News
4 Ways to Change the Way You Think About IT (For the Better)
IT is more than a necessary expense; it’s a tool to get your business into a more advantageous position, one where you can make more money and help more people. The only way you can get to this point, however, is if your IT is yielding a return on your investment; otherwise, it will always feel like a money pit. Here are four game-changing IT reframes that will help you view technology as the asset it is, rather than the necessary evil you believe it to be. We’ll show off these reframes through the lens
Stop Asking ''What Happened?'' and Start Asking AI ''What's Next?''
When the time comes that you have to make a big decision—one that could have some significant impact on your business, for instance—what does your thought process look like? Do you rely on data, or do you rely on what your gut tells you? If it’s the latter, you’re literally relying on your least accurate information and hoping that you get the most beneficial outcome. Instead, why not rely on the other, quantitative and confirmed data your business has collected over the years and pair it with the
Upgrade to Windows 11 Now
It’s official; Windows 10 is no longer supported by Microsoft. It was an incredibly popular operating system, which might give you a certain level of hesitation to move on and upgrade to Windows 11, but we want to urge you to do so now rather than later. Let’s take a look at your options and which one is best for your business. What Should I Do? The important thing to know right now is that you have options, some of which are better than others. Let’s go over our recommendations in order of
3 Signs You’re Dealing with a Phishing Scam
Here’s a fun thought experiment; can your team identify phishing scams and respond to them appropriately? It’s a skill that must be learned if you want your organization to be successful and safe. Today, we’re taking a look at the three big signs you’re looking at a phishing scam (and what to do about it). You Don’t Know the Sender An unknown sender isn’t necessarily a giveaway sign of a phishing attack, but you need to consider more than just the sender. You run a business, and that business is often
3 Ways an Intranet Can Revolutionize Your Operations
There are countless moving parts for any business, and if you don’t keep your operations organized, you could quickly find yourself losing grasp of your business in the worst ways. SMBs might use instant messaging, shared drives, and endless email chains to communicate internally, but there’s a better, less clunky solution. We’re looking into the intranet, a digital hub for your business that offers several benefits. What is an Intranet Solution? An intranet is a centralized repository for your
Lessons About Shadow IT, Direct from the North Pole
Shadow IT is a big problem, no matter where it’s being used—even at the most famous toy manufacturer in history’s facility. Consider this a case study of why it is essential to listen to your IT department, especially when it comes to the tools they provide. For once, Jangle felt at peace… at least, relative to this time of year. The co-manager of the North Pole’s IT department scanned his array of monitors, seeking out the metrics coming in from the various departments that were all hard at work
Use Your Data to Fuel a Better Business
Operational efficiency is pretty important for businesses. Wasting time, money, and resources can stifle growth and put you at a competitive disadvantage. Fortunately, technology offers powerful solutions used to eliminate common inefficiencies. Today, we want to go through five ways you can use technology to drive real results. Embrace Automation Do your employees spend hours doing things a computer could do? These are prime targets for automation. Process automation tools can take on rule-based,
How to Calculate Your Next IT Project’s ROI
Depending on the sector your business falls into, you’ll want to implement technology solutions designed to help you be successful in the context of that sector. Part of that means investing in new solutions that can yield a satisfactory return on investment, or ROI. But how do you know if a solution can yield a good ROI, and most important of all, what kind of math goes into ensuring you’re not overspending on IT that doesn’t produce results? Understanding ROI In short, ROI is essentially
Don't Let AI Tank Your Customer Relationships
AI is a game-changer, there's no doubt about it. From the value your business gets from streamlining operations to its powerful information retrieval, it’s changed, in a very short amount of time, how knowledge-based businesses operate. If you're thinking of handing over your entire customer support operation to an AI, however, you need to pump the brakes a bit. While AI offers incredible efficiencies, completely removing the human element could be a problem for your business. Think about your own
3 Ways You Can Use Excel Effectively
Some of the most versatile and useful technology out there might already be installed on your infrastructure. One such tool is Microsoft Excel, Microsoft 365’s spreadsheet building platform. You might be surprised to find out that Excel can be used in some interesting ways—including these three uses. Financial Management Excel can be used to build budgets, track expenses, and invoice clients in a simple way. Excel offers real-time visibility into your cash flow, which helps your business make better
Why AI's Biggest Upgrade is... You!
