Appamondo - an interview with Michael Smith

by Startacus Admin

So Intrigued was I (sorry just watched the original Star Wars) when I read Appamondo’s profile bio on Twitter  - “Our Mission - Transform SMBs from desktop to web-based businesses that can be operated from any place, on any device.” that I thought it best to find out more and speak to its Founder Michael Smith about this “mission” and what they’re all about.

Here’s our interview with Michael where we found out more...

Michael - tell us about your background and how you reached the point of starting your own businesses?

I started life Agency-side, managing marketing activity for crisp brands. Having done an MBA, I then worked as a Director for a global Agency but realised that there was no direct correlation between what I was making for my masters and what I was taking home. The Internet was just taking off, so it seemed reasonable to have a crack at e-commerce In my first venture, we built and launched BT Cellnet’s first transactional website and launched Breathe, the 2nd free ISP. It seems a long time ago.

So can you explain your business Appamondo to us - and while you are at it, what's the reasoning behind the name?

We are a technology service provider. Our mission is to transform small to medium businesses from desktop to cloud-based businesses which we do by deploying, educating and supporting end-users in the use of technology. The name is from Mappamondo: Italian for Globe - only without the ‘m’. It relates to the fact that what we do enables our clients to manage their business at any time, from any place on the Globe on any device.

What's the problem you are trying to solve?

Where do you start? Inertia created by technology, inflexible ways of working, antiquated IT and networks that are expensive to manage and poorly deployed, lack of mobility, inability to collaborate remotely, no DR in place.

We are bridging the gap between end-users and cloud applications by providing technology as a managed service. Our model is subscription-based with no upfront costs, hardware or maintenance costs.

How well is it all going?

It’s going well. Opportunities are being presented every day. We have focused on specific vertical markets and have established some great case studies in professional services sectors - e.g. Accountancy, Legal, Media and Advertising & Marketing. We are also strong in the start-up sector.

And your plans for 2014 - Any big threats that might disrupt your aims for 2014?

Build more business, grow our team and extend the ‘stack of SMB technologies’. Threats? World war or staring too long at our navels.

What three things would you take to "Desert Entrepreneurial Island" if you had a choice?

A 10gbit leased line, a McDonald’s franchise and some PDQ machines.

What advice would you give to someone considering self employment for the first time?

Don’t think too long and hard trying to come up with the next greatest thing. A bit like a novel, everyone has a business inside of them and they are either doing it already (for work or a passion outside of work) or it is closely related.

If you like this interview then check out all of our interviews with leading entrepreneurs, self starters and startups

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Published on: 24th January 2014