacon IT has qualified for the program in the Business Intelligence (BI) category -- demonstrating experience and expertise in business intelligence solutions. "Our relationship with Microsoft is very rewarding," said Raphael Gabay President Beacon IT. "Our latest accreditation as a Gold Certified Partner has already opened new opportunities for us both. Microsoft, Comshare, and Beacon are the only choices for companies with a Microsoft focus that need a CPM system with a proven track record, implemented on time, and with numbers they can trust." Microsoft BI solutions include a range of analytical applications, including those offered by Comshare and Beacon IT. Beacon IT's status as a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner recognizes the company and its employees as among the best at what they do. "I am extremely pleased with Beacon IT's progression to Microsoft Gold Certified Partner for Business Intelligence," said Sam Donley, Territory Manager, South East Asia, Comshare. "Being a Gold Certified Partner allows Beacon IT to clearly position itself as a leader in providing CPM solutions to organizations across Australia. The benefits provided to Beacon IT by the Gold Certified Partner Program will allow them to continue to offer the best CPM solutions to their customers." "In order for companies to respond more quickly to customers and understand new market opportunities, they depend on an agile technology environment to empower their key decision-makers," said Terry Clancy, Product Marketing Manager for Data Access, Microsoft Pty Ltd Australia. "Microsoft recognizes that companies need a high caliber technology partner who speaks the language of both business and IT and can deliver the most meaningful solutions through technology. Today, Microsoft recognizes Beacon IT for demonstrated customer satisfaction with previous business intelligence deployments. This distinction brings value to the Microsoft Gold Certified Partner Program and makes it clear that Beacon IT has the skills and experience to provide high-quality BI solutions using Microsoft technology." Australian customers that are already taking advantage of CPM solutions from Comshare and Beacon IT include Boral, Lion Nathan Australia, Sony Pan Asia Management Office, Department of Treasury and Finance Victoria, Brisbane City Council, GlaxoSmithKline Australia and Macquarie Bank Limited.