A Special Thanksgiving Note to the Skylar Design Community
Huntington, NY, Nov. 21 - Every year, I look forward to writing a personal note to the Skylar community during the Thanksgiving season. With each passing year, the Skylar client list grows and I am grateful for every opportunity. What started out as simply an idea in the summer of 1999 is now a reality.
At that time, I was living in Virginia. Aside from my full-time position working as an assistant webmaster, you'd be surprised to know that my very first web project was redesigning an entire university website. If that wasn't enough, the university was located in the state of Montana, all the way across the country. Little did I know how much work it would take to complete such an undertaking; nonetheless, I intentionally accepted the project because I knew it would help me begin to understand the challenges I would have to face if I was to succeed in this industry.
After countless hours including a few sleepless nights, the work was finally completed and the new site was accessible to the public. I vividly remember the feeling of euphoria after hearing from the university that the project was a great success. Students all across the country were using the site to register for fall classes. From a financial standpoint, the increase in student enrollment meant more revenue for the university.
You may first conclude that the project was a success because the site went off, for the most part, without a hitch and the university got a brand new website. There's no question I was happy about this news, especially since I only had about a year of training under my belt. But, honestly, there was something much greater for me to gain from that very experience, a lesson that would stay with me: listen to the needs of your clients and make their needs your priority.
You see, it wasn't until I heard from the president of how pleased he was with the overall project that something clicked inside of me. He finally had something he was proud of, whereas before, the previous site was only an embarrassment. Now, the president was extremely happy. I was even told that the board members were thrilled with the work and excited about the influx of new students. Bottom-line: when you serve others, you send a clear message that you value them.
A lot has changed since that first site launch. The way I approach each project is far different than those early days; and the way I design and program has changed also. Change that produces "good fruit" will always be a part of the Skylar experience; however, what won't change is the high regard I have for every Skylar client. You are the reason I love what I do.
So this year, I personally want to thank you for allowing me to be a part of your life and for the privilege of serving you. You've made my dream come to fruition and I pray we can continue partnering into the years ahead.
Please let me know how I can continue improving Skylar's services and making each experience a better one. Submit your feedback >
Warmest,
Justin Agoglia (Principal/Creative Director)