Introduce yourself and tell us about Umbrella Technologies?
I’m the co-founder and COO of Umbrella Technologies a physical security consultant and system integration firm focusing on commercial markets. We develop advanced security systems including enterprise video surveillance systems and professional access control systems that secure Facilities, People, Products and Information.
Why did you start this business and what is unique about it?
In 2004, I founded a technology company that developed patented immersive imaging panoramic surveillance cameras for commercial security. For over a decade I trained, educated and provided products and service to security installers all around the world. I started Umbrella Technologies to directly compete against my former customer base because I saw a glaring opportunity to provide a deeper level of expertise and service that was in high-demand with end-users.
What do you wish you knew before starting Umbrella Technologies?
Having expectations for people and being focused on results are not connected.
How are you marketing the business?
We are laser-focused on producing free quality content for end-users responsible for securing people and facilities. We are doing this through several mediums: Best Practices articles and guides, tutorial videos, product reviews & I just started a podcast that will be released shortly- interviewing leaders in security focusing on the truth about security, entrepreneurship, and business.
What did you learn from your biggest failure?
Not sure I can list just one but I think not having enough patience would be where I land. All of my failures are extreme assets in which I see them as the 2019 most important credentials a business owner can have but continuing to have patience even in the face of failure is just so important.
If you had one piece of advice to an entrepreneur, what would it be?
NEVER GIVE UP. Now, that being said it’s important to not have your head buried in the sand and know when to pivot or change course. There is a distinct divergence between ‘giving-up’ and changing direction. Knowing the context and producing action is what makes the difference.
What Unique Selling Points (USPs) do you offer that your competition doesn’t?
As a former technology developer, we feel our technical expertise adds compounding value to the end-user by being able to deliver integrated security solutions that scale with their businesses. Some of our competitors off solutions based on quotas with manufacturer’s and make recommendations based on bias.
Our company delivers security solutions that are based on short-term and long-term goals while incorporating security technology to act as business intelligence influencers both serving as a security platform and operational asset.
What sacrifices have you made to be a successful entrepreneur?
For me, it’s time away from my 3 children. They grow up so fast but in 12 years of being a Father- I’ve only missed 1 birthday. Clearly, that’s not the primary metric but it’s a constant recalibration. Outside of that, I’d say ‘fancy-things’. Although, I don’t really see this as a sacrifice I don’t really spend time on luxurious possessions (expensive clothing, cars, watches, etc.). I have a ton of shirts in my wardrobe that are older than my children.
What is your favorite book and why? How has it helped in your business?
How to Win at the Sport of Business by Marc Cuban. It is hands down the best book in my opinion for entrepreneurs. “The only thing you can control is an effort” This is something I constantly need to be reminded of because so many things don’t go your way and ultimately out-working your competition is the most seamless way to long-term success.
What is your future goal for Umbrella Technologies?
Sustainable growth with continuing to improve the value we bring in the execution for our clients.
What has been the most satisfying moments in business?
Seeing the growth and achievement of my employees.
Contact Details
Company Slogan: “Security Design That Delivers”
Company Short Bio:
Umbrella Technologies is a leading full-service security system integration company focusing on delivering converged open-platform solutions. Having over 15 years of code-level experience designing sophisticated end-to-end video surveillance, access control, mass notification, and intrusion protection systems- Umbrella continues to be a valued resource for fortune 500 companies and government agencies seeking security design, implementation, and managed services.
Email: info@umbrellatech.co
Website: https://umbrellatech.co
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