FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Peggy Parfenoff
LPC
(312) 432-7630
pfp@lb.com

Maureen Owen
Capstone
(203) 878-6417, Ext. 36
(203) 874-2308
mo@lb.com
http://www.coolbooks.com

Cisco/AOL Successes Examined in Two New Books

August 24, 2000 (INB) -- Why are AOL and Cisco Systems two of the most successful Internet companies today? Capstone Publishing author David Stauffer explores this question in his two titles published this summer: 'Nothing But Net: Business the Cisco Way' (ISBN 1-84112-087-1) and 'It's a Wired, Wired World: Business the AOL Way' (ISBN: 1-84112-090-1). Both books are available online at http://www.coolbooks.com or can be ordered directly from LPC Group by calling 1-800-626-4330.

"I found that Cisco and AOL have a lot in common with each other and with other great companies. But what stood out in particular for me was this: the first and foremost requirement for success in the new economy is that your organization meet the same requirements for success in any economy. First, listen continuously to customers and give them what they want. Second, hire the best people and treat them right. There's probably no better CEO than Steve Case at #1, and no better CEO than John Chambers at #2," explains Stauffer.

In 'It's a Wired, Wired World: Business the AOL Way,' Stauffer discloses the secrets, deals, schemes and dreams of the world's #1 Webmaster and one of the world's most innovative digital superstars. AOL is the world's single most successful Internet-based company, whether measured by number of customers, annual revenues, or profits. CEO Steve Case is a visionary, a charismatic leader who has taken AOL from obscurity to become the pre-eminent new-media brand in less than ten years. Case has increased the number of AOL subscribers by a staggering 4,000% in the last seven years. David Stauffer reveals the secrets of Steve Case's strategic moves and shows how they were perfectly on target for dominating the .com world.

Marketing research studies show that AOL is the most recognized brand among all new-media companies. AOL has repeatedly made headlines, both for its gaffes and its triumphs. The result is that everyone - from the industry insider on Wall Street to the teenaged geek on Main Street - has an opinion on AOL, its services, and its performance.

Last week Cisco Systems reported a 61% increase in sales and a 69% increase in profit from operations. How has Cisco Systems maintained this impressive growth for 10 consecutive quarters? In 'Nothing But Net: Business the Cisco Way,' Stauffer tells how. He examines the corporate values of Cisco Systems and provides concrete examples that other managers can apply directly to their own companies. According to Stauffer, Cisco appears to be the right company, in the right business, at the right time. His new book unveils the ten secrets of the company that makes the Internet.

David Stauffer's articles on business and personal management have appeared in Harvard Management Update, Across the Board, The Wall Street Journal and other business periodicals. He is available for interviews and appearances.

Capstone Publishing is a publisher of business books that present an up-to-date focus on all the aspects of the business world and the individual's place in it.