Ten years seems like an eternity in the Internet age. So for a technology firm to last and grow through all the changes that 10 years can bring, it's a real achievement.

John Hill started Aztek 10 years ago and has learned a lot in this past decade. Among his first lessons learned were to treat his employees well and to treat his clients well.

John decided early on to be a Microsoft shop. Their developers are 100% Microsoft and their creative component is all Adobe. Staying current with the latest offerings from these behemoths has helped Aztek grow. For example, they no longer do classic ASP or even Dot Net 1.1 having updated skills to the Dot Net 2 platform.

Many complain about the brain drain but Aztek is able to find good people to hire in Cleveland because of relationships with the local colleges. As you will hear, John is optimistic about Cleveland and the local business climate.

One of John's decisions in the last decade was to not focus on any particular vertical market. He feels their breadth of work experience brings extra value to their clients. And don't expect canned solutions from Aztek. John is a firm believer in fitting the application to the business rather than asking a client to change their practices.

It may surprise listeners that John claims that "the web developer position does not exist."

In this podcast, John tells us how Aztek started and how they have been able to grow and thrive in the ever-changing tech world. And about their 10th anniversary celebration. Congratulations!

Listen to this interview

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The Aztek Team at their 10th Anniversary Celebration

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After the 10 year anniversary, Aztek made a dramatic move. They left the comfort and familiarity of their suburban Westlake location for a new, funky downtown location. They left their comfort zone - literally and figuratively.

Aztek CEO John Hill in their new conference room with Cleveland Browns Stadium in the background

How many times have entrepreneurs heard that they need to

• Work on your business not in it
• Trust your key people and
• Leave your comfort zone to grow

It's the basis for countless business books and seminars. But it's much easier to read about then to put into practice.

Aztek CTO Keith Rowe (right) loves the new open space
for easy collaboration with developers

Listen to this interview

If you are considering moving into a new space, watch as Aztek CEO John Hill explains the rationale behind their move in this virtual tour (about 10 minutes) of the new Aztek offices.

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Yes, those are bridges in the Flats visible through the windows



Open spaces, high ceilings, huge windows, cool ductwork and a foosball table increase the energy level in Aztek's new space



Aztek Creative Director Dave Skorepa with
Cleveland Browns Stadium in background