Hand Technologies
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Computer and web-related services |
| Founded | 1996 |
| Founder | Andrew Harris, Martin Slagter |
| Defunct | July 2001 |
| Headquarters | Austin , United States |
Area served | United States |
Key people | Doug Martin (board member) |
| Products | Internet solutions, product training, customer support, hardware retail |
Number of employees | 3500 (1998) |
Hand Technologies, Inc was a comprehensive provider of computer and web-related services headquartered in Austin, Texas. Established in 1996, the company distinguished itself by offering complimentary delivery and installation, alongside a centralized source for Internet solutions, product training, and customer support. Its operations extended to Winchester, Kentucky, where it retailed hardware from IBM, Hewlett-Packard, and Lexmark International.
History
Initially launched as Habitech in 1996 by Andrew Harris and Martin Slagter—both former senior managers at Dell Computer and CompUSA—Hand Technologies was among the first to introduce direct-to-consumer PC sales. Harris had dedicated five years to developing Dell’s global business before departing in 1992; Slagter later joined him in Austin, the location of Dell’s main office.
In May 1997, the firm secured $6.75 million via a private securities placement and broadened its board of directors by adding Doug Martin, previously president of Tupperware North America.
By 1998, Hand Technologies had grown to employ approximately 3,500 individuals. Nevertheless, the company discontinued its operations in July 2001 after failing to obtain additional capital.