Press Release - January 5, 2004

Announcing the formation of Carnes Group LLC Information Technology and Management Consulting

Franklin, Tennessee – Carnes Group LLC, an Information Technology and Management Consulting solutions company, today announced the opening of its new office in Franklin, TN.  Carnes Group LLC provides management and information technology services and products such as desktop support and systems management for small and medium businesses to allow them to better concentrate on their core business.  Carnes Group also offers specialized Microsoft, Project and Risk Management Consulting to large corporate firms.

“Our company was established because we feel that I.T. companies should understand both Technology AND Business - not one or the other – and we pride ourselves on looking at technology as a business enabler. We believe that technology is only as good as it can assist a business to focus on its core products and services - businesses should not need to be ‘IT Experts’ or stuck needing specialized help with no support” according to Ed Carnes, Managing Partner and CIO of Carnes Group LLC.  “We do not believe in high pressure sales, we rely on our work and reputation – a satisfied customer is the best advertising” he notes.

Carnes Group LLC emphasizes making Information Technology straightforward, transparent and easy.  By taking care of the details, such as the latest patches, virus files, or the new software or hardware deployments, Carnes Group enables the customer to focus on their core business functions. “We will be your personal I.T. staff - while you do what makes money for your business” says Ed Carnes.

The business model of Carnes Group LLC is rather unique and has two major areas of emphasis.  The first area is end-user support such as desktop, network, and related activities that enable the normal worker to have the technology they need at their fingertips.  This area is primarily aimed toward small and medium businesses.  The second is specialized Microsoft Infrastructure, Project and Risk Management areas, done on a project basis only, for all sizes of companies.  Why such an uncommon focus?  “As a person who has been on both sides of the desk, as a customer and a consultant, I found that few I.T consulting companies were really interested in solving my end-user and day to day technology management needs.  The work was just not lucrative enough for them; yet I really needed that kind of ongoing support.  I want to be able to solve this issue, especially for the small and medium size businesses out there” explained Ed Carnes.  “I also found that from time to time I needed specific expertise or some employee mentoring in certain areas particularly with Microsoft Infrastructure, Project Management and Risk Management.  Almost every company I spoke to wanted to sell me a lot of expensive consultants for as long as they could – they were not listening to what I really needed.  I want to be able to advise and provide my customers with what THEY need – not what I want them to need.”

Carnes Group LLC is a Microsoft Certified Partner, a Dell Small and Medium Business Partner, and offers software licensing through Licensing Online and all types of technology needs through PC Wholesale. Additional information about Carnes Group LLC can be found on the Internet at www.carnesgroup.com.