Crystal Decisions Reports 30% Increase In 1Q Sales

Query-and-reporting software vendor Crystal Decisions reports that sales for its first quarter, ended Sept. 28, increased 30% from one year earlier to $48 million. The privately held company doesn't release details about its finances but, CFO Eric Patel says, it recorded positive net income and cash flow for the quarter.

Crystal Decisions' license revenue increased 34% year over year, Patel says. License revenue is considered a key indicator of future growth. "We're finding there's still a ready market for business-intelligence solutions," Patel says, noting that the economic slump has led many companies to look for better ways to manage their businesses. Patel declined to provide guidance about Crystal Decisions' current quarter.

Crystal Decisions' major competitors have turned in mixed financial performances in recent quarters. MicroStrategy Inc. is close to returning to profitability after nearly two years of losses, but it reported a steep drop in license revenue in its September quarter. Cognos Inc. reported decreases in sales and license revenue for its quarter ended Aug. 31. Business Objects SA, however, reported sales and license revenue gains for its September quarter.