Leave Me Alone?
You Still Have Responsibilities
BIZ. Breakfast
A Little Caffeine for Your Business July 2014
Tech Savvy?
Local Business Gives a Street-Level Assessment of Local Technology PLUS... It’s All in the Family at Johnson’s Furniture
DELIVERED TO BUSINESS LEADERS THROUGHOUT SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER
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Biz. Magazine • July 2014
The First Word
Even on vacation, you are still your number one product hile vacationing with my family at the home of my sister-in-law and her husband, I tried to disconnect as much as possible. That being said, I found myself checking emails each morning and forwarding things to be handled, etc. in my absence. This routine left the rest of my day to enjoy time away from work. One morning, while checking his email, my sister-in-law’s husband read me an auto-reply from one of his colleagues, who was also on vacation.
“What of do you think of this auto reply?” he asked.
F Families amilies visit visit m many any d doctors octors aand nd have hav many many p prescriptions rescriptions H How ow D Do o You Yo You Tr T Track rack This This Information? Information?
Since I don’t have the text of the auto-reply, the following is a paraphrase: “Thank you for your email. I am on vacation this week, and would normally say that I have limited access email. However, since we all have mobile devices and generally have access to email, I will say that I will be checking things on occasion. Since this is a vacation, and my wife says I have to refrain from working, chances are I won’t be responding to your email. If it is absolutely critical that your issue be handled this week, please resend the email, marking it “urgent” and I will attempt to forward it to someone at the office at some point.” My response was “wow.” I was slightly impressed with this person’s honesty, but was otherwise taken aback. Compounding my displeasure toward this auto reply was learning that it was written by the SALES AND MARKETING vice president of the company. Giving (and hoping for) the benefit of the doubt, I asked if this was an “internal only” email address, or was it one for that would go to any person, including customers/clients? Apparently, it was the latter. Ouch. The need to take a break and “disconnect” is real. In fact, I encourage my team to get away every so often. However, our clients are the reason we even have jobs (and paid vacations). This auto reply (in my opinion) says several things to clients about this person — and by extension — his company. Don’t bother me when I am on vacation. Just because you are the client doesn’t give you special privileges. We have no balance between business and personal lives at this company. My family takes a back seat to work, most of the time. Your need can wait till I get back (unless you mark it really, really urgent). Then it might get handled — if you are lucky. My company endorses my position on this by virtue of the continued existence of this auto reply. It is a good thing to take a break from work. In fact, good clients understand this, and are generally willing to wait until after a vacation for a resolution to their needs. However, a vacation is not a “right” to ignore a client — or a colleague for that matter.
David Specht Jr. President of Specht Newspapers, Inc. Read his blog about leadership at www.DavidASpecht.com He may be reached via email at dspecht@bossierpress.com.
Such a brazen attitude, like the one illustrated here, can damage or destroy a relationship. Every time we touch a client or colleague, we either build up our relationship, or damage it. Emails (even auto responders) are but one way to “touch.” However, they still carry the building and/or destroying power of other forms of communications. Be sure you are careful when you use them — even if you are on vacation.
Emergencies Emergencies ca cann hhappen appen aanytime, ny time, aanywhere ny where A Are re Yo Y Your our Medical Medical Records Records Available? Av Available? An An electronic electronic health health record, r e c o r d, or or EHR, EHR, ensures ensures that that your your medical medical information information is is quickly quickly and and securely securely accessible accessible tto o you doctors. you aand nd your your d octors.
WORKING TOGETHER FOR A HE ALTHIER STATE
W
Leave Me Alone?
To To learn learn more, more, talk ta l k to your your health health ccare are provider, provider, call call us us at at
225-334-9299 225 -334 -9299 or visit or v isit lhcqf.org. lhcqf.org.
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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Contents 23
Lunch Break It’s All About the Cronuts
On the Cover
21
Technology is the driving force behind the speed and growth of many businesses. One local business takes a “street-level” look at the state of technology in ShreveportBossier. See Page 15
20
All in the Family
Johnson’s Furniture working on second half-century, fourth generation
Boom or Bust Byway
GPS helps marry technology and tourism
Regulars 3 5
Leave Me Alone? Even on vacation, you are still your number one product
Technology is a Tidal Wave Just Over My Shoulder Don’t allow the convenience of technology cloud the ‘basics’
BIZ. News Online
The BIZ. website at www.bizmagsb.com is ShreveportBossier’s home for business news, updated as it happens. In addition, users can sign up for a free BIZ. Daily Report to keep up with BIZ. news from the comfort of their Inbox.
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In Search of New Cheese
11
Productivity Hacks
13
‘Cloud’s’ the Limit
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Dave On Small Business
Want to advertise? http://bizmagsb.com/adrates/ Volume 5, Number 4 | ©Copyright 2014 by Specht Newspapers, Inc. All rights reserved. BIZ. is published each month by Specht Newspapers, Inc. at 4250 Viking Drive, Bossier City, LA 71111. Telephone (318) 747-7900. Information in this publication is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed.
