In September 2002, Quinn Interactive, Inc., integrated and deployed a new e-commerce suite for www.typebox.com, an online font foundry. The new infrastructure is based on the open-source Interchange e-commerce package and makes purchasing fonts from Typebox easy and secure.
When Typebox was ready to sell fonts online, co-managers and founders Mike Kohnke and Joachim Muller-Lance, developed a demanding list of requirements for their e-commerce software: top-notch security features, web-based admin tools, support for downloadable soft goods, CyberCash support, and exceptional control over the look of the site.
“The foundry’s reputation is built largely on the look and performance of our Web site. Our customers expect to be able to purchase and download fonts online, and we knew we needed an industrial strength e-commerce solution,” said Mr. Kohnke.
Mr.Kohnke and Mr. Muller-Lance researched and evaluated several e-commerce packages. When their research led to a dead end, they turned to Quinn Interactive for assistance.
During the initial stages of the project, Quinn Interactive worked closely with Typebox to streamline the ordering process and administrative workflow. The collaboration resulted in a thorough requirements document—including specifications for how to support downloadable soft goods and online type license approval. Ultimately, the team integrated the best of breed, open-source, e-commerce package.
“Open source software offers a wide range of low and no-cost options for small online merchants. Red Hat’s Interchange is definitely the most feature-rich option available,” said Phil Quinn, President of Quinn Interactive. “We are confident that Interchange will perform reliably, while and Mike and Joachim are pleased with the level of control Interchange allows over the look and feel of the site.”
Unusual but useful. Typebox will market useable but interesting typefaces, to meet the expectations of today's design industry: Satisfying professional demand while easy to apply by occasional users.