Press Release

PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACTS WEBSITE SETS A NEW STANDARD -- OTHER DEPARTMENTS EXPECTED TO FOLLOW SUIT

Seattle, WA - August 10, 2001 – Seattle Public Utilities has received a positive response from contractors after recently launching City Bid, a contracts information Web site using Internet technology from eBid Systems of Bainbridge Island, Washington.

The web site was a move to reduce the colossal paper, printing and processing costs associated with the bidding process and to expand the universe of potential project bidders. With CityBid, contractors can download and print plans, bid documents and standard city specifications avoiding a trip downtown and reducing their paperwork. "This thing will pay for itself in less than a year just looking at the costs we save on reproduction" says Brian Patton, Seattle Public Utilities director of engineering support services. Additionally Patton anticipates this ease of access for contractors will lead to greater competition and ultimately, lower bids for the city.

Currently in a pilot phase, next month CityBid will contain project information for all Seattle Public Utilities, City Light and SeaTran contracts. Patton expects that more city departments involved in public works like Seattle Parks and Seattle Center will also participate. "One day" Patton says "What you may see is the Executive Services Department using this for purchasing paper or pens"

By outsourcing the implementation and hosting, the CityBid site was achieved much faster and at far lower cost than the traditional approach to software licensing. The city pays a single annual fee to eBid systems - the Application Service Provider who not only developed the Internet software used, but also provides the hosting, technical support and maintenance of their product.

About eBid Systems - eBid Systems provides an integrated suite of contract sourcing and management solutions to industry and public agencies. Contact eBid Systems at 206-855-8430 or visit our Web site at www.ebidsystems.com.