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Biz. Magazine • July 2014
Old book has relevance for business today
Technology can help you do what you do better and faster
Software moving from physical product to more of a paid service
Either You’re In or Out
Win-Win Powertools
Tools You Can Use When it comes to winning in Business, it helps to have the right “tools” for the job.
Technology is a Tidal Wave Just Over My Shoulder
O
Don’t allow the convenience of technology to cloud ‘basics’ nce again, I’m challenged by BIZ Publisher, David Specht with another important topic. After all, I’m usually the old guy in the room. I remember my first pager and my responding calls on a pay phone. I remember marveling when I saw my first fax machine and the size of my first office computer. While you roll your eyes, I’m not totally tech-less. I do have a laptop computer and a smart phone. I use them both plus several apps…when I’m forced to. I have learned several programs that are required by my career. I can produce an effective PowerPoint presentation in short order and type out these articles with accuracy and speed. For years, I have had a menacing vision of technology. Technology is a tidal wave that never ends. It roars over my shoulder as I race down the business shore-line. It’s relentless. As a Baby-boomer however, I’m determined to persevere and be successful despite the constant changes and so-called advances in technology. Don’t get me wrong, I’m sure they are great. You see, I
also remember liquid paper, carbon paper, pay phones and card files. Most everything is easier and faster because of technology. Technology is a terrific assistant! BUT, I haven’t forgotten who brought me to the dance. The basics…the fundamentals…a relationship…listening…communicating… .caring…hard work….eye contact… and many more. I know that success is based on those fundamentals. I coach business people to employ the basics. I wrote two books, filled them with stories and quotes about the basics. If I were a football coach, I would be assigned to tackling and blocking. I would be the guy calling for more enthusiasm and passion. I would preach about understanding the communication process and the importance of body-language and tone. I’d be the guy training folks how to listen and the benefits of active listening and communicating. I’d be repeating “It’s all about the customer or client.” I’d be talking about “Raving Fan” service to build customer loyalty. The “Life-time Value” of a customer would be a repeated message. Smiling at the phone…as crazy as it sounds…would be on the agenda. Of course, I would preach the Three “P’s” of Planning, Preparing and Practice. I would demand that we never practice on the customer. Expert product knowledge would be expected.
Jerry Frentress Speaker & Coach, Win-Win Power(ful) Tools for Sales, Service and Employee Interviewing. Website: www.WinWinPowerTools.com. Business Facebook: www.Facebook.com/WinWinPowerTools . 453-6080 / Bossier City
Then, I would be demonstrating how technology fits in to the program…enhances…embellishes…enables and professionalizes the business and business person. While the tidal-wave is relentless, it’s brimming with new ideas, speed, facilitation and the requirement that you and I…yes, me too, embrace the opportunities and the benefits for us and the customer/client.
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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Marketing B-S (Bossier-Shreveport)
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In Search of New Cheese
Old book has relevance for business today
n our office, the book "Who Moved My Cheese?" (written by Dr. Spencer Johnson, M.D. about 15 years ago), has been a very popular read as of late. In fact, practically all of us have read the book in recent days. Many of us read the book years ago. However, this short 94 page book is a timeless work and is still relevant today for anyone in the business world.
Randy Brown
Advertising/Marketing Guru He is the Advertising Director for Bossier Newspaper Publishing Company, Inc., publishers of the Bossier Press-Tribune and BIZ. Magazine Randy may be reached at rbrown@bossierpress.com
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Biz. Magazine • July 2014
The book is a hypothetical story about four mice (“Sniff” and “Scurry”) and (“Hem” and “Haw”). Of course, they have cheese as their main agenda item for each and every day. In the beginning, they searched and discovered a seemingly endless supply of cheese in the maze. Life was great! Eventually, the cheese ran out. “Sniff” and “Scurry” set out in search of new cheese, but “Hem” and “Haw” stayed around and grieved over the fact that the cheese was no longer there. In our lives, this hypothetical scenario paints
a very realistic picture. To be sure, change is going to happen whether we like it or not. When an opportunity or business situation runs its course and a traditionally dependable revenue stream or business activity no longer exists or has taken a different form, how eager are we to make a move? One thing is for sure, if we do not change or seek new opportunities, what happens to us is not going to be a positive experience. The modern technological world in which we live creates rapid change. In short, we must keep up or be left behind. However, technology can also create tremendous opportunity. All opportunities have a cost. By definition, opportunity cost is the cost of a foregone opportunity. In other words, a cost associated with letting an opportunity pass you by because you did not move fast enough, elected to go in another direction or, did nothing at all! Essentially, someone moved your cheese and you did not set out in search of new
cheese. So, when your cheese gets moved (and it definitely will), seize the day! Chase new cheese!
