Monday, February 28, 2011

Innovation - It Starts From Within



We hear the word thrown around in business all the time. “We’re innovators; Innovation is key to our growth; innovation is what our business is all about.” The list goes on. I wonder how many companies out there have innovation as part of their mission statement, positioning statement or core corporate mantra? My guess is it’s a LOT!

In today’s rapidly changing world, innovation is key to being competitive. Without innovation, companies and their products quickly become relics of the past – the world keeps turning folks and with it a world of change with every spin.
Despite the never-ending need to innovate on the product side and a robust investment in product innovation and research and development, many companies neglect the innovation on the talent side and with it, leaders are hesitant to innovate from the inside out.

Fear of change results in a state of paralysis and again…if you’re not moving forward, you’re moving backward. Technology, culture, capital, people, and the way they all work together are constantly changing, so if your team isn’t innovating on both a personal and cultural level, you can be assured others are, and in the process, leaving your place in the market, in the dust.

Innovation begins at the personal level - call it your spirit, your heart, your soul or whatever else works for you – but change needs to happen from within before it can be rolled out to a department, an organization, or an industry. And sometimes the most dramatic innovations that positively affect companies aren’t on the product or service side at all, but are aspects addressing the more intangible, such as talent, marketing, process, or culture.


As human beings we must adapt to change – it’s an inherent force of nature – as our environment changes, so must we in order to best thrive in our surroundings. Change isn’t always pleasant, nor is it always a fearless process of flawless execution. Quite often it’s scary, dubious, unsettling and packed full of ‘what-ifs’. But then isn’t that core to all challenges in life? Imagine a life without challenge and without personal growth and innovation…pretty boring stuff.

What all this comes down to is defining innovation and how it fits into your personal world and your company’s culture. Think about innovation differently. Innovate on the very definition of the word and through this process you’ll find personal and professional windows of opportunity for innovation that set you and your company apart from the pack.

Change – it’s a good thing. Well Martha said that until she found herself in a jail cell.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

11 Predictions 11 Months in 2011





Since I already missed the first month of 2011, I thought I'd take an 11.11.11 approach to my predictions this year...

Here goes...

11.11.11


11 Predictions Over 11 Months in 2011.

In no particular order and based entirely on my channeling of that creepy ghost in Scrooge – I have seen the future and it looks like this…


1. Google Gets Into the Music Business

This comes first as I know people in the music business who got drafted by the Search Goliath. Rock on.

2. Facebook Places Kills Foursquare

I’m sorry but why would any advertiser invest in a still-niche platform like Foursquare when you have 500M peeps on Facebook who can’t resist to tell the world they’re having a freaking latte at Starbucks. Foursquare=DeepSix

3. MySpace Implosion Continues

Their focus on music and entertainment was a brilliant move…that they should have done 7 years ago. Too late, Mr. Murdoch, yo space just ain’t cool no mo.

4. Microsoft Shutters Zune

I would consider it a mercy killing. Does ANYONE other than Microsoft peeps subscribe to this brick and bits outfit?

5. Privacy Issues Cripple Behavioral Targeting Companies

If the FCC and privacy advocates have their way they’re going to squash the Big Brother precision delivery of ad targeting to our every keystroke and mouse click and with it, billions of dollars in ad spends and thousands of jobs.

6. Apps Spaces Get a Housecleaning

Average usage of apps are just 3 times once they’re downloaded and Apple says there are over 100,000 iPhone apps of which about 100 are useful. Recent studies show 27% of apps are only used once after being downloaded. Time for a housecleaning. Expect app standards to have higher bars.

7. Google Gets Into the Digital Magazine Business

If they don’t they like totally need to wear helmets on the bus.

8. Apple Flattens

Despite Verizon picking up the iPhone and the 3G dropping to $49 on AT&T - not to mention the tres-sexy iPad, a barrage of tablets and competing handsets are going to chip away at market share…add to that Mr. Jobs health issues and the crisp, juicy promise of Apple earnings calls will sour by Q4.

9. Tablets dominate

PCs will be the new desktop. Remember those?

10. Traditional Agencies Suffer Major Contraction

Oh, the overhead. Many of these agencies remind me of high-end resort casinos…opulent surroundings and full of pretty people…someone’s gotta be paying for it and it’s brand America and Mr. & Ms. Consumer. Watch more brands attach themselves to smaller, nimbler and smarter shops who take more of a consultancy role with their partners and collaborate on greatness.

11. Digital Dominates

Print shrivels, Cable TV stagnates and digital in its many forms continues to prove it is the medium – there will be no other.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

We're Hiring...

Senior Web Developer / Technical Director

FGI is looking for a Senior Web Developer / Director of Technical Services to lead our technical team and play an integral role in the growth and development of our technical skills and our clients’ success. If you thrive in a fast-paced, professional and super-fun environment then please read on…


You want an opportunity to work in a small, growing web agency that has huge potential. You’re all about diverse and interesting projects, researching industry and technology trends, delivering the best work possible and pushing the envelope on what’s possible.


