1 UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM 10-K/A Amendment No. 1 ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 0-14443 GARTNER, INC. (f/k/a/ GARTNER GROUP, INC.) (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 04-3099750 (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) Identification Number) P.O. Box 10212 06904-2212 56 Top Gallant Road (Zip Code) Stamford, CT (Address of principal executive offices) Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (203) 316-1111 SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT: NAME OF EACH EXCHANGE TITLE OF CLASS ON WHICH REGISTERED Common Stock, Class A, $.0005 Par Value New York Stock Exchange Common Stock, Class B, $.0005 Par Value New York Stock Exchange SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT: None. Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES [X] NO [ ] Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ( ) The aggregate market value of the voting stock held by persons other than those who may be deemed affiliates of the Company, as of November 30, 2000, was approximately $723.5 million. This calculation does not reflect a determination that persons are affiliates for any other purposes. The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's capital stock as of November 30, 2000 was 53,994,898 shares of Common Stock, Class A and 32,559,916 shares of Common Stock, Class B. DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (1) Annual Report to Stockholders of Registrant for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2000. Certain information therein is incorporated by reference into Part II hereof. (2) Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Registrant to be held on January 25, 2001. Certain information in the Proxy Statement is incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.

2 Explanatory Note: Item 6, "Selected Financial Data," Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," Item 7A, "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk," Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" and Item 14, "Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K" are each hereby amended by deleting the Item in its entirety and replacing it with the corresponding Item attached hereto and filed herewith. The purpose of this amendment is to make certain changes to Selected Consolidated Financial Data (Item 6), Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (Item 7) ("MD&A"), Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk (Item 7A) and to the notes to the financial statements included in Financial Statements and Supplementary Data (Item 8) that were incorporated by reference into Part II of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2000 that was originally filed on December 29, 2000 (the "Original Filing"). The Company is filing this amended Annual Report on Form 10-K/A in response to comments received from the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). As requested by the SEC, the Company has provided additional disclosure in the MD&A and in the notes to the financial statements. This report continues to speak as of the date of the Original Filing and the Company has not updated the disclosure in this report to speak to any later date. While this report primarily relates to the historical period covered, events may have taken place since the date of the Original Filing that might have been reflected in this report if they had taken place prior to the Original Filing. All information contained in this amendment and the Original Filing is subject to updating and supplementing as provided in the Company's periodic reports filed with the SEC subsequent to the date of such reports. PART I ITEM 1. BUSINESS. GENERAL Gartner, Inc., formerly known as Gartner Group, Inc. ("Gartner" or the "Company"), founded in 1979, is the world's leading independent provider of research and analysis on the computer hardware, software, communications and related information technology ("IT") industries. The Company is organized into four business segments: research, consulting, events and TechRepublic. Research encompasses products which, on an ongoing basis, highlight industry developments, review new products and technologies, provide quantitative market research, and analyze industry trends within a particular technology or market sector. The Company's clients typically enter into annual renewable subscription contracts for research products. The Company distributes such products through print and electronic media. Consulting consists primarily of consulting and measurement engagements, which provide comprehensive assessments of cost performance, efficiency and quality for all areas of IT. Events consist of various focused symposia, expositions and conferences. TechRepublic consists of an IT professional online destination with revenues consisting primarily of Web-based advertising. The Company's primary clients are senior business executives, IT professionals, purchasers and vendors of IT products and services. Gartner product and service offerings collectively provide comprehensive coverage of the IT industry to over 10,000 client organizations. MARKET OVERVIEW The explosion of complex IT products and services creates a growing demand for independent research and analysis. Furthermore, IT is increasingly important to organizations' business strategies as the pace of technological change has accelerated and the ability of an organization to integrate and deploy new information technologies is critical to its competitiveness. Companies planning their IT needs must stay abreast of rapid technological developments and industry best practices in a dynamic market where vendors continually introduce new products with a wide variety of standards and ever-shorter life cycles. As a result, senior business executives and IT professionals are making substantial financial commitments to IT systems and products and require independent, third-party research and consultative services which provide a comprehensive view of the IT landscape in order to make purchasing and planning decisions for their organization. BUSINESS STRATEGY The Company's objective is to maintain and enhance its market position as a leading provider of in-depth, value-added, proprietary research and analysis of the IT market. The Company applies five strategic imperatives to leverage its thought leadership through both a services organization and an interactive channel in order to maximize opportunity and financial results: deliver cutting-edge provocative thought leadership in its research; dramatically grow the Company's consulting business; enhance the Company's Internet-delivery capabilities; attract and retain the best personnel; and increase client loyalty.

3 Deliver Thought Leadership. The Company is a leading provider of in-depth, value-added, proprietary research and analysis of the IT industry. The Company's global network of professionals is comprised or more than 1,400 consultants and research analysts with an average of fifteen years of industry experience. The Company maintains five primary research centers located in Stamford, CT; Santa Clara, CA; Windsor, England; Brisbane, Australia; and Tokyo, Japan, plus a number of smaller, satellite research centers throughout the world. Grow the Consulting Business. The Company continues to invest in and grow its consulting business to further leverage its knowledge base. There is a significant demand within the Company's current client base for the Company to apply its knowledge and message to client-specific situations and industries. The Company intends to continue to leverage its research knowledge to provide cost-effective solutions and to staff appropriately to deliver on the expanding consulting business. Enhance Internet-Delivery Capabilities. The Company is significantly investing in re-architecting the Company's Internet-delivery capability. The Company is on its third-generation Web platform, and has been a leader in using the Internet to deliver research to its clients. In order to capture the full potential of the Internet as an interactive delivery vehicle, the Company is redesigning its research process to deliver into an Internet paradigm with launch anticipated in the first quarter of fiscal 2001. The Company is expanding its research capability to include tools and a Web-based interaction for research and inquiry that is continuously refreshed within a dynamic Internet environment. Additionally, the Company will continue to invest in TechRepublic, the leading online destination for enterprise computing professionals, to ensure the continued growth of the TechRepublic community and the Company's ability to monetize the community through advertising and e-commerce. Retain and Attract the Best Personnel. The Company has over 4,300 associates, an increase of approximately 27% from the prior year. The Company's goal is to provide an environment where every associate is respected, challenged, and empowered to make decisions and act in the best interest of the Company and its clients. The Company believes that creating a positive, stimulating work environment will attract new employees and increase retention. Increase Client Loyalty. The Company provides products and services to more than 10,000 client organizations. The Company strives to have an intimate knowledge of its clients and their industries in addition to the technological expertise needed to redefine and transform their businesses. The Company's goal is to rapidly deliver strategically relevant research and analysis that surpasses client requirements and encourages a high level of satisfaction that, in turn, results in increased client engagements and renewals, multi-year contracts, additive services across business segments, and new client referrals. The Company believes that successful execution of these strategies will enable the Company to expand its client base in domestic and international markets and create value-based relationships that lead to increased sales of its products and services. PRODUCTS AND SERVICES The Company's principal products and services are Research, Consulting, Events, and Internet (TechRepublic, the Company's online community for IT professionals). Research. Research consists primarily of annually renewable subscription-based contracts for research products which, on an ongoing basis, highlight industry developments, review new products and technologies, provide quantitative market research, analyze industry trends within a particular technology or market sector and provide comparative analysis of the IT operations of organizations. Research provides qualitative and quantitative research and analysis that clarifies decision-making for IT buyers, users and vendors. Research and advisory services also provide objective analysis that helps clients stay ahead of IT trends, directions and vendor strategies and provide worldwide coverage of research, statistical analysis, growth projections and market share rankings of suppliers and vendors to IT manufacturers and the financial community. Each product is supported by a team of research staff members with substantial experience in the covered segment or topic of the IT industry. The Company's staff researches and prepares published reports and responds to telephone and E-mail inquiries from clients. Clients receive Gartner research and analysis on paper and through a number of electronic delivery formats. The Company measures the volume of its research business based on research contract value. The Company calculates research contract value as the annualized value of all subscription-based research contracts in effect at a given point in time, without regard to the duration of the contracts outstanding at such time. Historically, the Company has experienced that a substantial portion of client companies has renewed these services for an equal or higher level of total payments each year. Deferred revenues, as presented in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets, represent unamortized revenues from billed research products, consulting engagements and events. Total deferred revenues do not directly correlate to contract value as of the same date since contract value represents an annualized value of all outstanding contracts without regard to the duration of such contracts, and deferred revenue represents unamortized revenue remaining on outstanding and billed contracts.

4 Consulting. Consulting consists of consulting and measurement engagements. Consulting provides customized project consulting on the delivery, deployment and management of high-tech products and services. Principal consulting service offerings include Marketing Strategy, Competitive Analysis, E-Business Strategy, Customer Satisfaction Surveys, and E-Business Web Diagnostic. Measurement services provide benchmarking, continuous improvement and best practices services. One of the Company's key measurements of its Consulting products is consulting backlog. Consulting backlog represents future revenue to be derived from in-process consulting and measurement engagements. Events. Events include symposia, conferences and exhibitions that provide comprehensive coverage of IT issues and forecasts of key IT industry segments. The conference season begins each year with Symposia and ITxpo, held in the United States, Europe and the Asia/Pacific rim. Additionally, the Company sponsors other conferences, seminars and briefings. Certain events are offered as part of a continuous services subscription; however, the majority of events are individually paid for prior to attendance. Internet. TechRepublic is an online destination developed exclusively for IT professionals by IT professionals and provides career insight, community interaction, and customized content to CIOs, IT managers, network administrators, support professionals, and other enterprise computing professionals. The TechRepublic Web site offerings include IT industry news, newsletters, analysis, columns, articles, downloads, forums, event listings and job, peer and vendor directories. TechRepublic revenues are derived primarily from the sale of advertising on pages and are recognized upon delivery to users of the TechRepublic Web site. See Note 16 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in the 2000 Annual Report to Stockholders, incorporated by reference herein, for a summary of the Company's operating segments and geographic information. COMPETITION The Company believes that the principal competitive factors in its industry are quality of research and analysis, timely delivery of information, customer service, the ability to offer products that meet changing market needs for information and analysis and price. The Company believes it competes favorably with respect to each of these factors. The Company faces competition from a significant number of independent providers of information products and services, as well as the internal marketing and planning organizations of the Company's clients. The Company also competes indirectly against consulting firms and other information providers, including electronic and print media companies. These indirect competitors could choose to compete directly with the Company in the future. In addition, limited barriers to entry exist in the Company's market. As a result, additional new competitors may emerge and existing competitors may start to provide additional or complementary services. Increased competition may result in loss of market share, diminished value in the Company's products and services, reduced pricing and increased marketing expenditures. The Company may not be successful if it cannot compete effectively on quality of research and analysis, timely delivery of information, customer service, the ability to offer products to meet changing market needs for information and analysis, and price. EMPLOYEES As of September 30, 2000, the Company employed 4,322 persons, of which 1,032 employees are located at the Company's headquarters in Stamford, CT; 1,880 are located at other domestic facilities; and 1,410 are located outside of the United States. None of the Company's employees are represented by a collective bargaining arrangement. The Company has experienced no work stoppages and considers its relations with employees to be favorable. The Company's future success depends heavily upon the quality of its senior management, sales personnel, IT analysts, consultants and other key personnel. The Company faces intense competition for these qualified professionals from, among others, technology and Internet companies, market research firms, consulting firms and electronic and print media companies. Some of the personnel that the Company attempts to hire are subject to non-competition agreements that could impede the Company's short-term recruitment efforts. Any failure to retain key personnel or hire additional qualified personnel as may be required to support the evolving needs of clients or growth in the Company's business could adversely affect the quality of the Company's products and services, and, therefore, its future business and operating results. ITEM 2. PROPERTIES. The Company's headquarters are located in approximately 244,000 square feet of leased office space in five buildings located in Stamford, CT. These facilities accommodate research and analysis, marketing, sales, client support, production and corporate administration. The leases on these facilities expire in 2010. The Company also leases office space in 40 domestic and 40 international locations to support its research and analysis, domestic and international sales efforts and other functions. The Company believes its existing facilities and expansion options are adequate for its current needs and that additional facilities are available for lease to meet future needs.

5 ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS. The Company is involved in legal proceedings and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company believes the outcome of all current proceedings, claims and litigation will not have a material effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations when resolved in a future period. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS. No matter was submitted to a vote of the Company's stockholders during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year covered by this report. PART II ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS. As of November 30, 2000, there were approximately 250 holders of record of the Company's Class A Common Stock and approximately 4,300 holders of record of the Company's Class B Common Stock. Since September 15, 1998, the Company's Class A Common Stock has been listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "IT". Prior to September 15, 1998, the Class A Common Stock was listed on the Nasdaq National Market. Since July 20, 1999, the Company's Class B Common Stock has been listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "IT/B". The Class B Common Stock is identical in all respects to the Class A Common Stock, except that the Class B Common Stock is entitled to elect at least 80% of the members of the Company's Board of Directors. In connection with the Company's recapitalization in July 1999, the Company declared a special, non-recurring cash dividend of $1.1945 per share, payable to all Company stockholders of record as of July 16, 1999. The cash dividend, totaling approximately $125.0 million, was paid on July 22, 1999 and was funded out of existing cash. While subject to periodic review, the current policy of the Company's Board of Directors is to retain all earnings primarily to provide funds for the continued growth of the Company. The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high and low sales prices for the Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange. CLASS A COMMON STOCK FISCAL YEAR 2000 FISCAL YEAR 1999 ---------------- ---------------- HIGH LOW HIGH LOW ------- ------- ------- ------- First Quarter ended December 31 $ 19.00 $ 9.56 $ 24.81 $ 17.31 Second Quarter ended March 31 $ 22.25 $ 12.63 $ 25.75 $ 20.38 Third Quarter ended June 30 $ 17.00 $ 11.38 $ 24.94 $ 18.75 Fourth Quarter ended September 30 $ 15.25 $ 11.63 $ 23.38 $ 14.25 CLASS B COMMON STOCK FISCAL YEAR 2000 FISCAL YEAR 1999 ---------------- ---------------- HIGH LOW HIGH LOW ------- ------- ------- ------- First Quarter ended December 31 $ 18.75 $ 9.38 -- -- Second Quarter ended March 31 $ 17.63 $ 10.00 -- -- Third Quarter ended June 30 $ 13.25 $ 9.19 -- -- Fourth Quarter ended September 30 $ 13.06 $ 9.75 $ 23.81 $ 16.25

6 ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA. FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, (IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA: Revenues: Research........................................ $ 509,781 $ 479,045 $ 433,141 $ 349,600 $279,629 Consulting...................................... 208,810 149,840 110,955 84,631 61,348 Events.......................................... 108,589 75,581 49,121 34,256 26,449 Other........................................... 31,491 29,768 30,664 21,438 15,027 Learning........................................ -- -- 18,076 21,314 12,219 ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Total revenues.............................. 858,671 734,234 641,957 511,239 394,672 Total costs and expenses(1).......................... 810,461 602,387 497,908 394,424 345,232 ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Operating income(1).................................. 48,210 131,847 144,049 116,815 49,440 Minority interest.................................... -- -- -- -- 25 Net gain (loss) on sale of investments............... 29,630 -- (1,973) -- -- Interest income and other(1)......................... 3,161 8,672 9,139 7,058 3,665 Interest expense..................................... (24,900) (1,272) (94) -- -- ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss............................. 56,101 139,247 151,121 123,873 53,130 Provision for income taxes........................... 28,826 50,976 62,774 50,743 36,692 ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Income before extraordinary loss..................... 27,275 88,271 88,347 73,130 16,438 Loss on debt extinguishment, net of tax of $1,152.......................................... 1,729 -- -- -- -- ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Net income........................................... $ 25,546 $ 88,271 $ 88,347 $ 73,130 $ 16,438 =========== ========= ========= ========= ======== NET INCOME PER COMMON SHARE: Basic: Income before extraordinary loss................ $ 0.32 $ 0.87 $ 0.88 $ 0.77 $ 0.18 Extraordinary loss.............................. $ (0.02) -- -- -- -- Net income...................................... $ 0.30 $ 0.87 $ 0.88 $ 0.77 $ 0.18 Diluted: Income before extraordinary loss................ $ 0.31 $ 0.84 $ 0.84 $ 0.71 $ 0.17 Extraordinary loss.............................. $ (0.02) -- -- -- -- Net income...................................... $ 0.29 $ 0.84 $ 0.84 $ 0.71 $ 0.17 ========== ========= ========= ========= ========= CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA: Cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities..... $ 97,102 $ 88,894 $ 218,684 $ 171,054 $126,809 Fees receivable, net................................. 326,359 282,047 239,243 205,760 143,762 Other current assets................................. 82,677 61,243 53,152 48,794 39,579 ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Total current assets........................ 506,138 432,184 511,079 425,608 310,150 Intangibles and other assets......................... 474,737 371,260 321,792 219,704 133,958 ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Total assets................................ $ 980,875 $ 803,444 $ 832,871 $ 645,312 $444,108 =========== ========= ========= ========= ======== Deferred revenues.................................... $ 385,932 $ 354,517 $ 288,013 $ 254,071 $198,952 Other current liabilities............................ 196,834 117,363 126,822 118,112 92,456 ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Total current liabilities................... 582,766 471,880 414,835 372,183 291,408 Long-term debt....................................... 307,254 250,000 -- -- -- Other liabilities.................................... 16,035 7,078 3,098 3,259 2,465 Stockholders' equity................................. 74,820 74,486 414,938 269,870 150,235 ----------- --------- --------- --------- -------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity........... $ 980,875 $ 803,444 $ 832,871 $ 645,312 $444,108 =========== ========= ========= ========= ======== (1) Amounts for 2000 through 1997 reflect the reclassification of equity losses from minority-owned investments to Interest income and other from Costs and expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS. OVERVIEW Total revenues for the Company for fiscal 2000 were $858.7 million, up 17% from $734.2 million for fiscal 1999. Current year revenue growth consisted of a 6% increase in research revenues, a 39% increase in consulting revenues, a 44% increase in events revenues and a 6% increase in other revenues. Research encompasses products which, on an ongoing basis, highlight industry developments, review new products and technologies, provide quantitative market research, and analyze industry trends within a particular technology or market sector. The Company typically enters into annually renewable subscription contracts for research products. Revenues from research products are recognized ratably over the contract term. Consulting revenues, primarily derived from consulting and measurement engagements, are recognized as work is performed on a contract by contract basis. Events revenues are deferred and recognized upon the completion of the related symposium, exposition or conference. Other revenues are derived primarily from software sales, which are recognized upon the shipment of products, and the Company's Internet segment, TechRepublic, whose revenues consist primarily of advertising sales, which are recognized upon delivery of the advertisement to users of the TechRepublic Internet Web site. The Company believes the following business measurements are important indicators of future revenues of its significant business segments.

