Output acquires Krawen

Output Services Group, a provider of invoice presentment and billing services, has acquired Krawen, a privately held provider of invoices, statements, direct mail and other time-sensitive business documents, says Xchange.

This acquisition helps Output Services Group further diversify its client base by adding customers in several financial services sectors.

Output Services Group also advises customers on direct billing strategies to improve the overall quality of the invoice and increase customer satisfaction. Its services include invoice consultation and design, error-free print and mail, targeted marketing programs, an automated document factory, online invoice management and electronic billing.

Microsoft research has shown that 76% of business owners have made no provision for an economic downturn, and 86% have not sought any advice on how to prepare for the worst, according to Computer Weekly.

It is troubling that only 18% of small businesses have a Web site, and fewer can take orders on the Web, when Office Live Small Business provides free Web domain names, Web sites and e-mail as well as low-cost electronic marketing capabilities.

It is essential that SMEs have a Web-presence if they are to complete effectively with larger businesses and meet customer needs. Technology can make a real difference in hard economic times, and it has never been more accessible to SMEs.

Fiserv, a provider of information technology services to the financial industry, has been chosen by Umpqua Bank, based in Oregon, US, to provide next-generation online banking and payment services to its more than 250 000 customers, says Market Watch.

Umpqua, which has been using CheckFree Web RXP for billing and bill payment services for seven years, will expand its partnership with Fiserv by adding Corillian Consumer Banking, Corillian Family Banking, and Corillian Personal Money Manager solutions.

The bank's relationship with Fiserv began back in 1990, when it first licensed the Premier core system from another Fiserv business unit, Information Technology. The bank also uses Fiserv EFT for debit card and ATM services.