CONTACT INFORMATION

Systems & Software
www.ssitulitysuite.com

Kate Thornton, Public Relations
(802) 655-4400 ext. 214
Kate.Thornton@ssiutilitysuite.com

COLCHESTER, VT., May 22, 2003 – Systems & Software, Inc. (S&S), a leading provider of billing & customer service solutions for the utility industry, today announced that the Incorporated Village of Freeport has elected to upgrade to enQuesta UtilitySuite.

Freeport selected S&S as its full solution (CIS/Financial Management System) provider in 1992 to provide electric, water, and tax services to its growing population of over 43,000 residents. At the time of initial install, their network consisted of only twenty computers; today that same network consists of over 200 nodes. With this growth, came additional needs – "Our users, now avid Windows users, wanted that same convenience of a point and click functionality in their CIS/FMS," comments Patrice Gianaca, Coordinator of Computer Services.

"After a great deal of research and evaluation, we found that enQuesta [S&S’ windows-based solution] has a lower total cost of ownership over a five year period in comparison to other industry solutions. This takes into account the hardware needed, services provided, and the annual maintenance. As well, since the functionality will be preserved with this upgrade, the learning curve will be greatly reduced which is imperative when you have over 90 current and new users to consider," adds Gianaca.

enQuesta has been designed with specific work groups in mind. It is configured to follow a consistent workflow as related to each job function. "We believe that this will enable our employees to work smarter which in essence translates to greater productivity and enhanced customer satisfaction," continues Gianaca.

Twelve members of Freeport’s staff had the opportunity to attend S&S’ annual user forum earlier this year. They were given the opportunity to use enQuesta in a hands-on environment. "Typically people get excited about different pieces of technology, but to have all twelve individuals be so positive was more than we could have hoped for," adds Gianaca.

Since their partnership’s birth in 1992, both organizations have experienced tremendous change including changes to their relationship. However, today they not only share "a wonderful business partnership, but a lifelong friendship. Unlike other vendors, the staff at S&S takes particular care to learn the names and functions of the staff of their customers. This helps to build a mutual trust in business communications," comments Pat.

"One of our main objectives at S&S is to meet our customer’s growth needs head on. We value Freeport’s decision to upgrade to enQuesta and their belief in our ability to help them face future challenges. Just as we have seen them through growth, they have done the same with us and our partnership has only become stronger," adds Burt Willey, CEO S&S.

About Systems & Software, Inc.
Systems & Software is a leading provider of billing & customer service solutions for regulated and deregulated utilities throughout the United States. Founded in 1973, the company has focused exclusively on the utility industry. Through a proprietary implementation and support approach projects are always delivered on time and within budget. While customers focus on their key business operations, S&S is relied upon for complete technology, maintenance and software support. S&S is located in Colchester, Vermont. More information about Systems & Software, Inc., is available at www.ssiutilitysuite.com.

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