7 REVENUE CATEGORY BUSINESS MEASUREMENTS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Research Contract value attributable to all subscription-based research products with ratable revenue recognition. Contract value is calculated as the annualized value of all subscription-based research contracts in effect at a given point in time, without regard to the duration of such contracts. Research contract value increased 7% to approximately $599.2 million at September 30, 2000 from $560.8 million at September 30, 1999. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Consulting Consulting backlog represents future revenue to be derived from in-process consulting and measurement engagements. Backlog is not included in deferred revenue. Consulting backlog increased 32% to approximately $94.4 million at September 30, 2000 from $71.6 million at September 30, 1999. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Events Deferred revenue directly relates to symposia, expositions and conferences. Deferred revenue from events increased 40% to approximately $72.2 million at September 30, 2000 from $51.4 million at September 30, 1999 primarily due to upcoming symposia and ITxpo events to occur in the first quarter of fiscal 2001. Contract value is a significant measure of the Company's volume of business. The Company's past experience has been that a substantial portion of client companies renew these subscription-based products for an equal or higher level of total payments each year. In addition, the Company has also been able to increase its multi-year contracts to 40% of total contract value at September 30, 2000 from 32% at September 30, 1999. Total research deferred revenues of $296.9 million and $291.1 million at September 30, 2000 and 1999, respectively, represent unamortized revenues from billed products and services. Deferred revenues do not directly correlate to contract value as of the same date since contract value represents an annualized value of all outstanding contracts without regard to the duration of such contracts, and deferred revenue represents unamortized revenue remaining on all outstanding and billed contracts. The Company has generally realized significant renewals and growth in contract value at the end of each quarter. The fourth quarter of the fiscal year typically has been the fastest growth quarter for contract value and the first quarter has been the slowest growth quarter due to the largest amount of contract renewals. As a result of growth in contract value and overall business volume, fees receivable, deferred revenues, deferred commissions and commissions payable reflect this activity and typically show substantial increases at quarter end and at fiscal year end. All contracts are billable upon signing, absent special terms granted on a limited basis from time to time. All contracts are non-cancelable and non-refundable, except for government contracts which have a 30-day cancellation clause, but have not produced material cancellations to date. In accordance with the contract terms, the Company records at the time of signing of a research and measurement contract the entire amount of the contract billable as a fee receivable, which represents a legally enforceable claim, and a corresponding amount as deferred revenue. Deferred revenues attributable to government contracts were $33.8 million and $36.2 million at September 30, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The Company also records the related commission obligation upon the signing of the contract and amortizes the corresponding deferred commission expense over the contract period in which the related revenues are earned and amortized to income. Research revenues typically increase in the first quarter of the fiscal year over the immediately preceding quarter primarily due to the increase in contract value at the end of the prior fiscal year. Events revenues have increased similarly due to annual conferences and exhibition events held in the first quarter. Additionally, operating income margin (operating income as a percentage of total revenues) typically improves in the first quarter of the fiscal year versus the immediately preceding quarter. The operating income margin improvement in the first quarter of a fiscal year is generally due to the increase in research revenue upon which the Company is able to further leverage its selling, general and administrative expenses, plus operating income generated from the first quarter symposium and ITxpo exhibition events. Although historically, operating income margin has generally not been as high in the remaining quarters, especially the third and fourth quarters of the fiscal year compared to the first quarter of the fiscal year, the full year impact of TechRepublic and other acquisitions and strategic initiatives may result in operating margin trends in the future that are not comparable to historical trends. During fiscal 2000, the Company made significant investments in the hiring of consultants to support the demand for consultative services. As a result of successful recruiting efforts, the Company increased its billable consultants to 711 at the end of fiscal 2000 and generated $208.8 million in consulting revenues, a 39% increase over the prior year. In addition, backlog increased 32% from the previous year, which provides future revenue to be delivered on in fiscal 2001. In fiscal 2000, the Company's events business grew 44% to $108.6 million in revenues compared to fiscal 1999. This growth reflects continued strong attendance by clients and non-clients at symposia and conferences as well as demand by exhibitors to showcase their products at Company events.

8 In addition, the Company's Internet segment, TechRepublic, provided $4.1 million of revenue in fiscal 2000 that consisted primarily of revenue from the sale of advertisements. Expansion of TechRepublic's registered user population has contributed to its ability to sequentially grow advertising revenues in fiscal 2000. The ability of TechRepublic to maintain or increase advertising rates and volumes will depend, in part, on the level and quality of traffic on the TechRepublic site and the ability to develop content and services that attract, retain and expand a loyal user base that is attractive to advertisers and sellers. Operating income in fiscal 2000 was $48.2 million, which included $17.5 million in payments under a one-time retention incentive plan. Excluding the effect of payments under the retention incentive plan in fiscal 2000 and 1999 and the impact of other charges in fiscal 1999, operating income decreased 59% to $65.7 million from $162.0 million. Operating income, excluding other charges, was impacted significantly by expenditures related to strategic investments in rearchitecting the research methodology and delivery processes, the hiring of analysts and consultants, higher revenue growth in lower margin consultative services and the Company's investment in TechRepublic. Diluted net income per common share decreased 65% to $0.29 per share in fiscal 2000 compared to $0.84 per share in fiscal 1999. Excluding the effect of the second and third payments incurred under the one-time retention incentive plan of $17.5 million, net gain on sale of investments of $29.6 million and loss on extinguishment of debt of $2.9 million, net of taxes of $6.5 million on these items, diluted net income per common share was $0.26 per share in fiscal 2000. Excluding the effect of other charges related to the Company's recapitalization of $23.4 million and the first payment under the one-time retention incentive plan of $6.7 million, net of taxes of $8.5 million on these items plus a one-time tax benefit of $2.5 million, diluted net income per common share was $1.03 per share in fiscal 1999. Basic earnings per common share was $0.30 per common share in fiscal 2000 compared to $0.87 per common share in fiscal 1999. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS The following table sets forth certain results of operations as a percentage of revenues: FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 1998 -------------------------------------------------------------------- Percent of revenues: Revenues: Research 59% 65% 68% Consulting 24 21 17 Events 13 10 8 Other 4 4 5 Learning -- -- 2 ---- ---- ---- Total revenues 100 100 100 Costs and expenses: Cost of services and Product development 48 40 39 Selling, general and Administrative 40 35 34 Depreciation 3 3 3 Amortization of intangibles 3 1 1 Other charges -- 3 0 Acquisition-related charge -- -- 1 ---- ---- ---- Total costs and expenses 94 82 78 ---- ---- ---- Operating income 6 18 22 Net gain (loss) on sale of investments 3 -- 0 Interest income and other 0 1 2 Interest expense (3) 0 0 ---- ---- ---- Income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss 6 19 24 Provision for income taxes 3 7 10 ---- ---- ---- Income before extraordinary loss 3 -- -- Loss on debt extinguishment, net of tax benefit 0 -- -- ---- ---- ---- Net income 3% 12% 14% ==== ==== ==== FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 VERSUS FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 Total revenues increased 17% to $858.7 million in fiscal 2000 as compared to $734.2 million in fiscal 1999. Revenues from research

9 products increased 6% in fiscal 2000 to $509.8 million compared to $479.0 million in fiscal 1999 and comprised approximately 59% and 65% of total revenues in fiscal 2000 and 1999, respectively. Consulting revenue, consisting primarily of consulting and measurement engagements, increased 39% to $208.8 million in fiscal 2000 as compared to $149.8 million in fiscal 1999 and comprised approximately 24% of total revenue in fiscal 2000 versus 21% in fiscal 1999. Events revenue was $108.6 million in fiscal 2000, an increase of 44% over the $75.6 million in fiscal 1999. Other revenues, consisting principally of software licensing fees and TechRepublic, experienced a slight increase of $1.7 million to $31.5 million in fiscal 2000 from $29.8 million in fiscal 1999. Although the rate of growth in total Company revenues declined slightly in fiscal 2000, the increase in total revenues reflects the ability of the Company to gain client acceptance of new products and services, deliver high value consultative services, increase sales penetration into new and existing clients and develop incremental revenues from current and prior year acquisitions. Consulting backlog increased 32% to approximately $94.4 million at September 30, 2000 and represents future revenues that will be recognized on in-process consulting and measurement engagements. Revenue has grown in the three defined geographic market areas of the Company: United States and Canada, Europe, and Other International. Revenues from sales to United States clients increased 20% to $567.6 million in fiscal 2000 from $471.8 million in fiscal 1999. Revenues from sales to European clients increased 9% to $230.3 million in fiscal 2000 from $212.1 million in fiscal 1999. Although European revenues increased in fiscal 2000, the rate of growth was less than in fiscal 1999. This decrease in growth rate was attributable, in part, to research revenues remaining relatively unchanged from fiscal 1999 as a result of foreign exchange rates. On a constant dollar basis, revenues from Europe would have increased 16% compared to fiscal 1999. Revenues from sales to Other International clients increased by 21% to $60.7 million in fiscal 2000 from $50.3 million in fiscal 1999. This increase reflects primarily the general recovery in the economic climate in the Asian markets from fiscal 1999. The Company's sales strategy is to continue to extend the Company's sales channels to clients with revenues ranging from $150 million and up, to maintain its focus on large customers and to expand sales of product and service offerings to smaller companies and to different user bases within existing and potential larger company clients. The Company continues to invest in direct sales personnel and distributor relationships in Europe and Other International markets and intends to pursue continued expansion of operations outside of the United States in fiscal 2001. Operating income decreased 63% to $48.2 million in fiscal 2000 compared to $131.8 million in fiscal 1999. In fiscal 2000, the United States and Canada, Europe, and Other International markets experienced declines in operating income of 63%, 63% and 71%, respectively. On a consolidated basis, operating income as a percentage of total revenues was 6% and 18%, respectively, for fiscal 2000 and 1999. Operating income was impacted, in part, by expenditures related to planned investments and rearchitecture of the Company's Web capabilities and the research methodology and delivery processes, the hiring of analysts and consultants, higher growth in lower margin consultative services and other investments to expand and augment TechRepublic's initiatives. Additionally, TechRepublic's operating loss of $34.2 million in fiscal 2000 impacted significantly the Company's operating income. Costs and expenses, excluding other charges in fiscal 1999, increased to $810.5 million in fiscal 2000 from $579.0 million in fiscal 1999. The increase in costs and expenses reflects the additional support required for the growing client base, incremental costs associated with conferences, costs associated with acquired businesses and previously planned strategic investments which included the hiring of additional consultants, analysts, project executives and sales personnel, and spending on sales productivity tools and interactive initiatives. Cost of services and product development expenses were $411.7 million and $293.6 million for fiscal 2000 and fiscal 1999, respectively. The increase in costs of services and product development expenses, as a percentage of total revenues to 48% from 40%, is primarily attributable to continuing growth in personnel costs associated with the development and delivery of products and services and the hiring of personnel in association with the planned strategic investments. Costs and expenses in fiscal 2000 were also impacted by the amounts earned by employees under the retention bonus program as well as the performance-related variable compensation expense incurred in fiscal 2000. In contrast, costs and expenses in fiscal 1999 were favorably impacted through the elimination of variable compensation costs linked to financial performance. Selling, general and administrative expenses, increased to $342.6 million in fiscal 2000 from $253.7 million in fiscal 1999 as a result of the Company's continued expansion of worldwide distribution channels and additional general and administrative resources needed to meet the expanding infrastructure requirements of the growing revenue base and fiscal 2000 and fiscal 1999 acquisitions. These infrastructure requirements involve information systems support, telecommunication, facilities, and human capital costs. In fiscal 1999, the Company recorded pre-tax other charges totaling $9.2 million of legal and advisory fees related to the recapitalization (see Note 15--Recapitalization in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) and $14.2 million of costs, primarily severance related, incurred as part of strategic reduction in workforce initiatives. Depreciation expense increased to $28.3 million in fiscal 2000 from $21.6 million in fiscal 1999, primarily due to capital spending required to support business growth. Additionally, amortization of intangibles increased by $17.8 million ($14.8 million of which related to the TechRepublic acquisition) in fiscal 2000 as compared to fiscal 1999, reflecting primarily goodwill associated with fiscal 2000 and 1999 acquisitions and the shorter life of intangibles attributable to Internet related fiscal 2000 acquisitions.

10 Net gain on sale of investments in fiscal 2000 reflects the sale of 1,995,950 shares of Jupiter Communications, Inc. (now known as Jupiter Media Metrix) for net cash proceeds of $55.5 million for a pre-tax gain of $42.9 million. This gain was partially offset by the sale of the Company's 8% investment in NETg, Inc., a subsidiary of Harcourt, Inc., to an affiliate of Harcourt, Inc. for $36.0 million in cash that resulted in a pre-tax loss of approximately $6.6 million. The Company had acquired this investment as consideration for its sale of GartnerLearning in September 1998. In addition, Gartner settled a claim arising from the sale of GartnerLearning to NETg Inc. in 1998. The claim asserted that the Company had breached its contractual commitment under its joint venture arrangement with a content partner when the business was sold. The claim was settled for approximately $6.7 million and has been recorded as a loss on sale of investments. Interest expense increased to $24.9 million in fiscal 2000 from $1.3 million in fiscal 1999. This increase related primarily to debt facility borrowings, of which the proceeds were used primarily to fund the Company's recapitalization in the prior fiscal year. Interest income and other decreased in fiscal 2000 which was due primarily to a lower average balance of investable funds as compared to the prior fiscal year. Provision for income taxes decreased by 43% or $22.2 million to $28.8 million in fiscal 2000 from $51.0 million in fiscal 1999. The effective tax rate was 52% and 37% for fiscal 2000 and fiscal 1999, respectively. The increase in the effective rate principally reflects the impact of non-deductible goodwill related to the TechRepublic acquisition. A more detailed analysis of the changes in the provision for income taxes is provided in Note 13 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. In fiscal 2000, the Company entered into a second amendment to the Credit Agreement. Under this amendment, the Company agreed to refinance all existing indebtedness and to repay in full and terminate the term loans drawn under the existing Credit Agreement. In connection with the extinguishment of the term loan, the Company wrote-off $2.9 million of deferred debt issuance costs in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2000. The charge was recorded, net of tax benefit of $1.2 million, as an extraordinary loss. Segment Analysis: The Company evaluates reportable segment performance and allocates resources based on gross contribution margin. Gross contribution is the profit or loss from operations before interest income and expense, certain selling, general and administrative expenses, amortization, income taxes, other charges, and foreign exchange gains and losses. Research Research revenues grew 6% to $509.8 million as compared to $479.0 million in the prior fiscal year due to increased sales penetration into new and existing clients. Contributing to the growth in sales was the introduction of a new pricing architecture launched in the third quarter of fiscal 2000. This pricing plan provides broad access to Gartner research on price per seat basis. Research gross contribution in fiscal 2000 increased slightly to $341.1 million from $336.9 million in fiscal 1999. Gross contribution margin decreased to 67% in fiscal 2000 from 70% in fiscal 1999 due primarily to slower revenue growth and increases in compensation expenses associated with headcount and annual merit increases. Consulting Consulting revenue revenues grew 39% to $208.8 million as compared to $149.8 million in the prior fiscal year due primarily to an increase in demand for IT consulting. Also contributing the revenue growth was the full year impact of prior year and current year acquisitions. Consulting gross contribution increased by 35% to $75.7 million in fiscal 2000 from $55.9 million in fiscal 1999. Consulting gross contribution margin of 36% in fiscal 2000 decreased from 37% in fiscal 1999 primarily due to the impact of integration costs and lower margins associated with new strategic consulting practices and recent consulting related acquisitions. Events Events revenue revenues grew 44% to $108.6 million as compared to $75.6 million in the prior fiscal year due to a growth in attendance at existing and new events and increased sponsorships and exhibit revenues. Events gross contribution increased by 56% to $50.6 million in fiscal 2000 from $32.5 million in fiscal 1999 with gross contribution margin increasing to 47% in 2000 from 43% in fiscal 1999. The increase in Events gross contribution margin was due to the ability of the Company to leverage existing event infrastructure, selected price adjustments, and an overall increase in sponsorship and exhibitor sales. TechRepublic TechRepublic, acquired in the second quarter of fiscal 2000, contributed $4.1 million in revenue. More than half of the annual revenue was earned in the fourth quarter. TechRepublic's revenue is primarily earned from advertising and subscription services. TechRepublic incurred a segment loss of $20.3 million, which was due to expenditures, primarily personnel and marketing related, required to grow this early-stage business. FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 VERSUS FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 Total revenues increased 14% to $734.2 million in fiscal 1999 from $642.0 million in fiscal 1998. Revenues from research products increased 11% in fiscal 1999 to $479.0 million compared to $433.1 million in fiscal 1998 and comprised approximately 65% and 68% of total revenues in fiscal 1999 and 1998, respectively. Consulting revenue, consisting primarily of consulting and measurement

