P R E S S ~ R E L E A S E
December, 1998
MacWorld's Review of Beehive follows:
Beehive File transfer - Streamlined Internet File Exchange
GRAPHIC-ART SERVICE BUREAUS yearn for a way to let customers submit materials via the Internet. Alas, the Net's primary file-transfer tool, FTP, is woefully inadaquate for the job. Beehive Software's FTPForms 2.3 streamlines FTP-based customer input, letting you distribute a preprogrammed FTP client application to which customers simply drag and drop the work they want to send. It also collects order information, automatically downloads incoming files, and sends e-mail notifications to customers. And it does it all with a level of security not possible with generic FTP file exchange.
After you configure FTPForms with a single log-in ID and password, your customers download the client from your Web site. When the customer drops a file for transmission, a customized order-submission form pops up on-screen. FTPForms automatically logs in to your FTP server and uploads the selected files, using encryption to maintain security; customers never know the name, User ID or password of your FTP server.
Back at your office, you run the FTP-Manager, which logs in to your FTP server at predefined intervals to check for incoming files. When new files arrive, FTP-Manager automatically downloads them and optionally prints the customers' order forms on your local printer. It also notifies customers via e-mail that you've received their work.
The client comes in both Mac and Windows versions. FTPForms works with any standard FTP server-including the UNIX systems common among Internet service providers-so you do not need to run a dedicated server on your premises. The package includes sample HTML forms that you can customize, using any standard HTML editor.
Your Order Please FTPForms automatically accepts customer orders, transfers the files to your FTP server, and delivers e-mail notification of receipt.
Macworld's Buying Advice:
"Beehive File Transfer automates some of the most time-consuming aspects of the service bureau business while improving customer service in the bargain. Cross-platform support and attention to privacy add to its value"
Rating:
Pros: Customizable drag-and-drop client; site login encryption; cross platform support; automatic download and e-mail notifications.
Macworld Review conducted by Mel Beckman