USWeb/CKS Expands Hosted Applications Offering

The recently created E-Services division of USWeb/CKS on Monday will introduce a portfolio of Internet-based application-management services that will let customers outsource four new application systems: customer-relationship management, back office, E-commerce, and communications and knowledge management.

The company says providing the portfolio on USWeb/CKS's secure network will help mid- to large-sized businesses with a limited IT infrastructure rapidly deploy new applications without straining their IT budgets. Portfolio subscribers will also receive Internet strategy consulting, back-end integration, and customer support by USWeb/CKS personnel.

Customers have the option of selecting individual services within the portfolio. Customer-relationship management offerings include hosted sales-force automation and marketing-management systems, plus customer call centers. The back-office offering encompasses enterprise resource planning systems, human resources, and financial management; direct marketing, supply-chain management, and corporate purchasing are available in the E-commerce package. Within the communications and knowledge-management services is a suite of new products, including USWeb/CKS's own Communications Central--which allows for real-time videoconferencing, application sharing, and meeting management--and Presentations Central, for dynamic Internet presentations. Communications and knowledge management also includes Microsoft Exchange messaging services.

The entire portfolio will be available in March. Pricing is set on a per-month subscription basis.