11 engagements, increased 35%, to $149.8 million in fiscal 1999 as compared to $111.0 in fiscal 1998 and comprised approximately 21% of total revenue in fiscal 1999 versus 17% in fiscal 1998. Events revenue was $75.6 million in fiscal 1999, an increase of 54% over $49.1 million in fiscal 1998. Other revenues, consisting principally of software licensing fees, experienced a slight decrease to $29.8 million in fiscal 1999 from $30.7 million in fiscal 1998. Although the rate of growth in Company revenue slowed in fiscal 1999, the increase in total revenues reflected the ability of the Company to gain client acceptance of new products and services, increase sales penetration into new and existing clients, and develop incremental revenues from current and prior year acquisitions. Pricing pressures in the Company's traditional research products from smaller competitors with lower profit margins and less robust product suites contributed to the slowed revenue growth rate. Consulting backlog increased 68% to approximately $71.6 million at September 30, 1999 and represented future revenues that would be recognized from in-process consulting and measurement engagements. Revenues from sales to United States and Canadian clients increased 14% to $471.8 million in fiscal 1999 from $415.6 million in fiscal 1998. Revenues from sales to European clients increased 22% to $212.1 million in fiscal 1999 from $173.8 million in fiscal 1998. Revenue in Europe, primarily in the Research area, increased as a result of continuing investments to expand penetration of this market, offset in part by lower than expected growth in measurement revenues. Revenues from sales to Other International clients decreased by 4% to $50.3 million in fiscal 1999 from $52.6 million in fiscal 1998. This decrease was caused primarily by the general unfavorable economic climate in the Asian markets. Operating income decreased 8% to $131.8 million in fiscal 1999 from $144.0 million in fiscal 1998. Excluding acquisition-related and other charges, operating income in fiscal 1999 increased 3%. Excluding such charges in 1999 and 1998, the United States and Canada experienced an increase of 2% and Europe experienced a 16% growth rate. Other International markets experienced a decline of 25% primarily from a decrease in revenue. Operating income remained favorable as a result of continuing revenue growth that allowed the Company to develop new products and services and to gain economies of scale through the leveraging of its resources (additional revenues have been generated using essentially the same resources). However, operating contribution margin, excluding acquisition related and other charges, decreased in fiscal 1999 to 21% from 24% in fiscal 1998. This decrease was due in part to higher growth in lower margin consultative services. In addition, operating contribution margin from consulting in 1999 declined primarily from lower margin acquisitions. Costs and expenses, excluding acquisition-related and other charges, increased to $579.0 million in 1999 from $490.6 million in 1998, and increased slightly as a percentage of total revenue to 79% in 1999 from 76% in 1998. Cost of services and product development expenses were $293.6 million and $247.9 million for 1999 and 1998, respectively. This increase over the prior fiscal year reflected the additional support required for the growing client base, costs associated with acquired businesses and continued product development costs. The increase in cost of services and product development expenses, as a percentage of total revenues, was primarily attributable to increasing pricing pressure in research products, continuing growth in personnel costs associated with the development of new products and services, and the delivery of products and services to broader markets. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to $253.7 million from $215.4 million for fiscal 1999 and 1998, respectively, due to the Company's continuing expansion of worldwide distribution channels and the resulting commissions earned on the revenue generated. Although the Company added general and administrative resources to support the growing revenue base, selling, general and administrative expenses increased slightly as a percentage of total revenue to 35% from 34% for fiscal 1999 and 1998, respectively. Costs and expenses in fiscal 2000 were anticipated to be impacted both by the remaining amounts earned by employees under the Company's retention incentive program as well as the fiscal 2000 performance-related variable compensation expense expected to be incurred. Other charges in fiscal 1999 consisted of $9.2 million in legal and advisory fees related to the recapitalization (see Note 15--Recapitalization in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) and $14.2 million of costs, primarily severance related, incurred as part of strategic reduction in workforce initiatives. Costs and expenses were favorably impacted in 1999 through the elimination of variable costs linked to financial performance. Depreciation expense increased to $21.6 million in fiscal 1999 from $17.9 million in fiscal 1998, primarily due to capital spending required to support business growth. Additionally, amortization of intangibles increased by $0.7 million in fiscal 1999 as compared to fiscal 1998, reflecting primarily goodwill associated with fiscal 1999 and 1998 acquisitions. Interest income and other decreased slightly to $8.7 million in fiscal 1999, versus $9.1 million for fiscal 1998, due principally to the sale of cash equivalents and marketable securities to fund the recapitalization and working capital requirements. Interest expense increased to $1.3 million due to debt facility borrowings of $250 million. Provision for income taxes decreased by 19% or $11.8 million to $51.0 million in 1999 from $62.8 million in 1998. The effective tax rate was 37% and 42% for 1999 and 1998, respectively. In 1999, the Company incurred $8.6 million of non-deductible recapitalization costs during the year, the tax effect of which was partially offset by a one-time income tax benefit of $2.5 million related primarily to the settlement of certain tax examinations in the second quarter. Absent nondeductible costs, the one-time income tax benefit and additional taxes incurred in fiscal 1998 related to the sale of GartnerLearning, the effective rate was 37% for 1999 and

12 39% for 1998. The decrease of two percentage points was achieved primarily through the utilization of tax loss and credit carryforwards and ongoing tax planning initiatives. A more detailed analysis of the changes in the provision for income taxes is provided in Note 13 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Segment Analysis: The Company evaluates reportable segment performance and allocates resources based on gross contribution margin. Gross contribution is the profit or loss from operations before interest income and expense, certain selling, general and administrative expenses, amortization, income taxes, other charges, and foreign exchange gains and losses. Research Research revenues grew 11% to $479.0 million as compared to $433.1 million in the prior fiscal year due to increased sales penetration into new and existing clients and the full year impact of prior fiscal year acquisitions. Research gross contribution increased by 8% to $336.9 million in fiscal 1999 from $312.9 million in fiscal 1998 partially due to incremental revenues from current and prior year acquisitions. Gross contribution margin, however, decreased to 70% in 1999 from 72% in fiscal 1998 as a result of the impact of increased staffing and acquisition related integration costs. Consulting Consulting revenues grew 35% to $149.8 million as compared to $111.0 million in the prior fiscal year due to increase demand for consulting the contribution of fiscal 1999 acquisitions. Consulting gross contribution increased by 10% to $55.9 million in fiscal 1999 from $50.8 million in fiscal 1998 and gross contribution margin decreased to 37% in fiscal 1999, due to the impact of integration costs and lower margins associated with recent consulting related acquisitions. Events Events revenues grew 54% to $75.6 million as compared to $49.1 million in the prior fiscal year. Revenue growth was due to increasing attendance at existing and new events, sponsorships and exhibit revenues growth, and the impact of recent event related acquisitions. Events gross contribution increased by 66% to $32.5 million in fiscal 1999 from $19.5 million in fiscal 1998 with gross contribution margins increasing to 43% in fiscal 1999 from 40% in fiscal 1998. The increase in Events gross contribution margin was due to revenue growth and the ability of the Company to leverage existing event infrastructure. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES Cash provided by operating activities during fiscal 2000 was $75.6 million, compared to $143.9 million in the prior fiscal year, resulting primarily from the impact of the decrease in net income, the increase in depreciation and amortization, the net gain on sale of investments, the change in deferred tax benefit and the changes in balance sheet accounts, particularly fees receivable, deferred revenues, accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Cash provided by operating activities include a $4.2 million credit to additional paid-in capital for tax benefits received from stock transactions with employees. The tax benefit of stock transactions with employees is due to a reduction in the corporate income tax liability based on an imputed compensation deduction equal to employees' gain upon the exercise of stock options at an exercise price below fair market value. Cash used for investing activities totaled $100.0 million for fiscal 2000, compared to $1.1 million provided by investing activities in fiscal 1999, due to the effect of cash used for property and equipment additions of $55.9 million and business acquisitions and investments of $135.6 million, partially offset by proceeds from the sale of marketable securities and investments of $55.5 million and $36.0 million, respectively. During fiscal 2000, the Company used $115.2 million in cash for acquisitions, primarily for the purchase of TechRepublic, Inc. for $78.5 million, Computer Financial Consultants Limited for $16.0 million and Rendall and Associates, Inc. for $12.0 million. Cash provided by financing activities totaled $1.0 million in fiscal 2000, compared to $213.8 million used for financing activities in fiscal 1999. The cash provided by financing activities resulted primarily from the $420.0 million in borrowings under the Credit Agreement and issuance of the convertible notes (see Note 9--Long-Term Debt in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements) offset by repayments of $370.0 million of Credit Agreement borrowings. Additionally, the Company paid $49.9 million for the repurchase of 2,493,500 shares of Class A Common Stock and 2,006,700 shares of Class B Common Stock under the terms of the recapitalization, as well as $8.2 million for the settlement of a forward purchase agreement on the Company's common stock. Cash provided by financing activities also includes $8.1 million in proceeds from the issuance of common stock upon the exercise of employee stock options. The effect of exchange rates reduced cash and cash equivalents by $3.8 million for the year ended September 30, 2000, and was due to the strengthening of the U.S. dollar versus certain foreign currencies. In fiscal 1999, the effect of exchange rates reduced cash and cash equivalents by $0.1 million. At September 30, 2000, cash and cash equivalents totaled $61.7 million. The Company issues letters of credit in the ordinary course of business. At September 30, 2000, the Company had outstanding letters of credit for $1.5 million with Chase Manhattan Bank and $2.0 million with The Bank of New York. The Company believes that its current cash balances, together with cash anticipated to be provided by operating activities, the sale of marketable equity securities, and borrowings available under the

13 existing senior revolving credit facility, will be sufficient for the expected short-term and foreseeable long-term cash needs of the Company in the ordinary course of business, including capital commitments related to TechRepublic and the Company's remaining obligation to make open market purchases of its common stock required as part of the recapitalization. If the Company were to require substantial amounts of additional capital in the future to pursue business opportunities that may arise involving substantial investments of additional capital, there can be no assurances that such capital will be available to the Company or will be available on commercially reasonable terms. As of September 30, 2000, the Company has a remaining commitment to purchase an additional 662,363 shares of Class A Common Stock and 4,128 shares of Class B Common Stock in the open market by July 2001. The Company intends to fund this remaining commitment through existing cash balances, cash proceeds anticipated from the sale of marketable equity securities, cash expected to be provided from operations or borrowings available under the senior revolving credit facility. The Company is subject to certain customary affirmative, negative and financial covenants under the senior revolving credit facility, and continued compliance with these covenants could preclude the Company from borrowing the maximum amount of the credit facility. As a result of these covenants, the Company's borrowing availability at September 30, 2000 is $121.9 million of the $200.0 million senior revolving credit facility. Additionally, there can be no assurance that the Company's debt service obligations will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition. Although a default under the terms of the Company's credit facility could result in an acceleration of the Company's debt obligations, management believes that such an occurrence is not likely. FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS The Company operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment that involves numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond the Company's control. The following section discusses many, but not all, of these risks and uncertainties. Competitive Environment. The Company faces competition from a significant number of independent providers of information products and services, as well as the internal marketing and planning organizations of the Company's clients. The Company also competes indirectly against consulting firms and other information providers, including electronic and print media companies. These indirect competitors could choose to compete directly with the Company in the future. In addition, limited barriers to entry exist in the Company's market. As a result, additional new competitors may emerge and existing competitors may start to provide additional or complementary services. Increased competition may result in loss of market share, diminished value in the Company's products and services, reduced pricing and increased marketing expenditures. The Company may not be successful if it cannot compete effectively on quality of research and analysis, timely delivery of information, customer service, the ability to offer products to meet changing market needs for information and analysis and price. Hiring and Retention of Employees. The Company's future success depends heavily upon the quality of its senior management, sales personnel, IT analysts, consultants and other key personnel. The Company faces intense competition for these qualified professionals from, among others, technology and Internet companies, market research firms, consulting firms and electronic and print media companies. Some of the personnel that the Company attempts to hire are subject to non-competition agreements that could impede the Company's short-term recruitment efforts. Any failure to retain key personnel or hire additional qualified personnel, as may be required to support the evolving needs of clients or growth in the Company's business, could adversely affect the quality of the Company's products and services, and, therefore, its future business and operating results. Maintenance of Existing Products and Services. The Company operates in a rapidly evolving market and the Company's success depends upon its ability to deliver high quality and timely research and analysis to its clients and to anticipate and understand the changing needs of its clients. Any failure to continue to provide credible and reliable information that is useful to its clients could have a material adverse effect on future business and operating results. Further, if the Company's predictions prove to be wrong or are not substantiated by appropriate research, the Company's reputation may suffer and demand for its products and services may decline. Introduction of New Products and Services. The market for the Company's products and services are characterized by rapidly changing needs for information and analysis. To maintain its competitive position, the Company must continue to successfully enhance and improve its products and services, develop or acquire new products and services in a timely manner, and appropriately position and price products and services. Any failure to successfully do so could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations or financial position. In addition, the Company must continue to improve its methods for delivering its products and services. For example, the Company believes that it needs to continue to invest in and develop its ability to use the Web as a delivery channel for products and services. Failure to increase and improve the Company's Web capabilities could adversely affect the Company's future business and operating results. Expanding Markets. The Company has recently begun to expand its product and service offerings to smaller companies and to different user bases within existing and potential larger company clients. These target market segments are relatively new to the Company's sales and marketing personnel. As a result, the Company may not be able to compete effectively or generate significant revenues in these new market segments.

14 Internet Business Risks. The Company, through TechRepublic, operates a Web site targeted to IT professionals that offers IT industry news, analysis, articles, forums, event listings and job, peer and vendor directories. The majority of revenues from this business are derived from advertising and subscriptions. The Company's ability to continue to achieve and grow significant advertising revenues depends upon growth of its user base, the user base being attractive to advertisers, the ability to derive demographic and other information from users, and acceptance by advertisers of the Web as an advertising medium. Similarly, the Company's ability to generate significant subscription revenues depends on its ability to continue to develop content and services that are attractive to its user base. If the Company was unable to successfully adapt to the needs of its users and advertisers, the Company's Internet business would be materially and adversely affected. International Operations. A substantial portion of the Company's revenues are derived from international sales. As a result, the Company's operating results are subject to the risks inherent in international business activities, including general political and economic conditions in each country, changes in market demand as a result of exchange rate fluctuations and tariffs, challenges in staffing and managing foreign operations, changes in regulatory requirements, compliance with numerous foreign laws and regulations, different or overlapping tax structures, higher levels of United States taxation on foreign income, and the difficulty of enforcing client agreements and protecting intellectual property rights in international jurisdictions. Additionally, the Company relies on local distributors or sales agents in some international locations. If any of these arrangements are terminated, the Company may not be able to replace the terminated arrangement on equally beneficial terms or on a timely basis or clients of the local distributor or sales agent may not want to continue to do business with the Company or its new agent. Branding. The Company believes that its Gartner brand is critical to the Company's efforts to attract and retain clients and that the importance of brand recognition will increase as competition increases. The Company expects to expand its marketing activities to promote and strengthen the Gartner brand and may need to increase its marketing budget, hire additional marketing and public relations personnel, expend additional sums to protect the brand and otherwise increase expenditures to create and maintain brand loyalty among clients. If the Company fails to effectively promote and maintain the Gartner brand, or incurs excessive expenses in attempting to do so, the Company's future business and operating results could be materially and adversely impacted. Investment Activities. The Company maintains investments in equity securities in private and publicly traded companies through direct ownership and through wholly and partially owned venture capital funds. The companies invested in are primarily early to mid-stage IT-based and Internet-enabled businesses. It is the Company's objective to seek financial returns from these investments as an additional source of capital to fund strategic initiatives. The risks related to such investments, due to their nature and the volatile public markets, include the possibilities that anticipated returns may not materialize or could be significantly delayed. As a result, the Company's financial results could be materially impacted. Significant Indebtedness. In connection with its recapitalization transactions (see Note 15--Recapitalization in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) and strategic repositioning, which include the purchase and continued investment in TechRepublic, the Company has incurred significant indebtedness. The associated debt service could impair future operating results. Further, the outstanding debt could limit the amount of cash or additional credit available to the Company, which in turn, could restrain the Company's ability to expand or enhance products and services, respond to competitive pressures or pursue business opportunities that may arise in the future and involve substantial investments of additional capital. In addition, the convertible notes issued by the Company (see Note 9--Long-Term Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements) contain a reset provision allowing in fiscal 2001 for the possible reduction of the conversion price under certain conditions. If the Company did not elect to redeem the convertible notes in the event of a reset, the impact of a reduction in the conversion price would result in additional shares of common stock being issued (compared to the amount that would be issued based on the original conversion price) if the notes are ultimately converted into shares. Correspondingly, if the Company elected to redeem the convertible notes in the event of a reset, there can be no assurances that the capital required to be raised would be available on commercially reasonable or comparable terms which in turn could impact future business and operating results. Organizational and Product Integration Related to Acquisitions. The Company has made and expects to continue to make acquisitions of, or significant investments in, businesses that offer complementary products and services. The risks involved in each acquisition or investment include the possibility of paying more than the value the Company derives from the acquisition, the assumption of undisclosed liabilities and unknown and unforeseen risks, the difficulty of integrating the operations and personnel of the acquired business, the ability to retain key personnel of the acquired company, the time to train the sales force to market and sell the products of the acquired company, the potential disruption of the Company's ongoing business and the distraction of management from the Company's business. The Company may also incur additional debt or issue equity securities to pay for future acquisitions. Enforcement of the Company's Intellectual Rights. The Company relies on a combination of copyright, patent, trademark, trade secrets, confidentiality procedures and contractual procedures to protect its intellectual property rights. Despite the Company's efforts to protect its intellectual property rights, it may be possible for unauthorized third parties to obtain and use technology or other information that the Company regards as proprietary. In addition, the Company's intellectual property rights may not survive a legal challenge to their validity or provide significant protection for the Company. Furthermore, the laws of certain countries do not protect the Company's

