From STF Web page.
Introduction - STF Technologies, Inc. (STF) was founded in 1988. While
working to provide a solution for a customer, the staff of an Apple
Computer retail store discovered the need for a Macintosh computer/fax
product. This discovery resulted in the establishment of STF. Three years
of research and development yielded the first fax software for the Mac
OS: FAXstf.
History - The first versions of FAXstf were customized private labels
solutions for two modem manufacturers. Other customized versions of
FAXstf software were developed for bundling with major modem
manufacturers wishing to participate in the Macintosh fax market. By
March of 1992, with the increase of Macintosh modems, it was no longer
feasible for STF to manage and support multiple versions of the same
basic software. Therefore, a single STF-labeled fax software package
was developed that initially supported over 50 different fax-capable
modems. In 1993 STF introduced its first commercially available retail
software products--FAXstf 3.0. In 1994, STF worked to develop the next
level of software and a developers kit. In January 1995 FAXstf 3.1 was
released. In December 1995, a significantly improved version, FAXstf 3.2
was released as well as a powerful network version. In 1996, STF
released a significantly improved developers kit and began aggressively
marketing it to other developers. In 1996, STF expanded its product line
to include voice and data products. FAXstf Pro 5.0 was released in
August 1998.
Transformation - STF has been transformed from a single product fax
software company to a communications software company. Significant
changes included: 1) a new management team, 2) changing from a
technology driven company to a market driven company; 3) establishing
solid business relationships with Apple computer; 4) implementing new
product development plans; 5) relocating the company from a small rural
town to Kansas City; 6) establishing technical support centers in France,
Germany, Sweden, United Kingdom and Japan; 7) acquiring Front Office
(VOICEstf) voice software and MicroPhone data software; and 8)
re-engineering the operating processes.
Current Products - The company currently offers single-user, network
and OEM-bundle editions of its flagship fax product (FAXstf), VOICEstf
voice software and MicroPhone data software. FAXstf products are
localized in Japanese, German, French, Swedish, Spanish and
International English (UK) editions. FAXstf Pro 5.0 and 3.5 Network
Edition currently supports over 450 modems and PC cards. Also, the
company provides a powerful developers kit to other developers which
provides seamless hooks into FAXstf.
Awards and Recognition - In 1996, 1997 and 1998 the American
Facsimile Association selected FAXstf as the best Macintosh fax
software. In Japan, FAXstf is bundled with four of the largest modem
manufacturers of Macintosh modems. Also, in 1996, FAXstf was
recognized as one of the best communications products in the Japanese
market. STF's voice product, VOICEstf, received four mice from MacUser
magazine. FAXstf Pro 5.0 has received a four mice review from Macworld
(11/98 issue), a four and one-half apple review from MacHome (11/98
issue) and a five mice review from Germany's Macwelt (11/98 issue).
Future Development Plans - STF plans to significantly enhance its
voice products and develop an integrated voice/fax/data product.
Additionally, electronic mail features and Internet capabilities will be
incorporated, creating a business communications suite unparalleled in
the Macintosh marketplace. In general, STF will support the latest
technologies where appropriate. |