We’ve all been given an impression of what artificial intelligence is or will ultimately become through pop culture. HAL 9000, Skynet, Ultron, and M3GAN each show their own form of calculated malice. However, in reality, the true potential of AI is more in line with the likes of Rosie the Robot, JARVIS, R2-D2, or Data, helpful companions who assist their cohort in generating ideas or completing tasks, often leaning on the soft skills that have been so valued in human relationships, things like
Proline Pressure Washing Launches $500 Sweepstakes to Engage and Give Back to the Community
Proline Pressure Washing, LLC is pleased to announce the launch of a $500 Cash Sweepstakes Giveaway as part of its ongoing commitment to community engagement throughout the Greater Perimeter area. The sweepstakes is open to the public and designed to connect with residents and businesses across the region while increasing awareness of Proline’s professional exterior cleaning services. No purchase is necessary to enter. Participants may enter by visiting https://www.prolinepressurewash.com/sweepstakes,
Delta Community Announces 2026 Philanthropic Fund Grant Recipients
ATLANTA (Dec. 5, 2025) – Delta Community Credit Union is pleased to announce its 2026 Philanthropic Fund grant recipients. Committed to strengthening metro Atlanta communities, Delta Community will provide a total of $150,000 in grants to 20 nonprofits that support local children and families through programming in health and human services; financial education; or science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) education. Delta Community will have invested more than $1.4 million in more than 260
Sandy Springs’ long journey to cityhood
Businessman, author, and entrepreneur Oliver Porter played an instrumental role in the lobbying, cityhood, and structure of Sandy Springs’ city government more than two decades ago. On Dec. 1, Sandy Springs will celebrate 20 years of cityhood. Located just north of the perimeter, Sandy Springs has roots dating back to the 1800s when Native Americans frequented the area’s bubbling springs. Known as one of the first cities to follow a public-private partnership model, today the city boasts a population of
Retail Crime, Cargo Theft Impacts Businesses and Consumers Across the Country
Across the country, surges in retail crime and cargo theft are putting the nation’s businesses and consumers at risk. While higher-profile crimes and finger-pointing grab the headlines, businesses continue to struggle with rising business-focused crimes, and employees, businesses, and consumers are playing the price. Crimes against businesses impact local communities, workers, and the businesses they rely on. Tackling this issue requires support from policymakers, law enforcement, prosecutors, and
GoTo Foods® Appoints Omer Gajial as Chief Executive Officer
ATLANTA – GoTo Foods, the platform company behind seven beloved and iconic foodservice brands, today announced the appointment of Omer Gajial as Chief Executive Officer, effective December 2, 2025. Mr. Gajial succeeds Jim Holthouser, who is retiring after nearly six years serving as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Gajial brings over two decades of consumer-retail expertise, having served in leadership roles across major global organizations. Most recently, he served as Chief Merchandising and Digital
Sandy Springs opens ticket sales for 2026 Daddy Daughter Dance
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The 16th annual Daddy-Daughter Dance is back with two magical nights Friday, Jan. 9 and Saturday, Jan. 10 on the third floor of Sandy Springs City Hall. The beloved community tradition features music from dads, and father figures, with their daughter’s favorite playlists provided by a live disc jockey from 6-8 p.m. both evenings. Beyond dancing, there will be plenty of activities, including musical games, dinner and refreshments. Read more here
Dunwoody is a Digital Cities Survey top-10 winner
Dunwoody, GA – Dec. 2, 2025 – The Center for Digital Government (CDG) has named the City of Dunwoody as a top-10 winner of the 2025 Digital Cities Survey Award, which recognizes cities using technology to strengthen cybersecurity, and enhance transparency, digital privacy rights, and digital equity. Dunwoody was recognized, along with the top 10-ranking cities in each of five population categories, during the Digital Cities Awards event at the National League of Cities “City Summit” last month in Salt
6 Innovative Ways to Use Ring for Your Small Business
As millions of Americans know, Ring cameras, alarms, sensors, and doorbells can be a powerful tool for deterring threats and keeping your property safe. But did you know small businesses can also use Ring products to optimize their productivity, proactively manage security, and even empower their teams? Keep reading to learn how two small businesses are using Ring solutions in innovative ways, to uncover insights that help them improve their operations, and find out how you can utilize these solutions
CAC, Solidarity Sandy Springs works to bring joy to children this holiday season
More than 700 children still need help from the Sandy Springs and Dunwoody communities in the Community Assistance Center’s Hope for the Holidays program. And Solidarity Sandy Springs still needs donors to help 20 families in its Solidarity Secret Santa – Adopt a Family program. The CAC’s program connects sponsors with families in need. Sponsors visit CAC’s website to choose a family. From a list provided, sponsors purchase physical gifts for the children and deliver them unwrapped to the CAC Holiday
