For Immediate Release

EMERYVILLE, CA, May 7, 2001-TechniCon, a leading provider of e-commerce solutions for complex products, has merged with HitechCon, a developer of CAD and Web-based applications for Fortune 1000 and midsize companies. HitechCon's former St. Louis headquarters will become TechniCon's new St. Louis office.

HitechCon specialized in database design and Internet and Intranet applications, providing Web development services for such companies as HOK, Monsanto and EarthGrains. Experts in the use of computer graphics and CAD, HitechCon was hired by Autodesk to develop the 3D and solids modeling components for their AutoSketch product.

The firm's two principals, Nathan Huebner and Chuck Ingrum, each bring over two decades of software development experience. Prior to forming HitechCon, Huebner and Ingrum worked together as Director and Vice President respectively of the Advanced Technology Group of HOK, the second largest architectural firm in the world.

"Having worked with TechniCon in the past, we were aware of the high quality of their staff and products," said Huebner. "We're really looking forward to adding our skills to the team."

Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, TechniCon's customers include industrial product manufacturers, contract furniture vendors and technology companies located in diverse domestic and international locations.

"Many of our current customers are located in the Midwest and we see this region as critical to our continued growth," said Anthony Mirante, President of TechniCon. "Now, we'll be able to offer a centrally located office to better service our customers."

Founded in 1987, TechniCon Corporation is a leading provider of e-commerce solutions for complex products. Combining over a decade of experience developing product specification and sales automation software with leading-edge e-commerce and visualization technology, TechniCon has developed interactive sales systems for a wide range of manufacturers, including Daimler-Chrysler, Motorola, and Steelcase. TechniCon (www.technicon.com) is headquartered in Emeryville, CA.

TechniCon is a service mark of TechniCon Corporation