ONE COMMUNITY ONE COMMITMENT Deep Roots Make A Difference FOR A CENTURY, COOK YANCEY KING & GALLOWAY has been a part of this community. We’re invested in Shreveport-Bossier, and even though we serve clients across the nation, it all comes down to where we started-right here. As the largest law firm based in North Louisiana, we have a strong tradition of loyalty, client retention, and success. BERNARD S. JOHNSON, President
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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Biz Tools
Come See BIZ. Live!
App of the Month Survey Monkey
While not oďŹƒcially an App (but they do have one), Survey Monkey the world's leading provider of web-based survey solutions, trusted by millions of companies, organizations and individuals alike to gather the insights they need to make more informed decisions. Users can sign up at www.SurveyMonkey.com
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Biz. Magazine • July 2014
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Do Something The speed of business is ever increasing. The successful business leader stays on top of the tools and information to help his company grow.
Listen Up
Podcast of the Month Christ Ducker’s New Business Podcast. Chris C. Ducker, serial entrepreneur, outsourcing expert, international speaker, author and small business marketing coach helps startup, as well as established entrepreneurs to catapult their small business into the 21st century by utilizing 'new business' marketing, tips and growth strategies such as blogging, online video, podcasting, outsourcing and working with virtual assistants, social media and much, much more!
On the BIZ. Tools Podcast This Month: Higher Education Helping Business Why a Chamber of Commerce?
Last Month Opportunity Bubbles About the BIZ. Breakfast Listen to the BIZ. Tools Podcast at: boztoolspodcast.com
#WorthFollowing @JerryFrentress @salespowertips @leaderchat @garyvee @jonacuff
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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Put us to work for you.
While LCI Workers’ Comp has never loosened a single lug nut, we have worked alongside local business owners for more than 25 years—providing expert guidance, exceptional service and free training programs like QuickBooksTM , online marketing, and safety education all across the state. :: lciwc.com :: 985-612-1230 10 Biz. Magazine • July 2014
UnCommon Sense Marketing
Productivity Hacks
D
Technology can help you do what you do better and faster
Amy Kinnaird
Marketing Strategist Trainer and Speaker With over 35 years experience in marketing and training, Amy helps business owners put together the right plan. If you struggle with your marketing and don’t know where to start… If what you used to do for marketing isn’t working anymore…If it’s time to get clear about your business and come up with a good plan…call Amy at 318-795-0520 or visit her website: www.UnCommonSenseMarketing.com
oes it seem that technology just makes us busier and less productive? We're gadget crazy. You may have a computer at home and at the office, maybe a laptop, a tablet or iPad, plus a smart phone. And of course every day more apps and software tools are released, enticing us with all the cool things they can do. The question you may be asking is, "Where do I start? What are some productivity tools that will help make my work life simpler?"
“notebooks” are accessible from any computer or mobile device. In fact, I started this article in Evernote on my phone while waiting for a client. Then, when I got back to the office, I opened up Evernote on my desktop and continued writing. It was there waiting for me. A definite keeper.
ticipate.
PDF995.com – a tool that easily creates a PDF version of your documents. You need this or something similar like CutePdf.com.
Here are some great tools to investigate. Some are free and some have an optional fee for expanded functionality.
TimeTrade.com – an online appointment scheduler tool that allows others to book an appointment based off of your calendar availability. No more phone or email tag!
SnagIt and Camtasia – both are purchased from TechSmith.com. I use SnagIt for screen captures, cropping and resizing photos and graphics. Camtasia is a way to edit videos and audio. You might look into Jing for a slimmed down free version.
Evernote.com – an extremely popular app that at its core is a document creation and handling tool. I use this for taking notes, writing up documents, and adding photos or a webpage I want to save. But it does so much more! My
SurveyMonkey.com – use this to get feedback from a group. You create a simple survey with multiple kinds of questions; it generates a URL that you can email to others asking them to par-
PicMonkey.com and Canva.com – use one or both of these to easily create custom graphics for social media. Take your own photo and crop or resize it, add designs, text, or more to enhance it. They make you look like a wiz!
Audacity.Sourceforge.net is free software for recording and editing audios. There is so much cool stuff available on the internet for free or low cost. Try a few of these apps or share with your support staff. Make work easier!
