Raju Basumatary of License Academy.
Tell us about yourself?
Hey guys! I’m an accidental entrepreneur. I stumbled upon a multitude of business development opportunities during my professional development, and I picked the theme that made the most sense—innovation.
Since I have experience in data science, heavy engineering, research, and software development, I’m at ease operating a technology organization.
When not working, I’m outdoors on an adventure or enjoying a sporting event. I’m betting on Astros for the World Series Championship 22.
What do you think is the single biggest misconception people have when it comes to startups?
I believe most folks are creating products or services that are not needed. I say this for two reasons:
1) Every problem a product solves can accommodate about three good providers, and
2) Breakthrough or blockbuster success is easier with innovative or novel products.
If you could go back in time to any moment from your journey, and give yourself one tip, what would it be?
I should have travelled more. I’m a world person and enjoy discovering places and the people that build them.
What makes you stand out as an entrepreneur?
I do things differently. I’m a problem solver. I’m risk averse.
Most importantly, I’m on sound footing with a research and technology background.
What are some of the best working habits you’ve gained over the past couple of years?
Managing stress is super important. I’m operating in an environment, where machinery, people, and systems fail all the time.
So I need to be kind to myself, and give myself a lot of opportunities to relax and have fun.
Give us a bit of an insight into the influences behind the company?
We are inspired by the challenge of advancing innovation, whilst enhancing the organizational value chain.
Our decision-making is guided by data science, so we make good choices, which also means less waste or risk of redundancy.
As a stakeholder, think of us as a resource for innovation and entrepreneurial and professional development.
Where do you see your business in five years?
We believe the effects or impacts of our activities will help us grow.
These include next-gen products and entrepreneurs and professionals engaged in Climate Change solutions, among other technology themes, one of our focus themes for innovation.
What do you think the biggest challenge will be for you in getting there?
Building technology is capital intensive, so some initiatives can fall by the wayside if there is not enough stakeholder engagement.
It is also not easy competing with well-resourced organizations, so we need to succeed building solutions for the marketplace.
Talk to us about your biggest success story so far?
We received over $120K in sponsorship credits form the Learning Agency for our product-based approach to learning and competency development.
How do clients and customers find you? Are you much of a salesperson for yourself?
Ha ha! That’s a great question. Thank you for asking!
Sales is our Achilles heel, but we are learning fast. Besides data mining, we employ a discovery process to learn about customer problems and product development opportunities.
Please connect with us on LinkedIn and say Hello.
What one tip would you give to fellow startup founders?
Solve a real problem, stay focused, and do not be afraid of the turbulence. Successful entrepreneurs respond to a divine call to entrepreneurship, so listen to your inner wisdom.
And finally, what do you hope the future brings both you personally, and your business?
I am worried and hopeful about the future. I am worried if we stop being thoughtful, we could suffer a lot more before things get better.
I am hopeful because we have had calamities in the past but every time we have emerged triumphant. As a business, we look forward to deeper stakeholder engagement for pioneering technology innovation.
On a personal note, I am looking forward to discovering new phenomena. As a curious person, I am kind of piqued how our cultural practices would look like. Congratulations on doing a great job of promoting entrepreneurship!
Thank you for the interview (:
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