15 proprietary rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United States. Accordingly, the Company may not be able to protect its intellectual property against unauthorized third party copying or use, which could adversely affect the Company's competitive position. Agreements with IMS Health Incorporated. In connection with its recapitalization, the Company agreed to certain restrictions on business activity to reduce the risk to IMS Health and its stockholders of substantial tax liabilities associated with the spinoff by IMS Health of its equity interest in the Company. The Company also agreed to assume the risk of such tax liabilities if the Company were to undertake certain business activities that give rise to the liabilities. As a result, the Company may be limited in its ability to undertake acquisitions involving the issuance of a significant amount of stock unless the Company were to seek and obtain a ruling from the IRS that the transaction will not give rise to such tax liabilities. In addition, the Company has certain limits in purchasing its common stock under the terms of the recapitalization. Possibility of Infringement Claims. Third parties may assert infringement claims against the Company in the future. Regardless of the merits, responding to any such claim could be time consuming, result in costly litigation and require the Company to enter into royalty and licensing agreements which may not be offered or available on terms acceptable to the Company. If a successful claim is made against the Company and the Company fails to develop or license a substitute technology, the Company's business, results of operations or financial position could be materially adversely affected. Potential Fluctuations in Operating Results. The Company's quarterly operating income may fluctuate in the future as a result of a number of factors, including the timing of the execution of research contracts, the performance of consulting engagements, the timing of symposia and other events, the amount of new business generated by the Company, the restructuring of the Company's sales force and the change in territories of sales personnel at the end of each fiscal year, the mix of domestic and international business, changes in market demand for the Company's products and services, the timing of the development, introductions and marketing of new products and services, the results of operations of TechRepublic and competition in the industry. As a result, the Company's operating results in any quarter are not necessarily a good predictor of its operating results for any future period. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS In addition to historical information, this report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in, or implied by, the forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, those discussed in "Factors That May Affect Future Results" above. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management's opinion only as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements. Readers should also carefully review the risk factors described in other documents the Company files from time to time with the Commission. EURO CONVERSION On January 1, 1999, eleven of the fifteen member countries of the European Union established fixed conversion rates between their sovereign currencies and a new currency called the "euro" and adopted the euro as their common legal currency. In 2002, participating countries will adopt the euro as their single currency. Beginning that date, the participating countries will issue new euro-denominated bills and coins for use in cash transactions. Legacy currency will no longer be legal tender for any transactions beginning July 1, 2002, making conversion to the euro complete. As of September 30, 2000, the Company has not found the impact of the adoption of the euro to have an impact on the competitive conditions in European markets and does not believe that the translation of financial transactions into euros has had or will have a significant effect on the Company's results of operations, liquidity, or financial condition. Additionally, the Company does not anticipate any material impact from the euro conversion on the Company's financial information systems which currently accommodate multiple currencies. Costs associated with the adoption of the euro have not been and are not expected to be significant and are being expensed as incurred. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS In June 1998, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("FAS 133") was issued. FAS 133, as amended by FAS 138, "Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities" establishes a new model for accounting for derivatives and hedging activities. The Statement requires all derivatives be recognized in the statement of financial position as either assets or liabilities and measured at fair value. Derivatives that are not hedges must be adjusted to fair value through income. If the derivative is a hedge, depending on the nature of the hedge, changes in fair value will either be offset against the change in fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities, or firm commitments through earnings, or recognized in other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. In June 1999, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 137, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities--Deferral of the Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 133," was issued. Citing concerns about the ability of companies to modify their information systems in time to apply the new model for accounting for derivatives and hedging activities, FAS 137 was issued to delay the effective date for one year

16 to fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000, or October 1, 2000 for the Company. The Company does not currently have any derivative instruments or engage in any hedging activities. The adoption of this statement will not have a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations. In December 1999, the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 101, "Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements" ("SAB 101"), which summarized certain views of the Commission in applying generally accepted accounting principles to revenue recognition in financial statements. The Company believes that its current revenue recognition policies are consistent with the guidance of SAB 101. In March 2000, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued FASB Interpretation No. 44, "Accounting for Certain Transactions Involving Stock Compensation--An Interpretation of Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 25" ("FIN 44"). FIN 44 clarifies the application of APB Opinion No. 25 regarding the definition of an employee for purposes of applying Opinion No. 25, the criteria for determining whether a plan qualifies as a noncompensatory plan, the accounting consequence of various modifications to the terms of a previously fixed stock option or award, and the accounting for an exchange of stock compensation awards in a business combination. In general, this interpretation is effective July 1, 2000. The adoption of FIN 44 in fiscal 2000 did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated results of operations or financial position. In March 2000, the Emerging Issues Task Force reached a consensus on Issue No. 00-2 "Accounting for Web Site Development Costs" ("EITF Issue No. 00-2"), which applies to all Web site development costs incurred for quarters beginning after June 30, 2000. The consensus states that the accounting for specific Web site development costs should be based on a model consistent with AICPA Statement of Position 98-1, "Accounting for the Costs of Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use." The Company believes that its current Web site development costs accounting policies are consistent with the guidance of EITF Issue No. 00-2. ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK. The Company's exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates primarily to borrowing under long-term debt which consists of an unsecured senior revolving credit facility with The Chase Manhattan Bank and $300.0 million of 6% convertible subordinated notes (see Note 9 -- Long-Term Debt in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements). At September 30, 2000, there were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility. Under the revolving credit facility the interest rate on borrowings is based on LIBOR plus an additional 100 to 200 basis points based on the Company's debt to EBITDA ratio. The Company believes that an increase or decrease of 10% in the effective interest rate on available borrowings from its senior revolving credit facility, if fully utilized, will not have a material effect on future results of operations. The Company believes that it is not practical to determine changes in fair value, due to market risk exposure, its convertible subordinated notes given the numerous features that are unique to these notes. However, the convertible subordinated notes contain a reset provision allowing in April 2001 for the possible reduction of the conversion price per share if the market price of the Company's Class A Common Stock is less than the initial conversion price. If on the first anniversary of the notes issuance, April 17, 2001, the note holder is able to and resets the conversion price and the Company elects not to redeem the notes, the note holder would ultimately be able to convert the notes in 2003 into additional shares of Class A Common Stock compared to the number of shares that could have been converted based on the initial conversion price. In addition, the Company is exposed to market risk from a series of forward purchase agreements on its Class A Common Stock. Beginning in 1997, the Company entered into a series of forward purchase agreements that extend through May 2003 to offset the dilutive effect of the Company's stock-based employee compensation plans. These agreements are settled quarterly on a net basis in either shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock or cash, at the Company's option. During the year ended September 30, 2000, four settlements resulted in the Company receiving 155,792 shares of Class A Common Stock and paying approximately $8.2 million in cash. The market price of the Company's Class A Common Stock declined approximately 27% during fiscal 2000 resulting in the cash settlements paid. Future settlements are dependent upon the market price of the Company's Class A Common Stock. As of September 30, 2000, a forward purchase agreement in place covered approximately $9.3 million or 672,365 shares of Class A Common Stock having a forward purchase price established at $13.81 per share. If the market priced portion of this agreement was settled based on the September 30, 2000 market price of Class A Common Stock of $11.63 per share, the Company would settle under the terms of the forward purchase agreement with a payment of either $1.5 million in cash or 126,316 shares of Class A Common Stock. As of September 30, 2000, a one dollar increase or decrease in the market price of the Company's Class A Common Stock would increase or decrease the settlement value of the forward purchase agreement by $0.7 million. Pursuant to the terms of the Company's recapitalization, as of September 30, 2000, the Company had a remaining commitment to purchase an additional 662,363 shares of Class A Common Stock and 4,128 shares of Class B Common Stock in the open market by July 2001 with a combined value of $7.7 million. The total cost of the remaining commitment is subject to the risk that the market price of the Company's common stock will increase. The Company intends to fund this remaining commitment through existing cash balances, cash proceeds anticipated from the sale of marketable equity securities, cash expected to be provided from operations or borrowings available under the senior revolving credit facility. The Company is exposed to market risk as it relates to changes in the market value of its equity investments. The Company invests in equity securities of public companies directly and through SI Venture Associates, LLC ("SI I"), a wholly owned affiliate, and SI Venture Fund II, L.P. ("SI II"). The Company owns 34% of SI II. SI I and SI II are engaged in making venture capital investments in early to mid-stage IT-based or Internet-enabled companies (see Note 4 - Investments in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements). As of September 30, 2000, the Company had equity securities totaling $53.8 million, including available for sale investments with a fair market value of $35.4 million and a cost basis of $14.2 million. The gross unrealized gains of $21.3 million and gross unrealized losses of $0.1 million have been recorded net of deferred taxes of $12.1 million as a separate component of

17 accumulated other comprehensive income in the stockholders' equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. These investments are inherently risky as the businesses are typically in early development stages and may never develop. Furthermore, certain of these investments are in publicly-traded companies whose shares are subject to significant market price volatility. Adverse changes in market conditions and poor operating results of the underlying investments may result in the Company incurring losses or an inability to recover the original carrying value of its investments. The Company does not attempt to reduce or eliminate its market exposure on its investments in equity securities and may incur losses related to these investments. Amounts invested in the Company's foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at September 30, 2000. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the stockholders' equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company's foreign subsidiaries generally collect revenues and pay expenses in foreign currencies other than the United States dollar. Since the functional currency of the Company's foreign operations is the local currency, foreign currency translation adjustments are reflected as a component of stockholders' equity and do not impact operating results. Revenues and expenses in foreign currencies translate into higher or lower revenues and expenses in U.S. dollars as the U.S. dollar weakens or strengthens against other currencies. Therefore, changes in exchange rates may negatively affect the Company's consolidated revenues (as expressed in U.S. dollars) and expenses from foreign operations. Currency transaction gains or losses arising from transactions of the Company in currencies other than the functional currency are included in results of operations. To date, the Company has not entered into any foreign currency forward exchange contracts or other derivative financial instruments to hedge the effects of adverse fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA. The Company's consolidated financial statements for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, together with the reports of KPMG LLP, independent auditors, dated October 30, 2000 are included in this Report beginning on Page F-1. ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE. None. PART III ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT. Information relating to the directors of the Company is set forth under the caption "Proposal One: Election of Directors" on pages 3 through 6 in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company to be held January 25, 2001 and is incorporated herein by reference. Information relating to executive officers of the Company is set forth under the caption "Executive Officers" on page 7 of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company to be held January 25, 2001 and is incorporated herein by reference. Information relating to Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act is set forth under the caption "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" on page 20 of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company to be held January 25, 2001 and is incorporated herein by reference. ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION. Information relating to Executive Compensation is set forth under the caption "Executive Compensation" on pages 9 through 17 of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company to be held January 25, 2001 and is incorporated herein by reference. ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT. Information relating to Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management is set forth under the caption "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" on pages 20 and 21 of the Company's Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company to be held January 25, 2001 and is incorporated herein by reference. ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS. Information relating to Certain Relationships and Related Transactions is set forth under the caption "Certain Relationships and Transactions" of the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Stockholders of the Company to be held January 25, 2001 on pages 21 and 22 and is incorporated herein by reference.

18 PART IV ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K. (a) 1. and 2. Financial Statements and Schedules The reports of independent auditors, consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule listed in the Index to Financial Statements and Schedule on page F-1 hereof are filed as part of this report, beginning on page F-2 hereof. All other financial statement schedules not listed in the Index have been omitted because the information required is not applicable or is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto. 3. Exhibits EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION OF DOCUMENT ------------------------------------------------------------------ 3.1a* Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation 3.1b(6) Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Series A Junior Participating Preferred Stock and Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock of the Company, effective March 1, 2000 3.2* Amended Bylaws, as amended through April 14, 2000 4.1(1) Form of Certificate for Common Stock, Class A 4.2(4) Form of Certificate for Common Stock, Class B 4.3(6) Rights Agreement, dated as of February 10, 2000, between the Company and Bank Boston N.A., as Rights Agent, with related Exhibits 4.4a(8) Credit Agreement dated July 16, 1999 by and among the Company and certain financial institutions, including Chase Manhattan Bank in its capacity as a lender and as agent for the lenders 4.4b(9) Amendment No. 1, dated as of February 25, 2000 in respect of the Credit Agreement dated as of July 16, 1999 10.1(1) Form of Indemnification Agreement 10.2a(10) Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of March 21, 2000 between Gartner Group, Inc., Silver Lake Partners, L.P., Silver Lake Technology Investors, L.L.C. and other parties thereto. 10.2b(10) Amendment to the Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of April 17, 2000 between Gartner Group, Inc., Silver Lake Partners, L.P., Silver Lake Technology Investors, L.L.C. and the other parties thereto. 10.2c(10) Form of 6% Convertible Junior Subordinated Promissory Note due April 17, 2005 10.2d(10) Securityholders Agreement dated as of April 17, 2000 among Gartner Group, Inc., Silver Lake Partners, L.P. and the other parties thereto. 10.3(1) Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement dated March 19, 1993 among the Company, Dun & Bradstreet Corporation and D&B Enterprises, Inc.

19 10.4a(2) Lease dated December 29, 1994 between Soundview Farms and the Company related to premises at 56 Top Gallant Road, 70 Gatehouse Road, and 88 Gatehouse Road, Stamford, Connecticut 10.4b(5) Lease dated May 16, 1997 by and between Soundview Farms and the Company related to premises at 56 Top Gallant Road, 70 Gatehouse Road, 88 Gatehouse Road and 10 Signal Road, Stamford, Connecticut (amendment to lease dated December 29, 1994, see exhibit 10.4a) 10.5(1)+ Long Term Incentive Plan (Tenure Plan), including form of Employee Stock Purchase Agreement 10.6(5) + 1991 Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated on October 12, 1999 10.7 + 1993 Director Stock Option Plan as amended and restated on April 14, 2000 10.8(1) + Employee Stock Purchase Plan 10.9(5) + 1994 Long Term Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated on October 12, 1999 10.10(1) Commitment Letter dated July 16, 1993 from The Bank of New York 10.11(1) Indemnification Agreement dated April 16, 1993 by and among the Company, Cognizant (as successor to the Dun & Bradstreet Corporation) and the Information Partners Capital Fund 10.12(5) + 1998 Long Term Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated on October 12, 1999 10.13(3) Commitment Letter dated September 30, 1996 from Chase Manhattan Bank 10.14(5) + 1996 Long Term Stock Option Plan, as amended and restated on October 12, 1999 10.15(5) + Employment Agreement between Manuel A. Fernandez and Gartner Group, Inc. as of November 12, 1998 10.15 + Addendum No. 1 to Employment Agreement between Manual A. Fernandez and Gartner Group, Inc. as of April 14, 2000. 10.16(9) + Employment Agreement between Michael D. Fleisher and Gartner Group, Inc. as of November 1, 1999. 10.17 + Employment Agreement between Regina M. Paolillo and Gartner Group, Inc. as of July 1, 2000. 10.18(6) + Employment Agreement between William R. McDermott and Gartner Group, Inc. dated as of August 7, 2000 10.19 + Employment Agreement between Robert E. Knapp and Gartner Group, Inc. dated as of August 7, 2000 13.1* Annual report to stockholders 21.1* Subsidiaries of Registrant 23.1* Independent Auditors' Report on Financial Statement Schedule 23.2** Independent Auditors' Consent 24.1* Power of Attorney (see Signature Page)

20 27.1* Financial Data Schedules + Management compensation plan or arrangement. * Previously filed. ** Filed herewith. - ---------- (1) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-67576), as amended, effective October 4, 1993. (2) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on December 21, 1995. (3) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on December 17, 1996. (4) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Registration Statement on Form 8-A as filed on July 7, 1999. (5) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on December 22, 1999. (6) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on August 14, 2000. (7) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Form 8-K dated February 9, 2000 as filed on March 7, 2000. (8) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Tender Offer Statement on Schedule 13E-4 as filed on July 27, 1999. (9) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on May 12, 2000. (10) Incorporated by reference from the Company's Form 8-K dated April 17, 2000 as filed on April 25, 2000. (b) Reports on Form 8-K No reports on Form 8-K were filed by the Company during the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2000.

