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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

ServiceBench In Full Compliance With OPEI EDI Implementation Recommendations

ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA - DECEMBER 2000 - The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute's (OPEI) EDI Committee encourages dealers, distributors, and manufacturers to consider Service Bench as a provider for EDI communications. This action was taken after thorough study which confirms that the product is in full compliance with OPEI EDI Implementation Recommendations issued early last year.

Regarding the need for a single system to meet all the communication needs of dealers, ServiceBench makes it possible to provide OPEI standard EDI to any user regardless of whether or not they are a ServiceBench customer. This allows dealers to engage in EDI with any suppliers using the OPEI standards.

It was noted by the Committee that ServiceBench allows its services to be used by dealers with a standard Internet browser. This makes it possible for dealers to manually send orders, registrations, etc. without loading any software from ServiceBench.

In regard to the communications requirement for choice of either the Internet or a Value Added Network, Service Bench has demonstrated the ability to exchange EDI messages with VANs or anyone else over the Internet. This has satisfied the EDI Committee that ServiceBench has the capability to meet the OPEI requirement.

As to the requirement that its solution be capable of integration with business management systems, Service Bench has indicated it is working with business system vendors to develop interfaces to their systems that will allow automation of the EDI process. There is no way for the committee to confirm this work will continue and the interfaces will be built in a timely fashion. Potential customers are advised by the Committee to ensure for themselves that such capabilities will be realized when they are needed.

OPEI is a trade association whose membership is primarily composed of U.S. manufacturers of powered lawn and garden maintenance products, components and attachment supplies, as well as industry related services. OPEIís domestic members manufacture in excess of 95% of the U.S. consumer retail market for gas and electric powered lawn and garden maintenance products.

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