This position has limitless potential and is a key component to the technology side of the agency. We’re one of the top web agencies in the area and work with great clients of all sizes. We’re fun, social and often unconventional - and we win.
Responsibilities & Skills

* You are accustomed to and/or understand an agency setting
* Motivated to work quickly and cleanly, delivering the best final product for our clients, always on time and under budget
* Not afraid to put in extra hours if a project needs it, on the same token, ping pong and beers on the days the work gets done early
* Social grace - we need a team leader that knows the value of communication and collaboration - these aren't just buzzwords, this is a major requirement for this position
* An eye for detail - you know the difference between 10 pixels and 20, and how the difference can affect a layout. You're ready to make sure your team knows this too.
* Manage Developers. Not only manage, but lead junior developers and encourage growth.
* Works with Account Managers and Project Managers on daily basis.
* Technical Documentation (Requirements, specifications, technical solutions for proposals, project handoffs, etc)
* Requirements gathering
* Solution Architect
* Client Meetings / Participate in sales pitches
* Research
* 5+ years of .Net experience
* 2+ years of PHP experience
* 5+ years of CSS, Javascript, JQuery, XHTML and other client side technologies
* Integrating with APIs
* Mobile Development
* Database Architect
* Estimating
* Experience working with a variety of CMS solutions
* eCommerce Experience
* Sitecore Certified Developer
* Testing Plan Creation and Execution
* Version Control Experience
* Hosting and Deployment Expertise
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Highly organized
* Team player
* Flexible
* Reliable to be on time to meetings and other important events
* Presentable at client meetings
* Travel: under 10% of the time

Benefits:

* Competitive Salary
* Flexible schedules
* 2 weeks Vacation
* Casual working environment
* Dog friendly
* Small company environment
* Free soda, coffee, snacks
* Free parking
* Medical, Dental, 401k
* Fun group events.
* End early on Fridays for drinks and fun

Salary: DOE
To apply, send a resume, work examples, 3 references and salary requirements to careers@fgi.com. Not including one of these items will disqualify you from the position. This is an in-house Contract-to-Hire position. Please provide both your desired hourly rate and full time salary requirements.
FGI is an equal opportunity employer
No staffing agencies, outsourcing or overseas companies.






Digital Project Manager



Description
FGI is looking for a Digital Project Manager to cultivate excellent client relationships by providing the highest quality client service, project management and end deliverable possible. Digital Project Managers are responsible for the successful execution of projects on time and on budget. They lead the development of project goals and scope, and work closely with internal teams to develop a plan for projects. Digital Project Managers facilitate the creation of comprehensive project specifications as well as create and maintain project estimates and schedules. They are responsible for managing the day-to-day details of numerous projects that differ in size, scope and resource needs.

Successful Digital Project Managers are hard-working with a fierce attention to detail, are eager to learn new things, and are passionate about interactive marketing. This position will report to the Account Director.

Responsibilities





* Inspire and lead team members throughout the entire project
* Manage workflow for assigned online/interactive projects
* Accountable for managing all aspects of project life cycle – design, strategy and execution
* Converts project specifications into detailed instructions for the project team
* Reports status and provides visibility into potential issues to management
* Performs QA / testing of all projects
* Lead a team of IA/UX Architects, Designers, Copywriters, Technical Analysts, Developers, and QA Engineers to ensure a high quality product and smooth delivery
* Develop and adhere to timeline, budget and scope
* Create and maintain schedules for all associated deliverables
* Uphold high standards of project management excellence
* Participate in client and internal meetings with authority and professionalism
* Develop project plans, resource forecasts, contracts and project specifications
* Traffic coordination – Manage tasks and workload of technical and creative teams
* Monitor time tracking to ensure goals are met, budgets are maintained and accountability is monitored.
* Up to 10% travel for client meetings

Qualifications

o A minimum of 3 - 5 years of successful web producing experience
o Superior planning and organization skills
o SCRUM / Agile experience
o Working knowledge of Internet technologies including: CSS/HTML, ASP.NET, PHP, JavaScript and CMS platforms
o Experience working with information architecture and content design teams
o Excellent communication and leadership skillsAbility to adapt to a constantly changing environment
o Ability to excel in a demanding, fast-paced workplace
o Self-motivated, detail-oriented with ability and experience to manage many projects simultaneously and maintain highly organized work while working within pressured deadlines.
o Expertise in MS Excel, Visio, Word and Project
o Understanding of industry best practices
o Bachelors Degree required
o Agency experience is preferred

Salary: DOE
To apply, send a resume, work examples, 3 references and salary requirements to careers@fgi.com. Not including one of these items will disqualify you from the position. This is an in-house Contract-to-Hire position. Please provide both your desired hourly rate and full time salary requirements.
FGI is an equal opportunity employer
No staffing agencies, outsourcing or overseas companies.

We're Hiring...

