Mark DiPasquale and Jane Simmons, co-owners of Archimedia Solutions Group. Photo: John Drenkhahn
While everyone in the trade knows the building industry runs on cycles; small companies who don’t have the vision to plan for future slowdown will find themselves struggling to grow and remain profitable.
In its 15 year history, the Archimedia Solutions Group has continued to grow, weathering several industry downturns, without ever sacrificing service to its clients.
Recently, owners Mark DiPasquale and Jane Simmons sat down to answer some questions about their success and their recent nomination to Inc. 5000’s list of top small businesses.
Archimedia Solutions Group has been named to the Inc. 5000 list four times over the past five years. An awe-inspiring accomplishment. What does it mean to you personally to be named to the list again for 2019?
Mark: We’re not much into awards or recognition, but it does serve as an excellent way to commemorate the hard work we’ve all put in over the years. It’s also humbling to realize the faith our customers have put in us by rewarding us with their business.
Jane: I’m proud, we have a fantastic team that focuses on providing amazing services to our clients. Being recognized by our peers in the industry is humbling and is an honor.
To qualify for the Inc. 5000 list, a company must show a certain level of sales growth over four years. What would you say has been the most crucial factor that has contributed to the success of the Archimedia Solutions Group?
Mark: Our mission always has been to provide “over-the-top” service. The fact that almost all of our growth comes from referrals is a testament to the fact we are succeeding in our mission.
Jane: We had a strong business plan when we started our business and over the years have been able to grow by changing with the times, understanding our client’s needs, and providing the best service and products available. We also have a fantastic team who believe in the client first theory. They are dedicated and extremely hard working.
Technology and the building industry has changed a lot since you two first launched the company 15 years ago. How has Archimedia kept up with the changes lately?
Mark: We are continually reviewing new technology in our field and bringing the products we believe are the best of the best to our clients. We want our clients to count on us to keep them up to date with the latest and greatest.
We’ve also never been afraid of making significant investments in technology. The HP R2000 Digital Printer is a great example and puts us in the lead with digital graphics production equipment. We’ve also jumped into the 3D scanning business with both feet – not only does this have a “wow factor,” but it will help our clients save money and be much more productive.
Our clients are always looking to differentiate themselves among their competitors, and we want to help them stay on the cutting edge.
It’s impressive to see how successful Archimedia has been, especially in an industry known for its fluidity. Can you offer some advice to other entrepreneurs who are just starting their own business or are facing an industry-specific challenge?
Mark: Find a niche that you can be the best of the best in and over-serve your clients. You want your clients saying “those guys are great to work with, they always come through”
Jane: It can be scary jumping in to start your own business, you need a plan, the financing, and the dedication to make it succeed. If you have the idea and the passion, do your research and if it looks possible, go for it. Risk is scary, but if you succeed, it is so rewarding. I feel it is better to follow your dream (even if you lose) than live with regrets.
So if you’ve ever wondered what makes a business successful, especially during slow periods, Archimedia has the answer - people. They recognize the fact that people; leadership, employees, and especially clients, are the critical components of doing business.
If you want to connect with Mark or Jane, you can email them at mdipasquale@archimediasg.com or jsimmons@archimediasg.com.