Vodafone Recognizes HP as Leading Professional Services Provider

HP was awarded "Best Engagement In Professional Services" by Vodafone Group Plc, the world's largest mobile community. Through its operating companies, Vodafone serves more than 179 million customers around the world.

This is the first year that Vodafone formally recognized excellence among global suppliers. HP was recognized above seven other IT suppliers for the best engagement in professional services.

HP and its competitors were evaluated by Vodafone and its operating companies on six criteria: quality, delivery, technology, commercial and financial stability, and corporate social responsibility. HP garnered top scores in the areas of delivery, quality and corporate social responsibility.

"HP won the award based on its on-time delivery, flexible collaborative approach and global footprint," said Detlef Schultz, director, Global Supply Chain Management, Vodafone.

HP's professional services for Vodafone include:

-- Managing the end-to-end rollout of Vodafone's Service Platform to more than 12 countries to date to support the globalization of Vodafone's business

-- Designing, developing and managing a solution enabling Vodafone UK to plan more efficiently and achieve better network asset utilization

-- Providing 24x7 mission-critical support with HP's Business Continuity & Availability Solution

"We initiated our Supplier Performance Management Program in 2004 and we are encouraged by HP's support of this program," said Peter Stangl, head of Supplier Performance Management, Vodafone.

Building on a 21-year relationship, HP also provides Vodafone and its operating companies with a large number of dedicated solutions for both telecom and IT networks. HP provides all 200 of the world's largest network and equipment providers with a broad array of products and integrated solutions for voice, data and entertainment services.

"We are honored to be recognized by Vodafone as a trusted partner, providing both telecom and IT professional services," said John McCain, senior vice president, Consulting and Integration, HP. "The award validates HP Services' success and commitment to helping Vodafone align IT with business performance goals."

CONGRATULATIONS TO HP!