Close to 90 percent of the exhibitors are demonstrating Internet-related products. Most of the show's educational sessions are also geared toward Web technologies. These include hands-on workshops where participants learn how to design Web sites and use project collaboration systems. As project extranets mature, producers are developing ways to differentiate their systems and increase their value. Bricsnet, for example, is launching international versions of its ProjectCenter in five languages.
Footage is transmitted to the office for study via the Internet.
Other project extranet providers, including MP Interactive and Framework Technologies, are streamlining the process of managing multiple projects. Framework's ActiveProject, for instance, now has enhanced E-mail functions that automatically alert team members to problems and link them to the Web page. So in addition to offering a private, electronic meeting place for teams to work together, they are also building portals to the larger world of building product manufacturer data, construction market information, and magazine-type feature articles. Bidcom's new e-Marketplace offers news services as well as data and support for project leads, cost estimating, product specifying, and facilities management. New project extranet companies are appearing seemingly overnight.