Nashville Technology Council

Nashville Tech Story (12/29/09)

As the year comes to a close, it certainly seems as if the economy is picking up in the Nashville technology arena. Tech companies in our community seem to be hiring by the second.

Axis Accounting Systems announced its New Director of Business Development, Eddy Richardson.

HMS has hired 5 new staff members, Tina Brewer, Lisa Feltz, Allison Hopper, Schermonique Plainer and Rick Stuebing.

change:healthcare has hired Michael Vucovich as director of data architecture and Josh Owens as a data programmer.

C3 Consulting LLC has expanded its health care practice with Vicki Y. Estrin.

KraftCPAs PLLC admitted Chris Hight to membership in the firm.

According to the Nashville Business Journal, 20 percent of Nashville Marketing Companies plan to hire in 2010.  Let’s hope things continue to climb as we enter 2010.

An Interview with Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc.
Edward Stringfellow, President
www.stringfellow.com

What type of company is Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc.?
A technology management, consulting and support provider.  We work with our Clients on an outsourced or project basis to deliver our services.

When was Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc. founded and since that time how has your company grown?
Stringfellow was founded by Edward Stringfellow in 2003 as a one-man operation with $2,000 in start-up capital.  Growth has come by ensuring all our Clients are satisfied with our services and then asking for referrals.  Today we have a pro-active business development function that continues to build on our reputation as a solid technology partner for businesses.  

Who are the founders of Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc. and what was their vision for the company?
Edward Stringfellow was the founder, who started the company after completing a successful turnaround of a $20M company’s IT department in one year.  At that point he realized that his approach to technology management and support services would be valuable to Clients of all sizes and industries.  The “vision” was to have the same impact on all the Clients as he had for companies he had worked for directly.

What as a company do you feel is your strongest service or product?
Our strongest service is being dedicated to pro-actively working with our Clients to identify and resolve technology issues.  This is done by having a dedicated group of Service Desk personnel that handling all incoming requests from our Clients.  This is unique to most providers in our business as this group is dedicated to just this function. 

Where do you see Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc. in the next ten years?
Our five year plan is to have five offices, 300 clients, 50 employees, and over $10M in revenue.  That said, in ten years we hope have adapted to the technologies of the day and continue to provide outstanding services to our Clients.

What is it about Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc. that places your company above other leading competitors?
We divide our business into three parts, People, Processes, and Technology.  We have developed the optimal balance between these three components so that we can deliver maximum impact for our Clients for their investment.  

Specifically we have dedicated Client Services and Service Desk groups that ensure our resources are in-line with the needs of our Clients.  Many technology providers utilize a model where every resource performs every function.  We have found this to be inefficient and un-scalable.  Also we have a huge focus on continuous process improvement and documentation to ensure all our Clients have a repeatable and consistent experience when dealing with our Company. 

How would you describe Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc. to a new business entering the Nashville market?
We are an established provider of technology management, consulting, and support services for businesses throughout the US.  As a premium provider of these services we have developed an approach that allows us to understand our Clients needs and then deliver the “right” technology management and support services on a consistent and repeatable basis.

As a new business coming to the Nashville area what do you want the general public to know about your company?
That we are the premium provider of technology management and support services in Nashville market.  Our unique focus on the balance between people, processes, and technology has allowed us to have tangible business impacts for all our Clients.

What drew your company to Nashville and what do you hope to gain by starting a business here?
Nashville is a very diverse city with a growing base of businesses.  It is also centrally located in the Southeast where we are opening our satellite offices. 

What strategies will you use to break into the Nashville market?
First off, providing superior services to all our Clients has led to referrals and more business.  The other strategy is to develop a reputation as a premium provider of these types of services backed by actual Client engagements and case studies. 

How, as a company, do you maintain a personal relationship not only with your clients, but also with your employees?
We work with all our Clients on a weekly (sometimes daily) basis on projects, issues, and requests.  All of those interactions are guided by the principle of doing the right thing for every Client.  Our employees are encouraged to work closely together with each other and across teams.  We take the entire company to an offsite event once a quarter to foster “out of office” knowledge and relationships.  

