The Unlikely Success Story of Claris Corp.: A Recipe for High-Tech Excellence

Strategic Insights -

Amidst the struggling fortunes of Apple Computer, its subsidiary Claris Corp. has emerged as a beacon of success in the high-tech world. With a clear focus on competitive pricing, focused marketing, and stable management, Claris has achieved five consecutive years of profits, contrasted with Apple's $1.5 billion loss since 1996. The company's success is largely due to its strategic partnership with Microsoft, which has enabled Claris to tap into the rapidly growing market of Windows software.

Key Takeaways:

  • Claris Corp., a subsidiary of Apple Computer, has achieved five consecutive years of profits, while Apple has lost over $1.5 billion since 1996.
  • Claris has built a thriving business around a stable of top-flight software programs, including FileMaker Pro and ClarisWorks, which have become staples in the education and business markets.
  • The company's multiplatform strategy, initiated by former president Dan Eilers, has enabled Claris to sell over 2 million Windows versions of its software this year, out of a total of 7 million units expected to be sold.
  • Claris' President Dominique Goupil credits Apple with maintaining a hands-off policy, allowing the company to expand while Apple contracted.
  • Claris has reported record sales of $91 million for its fourth quarter, ended September 26, and is expected to turn a profit in its recently completed quarter, which ended December 26.
  • The company's flagship database product, FileMaker Pro, accounts for about $100 million in annual sales, with half of that coming from Windows versions.

Statistics:

  • Claris Corp. has achieved five consecutive years of profits.
  • Apple Computer has lost over $1.5 billion since 1996.
  • Claris has sold over 2 million Windows versions of its software in 1997.
  • The company's sales of $281.7 million in fiscal 1997 represent a 19% increase from the previous year.
  • Claris has reported record sales of $91 million for its fourth quarter, ended September 26.
  • FileMaker Pro accounts for about $100 million in annual sales, with half of that coming from Windows versions.

Sources:

  • San Francisco Chronicle
  • Softletter (Watertown, Mass.)