Here is workstation 1. I currently sit here when I’m in the lab, but I use my MacBook Pro notebook given I work between various offices. Lately I’ve spent a lot of time in the lab, wrapping up various product development and operations projects.

Goomzee R&D lab (cont.)

There are two identical workstations configured for local development, plus we host a Dell PowerEdge server running Linux that developers check out/in code developed around the world. We “shake out” code on this staging box before deploying to our production environment in our Texas datacenter.

Our developers are primarily in Europe and Asia and I currently manage all product design and development. Usually I prototype products and then kick off a distributed development project after requirements are defined. The lab features dual battery back-ups and a DS3 (44 mbs connection) plus multiple redundant T1 (1.44 mbs connection) lines from 2 carriers for plenty of bandwidth. Our building includes power back-ups and multiple levels of security as well - not to mention our lab is behind three locked doors.

We have been purchasing equipment and supplies to support our new text-message marketing service, plus a vinyl sign cutter to allow us to make custom signs and stickers on demand. Our lab is the “creative center” for Goomzee’s products and where we test new innovations. In the short term, as we beta our newest service, we’ll create stickers for customers to add to their signage. We source printing and graphics to a large supplier but have the ability to create custom signage and stickers like the Goomzee sign on the wall. We can even create billboard-sized letters if desired. If we ever need a short run or a custom sign, we can build it and don’t have to make a large order with our suppliers. This gives a lot of flexibility, plus it’s real fun to mix up your day and make stickers.

What would a lab be without a whiteboard? Yes, we make use of this both for explaining concepts to guests but also to collaborate on designs or benchmark progress on specific tasks. A must have in any “creative” office. You could consider the Rose Park lab our “garage” and like most tech companies, that’s where the magic happens. We can literally design or build anything here and we make sure to have fun too (see the remote-control helicopter on the shelf).

Goomzee’s “garage”, however, features its own private terrace to enjoy meetings or lunch during warmer days and a fantastic view of Blue Mountain and Lolo Peak to the southwest. Enjoy!

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