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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12 Biz. Magazine • July 2014
Business Development
File Photo
‘Cloud’s’ the Limit
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Software moving from physical product to more of a paid service
y favorite trend in technology over the past year or so is “software as a service.” Instead of having to buy physical copies of software and worry about keeping them updated or rationing your workstation’s memory, many useful programs are now available as a subscription online. The ones I use most in my business (video production/animation/social media) are Adobe’s Creative Cloud and Autodesk’s Maya. From Autodesk, I get a powerful software for which I couldn’t afford the full price of a perpetual commercial license. Autodesk still offers the traditional sale of a license, where you can receive a disk in the mail with the software to install and it is yours forever. Adobe has taken things a step further and eliminated perpetual license sales. The field of digital media is so general, and the expectations of the creative pros who create content can be so vague, it’s a huge safety net to have access to all of Adobe’s programs, instead of having to pick a bundle and hoping that I have all the software I’ll need to finish my clients’ projects. If I ever come to my senses and start using QuickBooks, you can bet I’ll use their subscription plan rather than buying the software, too. Cloud storage is another great service and you can get it from many familiar names or from a variety of startups. Many companies offer free cloud storage (up to a point –companies have different levels of storage at which they start charging fees). The big benefits of cloud storage are (1) being able to access your files anywhere you can get internet connectivity and (2) the scalability of service. Most cloud storage companies are more than happy to let you switch service tiers without lots of additional fees. Just make sure you ask the provider before you sign on whether their interface supports your computers’ and other devices’ operating systems. Another benefit of having your software or data storage as a service is the duplicity. The providers make it easy to have backups that are nowhere near your facility, so even if a natural disaster destroys your files or devices, you’ll still be able to log back in, probably right from where you left off, as soon as you’re connected to the internet again.
Jill Macchiaverna Jill is Publicity Chair, Business Development Connection for the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce.
Finally, I like to think “software as a service” is sustainable. In the age of free information, it can be really hard to get paid for skills and knowledge. What a smart business model, to create stable revenue streams to continue to pay talented designers and programmers to come up with more powerful apps to streamline our workflows. July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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Business Etiquette
True or False?
T
A little test on business etiquette and the use of technology echnology tools for communication have become as much a part of our lives as eating. And, just like eating, some people do it well and others, well, use your experiences to fill in the blank. If we remember that the overall purpose of etiquette is to be respectful and considerate of other people, then figuring out the right thing to do is easy. Test your smart phone/dining knowledge. Questions are either true or false.
Since we all know how important it is to stay connected, it is okay to reply to messages while you are visiting with someone else. n At lunch, it is polite to place your smart phone on the dining table if it is in silent mode. n If a call will be very quick, it is acceptable to take it during a meeting or luncheon. n While in restaurants, it is best to take the conversation to the restroom where it won’t disturb other people. n It is okay to use your smart tablet on the table during a business luncheon meeting.
Answers The live person in front of you has precedence. Ignoring them to respond to your phone tells her/him that they are of little value to you. That won’t get you new contacts, business, or favors. If you are expecting an important communication, tell them in advance and ask their permission to respond. Yuck. When was the last time you washed your phone? At a nice restaurant, the tablecloth and all items on the table are clean and waiting for your food. Personal paraphernalia such as purses, phones, keys, etc. have no place on the table. Refer to answer #1 above. My favorite crazy example of this is a person answering their phone and whispering “I can’t take your call right now.” Excuse yourself, answer the call away from the table, ask them to hold for a moment, and go outside for the conversation. Do you really want the person on the other end of the phone to hear the bathroom noises? Are the other people in the bathroom comfortable with noises being projected to whomever? Take the call outside or in the lobby area. Maybe. What do you think? To see if you got it right, e-mail me at TH@BusinessInteractions.NET.
Teri Haynes Owner of Business Interactions, LLC Employee trainer and business etiquette coach www.BusinessInteractions.Net
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Keep in mind, the people in front of you are more important than people wanting your attention via email, messaging, or other methods. The communication priority, from greater to lesser precedence is: face to face, video-conference/Skype, telephone/cellphone, messaging.
Cover Story
STORY BY Sean Green
Street-Level
Technology
Connection is key to growth in Shreveport-Bossier In the Shreveport-Bossier technology industry, it all comes down to connections. Whether it’s actual connectivity to lightning-fast Internet or developers meeting the right people, without connection, nothing goes anywhere. When examining a burgeoning industry in northwest Louisiana, one that could reap huge dividends in terms of dollars and prestige, it’s best to get a street-level look at what’s really happening. The view from a company toiling in the trenches day-in and day-out. Enter the Shreveport-based custom software and website developers Synapse Development Group. “We do a lot of mobile development — nearly every software package or custom software application we write has a mobile version of the software, either for the iPhone/iPad or Android,” explained Randall Ache, Founder and Creative Technologist of Synapse. Their more than a decade of experience in the Shreveport-Bossier technology industry has taught Synapse several lessons. These range from utilizing the local infrastructure effectively and producing unique, quality systems to raise the profile of the technology industry to realizing the challenges of said industry. And speaking of challenges, Randall said the biggest
is connecting with talent. “One of the major local challenges is finding great employees with a skill set that is required to make good products and software development. Generally those employees that have those skill sets are going to bigger cities, such as Dallas or Austin and even now New Orleans, because they are being offered much higher salaries than in this area.” He notes that in today’s world, the technology infrastructure limitations for businesses can be overcome, especially when it comes to connecting with team members and potential clients. “We use different online tools for collaborating together without actually having to sit in front of each other or be in the same geographic location,” said Randall. “Our bandwidth connectivity in the area has gotten a lot better over the last five years. Generally, the Internet is not that big of a deal anymore and geographic location has become a lot less of an issue because more companies are way more accepting of the online collaborative tools.” But far from throwing his hands up in despair, Randall believes in the potential of this industry and says realizing it comes down to finding investors in new
software ideas and connecting them with local companies who can make those ideas come to fruition. And he said the clearing house for these types of developments is already on the ground. “We have a great incubator for small software companies with CoHab here,” he said. “I would like to see it funded better because what seems to be happening is we have all these competing incubators opening up and they are technically competing over the same funds or grants for the area.” Randall says the still burgeoning industry has a huge potential to create a game-changing app for what is, and has been, the major money generator of northwest Louisiana. “There are so many oil and natural gas companies here. We are in a great position to develop a fantastic app for the oil and natural gas industry that can either speed it up or make things cheaper and more reliable,” he noted. Moving from the current industry giant to what many hope as the future of NWLA, Randall has good news concerning the health of the local tech industry. He explains that goods things can only follow as business connections grow within our market.