Your company has been a member of the Nashville Technology Council since June of 2009. What made you join the NTC, and what has kept you a member?
We wanted to join the NTC after establishing our Client base in the market and developing our unique set of business delivery processes.  The NTC membership will now allow us to get a more formal affiliation of the technology scene in Nashville.  

How significant is the NTC in the future endeavors of your company? If not, how can the council be of better use to Stringfellow Technology Group, Inc.?
The NTC hopefully will become an outlet for us to connect with and share our experiences with other technology companies in the area.  Also our association with the NTC should raise our profile to both new and existing businesses looking for a technology provider in this market.  

Nashville Tech Story (12/28/09)

NASHVILLE TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL INITIATES TWO TECHNOLOGY FUNDS
Technology Scholarship Fund and Technology Community Fund Established within The Community Foundation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Nashville Technology Council today announced the creation of two charitable funds to support the needs and opportunities of our local technology community.  The Nashville Technology Council has asked The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee to oversee these funds on behalf of the Council and the community.

Technology Scholarship Fund – TThe Fund will endow permanently, one or more scholarships benefiting Nashville high school seniors, entering two or four-year degree programs in pursuit of an education in fields related to the creation, innovation, installation or maintenance of technology.

Technology Community Fund – The Fund will support charitable projects and initiatives to improve and enhance technology in Middle Tennessee. Grants from this Fund will be used to support the work of local nonprofit organizations as they broadly educate, inform and equip the community of Nashville and its citizens for the technological needs and opportunities of the decades ahead.

“The use of technology in business and our personal lives is growing dramatically.  Unfortunately, our community is not producing enough technology graduates to meet the technology needs of the future,” said Andy Flatt, CIO of HealthSpring and Board Chair for the Nashville Technology Council.  “Our hope is, by establishing these funds, we will able to encourage more students to pursue degrees in technology and be able to support local community efforts for years to come.”

If you are interested making a contribution, please mail your check out to:

The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, Inc.
PO Box 440225
Nashville, Tennessee 37244

Please indicate in the subject line either the Technology Scholarship Fund or Technology Community Fund of The Community Foundation.

About the Nashville Technology Council
The Nashville Technology Council is an exclusive, 501(c)(6) not-for-profit membership organization devoted to helping the Middle Tennessee technology community succeed. Since its formation in 1999, membership has grown to more than 385 organizations.

About The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee

The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee oversees more than 720 charitable funds. In the past 18 years, The Community Foundation has distributed more than  $460 million to its nonprofit partners. It is located at 3833 Cleghorn Avenue, #400, Nashville, Tennessee 37215. For more information, call 615-321-4939 or visit www.cfmt.org.

Nashville Tech Story (12/23/09)

If you haven’t noticed, the role of the CIO is changing rapidly.  Spurred by the recession, IT shops are being asked to do more with less, like everyone else, but they are also taking on more business processes than before.  These are the results from the recent 2010 State of the CIO report from CIO Magazine.

CIOs reported their Top Priorities of 2010 to be following:

• Aligning IT and business goals
• Controlling IT costs
• IT governance and portfolio management
• Business process redesign
• Leadership development/staff training
• Marketing IT’s business contribution
• Rationalizing or centralizing the application portfolio
• Protecting customer data privacy
• Scaling IT globally
• Regulatory compliance

Most CIOs are thinking today about how are they going to get the job done with less resources?  The answer so far has come from outsourcing and contract service providers.  “21% is the average percentage of IT labor provided by outsourcers or contract service providers,” according to CIO Magazine.  In Nashville, this industry has continued to grow with local leaders like Emids, Wipro, Zycron, and Syntel leading the way.  In addition, the contract labor market is strong with companies like Vaco, Teknetex, and Tek Systems.