21 INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULE GARTNER GROUP, INC. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Independent Auditors' Report....................................................................................... F-2 Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2000 and 1999...................................................... F-3 Consolidated Statements of Operations for Years Ended September 30, 2000, 1999 and 1998 ........................... F-4 Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for Years Ended September 30, 2000, 1999 and 1998 ...... F-5 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for Years Ended September 30, 2000, 1999 and 1998............................ F-6 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements......................................................................... F-7 Independent Auditors' Report on Financial Statement Schedule....................................................... F-22 Schedule II--Valuation and Qualifying Accounts, Years Ended September 30, 2000, 1999 and 1998...................... F-23 F-1

22 THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS GARTNER GROUP, INC.: We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Gartner Group, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2000 and 1999, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2000. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Gartner Group, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2000 and 1999, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended September 30, 2000, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. /s/ KPMG LLP - ----------------------------------- St. Petersburg, Florida October 30, 2000 GARTNER GROUP, INC. F-2

23 CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS SEPTEMBER 30, (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA) 2000 1999 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ASSETS: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 61,698 $ 88,894 Marketable equity securities 35,404 -- Fees receivable, net of allowances of $5,004 in 2000 and $4,938 in 1999 326,359 282,047 Deferred commissions 46,756 31,332 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 35,921 29,911 ----------- ---------- Total current assets 506,138 432,184 Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net 91,259 63,592 Intangible assets, net 315,197 223,100 Other assets 68,281 84,568 ----------- ---------- Total assets $ 980,875 $ 803,444 =========== ========== LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY: Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 196,834 $ 117,363 Deferred revenues 385,932 354,517 ----------- ---------- Total current liabilities 582,766 471,880 ----------- ---------- Long-term debt 307,254 250,000 Other liabilities 16,035 7,078 Commitments and contingencies Stockholders' equity: Preferred stock: $.01 par value, authorized 5,000,000 shares; none issued or outstanding -- -- Common stock: $.0005 par value, authorized 166,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock and 84,000,000 shares of Class B Common Stock; issued 77,483,438 shares of Class A Common Stock (76,129,558 in 1999) and 40,689,648 shares of Class B Common Stock in 2000 and in 1999 59 58 Additional paid-in capital 333,828 314,829 Unearned compensation (6,451) (8,280) Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (1) (3,830) Accumulated earnings 182,286 156,740 Treasury stock, at cost, 23,740,562 shares of Class A Common Stock (21,448,536 in 1999) and 8,129,732 shares of Class B Common Stock (6,123,032 in 1999) (434,901) (385,031) ----------- ---------- Total stockholders' equity 74,820 74,486 ----------- ---------- Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 980,875 $ 803,444 =========== ========== See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-3

24 GARTNER GROUP, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) 2000 1999 1998 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Revenues: Research $ 509,781 $ 479,045 $ 433,141 Consulting 208,810 149,840 110,955 Events 108,589 75,581 49,121 Other 31,491 29,768 30,664 Learning -- -- 18,076 --------- --------- --------- Total revenues 858,671 734,234 641,957 Costs and expenses: Cost of services and product development 411,708 293,612 247,913 Selling, general and administrative 342,597 253,716 215,416 Depreciation 28,332 21,592 17,909 Amortization of intangibles 27,824 10,041 9,357 Other charges -- 23,426 2,819 Acquisition-related charge -- -- 4,494 --------- --------- --------- Total costs and expenses 810,461 602,387 497,908 --------- --------- --------- Operating income 48,210 131,847 144,049 Net gain (loss) on sale of investments 29,630 -- (1,973) Interest income and other 3,161 8,672 9,139 Interest expense (24,900) (1,272) (94) --------- --------- --------- Income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss 56,101 139,247 151,121 Provision for income taxes 28,826 50,976 62,774 --------- --------- --------- Income before extraordinary loss 27,275 88,271 88,347 Loss on debt extinguishment, net of tax benefit of $1,152 1,729 -- -- --------- --------- --------- Net income $ 25,546 $ 88,271 $ 88,347 ========= ========= ========= Net income per common share: Basic: Income before extraordinary loss $ .32 $ .87 $ .88 Extraordinary loss $ (.02) -- -- Net income $ .30 $ .87 $ .88 Diluted: Income before extraordinary loss $ .31 $ .84 $ .84 Extraordinary loss $ (.02) -- -- Net income $ .29 $ .84 $ .84 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 86,564 101,881 100,194 ========= ========= ========= Diluted 89,108 104,603 105,699 ========= ========= ========= See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-4

25 GARTNER GROUP, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY ADDITIONAL PREFERRED COMMON PAID-IN UNEARNED (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA) STOCK STOCK CAPITAL COMPENSATION Balance September 30, 1997 $ 0 $ 54 $ 179,017 $ 0 Net income -- -- -- -- Foreign currency translation adjustments -- -- -- -- Comprehensive income -- -- -- -- Issuance of 5,370,690 shares of Class A Common Stock upon exercise of stock options -- 3 35,727 -- Issuance from treasury stock of 195,904 shares of Class A Common Stock for purchases by employees -- -- 5,885 -- Tax benefits of stock transactions with employees -- -- 47,273 -- Net share settlement of 365,949 shares of Class A Common Stock on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- -- Net cash settlement paid on forward purchase agreement -- -- (12,045) -- Acquisition of 655,800 shares of Class A Common Stock -- -- -- -- 302,003 shares of Class A Common stock received in settlement of officer loans -- -- -- -- Issuance from treasury stock of 225,927 shares of Class A Common Stock related to acquisitions -- -- 6,919 -- --------- ------ --------- --------- Balance September 30, 1998 0 57 262,776 0 Net income -- -- -- -- Foreign currency translation adjustments -- -- -- -- Comprehensive income -- -- -- -- Issuance of 2,648,169 shares of Class A Common Stock upon exercise of stock options -- 1 18,032 -- Issuance from treasury stock of 286,033 shares of Class A Common Stock for purchases by employees -- -- 4,842 -- Tax benefits of stock transactions with employees -- -- 15,096 -- Net share settlement of 155,962 shares of Class A Common Stock on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- -- Net cash settlement paid on forward purchase agreement -- -- (10,900) -- Special cash dividend paid -- -- -- -- Restricted stock award of 452,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, net of forfeitures -- -- 9,940 (9,940) Dutch auction repurchase of 9,636,247 shares of Class A Common Stock and 6,123,032 shares of Class B Common Stock -- -- -- -- Acquisition of 65,500 shares of Class A Common Stock -- -- -- -- Issuance of 663,716 shares of Class A Common Stock related to acquisitions -- -- 15,043 -- Amortization of unearned compensation -- -- -- 1,660 --------- ------ --------- --------- Balance September 30, 1999 0 58 314,829 (8,280) Net income -- -- -- -- Foreign currency translation adjustments -- -- -- -- Net unrealized gain on marketable investments, net of tax effect of $12,084 -- -- -- -- Comprehensive income -- -- -- -- Issuance of 1,379,306 shares of Class A Common Stock upon exercise of stock options -- 1 8,091 -- Issuance from treasury stock of 394,279 shares of Class A Common Stock for purchases by employees -- -- 5,008 -- ACCUMULATED OTHER TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE ACCUMULATED TREASURY STOCKHOLDERS' (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE DATA) INCOME (LOSS) EARNINGS STOCK EQUITY Balance September 30, 1997 $ (1,098) $ 105,138 $ (13,241) $ 269,870 Net income -- 88,347 -- 88,347 Foreign currency translation adjustments (1,057) -- -- (1,057) --------- Comprehensive income -- -- -- 87,290 Issuance of 5,370,690 shares of Class A Common Stock upon exercise of stock options -- -- -- 35,730 Issuance from treasury stock of 195,904 shares of Class A Common Stock for purchases by employees -- -- 184 6,069 Tax benefits of stock transactions with employees -- -- -- 47,273 Net share settlement of 365,949 shares of Class A Common Stock on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- -- Net cash settlement paid on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- (12,045) Acquisition of 655,800 shares of Class A Common Stock -- -- (16,187) (16,187) 302,003 shares of Class A Common stock received in settlement of officer loans -- -- (9,985) (9,985) Issuance from treasury stock of 225,927 shares of Class A Common Stock related to acquisitions -- -- 4 6,923 --------- --------- --------- --------- Balance September 30, 1998 (2,155) 193,485 (39,225) 414,938 Net income -- 88,271 -- 88,271 Foreign currency translation adjustments (1,675) -- -- (1,675) --------- Comprehensive income -- -- -- 86,596 Issuance of 2,648,169 shares of Class A Common Stock upon exercise of stock options -- -- -- 18,033 Issuance from treasury stock of 286,033 shares of Class A Common Stock for purchases by employees -- -- 6 4,848 Tax benefits of stock transactions with employees -- -- -- 15,096 Net share settlement of 155,962 shares of Class A Common Stock on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- -- Net cash settlement paid on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- (10,900) Special cash dividend paid -- (125,016) -- (125,016) Restricted stock award of 452,000 shares of Class A Common Stock, net of forfeitures -- -- -- -- Dutch auction repurchase of 9,636,247 shares of Class A Common Stock and 6,123,032 shares of Class B Common Stock -- -- (344,633) (344,633) Acquisition of 65,500 shares of Class A Common Stock -- -- (1,192) (1,192) Issuance of 663,716 shares of Class A Common Stock related to acquisitions -- -- 13 15,056 Amortization of unearned compensation -- -- -- 1,660 --------- --------- --------- --------- Balance September 30, 1999 (3,830) 156,740 (385,031) 74,486 Net income -- 25,546 -- 25,546 Foreign currency translation adjustments (11,667) -- -- (11,667) Net unrealized gain on marketable investments, net of tax effect of $12,084 15,496 -- -- 15,496 --------- Comprehensive income -- -- -- 29,375 Issuance of 1,379,306 shares of Class A Common Stock upon exercise of stock options -- -- -- 8,092 Issuance from treasury stock of 394,279 shares of Class A Common Stock for purchases by employees -- -- 8 5,016 F-5

26 Tax benefits of stock transactions with employees -- -- 4,179 -- Net share settlement of 155,792 shares of Class A Common Stock on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- -- Net cash settlement paid on forward purchase agreement -- -- (8,200) -- Restricted stock net forfeitures of 27,500 shares of Class A Common Stock -- -- (719) 719 Acquisition of 2,493,500 shares of Class A and 2,006,700 shares of Class B Common Stock -- -- -- -- Increase in carrying value of Jupiter Media Metrix -- -- 8,321 -- Issuance of 2,074 shares of Class A Common Stock issued for services rendered -- -- 42 -- Option to purchase subsidiary shares -- -- 1,000 -- Return of 37,013 shares of Class A Common Stock related to acquisitions -- -- (723) -- Issuance of subsidiary stock related to an acquisition -- -- 2,000 -- Amortization of unearned compensation -- -- -- 1,110 --------- ------ --------- --------- Balance September 30, 2000 $ 0 $ 59 $ 333,828 $ (6,451) ========= ====== ========= ========= Tax benefits of stock transactions with employees -- -- -- 4,179 Net share settlement of 155,792 shares of Class A Common Stock on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- -- Net cash settlement paid on forward purchase agreement -- -- -- (8,200) Restricted stock net forfeitures of 27,500 shares of Class A Common Stock -- -- -- -- Acquisition of 2,493,500 shares of Class A and 2,006,700 shares of Class B Common Stock -- -- (49,877) (49,877) Increase in carrying value of Jupiter Media Metrix -- -- -- 8,321 Issuance of 2,074 shares of Class A Common Stock issued for services rendered -- -- -- 42 Option to purchase subsidiary shares -- -- -- 1,000 Return of 37,013 shares of Class A Common Stock related to acquisitions -- -- (1) (724) Issuance of subsidiary stock related to an acquisition -- -- -- 2,000 Amortization of unearned compensation -- -- -- 1,110 --------- --------- --------- --------- Balance September 30, 2000 $ (1) $ 182,286 $(434,901) $ 74,820 ========= ========= ========= ========= See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-6

27 GARTNER GROUP, INC. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, (IN THOUSANDS) 2000 1999 1998 - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Operating activities: Net income $ 25,546 $ 88,271 $ 88,347 Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization of intangibles 56,156 31,633 27,266 Deferred compensation 2,151 1,660 -- Tax benefit associated with employee exercise of stock options 4,179 15,096 47,273 Acquisition-related charge -- -- 4,494 Provision for doubtful accounts 4,256 5,128 4,051 Equity in loss of minority owned companies 776 846 512 Deferred revenues 36,993 57,270 30,292 Deferred tax (benefit) expense (10,474) 6,648 906 Net (gain) loss on sale of investments (29,630) -- 1,973 Accretion of interest and amortization of debt issue costs 9,520 -- -- Loss on debt extinguishment, net of tax benefit 1,729 -- -- Acquisition-related tax benefit applied to reduce goodwill 966 327 -- Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions: Increase in fees receivable (53,414) (40,628) (39,737) Increase in deferred commissions (16,552) (3,186) (5,132) (Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses and other current assets (12,074) 381 (10,645) Increase in other assets (11,190) (4,880) (5,100) Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities 66,627 (14,651) 568 --------- --------- --------- Cash provided by operating activities 75,565 143,915 145,068 --------- --------- --------- Investing activities: Payments for businesses acquired (excluding cash acquired) (115,162) (57,769) (45,418) Proceeds from sale of marketable securities 55,516 -- -- Proceeds from sale of investments 36,000 -- 5,000 Payments for investments (20,427) (13,960) (19,814) Addition of property, equipment and leasehold improvements (55,895) (31,747) (24,269) Marketable debt securities sold (purchased), net -- 104,550 (58,220) Loans to officers -- -- (2,475) --------- --------- --------- Cash (used for) provided by investing activities (99,968) 1,074 (145,196) --------- --------- --------- Financing activities: Proceeds from the exercise of stock options 8,092 18,033 35,730 Proceeds from Employee Stock Purchase Plan offering 5,016 4,842 5,885 Net cash settlement on forward purchase agreement (8,200) (10,900) (12,045) Purchase of treasury stock (49,877) (345,819) (13,931) Proceeds from issuance of debt and related option 420,000 250,000 -- Payments on debt (370,000) -- -- Payments for debt issuance costs (3,993) (4,925) -- Dividends paid -- (125,016) -- --------- --------- --------- Cash provided by (used for) financing activities 1,038 (213,785) 15,639 --------- --------- --------- Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents (23,365) (68,796) 15,511 Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents (3,831) (54) (182) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 88,894 157,744 142,415 --------- --------- --------- Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 61,698 $ 88,894 $ 157,744 ========= ========= ========= Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information: Cash paid during the period for: Interest $ 14,964 $ 976 -- Income taxes $ 13,685 $ 47,045 $ 7,721 Supplemental schedule of non-cash investing and financing activities: Change in net unrealized gain on marketable securities $ 16,548 -- -- Change in carrying value of Jupiter Media Metrix due to the F-7

28 public offering of unissued shares $ 7,269 -- -- Common stock received in settlement of officer loans and related interest -- -- $ 9,985 Equity interest received in connection with sale of GartnerLearning -- -- $ 42,500 Stock issued by Company and subsidiary in connection with acquisitions $ 2,000 $ 15,056 $ 6,923 Option to purchase subsidiary shares issued by Company $ 1,000 -- -- Treasury stock transactions settled subsequent to year end -- -- $ 2,072 See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements F-8

29 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 1 : SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Principles of consolidation. The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Gartner Group, Inc. (the "Company") and its majority-owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated. The results of operations for acquisitions of companies accounted for using the purchase method have been included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations beginning on the closing date of acquisition. The Company's investments in 20% to 50% owned companies in which it has the ability to exercise significant influence over operating and financial policies are accounted for on the equity method. Revenue and commission expense recognition. Revenue from research products is deferred and recognized ratably over the contract term. Consulting revenues, primarily derived from consulting and measurement engagements, are recognized as work is performed on a contract by contract basis. Events revenue is deferred and recognized upon the completion of the related symposium, exposition or conference. In addition, the Company defers certain costs directly related to events and expenses these costs into the period during which the related symposium, exhibition and conference occurs. The Company's policy is to defer only those costs, primarily prepaid site and production services costs, that are incremental and are directly attributable to a specific event. Other costs of organizing and producing the Company's events, primarily Company personnel and non-event specific expenses, are expensed in the period incurred. At the end of each fiscal quarter, management assesses on an event-by-event basis whether expected direct costs of producing a scheduled event will exceed expected revenues. If such costs are expected to exceed revenues, the Company records the expected loss in the period determined. Other revenues includes software licensing fees which are recognized when delivery has occurred and when collectibility is probable, and the fees are fixed or determinable, as well as Web based advertising revenues. Web based advertising revenues are derived from short-term contracts in which the customer is guaranteed a minimum number of impressions (i.e., a one-on-one view of an advertisement by the end user) for a fixed fee. Revenues from advertising are recognized as the impressions are delivered. All research and measurement contracts are billable upon signing absent special terms granted on a limited basis. In accordance with the contract terms, the Company records at the time of signing of a research and measurement contract the entire amount of the contract billable as a fee receivable, which represents a legally enforceable claim, and a corresponding amount as deferred revenue. All research and measurement contracts are non-cancelable and non-refundable, except for government contracts, which have a 30-day cancellation clause. Government contracts have not produced material cancellations to date. The Company also records the related commission obligation upon the signing of the contract and amortizes the corresponding deferred commission expense over the contract period in which the related revenues are earned and amortized to income. Cash and cash equivalents. Marketable securities that mature within three months of purchase are considered cash equivalents. Investments with maturities of more than three months are classified as marketable securities. During the year ended September 30, 1999, the Company sold all debt securities with maturities of more than three months at the amortized cost of $43.2 million to finance a portion of the Company's recapitalization (see Note 15--Recapitalization). Investments in equity securities. The Company accounts for its investments in publicly traded equity securities under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 115, "Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities" ("FAS 115"). In accordance with FAS 115, unrealized gains on marketable investments are classified as available-for-sale securities and are carried net of tax as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income in the Stockholders' equity section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Investments that are not publicly traded are carried at cost. A decline in the market value of an available-for-sale investment below cost deemed to be other than temporary results in a reduction in the carrying value amount to fair value. The impairment would be charged to earnings and a new cost basis for the security established. The cost of equity securities sold is based on specific identification. Publicly traded equity securities that are expected to be sold within one year of the balance sheet date are classified as Marketable equity securities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. All other investments are included in Other assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Property, equipment and leasehold improvements. Property, equipment and leasehold improvements are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Property and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the remaining term of the related leases. Impairment of long-lived assets and intangible assets. The Company reviews long-lived assets and intangible assets for impairment based upon a number of factors, including operating results, business plans, budgets, economic projections and changes in F-9

30 management's strategic direction. Management's policy regarding long-lived assets and intangible assets is to evaluate the recoverability of these assets by determining whether the amortization of the goodwill balance over its remaining life can be recovered through undiscounted future operating cash flows of the acquired operation. Should events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable based on undiscounted future operating cash flows, an impairment loss would be recognized by the Company. The amount of goodwill impairment, if any, is measured based on the difference between projected discounted future operating cash flows using a discount rate reflecting the Company's average cost of funds and the carrying value of the goodwill. F-10

