With the general release of version 1.1 of our application platform, coupled with the availability of extended coverage in the technology sector, users are fully experiencing the value of incorporating the Gridstone platform into their research process.

The technology sector is our first sector to be completely covered. We now have data on 128 tech companies that encompasses packaged software, hardware, semiconductors, IT services, telephone equipment manufacturers, and Internet. Our deep, rich financial and operational data that is available with click through to source documents and management commentary is proving to be a powerful timesaving combination. Analysts are finding that they can spend more time on refining their analysis and models allowing them to better maximize their edge by utilizing the Gridstone platform.

We are aware of the competition for dollars spent on research tools. Tightening budgets require that maximum, tangible value is received from any subscription service. Our product development efforts, company coverage roadmap, our obsession with quality and client support are all geared to delivering top value to our clients while providing a customer experience that is second to none.

Personally, it has been energizing for me to see the enthusiasm and dedication of each one of my colleagues here in San Mateo and in India as the product and company coverage grow. Next up on coverage is the consumer and retail sector. Although the data and dynamics of this sector are much different than tech, it has been terrific to see how those involved in the effort have responded to the challenge of incorporating consumer/retail into the platform. In my many years of experience with data and software products, I remain extremely impressed by the talent level and innovative spirit of the entire team here at Gridstone.

The preview period for the consumer/retail sector is scheduled to begin in mid January and we are on track to be fully covered in the sector by the end of April.

In future postings I will share with you select client case studies and actual situations illustrating the benefits derived from integrating Gridstone into a firm's company research workflow.

For more detail on all the new features in Version 1.1, click here. You can also read some very interesting ways to use the capabilities of the new version by reading Guns' blog here.