MINNEAPOLIS, March 6, 2001 — Four51 today announced that the company has completed development of an XML transport module designed specifically to enable cross-platform interoperability for print materials distributors, their customers, and their suppliers. The transport module, called WildFiresm , is based on Commercial eXtensible Markup Language (cXML) and complies with the PrintTalk standard to support an open and standard communications interface between applications built for the graphic arts and print materials industries. “This is a major step forward for Four51,” said Rich Landa, Four51’s CEO and co-founder. “With our XML module in place, Four51 users now have incredible flexibility when it comes to systems interoperability. Not only will distributors and suppliers have the opportunity to link Four51 to their own back-office applications, they will also have the opportunity to extend Four51 into their customers’ applications, too.” Since inception, Four51 has promoted a standards-based approach to systems interoperability in order to maximize flexibility for distributors, their customers, and their suppliers. “With WildFire sm in place, there’s no limit to the interoperability potential,” said Bryan Schueler, Four51’s vice president of technology operations. “cXML and the PrintTalk standard will make two-way, real-time communications between technology platforms cost-effective and much more easily attainable than with ‘one-off’ integration.” Four51 has approached the major distributor-focused, back-office software providers to solicit their interest in pursuing interoperability, and is currently moving forward in Beta on interoperability initiatives with those who’ve opted to participate. The company expects to market WildFire sm broadly within the print materials marketplace’s independent distribution channel beginning in the second quarter of 2001.