One of the more interesting statistics is the decrease in average salaries.  Average salaries are dropping 10-20% in certain industries.  Below is the average salary data for CIOs.
’06 . . . . $185,863
’07 . . . . $185,240
’08 . . . . $237,360
’09 . . . . $247,900
’10 . . . . $219,300

Of local interest, the percentage of IT spend of Total Revenues in Healthcare is 3.9%.  The overall national average across all industries is 5.7%.

For more information, click here.

-Abbie Lundberg, former Editor & Chief of CIO Magazine will be with on January 19th and 20th to discuss trends for the technology industry.  Click here to register.

Nashville Tech Story (12/18/09)

Twitter published its top ten list of trending topics for 2009, and some might come as a surprise. Whether individuals are frustrated and confused by Google Wave or simply loving it, they are definitely writing about it.  In fact, so many individuals have been confused, there are multiple user guides being created.  My favorite guide is by Mashable, which really gets down to the basics of using this application.  This guide fully explains the terminology, the robots, and how to embed files. Needless to say, with its release in July, Google Wave certainly has caused a lot of chatter in the social media world, only taking half a year to become the top topic for Technology on Twitter for 2009.

Take a look at other trending topics in technology below:

Technology

1. Google Wave
2. Snow Leopard
3. Tweetdeck
4. Windows 7
5. CES
6. Palm Pre
7. Google Latitude
8. #E3
9. #amazonfail
10. Macworld

See a full list of trending topics here:  http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_14cEenKeR04/SygI8Gp0F9I/AAAAAAAAADY/hELPQB1mQKo/s1600-h/2009trends_large.png

Axis Accounting Systems Announces New Director of Business Development

BRENTWOOD, Tenn. — December 17, 2009— Brentwood-based Axis Accounting Systems, LLC, provider of IT consulting services and financial software announces the addition Eddy Richardson as Director of Business Development.

Richardson was most recently the Director of Business Development at ComFrame.  He holds a Computer Science degree from Middle Tennessee State University and has over 25 years experience selling technology solutions.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with Eddy’s decision to join our firm,” says Greg Lemon, Axis president.  “Eddy brings with him a long history of success helping companies find growth and efficiencies by leveraging technology based solutions.  Eddy is an outstanding member of the greater Nashville area community and a true compliment to my existing leadership team.”

About Axis Accounting Systems

Axis Accounting Systems, LLC is a full service consulting firm that assists growing companies with the selection, implementation and support of integrated accounting software, as well as solutions for budgeting and forecasting, customer relationship management (CRM), and document imaging and management. The firm’s consultants are Microsoft Certified with expertise in a variety of areas, from complex financial reporting to system design. For more information, call (615) 665-2545 or visit www.axisaccounting.com.

Nashville Tech Story (12/17/09)

As the year comes to an end, we can’t help but remember all of our accomplishments in 2009.  Take a look at our picks for the top 10 NTC Moments in 2009.

1.       Branding – Feel the Beat of Technology. On January 22, 2009, after 10 years, the Nashville Technology Council unveiled its new brand at the first Membership Breakfast.  New creative, new print, and new website.

2.      Techville 2009 – Mapping the Future – March 23rd we released the first poster-size Techville.us map, illuminating the technology landscape in Nashville, in addition to an interactive site at www.techville.us.

3.       Cinco de Mayo Margarita Mixer – We love a themed party – May 5th we decided to shake things up with the addition of a brand new networking mixer.  CEO’s, CIOs, Digital, Geeks, and a beautiful view of the city punctuated the evening.

4.       The Naked Hospital – Are you transparent? –  With a visit from Congressman Marsha Blackburn, the community discussed the importance of electronic health records and transparency for hospitals and other healthcare providers.