Senior Web Developer / Technical Director

FGI is looking for a Senior Web Developer / Director of Technical Services to lead our technical team and play an integral role in the growth and development of our technical skills and our clients’ success. If you thrive in a fast-paced, professional and super-fun environment then please read on…


You want an opportunity to work in a small, growing web agency that has huge potential. You’re all about diverse and interesting projects, researching industry and technology trends, delivering the best work possible and pushing the envelope on what’s possible.


This position has limitless potential and is a key component to the technology side of the agency. We’re one of the top web agencies in the area and work with great clients of all sizes. We’re fun, social and often unconventional - and we win.
Responsibilities & Skills

* You are accustomed to and/or understand an agency setting
* Motivated to work quickly and cleanly, delivering the best final product for our clients, always on time and under budget
* Not afraid to put in extra hours if a project needs it, on the same token, ping pong and beers on the days the work gets done early
* Social grace - we need a team leader that knows the value of communication and collaboration - these aren't just buzzwords, this is a major requirement for this position
* An eye for detail - you know the difference between 10 pixels and 20, and how the difference can affect a layout. You're ready to make sure your team knows this too.
* Manage Developers. Not only manage, but lead junior developers and encourage growth.
* Works with Account Managers and Project Managers on daily basis.
* Technical Documentation (Requirements, specifications, technical solutions for proposals, project handoffs, etc)
* Requirements gathering
* Solution Architect
* Client Meetings / Participate in sales pitches
* Research
* 5+ years of .Net experience
* 2+ years of PHP experience
* 5+ years of CSS, Javascript, JQuery, XHTML and other client side technologies
* Integrating with APIs
* Mobile Development
* Database Architect
* Estimating
* Experience working with a variety of CMS solutions
* eCommerce Experience
* Sitecore Certified Developer
* Testing Plan Creation and Execution
* Version Control Experience
* Hosting and Deployment Expertise
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Highly organized
* Team player
* Flexible
* Reliable to be on time to meetings and other important events
* Presentable at client meetings
* Travel: under 10% of the time

Benefits:

* Competitive Salary
* Flexible schedules
* 2 weeks Vacation
* Casual working environment
* Dog friendly
* Small company environment
* Free soda, coffee, snacks
* Free parking
* Medical, Dental, 401k
* Fun group events.
* End early on Fridays for drinks and fun

Salary: DOE
To apply, send a resume, work examples, 3 references and salary requirements to careers@fgi.com. Not including one of these items will disqualify you from the position. This is an in-house Contract-to-Hire position. Please provide both your desired hourly rate and full time salary requirements.
FGI is an equal opportunity employer
No staffing agencies, outsourcing or overseas companies.






Digital Project Manager



Description
FGI is looking for a Digital Project Manager to cultivate excellent client relationships by providing the highest quality client service, project management and end deliverable possible. Digital Project Managers are responsible for the successful execution of projects on time and on budget. They lead the development of project goals and scope, and work closely with internal teams to develop a plan for projects. Digital Project Managers facilitate the creation of comprehensive project specifications as well as create and maintain project estimates and schedules. They are responsible for managing the day-to-day details of numerous projects that differ in size, scope and resource needs.

Successful Digital Project Managers are hard-working with a fierce attention to detail, are eager to learn new things, and are passionate about interactive marketing. This position will report to the Account Director.

Responsibilities





* Inspire and lead team members throughout the entire project
* Manage workflow for assigned online/interactive projects
* Accountable for managing all aspects of project life cycle – design, strategy and execution
* Converts project specifications into detailed instructions for the project team
* Reports status and provides visibility into potential issues to management
* Performs QA / testing of all projects
* Lead a team of IA/UX Architects, Designers, Copywriters, Technical Analysts, Developers, and QA Engineers to ensure a high quality product and smooth delivery
* Develop and adhere to timeline, budget and scope
* Create and maintain schedules for all associated deliverables
* Uphold high standards of project management excellence
* Participate in client and internal meetings with authority and professionalism
* Develop project plans, resource forecasts, contracts and project specifications
* Traffic coordination – Manage tasks and workload of technical and creative teams
* Monitor time tracking to ensure goals are met, budgets are maintained and accountability is monitored.
* Up to 10% travel for client meetings

Qualifications

o A minimum of 3 - 5 years of successful web producing experience
o Superior planning and organization skills
o SCRUM / Agile experience
o Working knowledge of Internet technologies including: CSS/HTML, ASP.NET, PHP, JavaScript and CMS platforms
o Experience working with information architecture and content design teams
o Excellent communication and leadership skillsAbility to adapt to a constantly changing environment
o Ability to excel in a demanding, fast-paced workplace
o Self-motivated, detail-oriented with ability and experience to manage many projects simultaneously and maintain highly organized work while working within pressured deadlines.
o Expertise in MS Excel, Visio, Word and Project
o Understanding of industry best practices
o Bachelors Degree required
o Agency experience is preferred

Salary: DOE
To apply, send a resume, work examples, 3 references and salary requirements to careers@fgi.com. Not including one of these items will disqualify you from the position. This is an in-house Contract-to-Hire position. Please provide both your desired hourly rate and full time salary requirements.
FGI is an equal opportunity employer
No staffing agencies, outsourcing or overseas companies.