31 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Software development costs. The Company capitalizes certain computer software development costs and enhancements upon the establishment of technological feasibility, limited to the net realizable value of the software product, and ceases when the software product is available for general release to clients. Until these products reach technological feasibility, all costs related to development efforts are charged to expense. Once technological feasibility has been determined, additional costs incurred in development, including coding, testing, and documentation, are capitalized. Amortization of software development costs is provided on a product-by-product basis over the estimated economic life of the software, generally two years, using the straight-line method. Amortization of capitalized computer software development costs begins when the products are available for general release to customers. Additionally, the Company capitalizes certain costs that are incurred to purchase or to create and implement internal use software. The Company performs periodic reviews to ensure that unamortized capitalized software development costs remain recoverable from future revenue. Intangible assets. Intangible assets include goodwill, non-compete agreements, tradenames and other intangibles. Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price of acquired businesses over the estimated fair value of the tangible and identifiable intangible net assets acquired. Amortization is recorded using the straight-line method over periods ranging from three to thirty years. Non-compete agreements are being amortized on a straight-line basis over the period of the agreement ranging from two to five years. Tradenames are being amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives ranging from nine to twelve years. Foreign currency translation. All assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at fiscal year-end exchange rates. Income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates prevailing during the year. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a component of stockholders' equity. Currency transaction gains or losses arising from transactions of the Company in currencies other that the functional currency are included in results of operations. Income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based on differences between the book and tax basis of assets and liabilities using presently enacted tax rates. The provision for income taxes is the sum of the amount of income tax paid or payable for the year as determined by applying the provisions of enacted tax laws to taxable income for that year and the net changes during the year in the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities. Undistributed earnings of subsidiaries outside of the U.S. amounted to approximately $33.0 million as of September 30, 2000, and will either be indefinitely reinvested or remitted substantially free of U.S. tax. Accordingly, no material provision has been made for taxes that may be payable upon remittance of such earnings, nor is it practicable to determine the amount of this liability. The Company credits additional paid-in capital for realized tax benefits arising from stock transactions with employees. The tax benefit on a nonqualified stock option is equal to the tax effect of the difference between the market price of a share of the Company's common stock on the exercise and grant dates. Fair value of financial instruments. The Company's financial instruments include cash, trade receivables and payables, and accruals which are short-term in nature. Accordingly, the carrying amounts of these financial instruments approximate their fair value (see Note 11 regarding forward purchase agreements). Investments in publicly traded equity securities are valued based on quoted market prices. Investments in equity securities that are not publicly traded are valued at cost, which approximates fair market value. Long-term debt consists of a senior revolving credit facility and $300.0 million of 6% convertible subordinated notes (see Note 9 -- Long-Term Debt). The carrying amount of long-term debt under the senior revolving credit facility approximates fair value as the rates of interest on the revolving credit facility approximate current market rates of interest for similar instruments with comparable maturities. At September 30, 2000, there were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility. The Company believes that it is not practical to estimate a fair value different from the carrying face value of the convertible subordinated notes given the numerous features that are unique to these convertible notes. Concentrations of credit risk. Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and fees receivable. Concentrations of credit risk with respect to fees receivable are limited due to the large number of clients comprising the Company's client base and their dispersion across many different industries and geographic regions. Use of estimates. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities and disclosures, if any, of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates are used when accounting for such items as allowance for doubtful accounts, depreciation, amortization, income taxes and certain accrued liabilities. Reclassifications. In July 2000, the Emerging Issues Task Force reached a consensus on Issue No. 00-15, "Classification in the F-11

32 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Statement of Cash Flows of the Income Tax Benefit Received by a Company upon Exercise of a Nonqualified Employee Stock Option" which requires that stock option income tax benefits be classified as cash from operations in the cash flows statement. Prior period Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows have been restated to conform to this presentation. Certain other reclassifications have been made in the prior years financial statements to conform with the year ended September 30, 2000 presentation. NOTE 2 : BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS On October 7, 1998, the Company acquired all the assets and assumed the liabilities of Griggs-Anderson, Inc., for $10.9 million in cash and 305,808 shares of Class A Common Stock of the Company, which had an approximate fair market value of $7.3 million. Griggs-Anderson, Inc. provides custom market research to vendors in the technology marketplace, research and surveys for the evaluation of Web sites for effectiveness of content, technical performance, ease of navigation, impact of graphics, and demographic profiles of users. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was $16.9 million, of which $15.5 million has been recorded as goodwill, which is being amortized over 30 years. In addition, $1.4 million of the purchase price was allocated to a non-compete agreement which is being amortized over 5 years. On November 13, 1998, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of Wentworth Research, Limited ("Wentworth") for $8.3 million in cash. Wentworth provides research and advisory services to chief information officers and the senior information technology management community in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method, and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was approximately $10.5 million, of which $9.7 million has been recorded as goodwill, which is being amortized over 30 years. In addition, $0.8 million of the purchase price was allocated to a non-compete agreement which is being amortized over 2 years. On January 1, 1999, the Company acquired all of the assets and assumed the liabilities of G2R, Inc. ("G2R") for $7.8 million in cash and 358,333 shares of Class A Common Stock of the Company which had an approximate fair market value of $7.8 million. G2R is a provider of research and consulting services to IT product vendors and professional services and outsourcing firms. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was approximately $13.4 million, of which $12.6 million has been recorded as goodwill, which is being amortized over 30 years. In addition, $0.8 million of the purchase price was allocated to a non-compete agreement which is being amortized over 4 years. On July 30, 1999, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of The Warner Group ("Warner") for $18.0 million in cash. Warner is a leading management consulting firm specializing in information technology, communications technology and performance improvement for government agency clients. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method, and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was approximately $15.2 million, of which $14.3 million has been recorded as goodwill and is being amortized over 30 years. In addition, $0.9 million of the purchase price was allocated to non-compete agreements which are being amortized over 2 and 5 years. On October 29, 1999, the Company acquired a 70% ownership interest in cPulse, LLC ("cPulse") for $2.5 million in cash and a $1.0 million note payable on the first anniversary date of the acquisition. Additional consideration is payable as a percentage of 2001 and 2002 net revenues of cPulse. cPulse provides a Web-satisfaction monitoring service that enables companies to prioritize their Web investments and evaluate the effectiveness of changes through customer satisfaction intelligence. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method. Approximately $3.3 million of the purchase price was allocated to goodwill, which is being amortized over 5 years and $0.2 million of the purchase price was allocated to a non-compete agreement, which is being amortized over 3 years. Any additional consideration will be recorded as goodwill. On November 30, 1999, the Company acquired all of the outstanding shares of Computer Financial Consultants Limited ("CFC") for $16.0 million in cash. CFC provides senior executives in IT and purchasing with assistance intended to enhance the procurement of IT related products and services. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of the acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was approximately $11.6 million, of which $11.0 million has been allocated to goodwill and is being amortized over 30 years. In addition, $0.6 million of the purchase price was F-12

33 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED allocated to a non-compete agreement which is being amortized over 5 years. On December 10, 1999, the Company acquired all of the assets and assumed the liabilities of Rendall and Associates, Inc. ("Rendall") for $12.0 million in cash. Rendall provides strategic planning advice, feasibility and competitive analysis and research on the telecommunications market, technologies, regulation and public policies. Additionally, Rendall provides technical expertise in broadband technologies. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of the acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was approximately $11.1 million, of which $9.9 million has been allocated to goodwill and is being amortized over 20 years. In addition, $1.2 million of the purchase price was allocated to a non-compete agreement which is being amortized over 5 years. On March 21, 2000, the Company acquired 90% of the outstanding common stock of TechRepublic, Inc. ("TechRepublic") for approximately $78.5 million in cash. TechRepublic is an online destination developed exclusively for IT professionals by IT professionals and provides career insight, community interaction, and customized content to CIOs, IT managers, network administrators, support professionals, training providers, and other enterprise computing professionals. The TechRepublic Web site offerings include IT industry news, newsletters, analysis, columns, articles, downloads, forums, event listings and job, peer and vendor directories. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of the acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was approximately $83.0 million, of which $79.3 million has been allocated to goodwill (non-deductible for tax purposes) and is being amortized over 3 years. In addition, $3.7 million of the purchase price was allocated to non-compete agreements which are being amortized over 3 years. The following unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations are presented as if the acquisition of TechRepublic had been made at the beginning of fiscal 1999 (in thousands, except per share data). The effects of the other fiscal 2000 acquisitions on the consolidated financial statements are not significant and have been excluded from the pro forma presentation. YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Total revenues $859,730 $734,775 Income before extraordinary loss $ 7,382 $ 53,211 Net income $ 5,653 $ 53,211 Diluted earnings per common share before extraordinary loss $ 0.08 $ 0.51 Diluted earnings per common share $ 0.06 $ 0.51 ======== ======== The unaudited pro forma information is not necessarily indicative of the combined results of operations that might have occurred had the purchase been effective at the beginning of fiscal 1999. On August 24, 2000, a majority-owned subsidiary of the Company acquired the outstanding common stock of IT-Radar.com, Inc. ("ITRadar") for approximately $6.4 million in cash and 419,287 shares of Common Stock of TechRepublic, which had an approximate fair market value of $2.0 million. Additional consideration of up to 1,530,398 shares of Common Stock of TechRepublic is payable contingent based upon the achievement of future targeted earnings. ITRadar is a business-to-business information technology marketplace that connects buyers and sellers of information technology services. ITRadar's proprietary technology streamlines the vendor-selection process and enables information technology services buyers to more rapidly identify, evaluate, and engage with information technology providers. The acquisition was accounted for by the purchase method and the purchase price has been allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed, based upon estimated fair values at the date of the acquisition. The excess purchase price over the fair value of amounts assigned to the net tangible assets acquired was approximately $10.6 million, which has been allocated to goodwill and is being amortized over 3 years. Any additional consideration paid will be recorded as goodwill. During 2000, the Company completed additional acquisitions for consideration of $7.2 million in cash. During 1999, the Company completed additional acquisitions for consideration of $16.1 million in cash. These acquisitions have been accounted for under the purchase method and substantially all of the purchase price has been assigned to goodwill. On October 2, 2000, the Company acquired all of the assets and assumed the liabilities of Solista Global LLC. ("Solista") for approximately $7.0 million in cash. An additional $2.0 million of purchase price is contingent based upon the achievement of certain financial targets in the future. Solista is a provider of strategic consulting services that merge technology and business expertise to help clients build strategies for the digital world. The acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method. NOTE 3 : NET GAIN (LOSS) ON SALE OF INVESTMENTS F-13

34 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED On October 7, 1999, Jupiter Communications, Inc. ("Jupiter") completed its initial public offering at $21.00 per share of common stock. Upon completion of Jupiter's initial public offering, the Company owned 4,028,503 shares of Jupiter's outstanding common stock. The change in the Company's proportionate share of Jupiter's equity resulted in the Company's write-up of the investment by approximately $15.4 million and increases in deferred tax liability and additional paid-in capital of approximately $7.1 million and $8.3 million, respectively. During the quarter ended June 30, 2000, the Company's investment decreased below 20% of Jupiter's outstanding common stock. Because the Company had concluded it no longer exercised significant influence over Jupiter, it changed its method of accounting for this investment from the equity method to the cost method. During the year ended September 30, 2000, the Company sold 1,995,950 shares for net cash proceeds of $55.5 million at an average price of $27.81 per share for a pre-tax gain of $42.9 million. In September 2000, Jupiter merged with Media Metrix, Inc., creating Jupiter Media Metrix. Jupiter shareholders received 0.946 shares of Jupiter Media Metrix for each share of Jupiter that they owned. At the date of the merger, the Company owned 2,032,553 shares of Jupiter, which were exchanged for shares of Jupiter Media Metrix. At September 30, 2000, the Company's investment of 1,922,795 shares of Jupiter Media Metrix had a fair market value of $30.6 million and is recorded at fair value and is included in Marketable equity securities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2000. On September 1, 1998, the Company sold GartnerLearning, a division of the Company that provides technology based training and services for IT professionals to NETg Inc. ("NETg"), a subsidiary of Harcourt, Inc. (formerly Harcourt Brace & Company), for $5.0 million in cash and an 8% equity interest in NETg. In addition, the Company received a put option, which would allow the Company to sell its 8% equity interest to an affiliate of Harcourt, Inc. for $48.0 million in cash. This put option was exercisable for two years beginning on September 1, 2002, if certain conditions were met. The Company's 8% interest in NETg was independently appraised at $42.5 million on the date of sale and has been included in Other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 1999. Including transaction costs related to the sale of $3.8 million, the pre-tax loss on sale of GartnerLearning was approximately $2.0 million. On June 30, 2000, the Company sold its 8% investment in NETg for $36.0 million in cash to an affiliate of Harcourt, Inc. resulting in a pre-tax loss of approximately $6.6 million. The Company received the cash proceeds on July 7, 2000. In addition, the Company negotiated the settlement of a joint venture agreement associated with the sale of GartnerLearning for approximately $6.7 million. NOTE 4 : INVESTMENTS In addition to equity securities owned directly by the Company and through SI Venture Associates, LLC ("SI I"), a wholly owned affiliate, the Company owns 34% of SI Venture Fund II, L.P. ("SI II"). Both entities are engaged in making venture capital investments in early to mid-stage IT-based or Internet-enabled companies. Both entities are managed pursuant to a management contract with SI Services Company, LLC, an entity controlled by the current Chairman of the Board of the Company and a former officer of the Company. The accounts of SI I are included in the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company's investment in SI II is recorded on the equity method. The Company has a total investment commitment to SI I and SI II of $10.0 million and $30.0 million, respectively, of which $7.4 million of the SI II commitment remains unfunded at September 30, 2000. This remaining commitment is expected to be funded in fiscal 2001. A summary of the Company's investments in marketable equity securities and cost based investments at September 30, 2000 is as follows (in thousands): GROSS GROSS UNREALIZED UNREALIZED COST GAINS LOSSES FAIR VALUE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Marketable equity securities available for sale $ 14,205 $ 21,265 $ (66) $ 35,404 Other investments 18,349 -- -- 18,349 -------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Total $ 32,554 $ 21,265 $ (66) $ 53,753 ======== ========== ========== ========== At September 30, 1999, the Company had $65.3 million in cost based investments. Also included in Other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets is the Company's equity method investment in SI II which amounted to $28.7 million and $9.9 million at September 30, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The Company's share of equity loss in SI II as of September 30, 2000 amounted to $0.1 million. In addition, for the year ended September 30, 2000 the Company recorded $6.4 million of its share of net unrealized holding gains in available for sale equity securities owned by SI II. F-14

35 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED NOTE 5 : OTHER CHARGES During 1999, the Company recorded other charges related to reorganization and recapitalization of approximately $23.4 million on a pre-tax basis. Approximately $14.2 million of the charge related to certain job eliminations associated with certain strategic reduction in force initiatives. Approximately $9.2 million of the other charge pertained to legal and advisory fees associated with the Company's recapitalization (see Note 15--Recapitalization). During 1998, the Company recorded other charges, primarily consisting of relocation and severance costs, totaling approximately $2.8 million related to the Company's relocation of certain accounting and order processing operations from Stamford, Connecticut to a new financial services center in Ft. Myers, Florida. These expenses are presented as Other charges in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. NOTE 6 : PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND LEASEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS, NET Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, less accumulated depreciation and amortization consist of the following (in thousands): SEPTEMBER 30, USEFUL LIFE -------------------- (YEARS) 2000 1999 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Computer equipment and software 2-3 $111,151 $ 75,780 Furniture and equipment 3-8 47,879 42,737 Leasehold improvements 2-15 29,891 23,955 -------- -------- 188,921 142,472 Less--accumulated depreciation and amortization (97,662) (78,880) -------- -------- $ 91,259 $ 63,592 ======== ======== At September 30, 2000 and 1999, development costs for internal use software were $26.3 million and $16.4 million, respectively, net of accumulated amortization of $10.3 million and $3.1 million, respectively. Amortization of capitalized internal software development costs totaled $7.2 million, $2.3 million and $0.8 million in fiscal 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively. NOTE 7 : INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization, consist of the following (in thousands): SEPTEMBER 30, AMORTIZATION -------------------- PERIOD (YEARS) 2000 1999 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Goodwill 3-30 $352,482 $237,933 Non-compete agreements 2-5 15,733 10,600 Tradenames 9-12 2,247 3,140 -------- -------- 370,462 251,673 Less--accumulated amortization (55,265) (28,573) -------- -------- $315,197 $223,100 ======== ======== NOTE 8 : ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES Accounts payable and accrued liabilities consist of the following (in thousands): SEPTEMBER 30, -------------------- 2000 1999 ---------------------------------------------------------------- Taxes payable $ 51,100 $ 26,491 Payroll and related benefits payable 44,099 25,955 Commissions payable 33,985 23,235 Accounts payable 25,981 8,917 Current deferred tax payable 9,344 515 Other accrued liabilities 32,325 32,250 -------- -------- $196,834 $117,363 ======== ======== F-15

