HotOffice Technologies Introduces Free Intranet Solution through Staples.com Business Solutions Center

Strategic Insights -

Staples.com's Business Solutions Center launched a comprehensive suite of resources for small businesses, including a free private intranet powered by HotOffice Technologies. This move enables small businesses to access vital communication tools, such as document management, group scheduling, and online discussions, for no cost. The partnership between HotOffice and Staples.com aims to extend the reach of HotOffice's services to small businesses, providing them with a competitive advantage in the market.

Key Takeaways:

  • HotOffice Technologies, an award-winning Application Service Provider (ASP), introduced a free version of its Web-based intranet service through the Staples.com Business Solutions Center.
  • The free private intranet provides collaborative capabilities, including document management, group scheduling, contact management, e-mail, online discussions, and conferences.
  • The Staples.com Business Solutions Center offers a comprehensive suite of resources, including Web site hosting, e-commerce site-building tools, domain name registration, payroll services, and online printing.
  • HotOffice received several awards for its innovative solutions, including the PC Magazine Editors' Choice Award for 1998 and 1999, and the Windows Magazine's Best Business Sites on the Internet award.
  • HotOffice Technologies, Inc. is a privately held company founded in 1995, funded in part by Intel Corporation, Staples, Inc., and TBG Information Investors.
  • Staples.com, launched in fall 1998, offers 31,000 products online, with free delivery on orders over $50 and next-business day delivery available in most U.S. markets.
  • Staples Inc. is a $7 billion retailer of office supplies, furniture, and technology, operating over 1,000 office superstores, mail order catalogs, e-commerce, and a contract business.

Statistics:

  • The Staples.com Business Solutions Center offers 31,000 products online and is open 24/7.
  • HotOffice Technologies received the PC Magazine Editors' Choice Award for 1998 and 1999.
  • HotOffice's private intranet service is available in both free (advertising supported) and subscription-based versions.
  • Staples.com serves customers through more than 1,000 office superstores, mail order catalogs, e-commerce, and a contract business.
  • Staples Inc. has over 46,000 employees and is headquartered outside Boston.

Sources:

  • [Nov. 1, 1999]- Business Wire - "HotOffice Technologies Unveils Free Award-Winning Intranet Solution through Staples.com Business Solutions Center"
  • [Fall 1998] - Business Wire - "Staples.com Launches as Virtual Office Supply Superstore with Easy-to-Use Features and Convenient Shopping Experience"
  • [1995] - HotOffice Technologies, Inc. - "About Us"
  • [1998] - PC Magazine - "PC Magazine Editors' Choice Award for 1998"
  • [1999] - PC Magazine - "PC Magazine Editors' Choice Award for 1999"
  • [1998] - Windows Magazine - "Best Business Sites on the Internet"
  • [1998] - PC Computing - "Top Business Technology Service on the Internet"