The year was 1993. Technology was advancing at lightning speed and NetCentral's co-founders tasted the potential of the Internet. Craig Hansen and Cy Fenton, already well-versed in computer consulting, music engineering, and marketing, began a partnership to explore business opportunities with email marketing. Armed with a "can do" philosophy, the two invested many late nights to develop list-serv software, build a chat service and establish a web presence.
Music, books and more. Soon the company had gained the attention of numerous record labels in Nashville, and NetCentral was recognized as a leading web development firm. Rapid growth was accompanied by growing pains, yet the company always managed to step up to the next level. NetCentral was introduced to several new clients in the publishing industry, setting the stage for even more growth.
Fast forward to 1998. NetCentral had just completed the successful launch of booksamillion.com. The synergy between the two companies was clear, and NetCentral became a wholly owned division of Books-A-Million, Inc. Armed with management expertise and financial backing from the nation's third-largest bookseller, NetCentral was once again on a fast track to more growth.
Long-term approach. NetCentral's ability to survive and prosper — in an environment where many competitors failed after the dot-com bubble burst — is testament to the company's sensible approach to business. Plan ahead but be ready to shift gears quickly. Have fun but resist the temptation to spend wildly. Be fair but be willing to make tough decisions.
While in some ways 1993 seems like only yesterday ... the reality is that a decade in the fast-paced world of technology has produced a lifetime of experience and growth.
