First Index And MTI Systems Form Strategic Partnership

W. SPRINGFIELD, MA (August 13, 2004) - MTI Systems, the leading provider of innovative cost estimating software solutions for manufacturing, and First Index, the world’s most trusted sourcing/bidding service for buyers and suppliers of custom manufactured components, today announced they have formed a partnership that provides customers valuable savings on each others products and services.

The terms of the partnership provide significant discounts to First Index customers on MTI Systems’ Costimator OEM and Costimator JS Cost Estimating Software products. First Index will also provide savings on its online sourcing services to MTI Systems customers. The natural relationship between cost estimating and sourcing/bidding in the procurement process make this a significant value-add to both MTI Systems and First Index customers, providing them with premier products and services at a significant discount.

"We are excited about this new strategic partnership,” comments Bill Burke, President of First Index. “Current Costimator users have a real advantage in the marketplace due to the speed and accuracy the system brings to their estimating process. This greatly enhances their opportunity of winning bids. Our customers will now be able to purchase and utilize this critical tool at a substantial discount, improving their chances of winning jobs."

Tom Charkiewicz, President/CTO of MTI Systems, states "The synergy between MTI and First Index customers make this an ideal partnership. First Index is the premier on-line sourcing service in the industry. We are excited about the relationship and the added benefits it will bring to our customer base."