For the fourth quarter, base (non-GM) revenue grew by 14 percent on a constant currency basis, and 16 percent on an organic basis. Total fourth quarter revenue was $5.2 billion.

For all of 2000, EDS reported earnings per share, before one-time items, of $2.29, up 19 percent from the comparable result of $1.92 in 1999. Base revenue grew by 8 percent on a constant currency basis, and 10 percent on an organic basis. Total year 2000 revenue was $19.2 billion.

EDS ends 2000 with one of the strongest quarters in our history. Our robust, balanced performance demonstrates EDS’ ability to anticipate and capitalize on changes in the rapidly evolving digital economy, Chairman and CEO Dick Brown said. With new offerings in strategic infrastructure, mobility, information assurance and CRM, we continue to strengthen our capabilities. This ability to keep our clients ahead of change will be the foundation for EDS’ growth in 2001 and beyond.

EDS reported all-time high contract signings for the fourth quarter and full year. For the quarter, the company won contracts totaling $15.8 billion, up 41 percent from $11.2 billion a year ago, and a record for the eighth consecutive quarter. For 2000, the total value of EDS’ contract signings increased 31 percent to $32.6 billion from $24.9 billion in 1999.

EDS’ win-rate accelerated dramatically in the quarter, driving the company’s record signings. In the quarter, signings increased 86 percent in Business Process Management, 83 percent in E.solutions, and 36 percent in Information Solutions. Signings in the fourth quarter increased 141 percent in Europe, 295 percent in Asia Pacific and 33 percent in the U.S.

EDS is winning business around the world at a record pace and enters 2001 with a backlog of signed business now approaching $80 billion, Brown said. We’ve won the confidence of both new and existing clients with our focus on service excellence and reliability. Our ability to provide truly innovative solutions is enhancing our clients’ productivity and value.

Complementing its record signings, EDS continued to make significant operational and productivity improvements. The company said its persistent pursuit of productivity improvements is enabling EDS to capture record amounts for investment in new innovative solutions, products and services that will fuel the company’s future growth. Fourth quarter operating margin increased to 10.5 percent from 9.6 percent a year ago, positioning the company to achieve its target of a 10 percent operating margin for 2001. Return on net assets improved to 16.0 percent from 13.8 percent a year ago.

Recognizing the challenges of the global economy, we’re confident in our ability to execute on an ongoing basis, and, as this quarter demonstrates, turn signings into sustainable and profitable revenue growth, Brown said.