New Web Site For Metro Detroit Bureau of School Studies

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Feb. 17 -- Internet Operations Center Inc., ("IOC") a managed Internet service provider (MSP) announced today that it has developed, launched and is hosting www.metrobureau.org , the online information and resource management tools for Metropolitan Detroit Bureau of School Studies, Inc. ("Metro Bureau"). The consortium is a non-profit organization comprised of local educational institutions dedicated to serving and improving school management through unique support services and cooperative information exchange.

The site allows members, mainly school district administrators and contract negotiators, access to Metro Bureau's robust database, which includes district salary and benefits information. Members can now log into the web site and input school district information or access reports from their desktop.

"Prior to the launch of the new metrobureau.org site, information was gathered and complied manually. Reports were requested by members then created and sent manually by Metro Bureau personnel," said Dr. Thomas D. McLennan, executive director of the Metro Bureau. "Now, Metro Bureau provides real-time, immediate access to its data via the web."

"In addition, Metro Bureau expects to save hundreds of work hours by enabling its members to electronically submit their district information on the new site. This reduces the burden on staff members and allows Metro Bureau to offer the new services without any increase in membership fees," added McLennan.

"The new Metro Bureau application clearly exemplifies the power of the internet and its unlimited potential to improve every aspect of our business," said Jay P. Harrison, president and CTO, Internet Operations Center. "No matter the industry or the market, a solid e-business strategy pays for itself many times over. The return on investment is clear: improved customer service, reduced internal costs and real-time data access."

"I have found the on-line version to be very easy to use with the documentation provided by the Metro Bureau. It is much faster and user friendly than the paper and pencil forms. The ability to update information at my convenience from work or home is a great feature. I look forward to the continuation of this great service that is provided by the Metro Bureau," said Gary L. Mrak, director of personnel at L'Anse Creuse Public Schools.

About Internet Operations Center

IOC, founded in 1996, is a privately held, minority-certified corporation and provider of managed Internet operations and application development services. The company designs, builds, and operates web-enabled business solutions to lower costs and improve profitability for businesses worldwide. Headquartered in Southfield, MI, with a southeastern location in Charlotte, NC, IOC employs over 60 Internet professionals. For additional information: www.iocenter.net