Binatech System Solutions

West Seneca, NY – May 1st, 2009

I quite often get asked “Why would you open an office in Western, NY”.  To many Canadians in Southern ON, having an office in Hamilton, ON and in West Seneca, NY seems like a strange combination. People seem to think that I should have opened a second office in Toronto or London, Ontario.

I think folks are surprised more by the complexity of operating a small business in two countries and their lack of understanding of the Western, NY market place as the main reason I get asked this question.

Yes, there are many legal and immigration issues to deal with when you want to be “International” but as long as you properly research the requirements and follow the rules then the border can be somewhat seamless. The larger issues are hiring local employees, learning the differences in the markets and building a business. Opening a second office for a services company is almost like starting a business from scratch. It can definitely be a challenge and not for the faint of heart, but when successful it brings a real sense of accomplishment. A key ia to have good systems and management procedures in place so you can manage from afar.

It is funny how a river can create such a cultural difference. Though there are many cultural business similarities between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, NY, the river between these two cities seems to create many differences. It is these difference that seems to lead to a lack of understanding. Many people in Southern Ontario have the perception that the Buffalo area is a declining area with nightly fires and gun shots on the East Side. While the east side does have issues and the population is not what is was in the 1970’s Buffalo is still a dynamic city and an exciting place to do business.

Mike Haworth, President of Binatech System Solutions can be reached at: mike.haworth@binatech.com

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