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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Technology Marketplace
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Essential Technology
et’s say you’re about to open your own business and want the essential technology for your customers and employees. What would that be? Chris Rondeau, director of security for division of technology, engineering, and mathematics at Bossier Parish Community College, said a major need, which is now bordering on expectation, for customers is open wi-fi. “In our culture it’s expected that a restaurant or retail will offer that. But that presents a security risk and we have to decide if we want to offer it, because it is a draw for people,” he said. Beyond just getting Internet access and a router to provide the wi-fi, businesses have to provide a secure network. “You don’t want your customers info flowing through same channel as yours,” said Rondeau. “With minimal education, someone can go into a restaurant and if a customer is doing bank transactions, they can get your bank info off the wi-fi connection.”
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Employees, Consumers expect more from businesses He cited a proactive step taken by the Counter Culture restaurant on East Texas Street in Bossier City to set up two different networks. The need for security also reaches into employees. He notes a BYOD (bring your own device) policy — access to company network through a personal tablet, cellphone or computer — as creating a potential headache for employers. “Do we allow others to connect to the network and how do we govern what’s going on? Some companies have written user agreements that determine if employees use their own device, those companies have the right to view what the private devices were used for,” explained Rondeau. Beyond security needs and access availability, he wants businesses to take into account the cost of installing and providing the network. He notes that for a small business, the cost would be scaled down to a monthly fee from a service provider and a capable router. But for an institution like BPCC, that cost for access
“In our culture it’s expected that a restaurant or retail will offer that. But that presents a security risk and we have to decide if we want to offer it, because it is a draw for people.
points and infrastructure balloons to $100,000. “You need to ask yourself, ‘I am willing to put this much money into it?’” When it comes to hardware, the needs and type will vary on size of business. “If you’re dealing with a McDonald’s-
size business, you can go pick up a router off the shelf from Best Buy.” He notes larger businesses will need higher traffic routers, which can be ordered offline from tech companies such as CISCO. As for employee hardware, the current debate is tablets vs. computers. And it depends on the business. Rondeau says a regular desk job where you have regular customer contact and paperwork, a laptop is better than a tablet due to functionality and even apps capability. He explains if there will be on the go inventory or orders, you need the connectivity that a tablet can offer. Lastly, if you have employees dealing with outside sales or customer support, Rondeau says many will expect a company-provided cell phone. “Sometimes it’s dependent on the position within the company, but it would be courteous that you be provided with a device or a (monthly stipend).”
Business news you can’t wait to read.
Business news is happening all the time in Shreveport-Bossier. And nothing keeps you in the loop better than the BIZ. Daily Report. Get the latest by email each day. Sign up for FREE at bizmagsb.com.
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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@ CoHab
Mentoring
T
bounce around some issues or ideas you are scratching your head about? Cosolve them with Cohab's member-to-member program held every Thursday at noon for the challenges you're facing in your business.
CoHab offers educational programming all summer
he summer educational programs at CoHab are off and running. As a place where business experts and local entrepreneurs come together to work, plan and troubleshoot challenges, mentoring is at the core of what CoHab does, and they are happy to help you find the right fit for you and your business from our Board and network of local professionals. The week-long programming offers something for everyone along the entire path of owning or starting a business in Shreveport-Bossier. From adapting with the "Summer of Lean" and the Business Legal Series every Tuesday, to solving business problems with Cosolve and giving that same type of advice to new local start ups with 1 Million Cups, CoHab has a program that can help you make the most of your summer.
tory can use to make their companies stronger and more flexible to adapt to changing markets with Cohab and Twin Engine Labs. Classes are plug-and-play, so you don't have to attend all of the classes to use or understand the information in the next session. Join when you're able and watch your business grow.
