The start of a new year is always a good time to stop and take stock of where you've been and where you're going. From a corporate standpoint, it seems especially important in light of the crisis that has hit much of the financial sector and is trickling down to many other industries. While I can't predict the future, I can tell you that the strategic team at NNA is getting ready for whatever may come this year.
I understand that many of you are suffering from the down market, particularly those of you in capital-intensive industries. Some of you have called to let us know of downsizing, and our thoughts are with you and your co-workers as you respond to the shifting conditions. I do believe there is a bright side to the changes, and it’s this: People are going to have to work to make the most of their resources and they’re going to have to trim costs. To do more with less, we need better design in virtually every industry. Whether its to conserve energy, materials or labor, design will drive the next few years. Instead of just throwing money at the problem, as is common during a boom market, I think more and more businesses and individuals will stop to ask for help on how to make the most of their investment. This will drive the design industries as people realize that building the biggest or the fastest is not the same as designing the best. I see incredible talent whenever I meet you and your fellow colleagues, and I know the world will benefit from your skills, particularly now that capital resources are as limited as our natural resources.
I also know many of you are concerned about our financial health since you rely on us as a tool. NNA remains strong as a company and Vectorworks was even able to show gains overall in the market last year, for another record performance. We've managed to retain our lean, small company style despite being part of a large, global CAD company. With our value positioning and strong 2009 version at the end of last year, we've been able to continue uninterrupted on our work to improve the product over the coming year. So while everyone in their respective industries works to respond to the changing economic conditions, know that we've got a lean company and quite a few things in the pipeline to make your favorite design tool even better.
Regards,
Sean Flaherty
CEO, Nemetschek North America
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