Epson Unveils Web-Based Strategic Developer Program; Feature-Rich Web Site Simplifies POS Application Development

Business Wire, April 17, 2000

Business Editors

Retail Systems Show

LONG BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 17, 2000

Epson, a leading supplier of value-added POS products, today unveiled its new Web-based EpsonExpert(TM) Strategic Developer Program for software developers at the Retail Systems Show in Chicago.

Implemented through a dedicated, password-protected Web site, the EpsonExpert Program provides software developers with the information, tools and support they need to design POS applications rapidly and efficiently.

"The EpsonExpert Program is absolutely unrivaled in the retail POS industry," said Bud Weist, director of sales and marketing, Epson. "We put an extensive amount of research and thought into its planning so we could deliver all the resources developers need while concurrently streamlining their efforts."

Point, Click, Go

A Web-based program specifically designed to enhance the developers' productivity, EpsonExpert is divided into five sections: Technical Resources, Application Development, Product Reference, Training and Education, and Support Services. This structure makes it easy to find a full array of current information quickly, enabling developers to create high-quality, comprehensive Epson POS product applications for their customers.

The Technical Resources section contains up-to-date technical information including electronic manuals, bulletins, technical tips and a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) library. The latest drivers, utilities, testing software and demonstration programs are also located there.

Utilizing Web technology to fully satisfy developers' needs at any time, the Application Development section contains the latest versions of ESC/POS, OPOS and JavaPOS tools, resulting in customer solutions that are on time and on target. Developers also have the option to automatically receive e-mail notification of the latest technical updates for specific product categories, thus eliminating the need to search the Web site to find what's new.

The Product Reference section augments development efforts with additional product information. Available for immediate access are complete libraries of product announcements, brochures, data sheets, photography, press releases and white papers to assist developers with compiling needs-specific proposals, operator's guides and customer manuals.

Training and Education, Support Services

Through EpsonExpert, developers can directly access Epson's Knoware University/SD professional Web-based training for detailed, up-to-date interactive product instruction. Courses are presented in a modular format so developers can obtain training at their convenience, minimizing impact on budgets and productivity.

In addition, Epson offers Program subscribers 24x7 technical assistance through their Advanced Product Support group, full access to a wide range of ExpressCare advanced service programs and a nationwide team of authorized service providers.

Seamless Integration for Epson Acclaim Partners

As a convenience to existing partners and upon providing additional, minimal profile information, Epson Acclaim VARs and OEMs can access the EpsonExpert Web site without delay or further approvals.

For more information on the EpsonExpert program, call 562/981-3840 ext. 5301 or send an e-mail to expert_webmaster@ea.epson.com.

Epson offers an extensive array of image capture and image output products for the consumer, business and graphic arts markets. The company is also a leading supplier of value-added point-of-sale (POS) products for the retail market. Founded in 1975, Epson America, Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, a global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality technology products that meet customer demands for increased functionality, compactness, systems integration and energy efficiency. Epson America, Inc. is headquartered in Long Beach, Calif.

Note: Brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.