Partner Press Release
HP Proves RosettaNet Standards Benefit B2B Processes

Implementation of Partner Interface Processes Brings Speed, Efficiency and Accuracy to Supply Chain

For Release October 10, 2000

PALO ALTO

Hewlett-Packard Company (NYSE: HWP) today reported that its implementation of RosettaNet Partner Interface Processes (PIPs) has transformed HP's B2B processes throughout its supply chain for HP workstations, HP NetServers and Unix® servers. The RosettaNet PIPs have resulted in significant time savings and a smoother information flow for HP and its Value-Added Resellers (VARs), distributors and contract manufacturers. RosettaNet PIPs are part of the e-business process standards being developed by RosettaNet, a consortium comprising HP and more than 250 companies.

All three RosettaNet PIPs HP is currently using -- PIP3A4, which acknowledges receipt of a purchase order; PIP3A6, which provides order status; and a pre-release version of PIP3B2, which sends advance shipment and shipper's manifest notifications -- have reduced processing time for HP and North American VARs and distributors from days to minutes. At the other end of the supply chain, the same PIPs are being exchanged between HP and North American contract manufacturers, resulting in similar time savings.

The HP NetServer Division also is using RosettaNet to enable VARs to streamline their entire configuration, pricing and availability checking for HP NetServers ordered under HP Select Express, which delivers customized HP NetServer solutions. The implementation's key benefits include:

• easy-to-use, Web-based toolset for Select Express HP NetServers;
• quick and accurate HP NetServer configuration and management of shopping carts;
• online access to distributor pricing and HP availability for VARs;
• easy, customized quote creation for customers; and
• fast online order placement direct to distributors.

"Today, it's all about speed -- the speed at which we introduce business models and introduce business partners into those models," said Pete Karolczak, vice president and chief information officer for HP's Consumer Business Organization and incoming chairman of RosettaNet's IT Board. "We can either try to keep up with the Internet by using one-off process interfaces with our business partners, or we can invest in accelerating the adoption of standards that will get us there faster. HP has opted for RosettaNet, and we're very serious about bringing the benefits of these standards to our supply chain partners."

In addition to speeding up B2B processes, RosettaNet PIPs also ensure the accuracy of transmitted data, eliminate redundant data entry at multiple points in the supply chain, and facilitate more accurate planning and forecasting, all contributing to significant operational efficiencies for HP.

About HP
Hewlett-Packard Company -- a leading global provider of computing and imaging solutions and services -- is focused on making technology and its benefits accessible to individuals and businesses through simple appliances, useful e-services and an Internet infrastructure that's always on.

HP has 86,000 employees worldwide and had total revenue from continuing operations of $42.4 billion in its 1999 fiscal year. Information about HP and its products can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.hp.com.