Public Libraries as an IT Niche? Yes! (EP 807)
Lisa Johnson shares how AVC Technology has thrived for over 50 years by embracing change, carving out unique niches like public libraries, and transitioning to a fully remote model post-COVID. She discusses balancing extensive travel with running a business, scaling operations for growth, and the importance of building strong client relationships.
Uncle Marv's IT Business Podcast (Real Talk for IT Pros & MSPs) · Lisa Johnson
Audio is streamed directly from the publisher (dts.podtrac.com) as published in their RSS feed. Play Podcasts does not host this file. Rights-holders can request removal through the copyright & takedown page.
Show Notes
Uncle Marv sits down with Lisa Johnson from AVC Technology at ASCII Edge in Orlando to discuss her company’s fascinating journey from its origins in 1971 to becoming a thriving managed services provider today.
Key Highlights:
A Love for Disney Meets IT
Lisa shares her lifelong passion for Disney and how it ties into her frequent trips to Orlando with her husband Brian while running their remote business.
The Evolution of AVC Technology
Discover how AVC transitioned from audiovisual services in the 1970s to managed services in the 1980s under Lisa’s father’s leadership—and how she and Brian took the reins in the early 2000s.
Niche Expertise: Public Libraries
AVC has carved out a unique niche serving public libraries, managing patron computers with advanced security measures while also offering custom fund accounting software.
Remote Work Done Right
Learn how COVID accelerated AVC's shift to a fully remote team and why this model works seamlessly for their employees and clients alike.
Balancing Travel and Business Growth
Lisa explains how she manages extensive travel—attending 23 industry events last year—while ensuring her business continues to grow and thrive.
Actionable Tips
- Focus on niche markets where your expertise can shine (e.g., public libraries).
- Build systems that allow your business to operate remotely without disruption.
- Invest in tools like scripting solutions to enhance security for shared devices.
- Attend industry events regularly to network and stay ahead of trends.
=== SPONSORS
- Premier Partner, NetAlly: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/netally/
- Internet Provider, Rythmz: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/rythmz
- Production Gear Partner, Liongard: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/liongard
- Travel Partner: Bvoip: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/bvoip
- Travel Partner: TruGrid: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/trugrid
=== MUSIC LICENSE CERTIFICATE
- Item Title: Upbeat & Fun Sports Rock Logo
- Item URL: https://elements.envato.com/upbeat-fun-sports-rock-logo-CSR3UET
- Item ID: CSR3UET
- Author Username: AlexanderRufire
- Licensee: Marvin Bee
- Registered Project Name: IT Business Podcast
- License Date: January 1st, 2024
- Item License Code: 7X9F52DNML
=== Connect with Uncle Marv
🌐 Website: https://www.itbusinesspodcast.com/
🎙 Host: Marvin Bee
🛒 Uncle Marv’s Amazon Store (gear & tools I recommend): https://amzn.to/3EiyKoZ
☕ Support the show: https://ko-fi.com/itbusinesspodcast
If you found value in this episode, share it with another MSP, IT provider, or tech entrepreneur. Your support helps keep practical, no-nonsense IT business conversations coming every week.