Softshare Athena Unveiled for Web-based EDI and XML Document Exchange

Developed for companies with low commercial EDI volume, Softshare Athena is an economical alternative to traditional EDI software and network services

SANTA BARBARA, CA – April 25, 2000 - Softshare, a supplier of e-commerce software and services, announced today the immediate availability of Softshare Athena. Aptly named after the Goddess of Commerce, Softshare Athena is a Web-based EDI/XML solution.

From Athena, businesses can view, print, delete, or, if their trading partner requires it, respond to incoming EDI documents. In addition, Athena automatically creates 997 functional acknowledgments on the user's behalf whenever an incoming document is printed or viewed. And unlike many other Web-based EDI solutions, businesses can manage more than one trading partner relationship under a Softshare Athena account.

"As a Web-based solution, Softshare Athena brings EDI and XML to companies who may have previously thought they didn't have the IT budget or resources for Electronic Commerce," said William Crown, Athena's Senior Developer. "This makes Athena an ideal component of any company's EDI or XML roll-out efforts."

With subscriptions starting at $300/year, Softshare Athena requires only an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and browser. For an interactive look at Softshare Athena, visit www.softshare.com/athena.

About Softshare
Softshare offers a multi-tiered approach to electronic commerce with software solutions that range from desktop applications to fully integrated server applications. Supporting these EDI applications is Softshare’s value added network and accessible customer service. Headquartered in Santa Barbara, California, Softshare has more than 20,000 clients using its various network, software, and EC services. For more information, call 800-346-6703 or visit Softshare’s web site at www.softshare.com.

Softshare Media Contact: Diane Springhuth, 800-346-6703 / dianes@softshare.com.