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In addition to developing and implementing technology to
make its directories available on CD-ROM and on the Internet, TPC
engaged in other technology projects. A list and a brief
description of other technology-related projects undertaken by
TPC during its 1995-2002 fiscal years are set forth below:
(1) Development of the nationally recognized TPC Web site;
(2) Development of TPN Register, a joint venture
between TPC and General Electric Co., through
which product information similar to information
contained in TPC’s directories was to be provided
to companies via each company’s respective
internal intranet. In 2001, TPC apparently
terminated this TPN Register project;
(3) Development of Thomas.Net, a software product that
enabled users to use keywords to make online
digital searches of TPC’s electronic directories
for industrial product information;
(4) Development of Product News Network (PNN), an
electronic magazine containing information
regarding new industrial products;
(5) Development in 1995 of Thomas Global Register
(TGR), an Internet directory for TPC’s customers
located outside the United States; and
(6) Purchase in 1997 of Plant Spec, a Web-based software
system that permitted the electronic transfer of
computer assisted design (CAD) drawings.
During its 1995-97 fiscal years, TPC spent approximately $36
million on the above technology-related projects. As of May of
1998, TPC’s management anticipated that during 1998-2002 TPC
would undertake additional projects, incur additional
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