BIOS: Technology Means Business

Paris-based Wiziway has developed an innovative way to link paper-based material to Web sites. The solution consists of a 220g mouse-like reader/clicker, a tag embedded in the printed document, and proprietary software. Used in conjunction, the device should automatically link to an article's corresponding Web site when you 'scan' the tag - thus combining the ease of use of paper with the accessibility of the Internet. The tag (symbol matrix standard that acts like a barcode) is software-generated into any file that will accept image formats and measures 3x3mm. Internet tags are stored on an Internet server, so when a tag on a printed document is clicked, the server automatically redirects the session to the required URL or e-mail address. Tags can be updated remotely. The clicker connects to the USB port of a Windows-based PC. Wiziway is pitching the technology at resellers, primarily those who produce large catalogues.

Pros: Helps eliminate manual data entries; non-obtrusive tags
Cons: Runs on Windows systems only; no support for 3D codes

Release: Software developer Wiziway of France has unveiled a novel way to bridge the gap between the printed media and the Internet: a simple click of a mouse-shaped device, or clicker, is enough to take the user directly from a printed document to a Web page. Wiziway's software solution is based on the reading of a tiny tag (embedded in the printed document) by an optical reader, which takes the user straight to the Web page concerned. The company is looking for local partners and distributors.

Managing Director and Wiziway co-founder Thierry Lamouline, who has previous experience of running the catalogue division of a large company, had long felt that the limitations of both print and virtual media needed to be overcome. Two years ago, Mr Lamouline, together with a few other entrepreneurs, started working on a new and unique solution that would combine the ease of use of paper with the accessibility and content update of the Internet - this has led to the technological breakthrough that Wiziway's technology represents.

The tag is software-generated into any file that will accept image formats. It measures only 3sq mm and is unobtrusive as far as the printed document's content is concerned. The clicker connects to the USB port on the PC. It is enough for the user to click once over the printed document's tag, and the clicker instantly recognises the URL contained in the tag, opens the default browser on the PC, and displays the required Web site on the screen of the user's personal computer. Wiziway software can be installed on any Windows-compatible PC from a CD-ROM; no particular IT skills are required.

In its most simple application, Wiziway allows individual users, software developers, and business PC users to tag their documents (in Excel or Word formats, among others) for easy retrieval and management. The more elaborate Web version of the software is a powerful tool to be used by mail-order specialists, catalogue businesses, e-commerce organisations and professional publishing companies. Wiziway Sales Manager Eric Leopold stresses that, 'It is similar to a virtual and unlimited insert or extension to a printed catalogue.'

The tiny size of the tags - as opposed to bulky barcodes - is ideal for catalogues, small-size printed forms, tear-off reply coupons, as well as plastic cards, mouse-mats and film-coated document covers. Wiziway software has potentially unlimited applications across almost all industries and fields. Indeed, in any sector, one or more applications offered by Wiziway will be needed - from online updates of printed documents, price lists, and product specifications to regulatory publications, offers of products or services, operating demonstrations, client endorsements, and interviews, among others.

Wiziway is fast making headway in Europe. Large organisations in various fields have already embraced the new technology. They include Manutan, Haléco, Alcatel Diffusion, Crédit Agricole, France Abonnement, Legris Industries, Axa, Francis Lefèbvre, LMC, and Fiducial Office Solutions. Wiziway is actively developing a network of franchisees and distributors. Interested parties are invited to contact the company.

The software developed by Wiziway is internationally patented. It was designed and developed with the support of Rhônes-Alpes' ANVAR (the French National Research & Innovation Agency).