Business Legal Series From "What do I need to so to start my business?" to" How do I keep my ideas safe?" - Every business owner faces legal questions. Join Partners and Associates from Kean Miller LLP at Cohab as they present information on multiple legal topics that are important for new and growing businesses. Cohab's Summer Legal Series will run every other Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. through August 5.
Summer of Lean Class Series Every other Tuesday at 11:30 a.m., explore hands on techniques that every business from concept to hundred-year his-
1 Million Cups 1 Million Cups is a simple way to engage entrepreneurs by offering an opportunity to present their startups to a diverse audience of mentors, advisors, and other entrepreneurs every Wednesday at 9 a.m. Presenters prepare a six-minute educational presentation and engage in 20 minutes of feedback and questioning after they present. Entrepreneurs gain insight into possible ways they can improve their businesses, gather real-time feedback, connect with a community that truly cares about their progress and walk away feeling like they have advanced their business.
BIZ Breakfast Running and/or starting a business can be hectic, so gain some insight and perspective every Friday morning with BIZ. Breakfast at 8:30 a.m. Join CoHab and BIZ. Magazine President David Specht and Vice President Sean Green as they host a networking and educational session in a laid back environment. Light snacks and coffee will be available.
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From the Bossier Chamber
Connecting for Commerce How Louisiana is using tech for business “Oh, just ‘Google it’”. Have you ever heard that phrase in a conversation before? I’m betting the answer is yes. In 2006, Miriam Webster went as far as to define the Google company name as a verb. Technology is critical for growth in any industry. As our society increases technological demands, our dependence on the ability to connect increases. We can’t function without connectivity. It’s the heartbeat of commerce. Availability is important, but speed is the key when we look at it from an economic standpoint. Other parts of the state have seen major economic growth which can be traced back to their success in solving the issues of both availability and speed. According to an article in Site Selection Magazine, “Corporate site selectors expect broadband. It is not a perk or special benefit. For communities, it is a critical piece of infrastructure for attracting new capital investment. Specifically, a company is likely to require a direct fiber connection and redundancy.” The business community understands the importance of this critical piece of infrastructure as a means to help position our region as a major contender for companies looking to invest. So, how are sectors leveraging technology for economic gain? eCommerce and Small Business – More and more small businesses are going mobile. A recent study from Statistia revealed that “Mobile commerce is an exciting trend to watch in terms of ecommerce statistics, considering the popularity and widespread use of smartphones and growing usage of tablets. In 2013, US mobile commerce revenue amounted to more than 38 billion US dollars.” Moving beyond conversations and into commerce, many retail stores have capitalized on the mobile movement. Uptown Cheapskate is a local boutique which sells a good portion of their merchandise via Face Book. Without the connectivity and security to process orders online their ability to capitalize on the mobile movement would be gone. Healthcare and Technology – The use of technology within this industry is a great example of how we can improve efficiency and cut the cost of care. Although it seems that every time we turn around there is more news about health care legislation, in reference to technology, this complex legislation actually provides incentives to providers who utilize Electronic Health Records or otherwise known as EHR. Through Meaningful Use, EHR are not just used as a one sided way to process patient information, but rather provide many benefits to both patients and providers. Some of the benefits include more active, engaged patients and a higher value of care delivered because of the increased and shared information. Patients who have multiple providers now have a complete medical history that travels with them, eliminating duplicated tests and increasing the continuum of care. Higher Education – The Louisiana Optical Network Initiative (LONI) was established to fund and manage a US$40-million fiber network, providing access to world-class supercomputer resources and allowing the state to join the growing community that constitutes the National LambdaRail (NLR). This network allows state universities and research institutions the availability to collaborate and share data. Investments in connectivity with respect to higher education are allowing our state to produce a talented, well-trained workforce. All of these examples are working together to sustain our economy. The Bossier Chamber of Commerce challenges our local leaders and officials to keep the priority of fiber and broadband infrastructure top of mind in order to help Northwest Louisiana continue to remain economically competitive.
