In an effort to bolster its offerings for the corporate market, Yahoo Inc. said Tuesday that it added a strategy services department to its Yahoo Enterprise Solutions division, offering companies guidance on how to reach customers through Web-based services.

The new department will also be in charge of developing an enterprise consulting practice to help companies evaluate customer communication needs and then translate those needs into products and services, Yahoo said.

Joseph Cha was appointed vice president of the new strategy services department. Formerly a consultant with both PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP and Andersen, Cha has extensive experience in helping companies design Web-based services, Yahoo said.

While the Internet portal is touting its Enterprise Solutions division as a way for companies to drive revenue and cut costs, the division also serves as a potential cash cow for Yahoo. With online advertising suffering a prolonged slump, portals are increasing their focus on corporate services to generate more income.