21.   It is investing in network, database and business software, analysts said.

22.   Its WordPerfect unit, which publishes the namesake word-processing program, also sells general business software.

23.   Lotus Development Corp. has regained bragging rights over Microsoft Corp. in their struggle over the market for business communications software.

24.   Massachusetts is home to some of the leading suppliers of business intelligence software.

25.   Microsoft writes general business software such as word processors, spreadsheets and databases.

26.   Microsoft said it was especially pleased with sales of business operating software during the quarter.

27.   Most add fax machines, sometimes a second phone line, business software, stationary, business cards.

28.   New Era, known as Neon, makes e-commerce applications, a rapidly growing category of business software.

29.   New-media companies write entertainment and business software and design services that businesses provide over the Internet, the worldwide network of computer users.

30.   Oracle is trying to make up for that sluggishness by focusing more on other types of business software and consulting services.