DENVER - July 30, 2004 - Quark Inc. announced today the launch of the QuarkXPress Certified Expert program. This new program provides tangible assurance to prospective clients and employers that the QuarkXPress Certified Expert is technically proficient with the application. To earn the certification, QuarkXPress users must demonstrate that they have the skills, expertise, and proficiency to successfully deliver projects using QuarkXPress software. To become a QuarkXPress Certified Expert, candidates must pass a stringent examination developed by Quark and Against the Clock Inc., the exam administrator and an independent QuarkAlliance Premier training provider. "The new QuarkXPress Certified Expert program is another component of Quark's commitment to dramatically improving and expanding the values it provides to its worldwide user base," said Ellenn Behoriam, president of Against the Clock Inc. "QuarkXPress continues to set the standard by which all other layout and design applications are judged. The QuarkXPress Certified Expert program provides a structured method to test and certify individual knowledge and skills and brings a new level of value-added service to the company's vast, worldwide user base." The QuarkXPress Certified Expert program offers measurable benefits to agencies, professionals, and service providers, including a way for companies and individuals to improve their competitive positioning and gain business opportunities. Dave Ebersole, QuarkAlliance program specialist, highlighted the importance of certification in technology. "It's great to offer our end users this opportunity to advance their presence in today's competitive job market by giving them a level of increased credibility with current or potential clients or employers. With more and more businesses using certification to develop a highly trained staff, what better way to set yourself apart from your competition?" "Where I work, 99% of everything we produce and output is QuarkXPress because nothing compares to the power and functionality of QuarkXPress. My place of employment will remain a Quark Authorized Output Provider," said Chris Luger, electronic prepress specialist at McKay Envelope. "Technology is moving faster than ever before and you either keep up or fall behind. Becoming a QuarkXPress Certified Expert communicates to our customers and vendors the level of dedication, excellence, and commitment we have to producing the best possible product." Certified experts can leverage the powerful and internationally recognized Quark brand through authorized use of the QuarkXPress Certified Expert logo on business cards, Web sites, and marketing and promotional materials. In addition, certified experts can be included in the online QuarkXPress Certified Expert directory; have access to QuarkXPress Certified Expert resources; use certification as a benchmark to test, assess, and standardize skills; and establish structured training. For additional information on the QuarkXPress Certified Expert program, visit www.quark.com/partners/certified_expert/