National Press Release

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Feb. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest developments in the areas of security and electronic data interchange (EDI) will be discussed at a half-day forum sponsored by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) in coordination with Covisint on March 5, 2009 at Compuware in Detroit, Michigan. The forum titled "New Frontiers in EDI and Security" will discuss two key aspects of EDI which include the adoptions of new technologies and practices to reduce the cost of data exchange, and mitigation of security risks faced by original equipment manufactures (OEMs), suppliers and implementers. The conference will also cover strategies and best practices for exchanging electronic data in emerging markets globally.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040719/DEM007LOGO )

Keynote speaker Kevin Kampman, a Senior Analyst from the Burton Group, will share his extensive industry expertise and examine the evolution of the identity and security markets, how to synergistically align enterprise initiatives to meet today's needs, and impact of emerging services on the marketplace. Kampman will also address the need to leverage identity and security services from a provider perspective.

"In the current (economic) downturn, organizations will live or die based on the quality of their relationships," said Kampman. "Knowing who you are dealing with, what they are doing, and what resources they require, represents critical aspects of the identity equation," he added.

In addition to Kampman, experts from global OEMs, suppliers and technology providers will discuss:

-- Cost Effective and Secure Solutions for Implementing Electronic Data Interchange

       Panel Discussion with Ken Chih, Chief Architect GPSC, General Motors
       Corp.; Preston Spahr, E-IT Business Systems Unit Manager, Honda of
       America Manufacturing, Inc; Joe Grabowski, Director, Automotive
       Solutions, Covisint; and representatives from Ford Motor Co. and
       supplier organizations

    -- Implementing Global B2B Messaging
       Ann Holwey, EDI Services Delivery Manager N.A., QAD

    -- Identity Rights Management
       David Miller, Chief Security Officer, Compuware Corp.

"As businesses continue to expand globally sharing electronic data worldwide, the threat of computer fraud and information exposure becomes a paramount concern and can cost companies a vast amount of money -- companies need to stay on the leading edge of security technology," said Mohammad Abidi, Data Architect/Program Manager Electronic Commerce for AIAG. Abidi continued to say, "Secondly, it's necessary for businesses to understand and adhere to the ever-changing legal and regulatory requirements set by governments across the globe -- this forum will cover these critical topics."

Cost for the forum is $50 for members and $75 for non-members. For online registration to the "New Frontiers in EDI and Security Forum," visit www.aiag.org or call AIAG customers service at (248) 358-3003.

About AIAG

The AIAG is a globally recognized organization founded in 1982 by a group of visionary executives from Chrysler, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors. The membership has grown to include prominent automotive OEM and suppliers such as Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Caterpillar Tractor, John Deere Corporation, International Truck Corporation, Daimler, PACCAR and others. Their purpose: To provide members an open forum to cooperate in developing and promoting solutions that enhances the prosperity of the automotive industry. AIAG members play a unique role in the development of new technologies and the standards that govern their usage. Under the auspices of AIAG, volunteers from all layers of the supply chain work together to resolve issues critical to the automotive supply chain. For more information, please visit the organization's Web site at www.aiag.org .

SOURCE AIAG