The Shareware Industry Awards were created as a way to honor the very best programs marketed using the "shareware" marketing model. In those early days it was often an up-hill battle, but the small software authors persevered. Over time, the number of companies using the "shareware" model has increased dramatically. Today nearly all software companies use the "shareware" marketing model whether they use the term or not. This fact stands as a tribute to the many pioneers who braved new ground in the name of "shareware." These pages are a testimony to where we've been, where we are, and just how far we've come. The Shareware Industry Awards are dedicated to excellence in software.
The SIAF"People's Choice Awards" were created so that those who use software would have the opportunity to vote for their favorite programs. A chance to compliment the work of software developers around the world. The voting for these awards is hosted each year by some of the largest sites on the Internet including CNET, Tucows, PC World, Simtel, and others. Software authors are also encouraged to direct users to the People's Choice Award voting site and encourage their users to vote! Voting occurs from May 1st through May 31st each year.
The Shareware Hall of Fame was created to honor those persons, companies, and products that have had a profound effect on the shareware industry. In order to be eligible, one must meet the minimum requirement of having been in the industry for at least five (5) years.
The Shareware Hall of Fame was created by the SIAF Board of Directors in 1997. At that time, 56 pioneering companies, programs, and individuals were inducted to get the Hall of Fame started. From that point on the SIAF board has chosen a few new inductees each year. The maximum number of new inductees that may be chosen in any year is 5. Because the inductees are chosen by the SIAF board, no active member of the SIAF board may be inducted into the Shareware Hall of Fame.
Everyone who participates in shareware marketing owes these pioneers a debt of gratitude.
The Shareware Industry Award for Lifetime Achievement is given to those individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to shareware during their lifetime. Many factors are considered including the individuals impact on the shareware industry as a whole. Because of the nature of the award, it is not bestowed every year, and it may be given posthumously. From 1992 through 1995, the award was determined by those voting on the Shareware Industry Awards. Since 1995, the award has been decided on by the Shareware Industry Awards Foundation Board of Directors.