From IDEA*: 
"Going from bit player to owning 20% of the market in its first 18 months, the PowerShot forced the hand-tool industry to take a 180-degree turn. That is how the device distinguished itself from the leading competitor and its 20-year track record: Unlike all previous heavy-duty staplers, the PowerShot works like a desktop stapler, offering wider appeal and more intuitive actuation. Since its 1993 debut, the PowerShot has remained a top seller, even spawning a spinoff company from Black&Decker: PowerShot Tool Co.

This product's success is strongly related to its design. It was a significant and creative departure from its competitors in what had been a fairly entrenched and staid competitive environment. The design is not only useful and efficient it is ergonomic and attractive. This premium-priced product single-handedly opened a niche that strategically would allow other products to be established to build on its success. -Robert Hayman, Discus Dental

A clear example of a company knowing the business conditions and creating a distinct design in response. This is a case that could represent a model for many other businesses. -Dr. Stefano Marzano, IDSA, Philips Design   

When WorkTools first invented a revolutionary forward action staple gun we were undecided on whether to go to market ourselves or to license it.  After much deliberation and a thorough evaluation of the market, we opted to license the mechanical design, ergonomics and basic design premise to Black & Decker.  The ornamental design of the final product was largely the creation of Innovations & Development Inc.  

Two years after the introduction of PowerShot® Black & Decker solicited line extensions from WorkTools.  Contracting Hauser Design for assistance with the ornamental design, WorkTools created the Cobra heavy duty and EasyFire light duty staplers.  In addition to providing engineering and design services, WorkTools also sourced manufacturing for both products and held prime responsibility for initial product testing.  

For strategic reasons Black & Decker subsequently decided to exit the stapling business.  WorkTools was instrumental in the formation of a new entity devoted exclusively to forward action stapling: the eponymous PowerShot Tool Company. 

With the new company launched, WorkTools added yet another staple gun to the  product line - the Sears EasyFire® - designed and developed internally by WorkTools.  

*IDEA - Industrial Design Excellence Award/IDSA
 Click here for Business Week story about Designs of the Decade.