HARLAN, Iowa / BELLINGHAM, Wa. -- Jan. 16, 2012 -- In a move typical of Heartland Technologies CEO and Founder Arlin Sorensen, the industry veteran is once again betting on the future of the IT channel. What's perhaps unusual this go-around is that he and his brother Brad are doing it with their own cash. The pair is making a sizeable financial commitment to Varvid, a digital media services company, as part of a strategic alliance aimed at expanding business-changing educational content via an online video platform. "Our interest in Varvid enables us to offer a wide array of digital media services to HTG Peer Group members either through real-time, interactive sessions or on-demand programming that's not only available when they want to receive it, but how they want to receive it," said Arlin. "I'm a big believer that digital communication is going to be the separator between those that do well in the marketplace and those that don't."
Industry research firm IDC, which recently reported that the online video platform market is estimated to grow from $306 million in 2010 to over $1 billion by 2015, validates Arlin's view of the situation. And with the convergence of social media and TV services still in its infancy, further integration is expected to create ongoing opportunities.
The investment from the Sorensen brothers allows Varvid to hasten its growth in size and services by utilizing assets and personnel from both Heartland Technology Consulting (HTC) and Heartland Technology Solutions (HTS). Most notably, the company plans to broaden its support of event services including turnkey solutions related to staging, lighting, sound and multi-camera coverage for both live and on-demand viewership.
Varvid will also continue to build its existing video production services, while increasing its business offerings to provide all-inclusive social media strategies and digital media marketing solutions. These services will include online video production via remote editing, video hosting, live webcasting, online marketing campaigns, email newsletters, website integration, content generation for social media sites and professional on-site video production. "Everyone thought the Internet was great in 1999, and it was, but they really didn't have any idea where it could and would go at that time," said Aaron Booker, Varvid CEO and co-founder. "We're at a stage now with digital media services that parallels those early days of the Internet and it's thrilling to be at the forefront of that next technology wave."
Varvid began as a production company helping businesses leverage their online presence through video testimonials, case studies and "live" event coverage. The company also pioneered "Video-as-a-Service" by allowing organizations of all sizes access to the power of online digital media through a number of custom hybrid solutions, integrating both a professional and do-it-yourself approach. In addition to these services, Varvid offers a range of social media solutions aimed at helping businesses expand their online presence through emerging digital platforms and social media outlets.
To ensure the company addresses the needs of its customers today and into the future, Varvid has realigned its leadership team. Aaron Booker, formerly president and co-founder, will now lead the company as its chief executive officer with responsibility for developing strategic relationships and driving corporate innovation. Mike Simmons, former Varvid creative director and co-founder, replaces Booker as president, and will oversee the company's day-to-day business operations. Both Arlin and Brad Sorensen will also join Varvid's board of directors.
To see the full press release, visit: http://www.varvid.com/2012/01/varvid-growth-plans-accelerated-through-capital...
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Varvid WPC Webcast DAY 2 - Microsoft Partner Networkby varvid75 views
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