MICROSOFT SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON WEBCOM

Toronto, Ontario - June 6, 2006 - Webcom Limited recently rose to the top of Microsoft's list of companies that personify their new "People-Ready Business" campaign – a campaign that's all about companies finding the perfect balance between software technology and the ability of people to leverage that technology to ensure business success. The proof of Webcom's success is found among the publishers, institutions and B2B customers who take advantage of their book, directory and catalog production services.

Microsoft first recognized Webcom in 2005 as a "Hero of Innovation", showcasing its application of Microsoft Business Solutions at an annual event in Toronto. The software giant has since recognized Webcom in a comprehensive Business Case and Business Impact Article now posted on their global website. This spring Microsoft invited Webcom's IT and ERP Business Manager, Mark Delvecchio, to participate as a guest panelist at their 2006 Convergence conference in Dallas, Texas to provide a first-hand account of the gains Webcom has realized with its software integration.

Webcom has succeeded in deploying a fully integrated ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system referred to internally as POEM (Production Order Estimating Management) that connects all the business processes of book production. The integration merged 18 stand-alone systems into one to achieve an astounding 33% workflow improvement, a 25% improvement in tracking projects and an ability to generate cost estimates in minutes rather than days.

"Microsoft Dynamics™ is a line of integrated, adaptable business management software that works like and with familiar Microsoft® software, helping customers drive business success by automating and streamlining financial, customer relationship and supply chain processes," said Garth Dean, General Manager, Business Solutions Group, Microsoft Canada Co. "Webcom is an excellent example of how customers of Microsoft Dynamics are able to bring together people, processes and technologies to help increase productivity and effectiveness across the organization".

"There is no question the recognition received from Microsoft is an enormous compliment", says Delvecchio. "But what really matters is how it translates into better service for our customers". Webcom serves a broad range of customer needs across eight diverse business sectors. Such diversity demands flexibility and the ability to simplify complex processes.

POEM operates behind the scenes to provide Webcom representatives with the tools they need to identify efficiencies and cost-saving alternatives for their customers. With the assurance of always receiving a competitive price, the customer relationship is promptly elevated to a more consultative role. Moreover, the end-to-end nature of the integration means everyone in the organization always has access to all the information required for serving customers on-demand.

As a new customer in 2005, Bruce Williams of Centennial College awarded Webcom Limited two course calendars to print. He was particularly impressed by the level of support he received from Webcom's sales consultants. "I really do enjoy the level of support I receive from everyone at Webcom, from my sales rep to my project manager – everyone seems to have the information I need right at their fingertips".

Grant Clawson of Ball Media concurs. "It doesn't matter who I call for information, everyone is in the loop." Webcom is currently responsible for a large portion of Ball Media's packaging business, which focuses largely on RIM (Research In Motion) and their line of Blackberry wireless products. After eight years of providing technical documentation on a weekly basis, Webcom has become a vendor of choice for Ball Media. Clawson explains, "Due to their reliability, I can count on them to deliver a quality product, within my tight timelines".

Among the many business challenges Trade publishers face is the struggle not to overstock inventory. Having to reprint a book title is a positive sign for their sales volume. When it comes time to provide a cost estimate for reprints, quick turnaround is a priority. This is an area where Webcom is always first out of the gate, turning estimates around within an hour when other printers frequently take up to two days. Sharon Bailey, Production Manager at House of Anansi commented, "I am very satisfied with Webcom. It's good to have a solid, reliable printer out there".

For more information about Webcom Limited, visit their website www.webcomlink.com or contact Mike Collinge, Vice President Sales and Operations at 1-800-665-9322.

Download a PDF version of the Case Study or Business Impact Article as posted on Microsoft's global website.