5.       Entrepreneur Center – Accelerating businesses - In conjunction with the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Entrepreneur Center was formed, accelerating the growth of the business in the Nashville area.  The Entrepreneur Center’s Mission is to connect entrepreneurs with critical resources to accelerate business creation and growth

6.       Marketplace Launch – Saving money for our members was key in the year of the Recession –  Health Insurance, Professional Services, Office Products, and more are available at a discounted rate for Nashville Technology Council Members

7.       InfoSec Conference – Our Largest Conference Yet — September 17th marked the largest InfoSec Conference in the history of the Tech Council.  This was also the largest meeting for the ISSA in the Southeast. Dan Geer from In-Q-Tel had everyone mesmerized.

8.       10th Anniversary Bash – Happy 10th Birthday to the Tech Council – September 22nd marked the 10th Anniversary of the Nashville Technology Council.  The Tech Council has grown from 22 founding companies to 385 member companies over the 10 years.

9.       1st Annual Awards Gala – Celebrating Success in Technology – October 27th, over 400 individuals gathered at the Symphony Center, walked the red carpet, and watched as technology industry leaders were recognized for their accomplishments.  Gibson provided the guitars and we all felt the beat at the Schermerhorn.

10.       Steve Ballmer to visit Nashville –  On December 3rd, we announced our line-up for the 2010 Membership breakfast, including Steve Ballmer, CEO, Microsoft, and Abbie Lundberg, former Editor and Chief of CIO Magazine.

Thanks to all of our members, volunteers, and technology enthusiasts for making this year a success.  In 2010, we will focus on member engagement, workforce development, new programs, education, and economic development.  Enjoy the holidays and we look forward to a great year ahead.

XO offers enterprise and government customers advanced IP and networking solutions to maximize performance and simplify management of their networks. XO leverages its extensive nationwide and metro networks to deliver end-to-end solutions and high-demand enterprise services.

Nashville Tech Story (12/16/09)

It’s official – the Nashville Technology Council 2010 Calendar of Events has been formally set. So, mark your 2010 calendars for Nashville’s technology events, and don’t miss the opportunity for education, networking, and more.

January 20th: Membership Breakfast: This is an exclusive, members only, annual event held as an opportunity for members to find out the direction the organization is taking in the coming year, to network with other members, and to hear from world class speakers.  This year schedules speakers are, Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft, and Abbie Lundberg, former Editor & Chief of CIO Magazine. Space is limited, so register as soon as possible.

February 4th: E-Discovery Roundtable: Sponsored by SHI, join us as we discuss e-mail, instant messaging chats, documents (such as Microsoft Office documents files), accounting databases, CAD/CAM files, Web sites, and any other electronically-stored information which could be relevant evidence in a law suit.

March 2nd: T3/InternNashville Event: The Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and the T3 initiative are partnering to promote technology internships and relationships in the Nashville area. This exciting networking and mentoring event creates a fun environment where technology professionals, professors and students can cultivate relationships. Students will learn from businesses in their chosen field. Professionals can connect with university faculty who are shaping the work force of tomorrow.

March 4th: Roundtable Event: Sponsored by Bass, Berry, Sims, LLC., event information TBA.

March 12th: Innovation Summit: The Innovation Conference is all about thought leadership and next generation technologies.  The event this year will be changed to be more intimate and will target CIO’s and CEO’s of Tech Oriented Companies.

April 1: Mobile Applications Super Roundtable: Super Roundtables are half day conferences, with a series of panel discussions and industry keynote addresses.  These are in-depth topic coverage, strategic, timely, and interaction with audience is encouraged. The April super roundtable will focus on Mobile Applications.

April 17: TechNet: TechNet is a special event hosted by the Nashville Technology Council to provide technology job seekers, employers, and high education institutions the opportunity to network together.  It is designed to help unemployed technology workers find new jobs, provide a direction to help them further their education, and provide networking opportunities.

