Fotoware: 30 years of innovation and growth
Fotoware has experienced significant growth over the past 30 years, evolving from a small Norwegian startup to a global player in Digital Asset Management (DAM). Today, Fotoware operates in nine countries and serves customers and users in 40 countries.
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Pioneering Digital Asset Management
Fotoware was one of the first companies in the world to offer Digital Asset Management (DAM) systems, specializing in the management of large volumes of digital images and videos. From the outset, the team was dedicated to addressing inefficiencies in image management workflows, prioritizing innovative and customer-centric solutions. The success of Collector paved the way for the development of FotoStation, designed to handle large volumes of images in newsrooms. As the software's reputation grew, Fotoware expanded its customer base internationally.
Read more: Three decades of driving change - Interview with co-founder Ole Christian Frenning
Strategic partnerships and global expansion
A notable achievement in Fotoware's journey was the partnership with Nikon. By developing FotoStation Light, a streamlined software bundled with Nikon's digital cameras, the company reached millions of users worldwide. This strategic collaboration not only reinforced Fotoware's global market presence but also showcased its adaptability to evolving technological landscapes.
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International expansion and excellence
Today, Fotoware offers the leading Digital Asset Management platforms that enables organizations to handle content workflows with speed and precision. During the leadership of CEO Anne Gretland, the company has executed a successful growth strategy that includes acquisitions, international expansion, and a commitment to performance excellence.
Supported by current owners Viking Venture, Fotoware has invested heavily in product development and market expansion. Since the summer of 2020, Fotoware has made six acquisitions in Sweden, UK, Germany, Denmark, and Switzerland, – including Swiss DAM provider Picturepark - making it possible to deliver even greater customer solutions.
One of the keys to our success is that we have a product that can be sold anywhere, and we have chosen to work with customers who truly make a difference, such as the law enforcement, newspapers, and health organizations.
— "We want our product to make a difference for those who make a difference in the world. We've also enabled our customers to customize our solution to meet their needs, which has resulted in many loyal customers."
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Embracing diversity and employee satisfaction
As CEO, Anne Gretland has focused on building a strong leadership team, and also significantly increasing the company's female representation. She prioritized creating a positive and inclusive culture, leading to Fotoware’s Great Place to Work certifications and several consecutive top ranking culture awards.
Additionally, she introduced people management trainings, leadership programs, and extended health benefits. These measures have been crucial to the company's growth and success.
Read more: 30 years of DAM - Fotoware employees reflect on the journey
Fotoware has significantly increased its workforce, growing by over 50% through acquisitions and organic growth. The company proudly celebrates a diverse team representing more than 20 nationalities, contributing to a vibrant workplace culture.
The gender balance has improved significantly, with female representation rising from 20% to nearly 50% across teams and leadership, enhancing the company’s innovation capacity and work environment.
Read more: Celebrating 30 years of Fotoware’s culture and values
Strengthening global partnerships
Fotoware's establishment of partners in various countries has been key to its international success, providing localized support and customization. This robust global network enables Fotoware to extend its reach while delivering tailored solutions to clients. For instance, the Metropolitan Police in London collaborated with a local partner, Medialogix, to create customized solutions based on Fotoware’s platform, addressing specific law enforcement needs.
The company’s modular and open architecture allows for seamless integrations, empowering clients to enhance Fotoware’s solutions further. With a strong emphasis on compliance and ISO certification, Fotoware has earned the trust of loyal customers worldwide. Serving over 1,000 customers in 40 countries, Fotoware's ready-to-use solutions remain appealing across various industries.
