1.   Outplacement services are increasing their role, with three-quarters of firms now incorporating outplacement services in severance packages.

2.   Almost everyone took the offer because of the promised severance package.

3.   Also subject to court approval is a proposed Montgomery Ward severance package.

4.   Also on Monday, Pratt announced the severance package it will offer those not invited to move to Connecticut.

5.   Although the severance package is settled, employees said they are still waiting for final word on when the doors will close.

6.   Although the deal is not done, a number of Compaq employees have assumed the worst and simply await the official results so they can collect their severance packages.

7.   American, Continental, Northwest, United and US Airways are among the airlines that have cited clauses in their labor contracts that void severance packages in emergencies.

8.   And companies like Amazon.com are even sweetening severance packages for laid-off employees who sign these agreements before they leave.

9.   And most of those who left under those circumstances got no severance package.