May 5th: Cinco de Mayo Margarita Mixer: Join us as we celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Margaritas at our second annual networking mixer.  Mix and mingle with Nashville’s business leaders and members of the local technology community.  A $5 entry fee includes unlimited margaritas, Mexican beer, wine, and chips and salsa from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

May 7th: Technology Nashville: Technology Nashville is our annual flagship event, addressing the State of Information Technology in our region, as well as tech innovation, talent, entrepreneurship and technology sector employment. The event draws senior management from technology companies as well as economic leaders from in and around the Middle Tennessee region.  The event attracts approximately 350 participants with a format that includes continental breakfast / networking, panel presentations, a seated luncheon and targeted Keynote addresses.

June 24th: Golfing with the Board of Directors: This is an exclusive outing designed for members only.  This is a great opportunity for our members to golf and network with our Board of Directors.  Board members act as “team captains” for each golf team.  The remainder of the team is constructed based on the company you are with, the industry you are in and with an emphasis on creating an atmosphere to meet new people.

July 22nd: Summer Holiday Party: At the Tech Council, we think just one holiday party is not enough.  Celebrate with us again, at this Annual Networking Event.

August 26th: The Naked Hospital: Super Roundtable focused on eHealth Initiatives

September 16th: InfoSec Conference: Nashville Technology Council and Middle Tennessee chapter of Information Systems Security Association host over 350 attendees and two-dozen locally and nationally recognized speakers.  InfoSec offers two industry-recognized keynote speakers, panel discussions and multiple breakout sessions focusing on technical and management issues, as well as healthcare and other industry regulations in the security industry.

October 14th: Fall Golf Outing: The Golf Outing includes over 120 golfers annually, at Vanderbilt Legends Club, in Franklin. Enjoy golfing, prizes and a dinner reception. Make the most of this opportunity to treat your peers, prospects, customers and potential business partners to a day of networking and fun.

October 26th: Awards Gala: The annual awards gala honors Middle Tennessee’s technology companies, leaders and innovators.  We anticipate attracting more than 400 attendees each year for this night of networking, food, and entertainment. The 2009 Technology Awards Gala will features “red carpet” entrance, VIP reception, dinner and the presentation of 10 prestigious awards.

December 9th: Holiday Party: Celebrate the Holidays at this annual networking event.  Don’t miss the opportunity to mingle with over 200 members of Nashville’s Technology Community in a relaxed setting.  This event features a variety of appetizers and one free drink ticket as well as over 20 giveaways donated from various member companies.

Nashville Tech Story (12/11/09)

One of our most innovative products company in town is heading to the Consumer Electronics Show.  (http://www.cesweb.org/)  Of course, this project has Tennessee written all over it.  They have renovated a VW Bus and they painted it orange and white. Griffin employees are packing the Bus with plenty of tech tools and driving to Vegas.  They have a few stops planned along the way.  You can follow the Griffin tour to Vegas at the following link.  http://cesbound.com/

If you are attending the CES Show this year, drop us a line.

We caught up with Dave Delaney recent about the CES Show.  Dave is a local entrepreneur, social media guru, host of Geek Breakfast, and Griffin employee.

Q. When do you leave Nashville for the CES Show?

A. We depart Nashville very early December 30th.

Q. Did Griffin win any awards or are you a finalist?

A. No awards. Not yet anyway.

Q. Is this Griffin’s first time at CES?

A. We’ve been attending CES for years now but this year will be our second as an exhibitor on the huge show-floor. We’ve been working really hard on the booth design and we’re anxious to show it off next month!

Q. What do you love about CES?

A. Every January thousands of people head to Las Vegas for CES because it’s the largest consumer electronics show in the US. Attendees are eager to see the newest innovations and try out all the new gadgets that companies unveil at the show. Hall after hall of cool companies with new bits of tech entice us there every year too!

Q. Is Griffin planning any New product launches during CES?

A. Of course! We always try to save up a few special products to announce at CES, but shhhh… they’re still top secret! We’ll announce them the first day of the show, so tune in and find out!

Q. Check out the Griffin Bus!

A. http://www.flickr.com/photos/griffintech/sets/72157622692820013/