Prometric Collaborates with Microsoft and BrightWork to Deliver MSF Solution
Don Boucher
Prometric, a part of The Thomson Corporation
443.923.8031
Prometric Announces Collaboration with Microsoft and BrightWork to Deliver MSF Solution
Baltimore, Md. – October 7, 2003 – Prometric, a part of The Thomson Corporation (TSX: TOC; NYSE: TOC), the global leader in technology-enabled testing and assessment services, today announced that Microsoft, BrightWork and Prometric will partner to deliver solutions that are focused on increasing productivity and speed for users of Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF). Microsoft offers the MSF concepts and training, Prometric the skill validation via delivery and endorsement of the exam, and BrightWork the innovative, web-based software solution for deploying Microsoft solutions using MSF.
The Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF) is an adaptable approach for successfully delivering technology solutions faster, with fewer people and less risk, while enabling higher quality results. MSF helps teams directly address the most common causes of technology project failure – improving success rates, solution quality and business impact. This program enables teams to achieve this in one integrated, comprehensive answer.
"Aligning with a tool designed specifically for tested MSF Practitioners is exciting," said Eamonn McGuinness, BrightWork Chief Executive Officer. "Prometric's assessment and testing solutions combined with our software makes the delivery of Microsoft solutions using MSF successful on the job."
"The value that BrightWork adds to the MSF program is exciting," said Alison Indrisano, Prometric Senior Vice President of Client Services and Support. "Collaborating with BrightWork and Microsoft on this highly sought after certification guarantees comprehensive capabilities for professionals who want to become a part of this prestigious MSF community."
Prometric and BrightWork will feature an "MSF Central" area, in the exhibit hall (Booth # 440), at the Microsoft Worldwide Partner conference – Building Momentum, held at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans October 9-11. Prometric is offering the MSF exam to BrightWork customers for their employees at 50 percent off. BrightWork is offering 25 percent off BrightWork for MSF software license fees to organizations with three or more MSF Practitioners on staff.
"The idea of two Microsoft partners coming together to improve the delivery of Microsoft solutions is commendable," said Holly Dyas, Microsoft Solutions Framework, Product Manager. "Microsoft is thrilled about Prometric and BrightWork's dedication to improving the software environment for MSF Practitioners."
Prometric is the sole vendor for global delivery of the Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF) Practitioner exam. It is available at Prometric testing centers and test takers can register by visiting www.prometric.com/microsoft.
BrightWork@Work for Software Development with MSF provides a collaborative environment and work management solution for software development teams from disparate organizations that manage projects using the Microsoft Software Framework (MSF). Supporting the five phases of the MSF Process Model, as well as project deliverables, BrightWork@Work for Software Development with MSF provides guidance and tools for rapidly and successfully delivering high-quality information technology solutions with less risk.
About The Thomson Corporation and Prometric
The Thomson Corporation, with 2002 revenues of $7.8 billion, is a global leader in providing integrated information solutions to business and professional customers. The Corporation's common shares are listed on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges (TSX: TOC; NYSE: TOC). Its learning businesses and brands serve the needs of individuals, learning institutions, corporations and government agencies with products and services for both traditional and distributed learning.
Prometric (www.prometric.com) is the global leader in technology-enabled testing and assessment services for information technology certification, academic admissions and professional licensure and certifications. Prometric delivers standardized tests for 300 clients, in 26 languages, over the Web or through a global network of testing centers in 134 countries. Based in Baltimore, Md., Prometric employs 3,000 employees worldwide.
About BrightWork
BrightWork (http://www.brightwork.com/) builds software products that make it easy for businesses to implement software management/project management processes like the Microsoft Solution Framework (MSF). Founded in 1996 and with offices in the United States and Ireland, BrightWork has a track record of delivering cost-effective solutions that build on existing investments in a Microsoft technology infrastructure. BrightWork, together with its global partner HP, ensures that its business customers deploy world-class solutions while minimizing cost and deployment requirements.
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