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NWLA Tourism
STORY BY Chris Jay
Photo Courtesy of the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau
Boom or Bust Byway
T
GPS helps marry technology and tourism here may be no other industry that stands as much to gain from recent technological advances as the tourism and hospitality industry. From smartphone apps to wearable technology, travelers are a tech-savvy bunch who are quick to embrace new tools that make their travel experiences more enjoyable and rewarding. In 2012, the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau, utilizing a matching grant provided by the Federal Highway Transportation Enhancement Grant program, introduced the Boom or Bust Byway, a 130-mile scenic byway route that passes through parts of Caddo, Bossier, Webster and Claiborne parishes. In the past, scenic byways have largely consisted of historic routes marked by signage and, occasionally, interpretive road-
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side kiosks or placards. The Boom or Bust Byway is representative of a more modern take on the concept of a scenic byway. The route’s historic significance is explained and enhanced by a GPS-enabled, guided multimedia tour that can be downloaded as a smartphone app or picked up, in the form of a GPS Ranger® device, at select visitor centers in northern Louisiana. The app is available as a free download in the iTunes store and in Google Play. The GPS Ranger® device may be checked out locally at the Downtown Shreveport Visitor Venter located at 629 Spring Street. Users who download the app or check out the device are able to watch informational, entertaining video clips and listen to audio about the places they encounter along the
scenic byway. GPS-enabled technology is able to detect the user’s location, which triggers content relevant to that location. A visitor can, for example, learn the story of Oil City’s “boomtown” days while driving past oil fields on the way into the city. Local waterways and outdoor recreation, local cuisine, historic attractions and famous natives are a few of the things that are featured in the multimedia tour content. In January, the Boom or Bust Byway website was launched at boomorbustbyway.com. A great source of information on smaller communities like Gilliam, Sarepta and Homer, the site has raised the profile of the new byway. “The website makes it easier for adventurists to easily access byway information, while exploring and familiarizing themselves with the
things they can see and do before their journey even begins,” said Stacy Brown, president of the Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. Recently, the Boom or Bust Byway was named a “Southern Travel Treasure” by AAA Southern Traveler magazine. This award recognizes “special places and events in the magazine’s circulation area.” The magazine is read by more than 400,000 frequent travelers. National Geographic also included the Boom or Bust Byway in a new website collecting info on the Gulf States. As a new generation of travelers comes of age, destination marketing organizations must continue to employ emerging technology - or risk being left behind.
BIZ Spotlight
All in A the Family
Johnson’s Furniture working on second half-century, fourth generation
fter almost 51 years serving Shreveport-Bossier, Johnson’s Furniture is in its third and fourth generations of family ownership and involvement. Starting from a yard sale on Barksdale Boulevard in Bossier City back in 1963, the small business, selling homemade furniture to locals, has grown into a thriving furniture business with sprawling showrooms and even spreading to Mexico to open new production factories for its new Vintage Furniture product line. “With our production capabilities, if we see something we like, we can make it. I spend a lot of time with my camera/cell phone constantly taking photos of all different types of furniture products that I know we can make...and sell. Again, if we see something we like, we can make it,” said Chris Johnson, President of Vintage Furniture, LLC. The building of the business began in 1963 with Ruby Johnson's dream to own a furniture store. She and her oldest son, Richard, took $80 cash, several pieces of used furniture, and their vision to make that dream come true. The business opened in a small shotgun house on Barksdale Boulevard in late September 1963 as R&R Furniture. A.H. "Hobby" Johnson pitched in by loaning his old pick-up truck for deliveries. Hobby, who had been in the construction business, helped with
additions to the building in 1965 and again in 1967. He later became a full time partner in the business. The younger brothers, Jim and Bruce, were also very active in the success of the store, Jim joined the business in 1970 after his service in the U.S. Navy. Bruce then began helping as a young teenager. In the early '70's the business was prospering and the decision was made to purchase the present site. The new building was completed in January 1975 and contained 22,500 square feet in its showroom and warehouse. In the late '80's the third generation joined the business. Howard, Richard's Son, and Chris, Jim's son, joined. Now, Chris’ sons Stillman, General Manager of Johnson’s Furniture, and Zach, Johnson’s Furniture salesman, are taking over to keep Johnson’s Furniture a family tradition. The business continues to grow with a showroom and warehouse of over 72,00 square feet at the foot of the Shreveport-Barksdale Bridge. Chris said what he’s learned about his success in doing business in Shreveport-Bossier comes down to providing customers with a great experience that creates positive word of mouth. “This is a small town and a lot can be said by your reputation in taking care of people. That’s exactly what has worked for the Johnson’s Family — making sure
we’re fair and doing right by our neighbor, even if it’s not in furniture,” said Chris. Much has changed in the Johnson's Furniture story but honesty and giving the customer a fair price will never change. That essentially comes down to the fact that when people walk through the door, they know what they’re getting. “Three words: value, truth, and fairness. We give those to every person who walks through the door, it doesn’t matter if you’re my best customer or someone who just moved here. You’re going to get the best value, you’ll know what to expect, and we won’t move the bar,” said Stillman. In addition to providing excellent value and fairness to their community, Chris has some sage words for local business leaders — pick a steady goal and persevere. “Pick where you want to be and stay that course. Don’t be pulled by advice from other people, immediate changes in the market, or pressure from the strains of doing business,. Stay your course and head that way, everyday,” said Chris. “Don’t change your goal, don’t make it easier on yourself, and then reward yourself when you reach that goal.”
