Brigadier General Martin Schweitzer is the current President & CEO of Network Designs, Inc. (NDi). BG Martin Schweitzer is tasked to ensure NDi achieve its long-term strategic vision. Moreover, he is responsible for orchestrating the company’s efforts to deliver services through efficient field integration and executive management. Schweitzer has over 29 years of executive leadership and management experience at every level in the US Civilian and Military Industry. During the past decade, General Martin Schweitzer has been focusing on bringing technology into the place of work to improve human performance. Schweitzer is also a Member of the Board of Advisor of Ballard Brands LLC & Ballard Hospitality LLC. The company is multinational firm that provides services in the food industry ranging from facility management to security and housekeeping. Additionally, Martin Schweitzer is a Member of the Board of Advisor of RGG (Red Gate Group). RGG is a company that specializes in the delivery of customer-centric, high-quality solutions to defense agencies, combatant commands departments and interagency groups pertaining operational design, technology integration services, policy development and strategic planning.

How do you make money?

I serve as the President & CEO of Network Designs, Inc. (NDi), an SDVOSB (Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business) IT (Information Technology) company providing IT security solutions and web development services. Therefore, as a company, we make money through the provision of these services to clients.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

I wake up at 5:30 on a typical day. I start by checking my email and doing some workout before heading into the office. At work, I commence the day by overseeing my team and working on projects. Lastly, I connect with customers and set goals for the following day.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Foremost, I look at current predictions and trends both from non-industry related and industry related perspective. At NDi we put the clients first and obsess on keeping them happy and that’s driven our success. I consider what’s next because it keeps me focused on emerging opportunities. Secondly, I love interacting with smart consultants and vendors. Finally and specifically in the provision of security solutions.

What’s your favorite part about your business?

NDi tops in delivering full life cycle applications, highly usable websites, essential security solution and big data analytics to government agencies. Additionally, the company offers superior customer service to Government clients through an exclusive, value-added online project management tool that serves customers 24/7/365. Thus, I enjoy leading a wonderful team of experts providing great services that are needed.

What’s one trend that really excites you?

Real incorporation of technology into people’s way of life. The present generation cannot live without computers and smartphones. As an NDi employee, I am excited to help the government by providing solutions to real challenges associated with technology especially the internet. Besides, I love web development as part of modern world technology.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

Interacting and learning from upcoming talents. Younger generations make us better and smarter. They stimulate discussions which result in opportunities one would never have imagined. When experience is paired with new ideas from young talents, amazing results can be achieved.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

I begin each new day by drafting a to-do list. I use a software called Wunderlist to make my list of the day’s activities. I regularly refer to my previous lists so as to ensure everything is complete by the end of the week. It is easy to miss on some things, and the to-do list is the only technique to keep you focused.

What is one marketing strategy (other than referrals) that you’re using that works really well to generate new business?

Forging long-lasting and strong client’s relationship is our most persuasive marketing strategy. In my experience, personal interaction with clients is significant in ensuring every customer’s need is met. In IT industry, there are tons of concerns from clients particularly on the safety of websites. We create customer’s confidence on the matter and deliver on our promises. Therefore, customer-relationship is a proven marketing strategy at NDi.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business? 

Reading a ton of dailies and business articles. They help me to remain updated on the challenges facing my industry and also business in the country. Reading relevant materials helps my team in identifying growth opportunities.

What has been your most satisfying moment in business?

Transforming NDi to reach global standards is inspirational. Moreover, creating jobs for hundreds of people is a satisfying moment in business.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Gmail. It is the most official communication method available. NDi deals with corporate and Governmental clients, and therefore formal communication is essential. It is easy to receive email notifications via Gmail and respond to emails instantly without delaying. Additionally, information, attachments, and pictures can be stored electronically for a very long time when using Gmail.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

“The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries is a book that any entrepreneur or aspiring entrepreneur should read. It teaches valuable skills relevant to any business.

Do you have any advice you want to share with an aspiring entrepreneur?

Being an entrepreneur has never been easy. One experiences a lot of setbacks, endless stress and sleepless nights. When the going gets tough, quitting seems to be the option. My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to never give up on a dream. When you got an idea that you are passionate about then work through the exhaustion, the setbacks, and the failures and you will accomplish the goal. The success might be years away, but at some point, you will realize the worth of the struggles, stresses, and frustration of entrepreneurship.

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