Mr Cheong Chia Chou (left) receiving the 2008 National Infocomm Award from Mr Lui Tuck Yew, Acting Minister of Information, Communication and the Arts.

PictureWorks, a software company specialising in digital imaging and information solutions, is using the franchise model to build up a regional presence for its award-winning PictureAnywhere innovation.

In 2008, PictureWorks won the National Infocomm Award in the category of Most Innovative Use of Infocomm Technology (Private Sector - Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises). Its PictureAnywhere solution makes use of infocomm to revolutionise the way memories are captured at events. Using wireless technologies and an integrated photo management software, the system simplifies, integrates complex processes from the moment photos are captured, to transmission for photo editing, template integration, photo identity synchronisation and finally, instant high quality photo printing.

The Award has helped catalyse PictureWorks’ expansion in the region. “The Awards has given strong recognition to PictureWorks' solutions and hence confidence for our customers,” said Mr Cheong Chia Chou, Chief Executive Officer of PictureWorks. “It has further helped us to leverage on Singapore’s reputation around the world for its innovation and technologies.”

While it continues to be headquartered in Singapore, the company has adopted a franchise model to expand into Australia, China and Malaysia, said Mr Cheong.

The popularity of PictureAnywhere stems from the fact that it enables cost savings and enhanced efficiency through the effective use of resources. Also, the scalable nature of the solution creates many up-selling and cross-selling opportunities.

“PictureAnywhere has allowed corporate customers to create uniquely-branded memorabilia which can be reflected in every photo taken and printed,” said Mr Cheong. “For general consumers, PictureAnywhere has helped to draw people ‘closer’ through its fun photo presentations.”

PictureAnywhere is particularly suited for theme parks and tourist attractions. In the Singapore market, the iconic Singapore Flyer is one of the latest attractions to adopt PictureAnywhere to enable its customers to efficiently capture memorable moments.

It has also been used in large gatherings and conferences such as the International Monetary Fund meetings in Singapore in 2006, as well as various convocation events for the local universities.