36 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED NOTE 9 : LONG-TERM DEBT On July 16, 1999, the Company entered into an unsecured Credit Agreement with The Chase Manhattan Bank, as administrative agent for the participating financial institutions thereunder, providing for a maximum of $500.0 million of credit facilities, consisting of a $350.0 million term loan and a $150.0 million senior revolving credit facility. On February 25, 2000, the Company modified certain financial and other covenants to permit the TechRepublic acquisition and issuance of convertible debt. Loans under the revolving facility will be available for five years, subject to certain customary conditions on the date of any such loan. On July 17, 2000, the Company entered into a second amendment to the Credit Agreement. Under this amendment, the Company agreed to refinance all existing indebtedness and to repay in full and terminate the term loans drawn under the existing Credit Agreement. As part of the second amendment to the Credit Agreement, the Company entered into a senior revolving credit facility totaling a maximum aggregate principal amount of up to $200.0 million. In connection with the extinguishment of the term loan, the Company wrote off $2.9 million, net of tax benefit of $1.2 million, of deferred debt issuance costs in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2000. The charge was recorded as an extraordinary loss. At September 30, 2000, there were no amounts outstanding under the revolving credit facility. A commitment fee of 0.30% to 0.50% is paid on the unused revolving credit amount. Pursuant to certain financial covenants of the revolving credit facility, the Company had available $121.9 million of borrowings at September 30, 2000. The weighted average interest rate on borrowings was 7.6% for the year ended September 30, 2000. In connection with the TechRepublic acquisition entered into on March 21, 2000, the Company issued in a private placement transaction on April 17, 2000, $300.0 million of 6% convertible subordinated notes (the "convertible notes") to Silver Lake Partners, L.P. ("Silver Lake") and certain of Silver Lake's affiliates. The convertible notes mature in April 2005. The convertible notes accrue interest at 6% per annum. Interest accrues semiannually by a corresponding increase in the face amount of the convertible notes commencing September 15, 2000. Accordingly, $7.4 million has been added to the face amount of the convertible notes balance outstanding at September 30, 2000. The convertible notes are convertible into shares of the Company's Class A Common Stock, commencing April 17, 2003, at an initial price of $15.87 per share. On the first anniversary date of issuance of the convertible notes, April 17, 2001, the conversion price will be adjusted, or reset, to be equal to the lower of the initial conversion price of $15.87 per share or, if the average closing price over the thirty trading day period ending April 17, 2001 is less than $14.43, a price equal to a 10% premium to the average closing price over that same period. In the event the conversion price is subject to downward adjustment due to the first anniversary reset provision, the Company can elect to redeem the convertible notes in whole, but not in part, for 125% of the then outstanding face amount subject to certain restrictions unless a majority of the convertible noteholders elect to waive the reset. At the Company's option, the conversion rights can be settled in cash based on the market price of the Class A Common Stock at the time of conversion. The Company has also granted to Silver Lake an option to acquire 5% of the fully diluted capital stock of TechRepublic at an exercise price equal to the Company's per share purchase price at date of acquisition. In the event TechRepublic were to issue to the Company options, warrants, convertible securities or capital stock, Silver Lake would receive options sufficient to maintain its 5% interest at an exercise price equal to the price of the shares issued or the exercise or conversion price of the options, warrants or convertible securities issued. Additionally, the option grants Silver Lake the right to acquire 5% of any Company subsidiary that is spun off or spun out at 80% of the initial public offering price. The Company has valued the option at $1.0 million, which has been recorded as a discount to the convertible notes and is included in Additional paid-in capital on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2000. As part of the transaction, two Silver Lake representatives have been elected to the Company's ten member Board of Directors. The Company may call the convertible notes for redemption any time after April 17, 2003. On April 18, 2000, $200.0 million of the proceeds were used to pay down term loan borrowings under the Credit Agreement. The Company incurred $7.9 million of transaction and advisory fees related to the transaction. These fees are being amortized over the life of the debt using the effective interest method. Letters of credit are issued by the Company in the ordinary course of business. At September 30, 2000, the Company had outstanding letters of credit with Chase Manhattan Bank for $1.5 million and with The Bank of New York for $2.0 million. NOTE 10 : COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES The Company leases various facilities, furniture and computer equipment under operating lease arrangements expiring between 2000 and 2026. Future minimum annual payments under non-cancelable operating lease agreements at September 30, 2000 are as follows (in thousands): F-16

37 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, ------------------------------------------------------------ 2001 $ 27,322 2002 17,772 2003 15,928 2004 14,211 2005 13,110 Thereafter 103,918 -------- Total minimum lease payments $192,261 ======== Rental expense for operating leases, net of sublease income, was $30.6 million, $24.4 million, and $21.3 million for the years ended September 30, 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively. The Company has commitments with two facilities management companies for printing, copying, mailroom and other related services. The minimum annual obligations under these service agreements are $4.7 million for 2000, $4.0 million for 2001, $4.0 million for 2002, and $1.3 million for 2003. In addition, the Company has a remaining commitment to repurchase 662,363 shares of Class A Common Stock and 4,128 shares of Class B Common Stock. on the open market by July 2001 as part of its recapitalization (see Note 15--Recapitalization). The Company is involved in legal proceedings and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. The Company believes the outcome of all current proceedings, claims and litigation will not have a material effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations when resolved in a future period. NOTE 11 : STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Capital stock. Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock stockholders are entitled to one vote per share on all matters to be voted by stockholders, other than the election of directors. Class A Common Stock stockholders are entitled to one vote per share on the election of Class A directors, which constitute no more than 20% of the directors, and Class B Common Stock stockholders are entitled to one vote per share on the election of Class B directors, which constitute at least 80% of the directors. Stock option plans and warrants. Under the terms of the 1991 Stock Option Plan, the Board of Directors may grant non-qualified and incentive options, entitling employees to purchase shares of the Company's common stock at the fair market value on the date of grant. The Board can determine the date on which options vest and become exercisable. A total of 32,800,000 shares of Class A Common Stock have been reserved for issuance under this plan. At September 30, 2000 and 1999, 1,354,876 and 5,948,420 options were available for grant, respectively. In January 1993, the Company adopted the 1993 Director Option Plan, a stock option plan for directors, and reserved an aggregate of 1,200,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance under this plan. The plan currently provides for the automatic grant of 15,000 options to purchase shares of Class A Common Stock to each non-employee director upon first becoming an outside director and the automatic grant of an option to purchase an additional 7,000 shares of Class A Common Stock annually based on continuous service as an outside director. The exercise price of each option granted under the plan is equal to the fair market value of the Class A Common Stock at the date of grant. Options granted are subject to cumulative yearly vesting over a three-year period after the date of grant. At September 30, 2000 and 1999, 464,635 and 526,000 options were available for grant, respectively. In October 1994, the Board of Directors and stockholders of the Company approved the adoption of a Long Term Stock Option Plan and the reservation of an aggregate of 6,560,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance thereunder. The purpose of the plan is to provide to senior personnel long-term equity participation in the Company as an incentive to promote the long-term success of the Company. The exercise price of each option granted under the plan is equal to the fair market value of the Class A Common Stock at the date of grant. All options granted under the plan vest and become fully exercisable five years following the date of grant, based on continued employment, and have a term of ten years from the date of grant assuming continued employment. Vesting and exercisability accelerates upon achievement of certain financial performance targets determined by the Board of Directors. If the financial performance targets are met for the year of grant in accordance with parameters as set by the Board at its sole discretion, 25% of the shares granted become exercisable on the first anniversary date following the date of grant and, if cumulative financial performance targets are met for both the first and second years following the date of grant, a second 25% become exercisable three years following the date of grant. If cumulative financial performance targets are met for all three years following the date of grant, a third 25% become exercisable on the fourth anniversary date following the date of grant and the final 25% become exercisable on the fifth anniversary following the date of grant. Based on cumulative performance through 2000, 1,996,195 shares were exercisable on September 30, 2000. At September 30, 2000 and 1999, 600,250 and 624,000 options were available for grant, respectively. F-17

38 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED In October 1996, the Company adopted the 1996 Long Term Stock Option Plan. Under the terms of the plan, the Board of Directors may grant non-qualified and incentive options, entitling employees to purchase shares of the Company's common stock at the fair market value at the date of option grant. A total of 1,800,000 shares of Class A Common Stock was reserved for issuance under this plan. All options granted under the plan vest and become fully exercisable six years following the date of grant, based on continued employment, and have a term of ten years from the date of grant assuming continued employment. Vesting and exercisability accelerates upon achievement of certain financial performance targets determined by the Board of Directors. If financial performance targets are met in the year of grant in accordance with parameters as set by the Board in its sole discretion, 25% of the shares granted become exercisable on the third anniversary date following the date of grant. If cumulative financial performance targets are met for both the first and second years following the date of grant, a second 25% become exercisable three years following the date of grant. If financial performance targets are met cumulatively for all three years following the date of grant, a third 25% become exercisable on the fourth anniversary date following the date of grant and the final 25% become exercisable on the fifth anniversary following the date of grant. Based on 1997 and 1998 performance, 501,250 options were exercisable on September 30, 2000. Based on 1999 performance, an additional 194,500 will vest in 2001. At September 30, 2000 and 1999, 812,000 and 473,000 options to purchase common stock were available for grant, respectively. In October 1998, the Company adopted the 1998 Long Term Stock Option Plan. Under the terms of the plan, the Board of Directors may grant non-qualified and incentive options, entitling employees to purchase shares of the Company's common stock at the fair market value at the date of option or restricted stock grant. A total of 2,500,000 shares of Class A Common Stock was reserved for issuance under this plan. All options currently granted under the plan vest and become fully exercisable six years following the date of grant, based on continued employment, and have a term of ten years from the date of grant assuming continued employment. Vesting and exercisability accelerates upon achievement of certain financial performance targets determined by the Board of Directors. If financial performance targets are met in the year of grant in accordance with parameters as set by the Board in its sole discretion, 25% of the shares granted become exercisable in the third anniversary date following the date of grant. If cumulative financial performance targets are met for both the first and second years following the date of grant, a second 25% become exercisable three years following the date of grant. If financial performance targets are met cumulatively for all three years following the date of grant, a third 25% become exercisable on the fourth anniversary date following the date of grant and the final 25% become exercisable on the fifth anniversary following the date of grant. Based on cumulative 2000 performance, no vesting has accelerated; however, if cumulative financial performance targets are met for 1999, 2000 and 2001, vesting may still accelerate. At September 30, 2000, 662,001 options to purchase common stock were available for grant. In November 1999, the Company adopted the 1999 Stock Option Plan. Under the terms of the plan, the Board of Directors may grant non-qualified and incentive stock options and other awards to eligible employees and consultants. The Company's directors and most highly compensated executive officers are not eligible for awards under the plan. A total of 20,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock was reserved for issuance under this plan. Substantially all of the options currently granted under the plan vest and become fully exercisable each year for three years in equal installments following the date of grant, based on continued employment, and have a term of ten years from the date of grant assuming continued employment. A total of 9,776,090 options to purchase common stock were available for grant under the 1999 Stock Option Plan at September 30, 2000. On December 15, 1998, the Company adopted an option exchange program that allowed the exchange of certain stock options granted from July 1998 through April 1998 for options with an exercise price of $20.46. In total, options to purchase 4,737,400 shares of common stock were exchanged under this program. The original vesting schedules and expiration dates associated with these stock options were also amended to commence with the stock option exchange program date. Pursuant to APB No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and FASB Interpretation No. 44, "Accounting for Certain Transactions Involving Stock Compensation", no compensation expense was recognized upon the exchange. These amounts have been included as granted and canceled options during 1999 in the summary activity table shown below. In connection with the recapitalization (see Note 15 -- Recapitalization), substantially all options with an exercise price below the fair market value of the stock on the effective date were reduced to maintain the ratio of the exercise price to the fair market value of the stock prior to the special, nonrecurring cash dividend, which was $1.1945 per share. The exercise prices of options with an exercise price equal to or greater than the fair market value of the stock on the effective date were reduced by an amount equal to the dividend per share paid by the Company. No changes were made in either the number of shares of common stock covered or in the vesting schedule of the options. Pursuant to EITF 90-9, "Changes to Fixed Employee Stock Option Plans as a Result of Equity Restructuring", the changes to the exercise price of the outstanding fixed stock option grants made to restore the option holder's economic position did not result in compensation expense recognition. F-18

39 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED A summary of stock option activity under the plans and agreement through September 30, 2000 follows: WEIGHTED CLASS A AVERAGE COMMON STOCK EXERCISE UNDER OPTION PRICE ------------------------------------------------------------------ Outstanding at September 30, 1997 17,821,350 $ 11.462 Granted 5,060,949 $ 33.329 Exercised (5,370,690) $ 6.716 Canceled (1,380,577) $ 20.539 ---------- --------- Outstanding at September 30, 1998 16,131,032 $ 19.086 Granted 11,818,259 $ 20.946 Exercised (2,648,169) $ 6.810 Canceled (7,511,554) $ 21.637 ---------- --------- Outstanding at September 30, 1999 17,789,568 $ 17.475 Granted 18,256,310 $ 11.859 Exercised (1,379,306) $ 5.886 Canceled (4,099,846) $ 17.240 ---------- --------- Outstanding at September 30, 2000 30,566,726 $ 14.669 ========== ========= Options for the purchase of 6,754,574 and 4,417,986 shares of Class A Common Stock were exercisable at September 30, 2000 and 1999, respectively. The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at September 30, 2000: WEIGHTED AVERAGE AVERAGE REMAINING RANGE OF NUMBER NUMBER EXERCISE CONTRACTUAL EXERCISE PRICES OUTSTANDING EXERCISABLE PRICE LIFE (YEARS) -------------------------------------------------------------------- $ 1.00- 4.83 173,430 138,430 $ 3.36 1.71 $ 5.51- 9.69 2,253,650 2,253,650 $ 7.02 3.95 $ 10.28-14.56 15,149,040 108,540 $ 11.41 9.25 $ 15.67-19.90 8,916,728 3,013,620 $ 18.35 7.91 $ 20.46-24.49 3,564,878 900,970 $ 22.29 8.16 $ 25.18-37.29 509,000 339,364 $ 31.36 6.17 ----------- ----------- 30,566,726 6,754,574 =========== =========== A warrant expiring December 1, 2000 to purchase 599,400 shares of Class A Common Stock at $16.42 per share is held by IMS Health. Employee stock purchase plan. In January 1993, the Company adopted an employee stock purchase plan, and reserved an aggregate of 4,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock for issuance under this plan. The plan permits eligible employees to purchase Class A Common Stock through payroll deductions, which may not exceed 10% of an employee's compensation (or $21,250 in any calendar year), at a price equal to 85% of the Class A Common Stock price as reported by NYSE at the beginning or end of each offering period, whichever is lower. During the year ended September 30, 2000, 394,279 shares were issued from treasury stock at an average purchase price of $12.59 per share in conjunction with this plan. At September 30, 2000, 1,429,406 shares were available under the plan. Restricted stock awards. Beginning in 1998, the Company granted restricted stock awards under the 1991 Stock Option Plan and the 1998 Long Term Stock Option Plan. The restricted stock awards vest in six equal installments with the first installment vesting two years after the grant and then annually thereafter. Recipients are not required to provide consideration to the Company other than rendering service and have the right to vote the shares and to receive dividends. The restricted stock may not be sold by the employee during the vesting period. In 1999, the Company also granted 35,000 stock options under the 1998 Long Term Stock Option Plan with an exercise price of $1.00 per share that vest on the same basis as the restricted stock awards to certain international employees. Such stock options had a fair market value of $23.25 per stock option on the date of grant. At September 30, 2000, a total of 377,500 restricted shares of Class A Common Stock are outstanding at a weighted average market value of $21.37 per share. In 2000, the Company granted a restricted stock award of 50,000 shares with a fair market value of $13.00 per share. During 2000, there were forfeitures and accelerated grants of 77,500 shares and 12,000 shares, respectively. At September 30, 2000 the aggregate market value of the restricted stock awards and stock option grants was $8.9 million. Total compensation expense recognized for the restricted stock F-19

40 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED awards and option grants was $1.1 million and $1.7 million for 2000 and 1999, respectively. Based upon restricted stock awards outstanding at September 30, 2000, the related compensation expense expected to be amortized, without consideration of possible future forfeitures and accelerations of existing grants, is $1.2 million, $1.5 million, and $1.5 million for 2001, 2002, and 2003, respectively. Stock repurchases. Beginning in 1997, the Company entered into a series of forward purchase agreements to effect the repurchase of 1,600,000 shares of its Class A Common Stock. These agreements are settled quarterly at the Company's option on a net basis in either shares of its own Class A Common Stock or cash. To the extent that the market price of the Company's Class A Common Stock on a settlement date is higher (lower) than the forward purchase price, the net differential is received (paid) by the Company. During the year ended September 30, 1999, four settlements resulted in the Company receiving 155,962 shares of Class A Common Stock (recorded in Treasury stock at no cost) and paying approximately $10.9 million in cash (recorded as a reduction of additional paid-in capital). During the year ended September 30, 2000, four settlements resulted in the Company receiving 155,792 shares of Class A Common Stock and paying approximately $8.2 million in cash. As of September 30, 2000, a forward purchase agreement in place covered approximately $9.3 million or 672,365 shares of Class A Common Stock having forward purchase prices established at $13.81 per share. If the market priced portion of this agreement was settled based on the September 30, 2000 market price of Class A Common Stock ($11.63 per share), the Company would settle under the terms of the forward purchase agreement with a payment of either $1.5 million in cash or 126,316 shares of Class A Common Stock. On August 24, 1998, the Company's Board of Directors approved the repurchase of an additional 2,500,000 shares of Class A Common Stock in an effort to offset the dilutive effect of the Company's stock-based employee compensation plans. To date, the Company has repurchased 721,300 shares of Class A Common Stock at a cost of approximately $17.4 million. There are no open commitments to repurchase under this approval. No additional repurchases under this approval are anticipated due to open market repurchase limitations under the terms of the recapitalization. Stock based compensation. The Company applies the provisions of APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" and related interpretations in accounting for stock-based compensation plans. Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for the fixed stock option plans. Pursuant to the requirements of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," the following are the pro forma net income and net income per share for the years ended September 30, 2000, 1999, and 1998 had compensation cost for the Company's stock based compensation plans been determined based on the fair value at the grant date for grants under those plans (in thousands, except per share data): YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 1998 ------------------------------------------------------------------- Net income (loss): As reported $ 25,546 $ 88,271 $ 88,347 Pro forma $ (3,325) $ 67,128 $ 58,480 Net income (loss) per diluted common share: As reported $ 0.29 $ 0.84 $ 0.84 Pro forma $ (0.04) $ 0.64 $ 0.55 ======== ======== ======== The pro forma disclosures shown above reflect options granted after the year ended September 30, 1995 and are not likely to be representative of the effects on net income and net income per common share in future years. The fair value of the Company's stock plans used to compute pro forma net income and diluted earnings per share disclosures is the estimated fair value at grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The following weighted-average assumptions were utilized for stock options granted or modified: 2000 1999 1998 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Expected life (in years) 3.1-5.2 3.1-5.0 2.4-6.4 Expected volatility .44 .40 .40 Risk-free interest rate 5.76%-6.08% 4.93%-5.82% 4.22%-4.39% Expected dividend yield 0.00% 0.00% 0.00% ---------- ---------- ---------- The weighted average fair values of the Company's stock options granted in the years ended September 30, 2000, 1999 and 1998 are $6.63, $10.19 and $12.00, respectively. F-20

