EUGENE, Ore., Sept. 13, 2004 -- Palo Alto Software, today announced the release of the latest version of its flagship business planning software, Business Plan Pro 2005 and Business Plan Pro 2005 PREMIER. This version of Business Plan Pro includes new help features such as the new step-by-step Table Wizards and an enhanced PlanReview Wizard. Also new in Business Plan Pro 2005 is the option for a simple financial worksheet for people who need to write their plan quickly.

Palo Alto Software has focused the new features this year to guide users more seamlessly through Business Plan Pro. The step-by-step Wizards help users input their business numbers correctly and give even the most novice user the financial understating they need to start or run a business.

"Palo Alto Software's Business Plan Pro 2005 contains more major enhancements than any other version of the software we've released thus far," said Tim Berry, president and CEO of Palo Alto Software. "We've listened to what our customers had to say and their feedback was the driving force in making this version of Business Plan Pro what it is today. We're happy with the improvements we've made and proud to present it to past, present and future Business Plan Pro users."

Business Plan Pro is the foremost organizational tool for entrepreneurs who are busy with the day-to-day operation of their business. This latest version of the software features even more expert information that will help entrepreneurs focus on their unique strategic direction.

Additional new features include:

More Financial Planning Options

Business Plan Pro 2005 automatically customizes the financial model so that it is right for your business. New options allow for simpler cash-based planning for smaller, cash-only businesses.

More Powerful Cash Flow

Fine-tune your numbers and customize them to match your business model. Business Plan Pro 2005 now offers breakout tables for managing inventory and cash flow in more detail.

Export to PowerPoint(R)

Easily export your key tables, charts and graphs to PowerPoint(R). You can even use the included templates to quickly put together an impressive presentation.

New Start-up Expenses and Funding Wizard

How much cash do you need? Business Plan Pro 2005 helps you answer this question and guides you through the process of funding your venture with loans and investment to ensure positive start-up cash flow.

Improved Microsoft Word(R) Export

Microsoft Word(R) export is now better than ever. Adjust your plan outline directly within Microsoft Word and import the plan back into Business Plan Pro at any point. Make changes to your financials in Business Plan Pro and update the numbers in Word with the click of a button.

Improved Help and Support

Easier than ever to get the help you need. Detailed help for every row of every financial table guides you through the process of creating bulletproof numbers. The new product help section and glossary ensure that detailed help is only a click away.

For the entrepreneur and small-business owner, Business Plan Pro 2005 Standard Edition produces professional business plans quickly and easily. Business Plan Pro 2005 PREMIER is designed for executives of larger organizations as well as consultants and CPAs who are offering business planning services to their clients. PREMIER offers detailed investment offering, a sources and uses cash table and better "What If" scenarios with an improved Cash Pilot.

Business Plan Pro 2005 is available immediately at http://www.paloalto.com.

About Palo Alto Software, Inc.

Palo Alto Software, Inc., founded in 1988, develops, publishes and markets software products for use with personal computers. BUSINESS PLAN PRO is the best-selling business planning software in the U.S. retail market, according to NPD Intelect (formerly PC Data). Palo Alto Software's other products include WEB STRATEGY PRO(R), MARKETING PLAN PRO(R), CASH COMPASS(R). Palo Alto Software's product line offers "know how" solutions that have made it the market leader in its category. Palo Alto Software's award-winning site, http://www.bplans.com, continues to be one of the highest trafficked sites in the small business arena, offering numerous business planning resources. Palo Alto Software is a privately owned corporation based in Eugene, Oregon. More information about Palo Alto Software products is available on the company website, http://www.paloalto.com.

Sabrina Parsons             
800-229-7526, ext. 120      
Email:    sabrina@paloalto.com        

Joanne Hogue
410-642-3344
Email:    joanne@lva.com