Garin Livingstone Becomes CEO

Not the buzzword, but the listening

In a race to adopt the newest technology buzzword, it’s easy for any business to lose sight of its purpose. How much more so IT providers, who are in the thick of new tech introductions. I had the opportunity to speak with CEO Garin Livingstone about his perspective on IT service. He shared some insights about why good communication is at the core of his approach:

Any competent MSP [Managed Service Provider] can manage installations and keep up with technology. We do that too, of course – keeping up with new hardware and new software lets us use the best tools available.

I’ve done all the different technical jobs from the ground up – sixteen years of me doing the projects here. Because of this I see my role internally as helping techs understand the right way to approach a project. On becoming president, I put the focus on good documentation to increase efficiency. Good documentation saves everyone time and headaches. We get to the issues faster. And we’re not putting out the same fires again and again. And most important good documentation gets us to actually listen to what’s going on with clients faster.

The focus now is on overall communication. I personally don’t let things fall through the cracks. If something gets told to me, I just don’t let it go, but take some kind of action. Even if it’s saying that we can’t do that. More often, it’s that we can do that and here’s how we can do it. Communication feels like one of Bryley’s strong suits.

The volume of technology products, the thousands of email servers, for example, makes it impossible for any one person to be an expert on everything. But good communication can bridge that knowledge gap. If somebody asks about an unfamiliar product, honesty about my limitations with a willingness to tap my broader IT experience and understanding of fundamental principles, lets me help clients find solutions. Transparent communication and hands-on knowledge makes Bryley effective problem-solvers.

Helping people is what drives me, putting a high value on open and honest, back-and-forth communication. We listen to issues and ask questions to make sure we’re on the same page. We’re not just providing technology, we’re offering solutions that answer a challenge and goal.

(Managed) Service (Provider)

Despite technology’s inherent complexities, Garin, in his new role as CEO, emphasizes the bigger picture of building relationships based on trust and strong communication. Good communication lets clients get the most out of their IT solutions.