MCI Consultants, a leading distributor for the IBM Cognos TM1 product in South Africa, today announced the availability of IBM Cognos Express, an integrated reporting, analysis and planning solution for mid-size companies.

“Every organisation recognises the importance of trusted, accurate information; however, having the data is not enough,” commented Filip Vanden Houte, Business Partner at MCI. “Companies need the ability to leverage information effectively and generate the insights required to better serve customers, to transform their business processes, and to make better decisions faster.”

“Mid-size companies face the same business challenges as large enterprises, but typically don't have the budget, IT resources or expertise to undertake a large business performance management initiative,” continued Vanden Houte.

IBM Cognos Express delivers the essential reporting, analysis and planning facilities in one complete, integrated solution from a single vendor.

IBM Cognos Express can easily be managed and operated by business users themselves, enabling users to work independently to quickly access information and create and modify their own reports and analysis, without having to rely on constrained IT resources for assistance.

The IBM Cognos Express product consists of three modules to address key performance management needs:

* IBM Cognos Express Xcelerator for Microsoft Excel based planning and business analysis
* IBM Cognos Express Reporter for reporting and ad hoc query
* IBM Cognos Express Advisor for freeform analysis and visualisation

These modules can be purchased all at once, or separately, with a smooth upgrade path to additional modules as the company's needs evolve.

For further information, please contact Aliki Droussiotis, MCI: tel 011 454-3420, e-mail aliki@mci.co.za.