Computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering company Parametric Technology Corp found its progress hindered somewhat by weak sales in Japan – partly its own fault, the company admitted, and partly a result of the strong US dollar. New management is now in place in Japan in order to strengthen its sales and support infrastructure there, a process that is likely to take two to three quarters to show up on the balance sheet. North America and Europe however, were both strong and the company has been announcing a string of major orders for its Pro/Engineer software tools over the last few months, including big purchases from Apple Computer Inc, Dell Computer Corp and Siemens AG and BMW Group in Germany. Parametric saw its net income rise 35% to $56.2m in its third quarter ending June 28, compared with $41.6m in the same period last year. Profits were up 32% to $207.1m, compared with $157.1m a year ago, with earnings per share up from $0.31 to $0.42. Profits for the nine months were up 42% to $158.7m on revenue up 39% to $588.6m.
