IBM and ClickSoftware Deliver Field Force Optimization on WebSphere Everyplace Access
Burlington, MA (ots)
ClickSoftware (NASDAQ: CKSW), the leading provider of end-to-end service optimization solutions, has developed an integrated solution for wireless field force automation with IBM (NYSE: IBM). Enterprise organizations can use the IBM WebSphere Everyplace Access mobile solution to transfer data from field service employees to ClickSoftware's ServiceOptimization Suite.
The integrated solution enables service engineers to send and receive updated information on customer requests, the status of tasks or unexpected delays, for constant re-optimization of workload, schedules and logistics in the field. The Proof of Concept currently resides at IBM's "La Gaude Technology Park," IBM's largest customer demonstration center in Europe located in the South of France. Development of the integrated solution was initiated as a result of demand from utilities, telecommunications, healthcare, white goods and high-tech companies.
"Service operations are increasingly seen as a competitive differentiator, and a potential profit center, so making best use of available resources is key," said Frank Boudinet, IBM Wireless Solution Architect. "Now we can offer a mobile service optimization solution on any scale for telecommunications, utilities, white goods manufacturers, or any customer-focused business with field service staff. The solution is easily implemented and provides a fast ROI for customers. We see great potential to reach IBM customers and prospects with ClickSoftware's technology to improve profitability for all concerned."
With the new integrated solution, service engineers in the field receive an SMS message from ClickSchedule alerting them to a new task. The engineers can download work details to a PDA or laptop, and as they complete jobs throughout the day, can update the central system remotely with work done, parts used, and customer billing details. ClickSoftware's ServiceOptimization Suite manages any changes to the schedule or skills and parts required, and automatically re-optimizes available resources for customers.
"Our technology integrated with IBM's world-class Mobile solution is an exciting step in supporting large corporate enterprises. Working with market-leading mobile solutions is not just about information transmission; it is about the decisions you make based on this information. ClickSoftware products can leverage the mobile information as a vehicle for better decision making, creating higher productivity gains and improved service quality," said Dr Moshe BenBassat, CEO of ClickSoftware.
ClickSoftware is an IBM business partner with customers located worldwide.
Proof of concept debuts at Service Management Europe Exhibition, Birmingham, UK, November 11-13, booth #520 and at the IBM La Gaude Technology Park in the South of France.
About ClickSoftware
ClickSoftware is the leading provider of end-to-end service optimization solutions that maximize service revenue and customer responsiveness while minimizing costs. ClickSoftware's ServiceOptimization Suite includes accurate workload forecasting, strategic and tactical workforce planning, optimized service scheduling, intelligent problem resolution, wireless workforce management, and business analytics, connecting all organizational levels and all functions. The company is headquartered in Burlington, MA, and Israel, with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
For more information about ClickSoftware, call 781-272-5903 or 888- 438-3308 or visit www.clicksoftware.com.
About IBM
IBM is the world's largest information technology company, with 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. Drawing on resources from across IBM and key business partners, IBM offers a wide range of services, solutions and technologies that enable customers, large and small, to take full advantage of the new era of e-business.
For more information about IBM, visit www.ibm.com.
This press release contains express or implied forward looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those regarding ClickSoftware's products and installations, product functionality and scalability and benefits derived therefrom. Such "forward-looking statements" involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results or performance to be materially different from those projected. ClickSoftware's achievement of these results may be affected by many factors, including among others, the following risks: that products will not perform as designed or expected; that installations or rollouts will not take place as anticipated; that the expected benefits of the products will not be realized; and other risks associated with ClickSoftware's business. For additional information regarding risks relating to ClickSoftware's business, see ClickSoftware's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including ClickSoftware's annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2002, subsequent reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K and other filings. ClickSoftware does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements.
Contact:
Ali Merifield
LEWIS PR
Phone: +1/617/454-1100
E-Mail: alisonm@lewispr.com
Simon Morris
ClickSoftware, Inc.
Phone: +1/781/272-5903, x2293
E-Mail: Simon.Morris@clicksoftware.com