Detroit's Compuware Posts Positive Unexpected Earnings

Compuware's Headquarters in downtown Detroit

Although layoffs plagued the technology company in 2003 and 2004, the difficult cuts seem to have aided Compuware, which was reflected in its Street-beating earnings report, released after the close of the bell this afternoon.

The earnings report - which proclaimed 11-cent per share earnings - nearly doubled the tech company's earnings over the same quarter last year, which came in at 6 cents a share.

Compuware is a technology company that focuses on providing IT and software to assist businesses in getting the most out of their technology systems. With over 4000 employees in its global headquarters in Detroit, Compuware has become a cornerstone of the redevelopment effort within Detroit's Central Business District.

Compuware moved from nine separate office buildings in the metro Detroit area between the years 2000 and 2003 and into a brand new, 1.1 million-square foot building in downtown Detroit. By doing this, the IT company brought all of its employees under one roof, was given $80 million in tax incentives, and has positioned itself closer to its customers.

The Compuware HQ houses its employees, as well as nearly 60,000 square feet of retail space, including Michigan's only Hard Rock Cafe. It also contains a Borders Books & Music store, a Jimmy John's sandwich shop, an optical store, and other retail shops. Its employees also have access to an on-site fitness facility, as well as dining and daycare areas.