I feel its time for an update here. I’ve been so busy with business and things that I don’t have time to keep my own blog updated. So this is going to be a long post.
In the past few weeks, Utaria (my business) has exploded, and I have to give God the credit. It isn’t anything that I’ve done, but a series of things that has happened that can only have come from God. I started working on a consulting contract for a local company, doing some wireless networking. That project has really taken off and has brought a lot of work. I also have 2 more companies lined up to do networking/consulting for that I will be meeting with tomorrow and Saturday. The consulting jobs are really nice, as that will 1) bring in more business revenues, and 2) give Tim (one of my employees) more work. Right now, Tim is working about 10hrs a week for me, and I’d really like to see him move to a full time status as soon as possible.
The ARCO Coffee website was launched a few weeks ago, I’ve mentioned it in the past, but since it’s launch, it has already been getting orders and enquiries through the site. I’m very proud of the work we did on that site. I have to say, that their site is one of, if not the best web development creation I’ve done so far. Now we get to try to out-do ourselves again with Patriot Water’s website. That site is currently in progress, so I can’t give any previews yet.
Since moving into our new offices, business has picked up, we’ve received a walk-in ‘potential’ client. I still need to meet with him sometime next week to go over his needs for a website. It has also allowed us to be more productive. For one, Tim now has his own desk with workstation that he can use for his projects. So he can actually get work done when he comes in. The same goes for me, I no longer have kids from the game center coming in to ask me to help them with their game etc. I can also meet with clients without having to be distracted or interrupted by kids yelling in the game center.
I just purchased a new system for the office yesterday. I picked up a Mac Mini, with 19″ Dell LCD monitor. It’s a really nice system, and I’m actually making this post from it. I bought it for Jason and/or Jill to use when they come in to do web development. That way I can provide them with the software and tools they need to work with, rather than having them use their own computers, or use not-so-legit software.
Actually, just this morning, I met with Jill, and we had a good conversation on what our business relationship was going to be. Since she already does web design herself, and has several of her own clients that she would be bringing over with her etc. All in all, I think we worked out a really good deal that works well for both of us. I want her to be able to succeed and do well with this business. I’m excited, because Jill brings a set of skills that I myself am lacking in. One of those is technical writing. One of the things she is working on is writing up user manuals for the MXR content management system that we use for website development. The other is her network of business contacts, and her ability to sell.
In the past 3 weeks, I’ve been running around non-stop for my business. It’s a little draining at times, but it is also so relieving to be caught up in all my bills, and know that I am financially set for the next few months. Both personally, and as a business. God has really blessed me this summer. Just like 2 years ago when He allowed me to buy Integra Hosting. Sometimes I just can’t help but sit back and be amazed by His glory, and how much He pours into our lives, whether we realize it or not.