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DeepBlue Featured as "Who's Hot in Atlanta" in Metro Atlanta Chamber Newsletter
After an hour with DeepBlue Digital president, Frank Farris, you may think you've been to a Tony Robbins motivational seminar. Farris' energy and commitment leave no doubt as to why DeepBlue, an Internet Marketing and Web development company with an attitude, has emerged from the Internet-related battlefield with relatively few scars. In fact, Farris, a native Atlantan, started DeepBlue a little over 2 ½ years ago after an unhappy journey into sales. "I basically had tried everyone else's way; I wanted to try my way", states Farris. He set about creating a company that didn't so much focus on technology, like so many failed others, but instead relied on creating a presence. That presence consists of a unique company branding effort that can include logo development, marketing collateral, letterhead, business cards and, of course, a Website. Says Farris, "The idea is for everything to work together, creating a consistent marketing strategy that is industry specific."
So far, it has worked phenomenally. Farris incurred considerable debt creating the company, but spent his money more wisely than the care-free startups of the time. "I just didn't give myself the option to fail" says Farris. "You start out fighting to survive. Then, once you survive, you focus on the challenges that remain." Farris states that his main strength in the beginning remains the same today: "I am successful at selling people my dream". And that dream comes with a lot of personal pride. Farris juggles his family life around a work schedule that would leave others exhausted, but only seems to motivate him.
Frank Farris is obviously a motivator and DeepBlue reflects his personality. "I'm a multi-tasker," states Farris, ' I wear a lot of hats and sometimes it is difficult not to try to do everything yourself, but I've also surrounded myself with smart people who keep me grounded. Each person on our team brings a unique value and expertise that is critical to our success". Visiting the DeepBlue Digital Web site reflects this literal reference. Each manager is given a nickname and symbol. Farris is, of course, the Great White Shark, which is reflected in DeepBlue's logo and its attitude. "A little confidence never hurts. We are very good at what we do and are not afraid to say so".
Since DeepBlue's beginning, the company has seen nothing but upward momentum. Farris expects the company to top $1.5 million in revenue this year. In October, DeepBlue was chosen by the United Way to create an interactive Web site that serves as a platform for the new Georgia Quit Line Tobacco Control Project. This year has also seen enter new relationships with The Carter Center, AID Atlanta, The Camberley Hotel Groups, 680 the Fan and The University of Georgia. DeepBlue is also the largest reseller of Earthlink services and is their exclusive referral for database development. While these high profile projects are a great place to hang his hat, Farris insists that his focus is helping small- and mid-size companies create distinctive personalities that set them apart from competitors. "This is where we started and have had the most success. This is where our expertise is best utilized."
Along with those sales comes a commitment to community. The DeepBlue team is partnering with Zoo Atlanta to recreate their online presence while the zoo struggles with budgetary concerns. Says Farris, "I firmly believe that a city should have a great zoo. We'd do anything we can to help them out. It's a great organization, they're just going through tough economic times like everyone else". The company is also providing pro bono work for The Fernbank Natural History Museum, DeKalb County Firefighter's Canine Unit, Care for the Wild and International Dolphin Watch. "The success of DeepBlue has provided me with the opportunity of making an impact on organizations that I grew up with and have a great deal of personal affection. I think that the contributions we make to Atlanta's cultural and scientific community can be our greatest legacy".
While DeepBlue's clientele span across the country, Farris expresses an interest to stay connected to his hometown. "Atlanta is a great place to live. There is tremendous business leadership and becoming an established entrepreneur in this city is respected nationwide". He has grown attached to area and its people. "It's a cliché, but Atlanta really is the big city with a small town feel".
You would expect that when asked what his long-term goals were, Frank Farris would have all the numbers pre-calculated, but this is where the conservative, rooted business man kicks in. "I just want our growth to remain healthy and to continue being a sustainable company", he simply says. Wouldn't we all.
About DeepBlue
Founded in 1999, DeepBlue (www.deepblue.com) provides Internet consulting,
custom design and expert Web development and application services to over
500 customers worldwide. Its focus is on small to medium-sized businesses
seeking a true competitive advantage and long-term ROI by partnering with
a technology & marketing firm that can deliver measurable results. DeepBlue
is located in Atlanta, GA.
For more information, please contact Frank Farris at +1 770.673.0559 or by e-mail at frank.farris@deepblue.com.
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