41 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED NOTE 12 : COMPUTATION OF EARNINGS PER SHARE OF COMMON STOCK Basic earnings per share ("EPS") is computed by dividing earnings available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution of securities that could share in earnings, including stock options, restricted stock awards, and warrants. When the effect of stock options and restricted stock awards is antidilutive they are excluded from the calculation. The following table sets forth the required disclosures of the reconciliation of the basic and diluted net earnings per share computations. YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 1998 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Numerator: Net income $ 25,546 $ 88,271 $ 88,347 ======== ======== ======== Denominator: Denominator for basic earnings per share -- weighted average number of common shares outstanding 86,564 101,881 100,194 Effect of dilutive securities: Weighted average number of common shares under warrant outstanding -- 155 298 Weighted average number of option shares outstanding 2,544 2,567 5,207 -------- -------- -------- Dilutive potential common shares 2,544 2,722 5,505 -------- -------- -------- Denominator for diluted earnings per share -- adjusted weighted average number of common shares outstanding 89,108 104,603 105,699 ======== ======== ======== Basic earnings per common share $ 0.30 $ 0.87 $ 0.88 ======== ======== ======== Diluted earnings per common share $ 0.29 $ 0.84 $ 0.84 ======== ======== ======== For the years ended September 30, 2000 and 1999, neither unvested restricted stock awards nor options to purchase 14.3 million and 4.3 million shares of Class A Common Stock of the Company with exercise prices greater than the average fair market value of $13.78 and $21.32 for the respective periods were included in the computation of diluted net income per share because their effect would have been antidilutive. Additionally, convertible notes outstanding for the year ended September 30, 2000 representing 8.8 million common shares, if converted, are not included in the computation of diluted net income per share because the effect would have been antidilutive. NOTE 13 : INCOME TAXES Following is a summary of the components of income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss (in thousands): YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 1998 ------------------------------------------------------------------- U.S $ 27,016 $107,243 $113,589 Non-U.S 26,204 32,004 37,532 -------- -------- -------- Income before provision for income 53,220 139,247 151,121 tax Loss on debt extinguishment 2,881 -- -- -------- -------- -------- Income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss $ 56,101 $139,247 $151,121 ======== ======== ======== The provision for income tax on the above income consists of the following components (in thousands): F-21

42 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 1998 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Current tax expense from operations: U.S. federal $ 15,571 $ 18,613 $ 2,081 State and local 11,373 2,977 2,257 Foreign 7,211 6,533 8,927 -------- -------- -------- Total current 34,155 28,123 13,265 Deferred tax (benefit) expense: U.S. federal (5,903) 4,286 921 State and local (2,934) 1,052 552 Foreign (1,637) 1,310 (567) -------- -------- -------- Total deferred (10,474) 6,648 906 -------- -------- -------- Total current and deferred 23,681 34,771 14,171 Benefit of stock transactions with employees 4,179 15,878 48,603 Benefit of purchased tax benefits applied to reduce goodwill 966 327 -- -------- -------- -------- Subtotal 28,826 50,976 62,774 Current taxes from extraordinary loss: U.S. federal tax expense on debt extinguishment (922) -- -- State and local tax expense on debt extinguishment (230) -- -- -------- -------- -------- $ 27,674 $ 50,976 $ 62,774 ======== ======== ======== Current and long-term deferred tax assets and liabilities are comprised of the following (in thousands): YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 --------------------------------------------------------------- Depreciation and amortization $ 3,052 $ 1,585 Expense accruals for book purposes 11,277 7,495 Loss and credit carryforwards 13,320 4,622 Intangible assets 2,150 1,668 Other 1,420 1,210 -------- -------- Gross deferred tax asset 31,219 16,580 -------- -------- Intangible assets (12,691) (8,457) Equity interest (15,651) (2,478) Other (165) (1,577) -------- -------- Gross deferred tax liability (28,507) (12,512) -------- -------- Valuation allowance (10,083) (3,559) -------- -------- Net deferred tax (liability) asset $ (7,371) $ 509 ======== ======== Current and long-term net deferred tax assets were $0.2 million and $2.2 million as of September 30, 2000 and were $5.7 million and $0 million as of September 30, 1999, respectively, and are included in Prepaid expenses and other current assets and Other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Current and long-term net deferred tax liabilities were $9.5 million and $0.3 million as of September 30, 2000 and were $0.9 million and $4.3 million as of September 30, 1999, and are included in Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and Other liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The valuation allowance relates to state and foreign tax loss carryforwards that more likely than not will expire unutilized. The net increase in the valuation allowance of approximately $6.5 million in the current year results primarily from the increase in federal and state tax carryforwards of $4.6 million and $2.1 million, respectively, and the net utilization of foreign tax loss carryforwards of approximately $0.1 million. The tax benefit from such tax loss carryforwards was $0.6 million, $2.5 million, and $1.2 million for fiscal years 2000, 1999, and 1998, respectively. Approximately $6.7 million and $2.6 million of the valuation allowance would reduce goodwill and additional paid-in capital, respectively, upon subsequent recognition of any related tax benefits. F-22

43 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED The differences between the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate and the Company's effective rate are: YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 1998 ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Statutory tax rate 35.0% 35.0% 35.0% State income taxes, net of federal benefit 10.9 3.1 4.3 Foreign income taxed at a different (4.3) 1.7 0.7 rate Non-deductible goodwill and direct acquisition costs 13.1 1.1 3.5 Non-taxable income (0.2) (1.3) (1.3) Exempt foreign trading gross receipts (1.4) (2.3) (1.4) Non-deductible recapitalization costs -- 2.2 -- Settlement of tax exams -- (1.8) -- Benefit of operating loss and tax credit carryforwards -- (2.0) -- Other items (1.1) 0.9 0.7 ------ ------ ------ Effective tax rate 52.0% 36.6% 41.5% ====== ====== ====== As of September 30, 2000, the Company had U.S. federal tax loss carry- forwards of $13.2 million, which will expire in fifteen to twenty years and state and local tax loss carryforwards of $81.1 million, of which $26.8 million will expire within one to five years, $9.4 million will expire within six to fifteen years, and $44.9 million will expire within sixteen to twenty years. In addition, the Company had foreign tax loss carryforwards of $4.3 million, of which $1.3 million will expire within one to five years, and $3.0 million which can be carried forward indefinitely. In 1999, the Company incurred $8.6 million of non-deductible recapitalization costs during the year, the tax effect of which was approximately offset by a one-time income tax benefit of $2.5 million related primarily to the settlement of certain tax examinations in the second quarter. In 1998, the sale of GartnerLearning resulted in an additional tax provision of $4.2 million primarily due to the reversal of non-deductible goodwill. The effective tax rate, less the impact of the above mentioned items, was 37% and 39% for 1999 and 1998, respectively. NOTE 14 : EMPLOYEE BENEFITS The Company has a savings and investment plan covering substantially all domestic employees. The Company contributes amounts to this plan based upon the level of the employee contributions. In addition, the Company also contributes fixed and discretionary amounts based on employee participation and attainment of operating margins set by the Board of Directors. Amounts expensed in connection with the plan totaled $8.5 million, $6.6 million, and $5.4 million for the years ended September 30, 2000, 1999, and 1998, respectively. In addition, the Company has supplemental deferred compensation arrangements for the benefit of certain officers, managers and other key employees. These arrangements are funded by life insurance contracts, which have been purchased by the Company. The plan permits the participants to diversify in marketable equity securities. The value of the assets held, managed and invested, pursuant to the agreement total $7.2 million at September 30, 2000 and are consolidated with those of the Company. The corresponding deferred compensation liability of $8.2 million at September 30, 2000 is recorded at the fair market value of the shares held in a rabbi trust and adjusted, with a corresponding charge or credit to compensation cost, to reflect the fair value of the amount owned by the employee. Total compensation expense recognized for the plan was $1.0 million for 2000. NOTE 15 : RECAPITALIZATION The Dun and Bradstreet Corporation ("D&B"), an investor in Information Partners Capital Fund, L.P. ("Fund"), provided a portion of the financing in connection with the acquisition of the Company in October 1990. In April 1993, D&B acquired a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Company in transactions among the Company, D&B and persons and entities associated with the Fund. On November 1, 1996, D&B transferred ownership of its common stock of the Company to Cognizant Corporation ("Cognizant"), a spinoff of D&B and an independent public company. At the date of transfer, these shares represented 51% of the Company's outstanding common stock. During the year ended September 30, 1997, Cognizant's ownership of the Company's F-23

44 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED outstanding common stock fell below 50%. On June 30, 1998, Cognizant transferred its ownership in the Company to IMS Health Incorporated ("IMS Health"), a spinoff of Cognizant and an independent public company. On July 16, 1999, the Company's stockholders approved a series of transactions that resulted in the separation of the Company and IMS Health. This was accomplished, in part, through the recapitalization of the Company's outstanding Common Stock into two classes of Common Stock, consisting of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock, and the issuance of an aggregate of 40,689,648 shares of Class B Common Stock to IMS Health in exchange for a like number of shares of Class A Common Stock held by IMS Health. The separation was effected, in part, through the July 26, 1999 tax-free distribution by IMS Health to its stockholders of the newly issued Class B Common Stock of the Company owned by IMS Health. The Class B Common Stock is identical in all respects to the Class A Common Stock, except that the Class B Common Stock is entitled to elect at least 80% of the members of the Company's Board of Directors. The Company's stockholders also approved an amendment to the Company's Certificate of Incorporation to create a classified Board of Directors of three classes having staggered three-year terms. The Company also declared a special, nonrecurring cash dividend of $1.1945 per share, payable to all Company stockholders of record as of July 16, 1999. The cash dividend, totaling approximately $125.0 million, was paid on July 22, 1999 and was funded out of existing cash. Also in connection with the Company's recapitalization, the Company agreed to purchase on the open market by July 2001 an aggregate of 5,166,691 shares, allocated between Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock in the same proportion as the ratio of the number of shares of each class outstanding on that date. Under the terms of the recapitalization agreement, the Company is required to indemnify IMS Health for additional taxes, under certain circumstances, if actions by the Company cause the distribution to become taxable to IMS Health and its stockholders. These actions include the use of stock for substantial acquisitions and the issuance, without regulatory approval, of stock options over set limitations during a two-year period following the recapitalization. In addition, the Company has indemnified IMS Health for any tax liabilities associated with the spinoff that may result from the acquisition of the Company. The Company monitors its actions for compliance in this regard and believes that it is unlikely, within matters under the Company's control, that it will incur any significant costs as a result of its indemnity. NOTE 16 : SEGMENT INFORMATION The Company manages its business in four reportable segments organized on the basis of differences in its related products and services: research, consulting, events, and TechRepublic. Research consists primarily of subscription-based research products. Consulting consists primarily of consulting and measurement engagements. Events consist of various symposia, expositions, and conferences. TechRepublic consists of an IT professional online destination with revenues consisting primarily of Web based advertising. The Company evaluates reportable segment performance and allocates resources based on gross contribution margin. Gross contribution, as presented below, is the profit or loss from operations before interest income and expense, certain selling, general and administrative costs, amortization, income taxes, other charges, and foreign exchange gains and losses. The accounting policies used by the reportable segments are the same as those used by the Company. The Company earns revenue from clients in many countries. Other than the United States, the Company's country of domicile, there is no individual country in which revenues from external clients represent 10% or more of the Company's consolidated revenues. Additionally, no single client accounted for 10% or more of total revenue and the loss of a single client, in management's opinion, would not have a material adverse effect on revenues. The Company does not identify or allocate assets, including capital expenditures, by operating segment, with the exception of TechRepublic. Accordingly, assets are not being reported by segment, other than TechRepublic, because the information is not available by segment and is not reviewed in the evaluation of performance or making decisions in the allocation of resources. At September 30, 2000, TechRepublic had identifiable tangible assets of $7.5 million. For the year ended September 30, 2000, TechRepublic had capital expenditures totaling $1.6 million and depreciation and amortization expense of $15.3 million. The following tables present information about reportable segments (in thousands). The "Other" column includes certain revenues and corporate and other expenses (primarily selling, general and administrative) unallocated to reportable segments, expenses allocated to operations that do not meet the segment reporting quantitative threshold, and other charges. There are no intersegment revenues: F-24

45 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 RESEARCH CONSULTING EVENTS TECHREPUBLIC OTHER CONSOLIDATED - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues $ 509,781 $ 208,810 $108,589 $ 4,077 $27,414 $ 858,671 Gross contribution 341,061 75,652 50,604 (20,328) 11,231 458,220 Corporate and other expenses (410,010) (410,010) Net gain (loss) on sale of investments 29,630 Interest income and other 3,161 Interest expense (24,900) Income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss 56,101 YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 RESEARCH CONSULTING EVENTS TECHREPUBLIC OTHER CONSOLIDATED - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues $ 479,045 $ 149,840 $ 75,581 -- $29,768 $ 734,234 Gross contribution 336,919 55,857 32,532 -- 12,152 437,460 Corporate and other expenses (305,613) (305,613) Interest income and other 8,672 Interest expense (1,272) Income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss 139,247 YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 RESEARCH CONSULTING EVENTS TECHREPUBLIC OTHER CONSOLIDATED - ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues $ 433,141 $ 110,955 $ 49,121 -- $48,740 (1) $ 641,957 Gross contribution 312,855 50,787 19,546 -- 9,597 (1) 392,785 Corporate and other expenses (248,736) (248,736) Net gain (loss) on sale of investments (1,973) Interest income and other 9,139 Interest expense (94) Income before provision for income taxes and extraordinary loss 151,121 (1) Represents the sum of Other and Learning revenues and gross contributions, respectively, for the fiscal year ended September 30,1998 The Company's consolidated revenues are generated primarily through direct sales to clients by domestic and international sales forces and a network of independent international distributors. The Company defines "Europe Revenues" as revenues attributable to clients located in England and the European region and "Other International Revenues" as revenues attributable to all areas located outside of the United States, Canada and Europe. Most products and services of the Company are provided on an integrated worldwide basis. Because of the integration of products and services delivery, it is not practical to separate precisely the revenues and operating income of the Company by geographic location. Accordingly, the separation set forth in the table below is based upon internal allocations, which involve certain management estimates and judgments. European identifiable tangible assets consist primarily of the assets of the European subsidiaries and include the accounts receivable balances carried directly by the subsidiaries located in England, France and Germany. All other European customer receivables are maintained by, and therefore are included as identifiable assets of, the United States operations. Summarized information by geographic location is as follows (in thousands): YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1999 1998 --------------------------------------------------------------------- United States and Canada: Revenues $567,629 $471,783 $415,622 Operating income $ 26,570 $ 70,991 $ 82,406 Identifiable tangible assets $483,502 $437,452 $551,030 Long-lived assets $422,796 $318,509 $285,125 Europe: Revenues $230,307 $212,131 $173,762 Operating income $ 18,085 $ 48,433 $ 44,455 Identifiable tangible assets $171,420 $110,472 $ 93,409 Long-lived assets $ 56,918 $ 41,233 $ 25,533 Other International: Revenues $ 60,735 $ 50,320 $ 52,573 Operating income $ 3,555 $ 12,423 $ 17,188 Identifiable tangible assets $ 32,846 $ 32,420 $ 31,888 Long-lived assets $ 10,383 $ 11,518 $ 11,134 Excluding other charges, operating income was $91.1 million, $51.4 million and $12.8 million in the United States and Canada, F-25

46 GARTNER GROUP, INC. NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - CONTINUED Europe, and Other International, respectively, for the year ended September 30, 1999. Excluding acquisition-related and other charges, operating income in the United States and Canada was $89.7 million for the year ended September 30, 1998. NOTE 17 : QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED) (In thousands except per share data) YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2000 1ST 2ND 3RD 4TH --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues $222,897 $193,393 $222,511 $219,870 Operating income(1) $ 32,142 $ 10,626 $ 5,238 $ 204 Net income $ 16,462 $ 2,788 $ 2,382 $ 3,914 Diluted earnings per common share(2) $ 0.18 $ 0.03 $ 0.03 $ 0.04 YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1999 1ST 2ND 3RD 4TH --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Revenues $190,380 $171,328 $185,658 $186,868 Operating income(1)(3) $ 45,970 $ 39,913 $ 37,996 $ 7,968 Net income $ 30,088 $ 28,841 $ 26,416 $ 2,926 Diluted earnings per common share $ 0.29 $ 0.27 $ 0.25 $ 0.03 (1) Amounts for the first three quarters of 2000 and all quarters of 1999 reflect the reclassification of equity gains (losses) from minority-owned investments to Interest income and other from Costs and expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. (2) The aggregate of the four quarters' diluted earnings per common share does not total the reported full fiscal year amount due to rounding. (3) Includes Other charges of $4.4 million, $1.5 million, and $17.5 million in the quarters ended March 31, 1999, June 30, 1999 and September 30, 1999, respectively. F-26

47 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-K/A to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. Gartner, Inc. Date: April 16, 2001 By: /s/ Regina M. Paolillo ------------------------------------ Regina M. Paolillo Executive Vice President, Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) F-27

1 Exhibit 23.2 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT The Board of Directors and Stockholders Gartner Group, Inc.: We consent to incorporation by reference in the registration statements (No. 33-67576, No. 33-85926, No. 33-92486, No. 333-35169, No. 333-42587, No. 333-77015, No. 333-77013 and No. 333-30546) on Form S-8 of Gartner Group, Inc. of our reports dated October 30, 2000 relating to the consolidated balance sheets of Gartner Group, Inc. and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2000 and 1999, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in stockholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended September 30, 2000, and financial statement schedule, which report appears in the September 30, 2000 Annual Report on Form 10-K of Gartner Group, Inc. /s/ KPMG LLP St. Petersburg, Florida April 16, 2001