A University of Adelaide biochemist has turned a passion for the Internet into profitable business after developing a range of highly acclaimed software tools.

Dr. Siva Prasad’ s WebGenie products have been capturing the interest of individuals and major corporations around the world since the company’s launch early last year.

More than 2,500 Internet users are now downloading WebGenie software every week, with customers including giants such as Lockheed, Compaq, CNN, SkyNet Asia and the US army and Air Force.

Microsoft has also given its stamp of approval, recommending WebGenie’s flagship product, CGI* Star, as a preferred NT Webserver developer tool.

CGI* Star automatically generates Common Gateway Interface (CGI), allowing users to receive and control input from response forms on their web pages.

“Web forms driven by CGI* Star are providing interactivity for companies selling products and services within the booming electronic market,” said Dr. Prasad.

“ Forms are also being used for on-line surveys, obtaining feed-back from readers and for subscription services.”

WebGenie has been established under the guidance of the University of Adelaide’s commercial arm Luminis.

Business development manager Mr. Tim Anderson said the growth of the company had been so rapid that sales of $100,000 were expected in 1996-97, with a 20-fold increase in turnover to $2 million predicted next financial year.

The range of software tools is designed to enhance the effectiveness of websites through on-line surveys, guest books, improved email systems and information on visitors, such as where they are from and which pages they access.