Syntax

Toronto, ON (March 18, 2002) - Syntax.net, a leading e-business integrator was recently awarded IBM's Business Partnership Leadership Award. Part of an elite group, Syntax.net was 1 of only 10 companies to receive this highly esteemed award from the more than 1,500 firms marketing IBM servers throughout North AND South America. In fact Syntax.net was the only company in Canada to be selected for this prestigious IBM award.

Recognized for going above and beyond the requirements for Premier status and truly distinguishing themselves among their peers, Syntax.net, was nominated for special recognition of their success with the product lines represented under the Systems and Services track of Partner World. IBM determines the recipients of the Business Partner Leadership Award by comparing the contribution of revenue, growth, new customers, customer satisfaction, competency and commitment and ranking of each firm against others with a similar business model. The Premier Business Partner designation is based on mutual investment in the IBM relationship.

"IBM was thrilled to recognize Sytnax.net yet again for its performance in achieving Premier Business Partner status," says Jeff Russell, IBM Partner World Program Manager. "However, this repeat performance coupled with the Leadership Award demonstrates Syntax. net's unremitting commitment to providing the highest quality service, value and support for IBM products."

The Leadership Award is the highest level award for the Premier Partners whereby IBM looks at the complete picture, not just the numbers, to break the ties and recognize the best of the best. "The Premier designation has become an important benchmark for our business and frankly we set the expectations up front, with our attention to detail and service such that our customers have come to demand no less from us," says Gary Shaffran, Senior Vice-President of Syntax.net.

"Last year I indicated that we could do better and surpass the Premier status," says Mike Etinson, President of Syntax.net. "Given that the Business Partnership Leadership Award recognizes only the top-performing Premier IBM Business Partners throughoutt North and South America, this year marks a very important leap forward and is a testament to the Syntax.net team's dedication.

" Despite its success Syntax.net is anything but content and will continue to demonstrate its breadth of support and service for IBM products and is already actively pursuing the latest certifications, knowledge and developments in customer service levels to exceed this year's achievements.