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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Dave Says — On Business Either You’re In or Out Dear Dave, I have an idea for a small business I think is needed in my area. How do you feel about me keeping my current, high-paying job, and hiring a full-time manager to handle the day-to-day operations while I oversee things and handle accounting? If it doesn’t break even or better, I’ll just close it down. I look at it as being like buying or selling real estate while keeping a fulltime job. Ken Dear Ken, Really, this idea isn’t a lot like real estate. Real estate will run itself, for the most part, once you find a tenant. Also, the number of hours you’d have to put into selling real estate on the side is nothing like the time you’d expend getting a new business off the ground. To be honest, I don’t think there’s a high likelihood of success using this model. Unless, of course, you’re willing to devote 40 to 50 hours a week to this new business, in addition to the time you spend at your current job. You’d have a better chance of making it work if you bought an existing business with a manager already in place. That way, at least you wouldn’t have to be so entrepreneurial and constantly involved in things like adjusting the business model, dealing with customers and checking prices. The secret ingredient to your small business success is you. And the problem with your plan is that you are only a small part of the equation. You are the ideas, the passion and the energy. You are the enthusiasm and the smile that greets the customers. Chains and franchises try to train this kind of stuff into people, but when something’s your baby, it’s really your baby. You’re going do your best to grow it properly, and you’re going to worry over it and treat it almost like it’s your very own child.
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I’m sorry, Ken. I just don’t like this plan. If your idea is to swing by once in a while, eyeball things and crunch a few numbers, then you’d probably do more good just giving the money you’d invest in the venture to charity. —Dave
Tithing on a business? Dear Dave, I run a small business, and I’m a Christian. Do you think businesses should tithe? Beth Dear Beth, To the best of my knowledge, the Bible does not address the topic of businesses tithing. It does, however, address tithing by individuals.
Ca Callll No Noww
2222-9446 22-9446
As an evangelical Christian, I don’t give a tenth of my business gross or net until the money comes home. When that happens—meaning it’s profit that I’m going to pay taxes on, or it’s salaried income out of my business—I tithe on the profits.
owned owned and and ooperated perated in Shr Shreveport eveport since 194 19488
Dave Ramsey Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business. He’s authored four New York Times best-selling books: Financial Peace, More Than Enough, The Total Money Makeover and EntreLeadership. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 6 million listeners each week on more than 500 radio stations. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.
22 Biz. Magazine • July 2014
So I wouldn’t tell you there’s biblical instruction to give a tenth of your business. I think the bigger question is this: Is giving ever a bad idea? I don’t think so, unless you take it to the point of being irresponsible and putting your business or family at risk. —Dave
C
P M t m
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Lunch Break
Chris Jay reviews local food every Tuesday at www.20x49.com.
Yes, It Is That Good
S
The Cronut is worth the trip to Sevendipity taking a swig from a gigantic can of Red Bull. I am guessing that this is not his first can of Red Bull today. “If I could be the first person in Louisiana to do cronuts at their peak…”
itting alone at an enormous table in the back of his restaurant, the recently-relocated Sevendipity Café at 3030 Creswell Avenue in Shreveport, chef/owner Scott Roebuck is describing his restaurant’s newest menu item.
Chris Jay Public Relations and Social Media Manager, Shreveport Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. He is a monthly contributor to Biz. Magazine. He may be reached via email at cjay@sbctb.org.
“It’s part croissant, part doughnut. It’s delicate, it’s flaky. It’s almost like a croissant that dissolves in your mouth; it’s cotton candy-ish.” Roebuck is describing the cronut, a labor-intensive pastry that was invented in New York City in 2013, and has since become one of the biggest food trends in recent years.TIME named it “One of the 25 Best Inventions of 2013.” High-end bakeries in the Dallas area sell 15,000 or more cronuts a day (see this dramatically titled article from Eater Dallas, “Cronut Impostors Spread Across the Metroplex”), with patrons standing in line for two hours or more. My research didn’t turn up any bakeries or restaurants anywhere in Louisiana serving cronuts. That’s probably because serving cronuts is in-
His voice trails off and together, we imagine living in a Louisiana with cronuts.
sane. “From start to finish, they take 12 hours to make,” Roebuck said, as if that were not a completely outrageous amount of time to spend folding pastry. “They’re right up my alley: they’re technical, they’re hard. I’ve been working on this recipe for three months. I’ve probably made 100 or more batches in that time. That’s a lot of time for a damned donut.”
Why invest all of that time, then? “This could put us on the map,” Roebuck said,
According to Roebuck, Sevendipity Café will begin selling the popular pastries on the morning of Saturday, May 17. A price has not been decided upon (I’m writing this at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 16, by the way), and details regarding toppings/flavors, etc. are also in the works. Before we wrapped things up, I asked: If you put all of that work into crafting and folding the pastry layers, what do you do with the doughnut holes? “I’ve been waiting for you to ask that,” he said, pausing for dramatic effect. “Cronut beignets!” My wife and I were lucky enough, along with a few other patrons during tonight’s dinner service, to sample both the cronuts and the cronut beignets. They are spectacular. See you in
July 2014 • Biz. Magazine
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