06/ 17/ 2004
V.E. Brackett Company, Inc.
Fayetteville, Ga.
Christopher Mallon, president
www.vebco.com
Founded 30 years ago, V.E. Brackett Company is an independent manufacturer's agency. The product lines it represents cover the mechanical power transmission, motion control, and fluid power markets. An early adapter, Mallon bought into the idea of how technology could radically change the workplace as early as 1992.
On being a small-business owner: Let freedom ring, says Mallon. "The best thing about being in business for myself is freedom," he says. "The kind of freedom that allows me to be responsible for my own actions instead of the victim of someone else's actions."
On technology: Mallon bought his first computer and started building a database for his company in 1992. The company slowly added computers to assist in accounting and inventory functions. "All the while I was trying to figure out how and when to apply technology to our sales efforts."
In 1998, Mallon equipped his sales force with computers and cell phones – and he's kept pace ever since. Today, they scan mail for sales reps outside the main office and e-mail it to them, instead of sending by snail mail.
"Change should not be regarded as a cost," says Mallon. "Since it's inevitable, it is a potential source of growth if we understand it."
The biggest challenge is deciding what his business needs. "New and faster is not always better. Instead you have to ask yourself: Will your employees embrace it? How much is too much? What is the cost and will it foster productivity?"