Sandy Springs adds miles of street paving with $1.27 million grant
An unexpected $1.27 million grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation will enable Sandy Springs to resurface sections of an additional 19 city streets. The Sandy Springs City Council approved a change order during its Nov. 18 meeting to a contract with East Coast Grading to add the resurfacing using Local Road Assistance (LRA) funds distributed by GDOT. Public Works Director Marty Martin said the LRA funds came after the council awarded a $6.5 million contract to the company in May. Read more
KSU Student Managed Investment Fund Secures First Place at 2025 CFA Ethics Challenge
Kennesaw State University’s Student Managed Investment Fund (SMIF) recently earned a major victory, taking first place at the 2025 Southeast Regional CFA Ethics Challenge hosted at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. The win marks a return to the top for Kennesaw State, which last claimed the title in 2021. The team—Jennifer Remer, Carolina Julian, Matt Hammer, and Quinn Skurpski—competed under the guidance of Govind Hariharan, Chair and Faculty Advisor to KSU SMIF and longtime advisor for the
Third annual ‘Spirit of DeKalb’ awards returns on Dec. 13
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — The Spirit of DeKalb Awards is set to return for its third year on Dec. 13 with a gala dedicated to celebrating leaders and innovators in the DeKalb community. The gala will be held at the Perimeter Crowne Plaza Ravinia and hosted by Ryan Cameron, an award winning radio personality, comedian and philanthropist. The event is co-sponsored by DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, according to a DeKalb County news release. “The Spirit of DeKalb Awards is our opportunity to shine a light on the
Holiday Lights returns to Dunwoody on Dec. 2
Dunwoody, GA – November 24, 2025 – Dunwoody Parks and Recreation announces the return of Holiday Lights at Brook Run Park, now in its sixth year. This beloved tradition will shine brighter than ever with a brand-new Cosmic Wonderland theme. Opening night festivities kick off on Dec. 2 from 4 to 7 p.m., with Dunwoody City Council Members officially lighting the park at 6 p.m. “Holiday Lights has become a Dunwoody tradition, inviting residents and visitors alike a chance to experience the magic of the
11 Expert Strategies to Help New Managers Succeed as Leaders
Becoming a manager is a major milestone—and a big responsibility. From adopting a laissez-faire leadership approach to taking a more hands-on style, every manager develops their own way of leading a team. Whether you’re just stepping into a leadership role or helping a new manager find their footing, this guide offers practical advice for anybody looking to develop strong, effective leadership.Strategies for new manager success As a new manager, how you start your leadership journey sets the tone for
Tensions flare at DeKalb zoning meeting about data centers
DECATUR, Ga. — The DeKalb County Commission met Nov. 20 and deferred action on regulations for data centers until the end of the year. The commission also deferred a decision on a proposed 1-million-square-foot facility at 4280 and 4358 Loveless Place and 2281 Pineview Trail in Ellenwood in South DeKalb County. The proposal drew opposition from South DeKalb residents. About two dozen people rallied against it and such facilities generally, before the meeting. Between 75 and 100 people attended
Do You Really Know Your Numbers?
Do You Really Know Your Numbers?Josh Gardner Director of Client Accounting & Advisory Services @ Symphona | Helping small business owners get control of their finances If you’ve ever wondered whether your books are even right… if you’ve felt like you’re guessing at margins or worried you might be bleeding cash without realizing it — you’re not alone. What most business owners are really missing is a clear picture of their profit and loss statement. Your P&L should tell the story of your business: what it
Key Investments New Business Owners Should Prioritize for Success
Launching a business is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with crucial decisions about where to invest limited time and capital. Whether you’re hiring your first employee, securing your first vendor contract, or marketing your first product, choosing the right foundational investments can make the difference between surviving and thriving.1. Professional Foundations: Finance, Legal, and Compliance New business owners should start with the fundamentals: Business banking — Open a dedicated account
How SMBs Can Successfully Navigate the Leap Into Global Markets
The dream of international expansion carries equal parts promise and pressure. For small and medium-sized businesses, the prospect of tapping into overseas markets can open up new revenue streams, diversify risk, and boost brand credibility. But the global playing field isn't just bigger—it’s trickier, messier, and often plays by an entirely different rulebook. That’s why the difference between growth and growing pains often lies in how smartly and strategically a business prepares for its global
How Small Business Owners Can Manage Change Without Losing the Crew
When a business shifts course, small companies feel the tremor more than giants. A policy tweak, leadership switch, or new technology doesn’t just ripple—it crashes through a tight-knit team, rattles long-standing habits, and pokes holes in comfort zones. Change isn’t the enemy, though; resistance to it is. If you’re running a small business, managing organizational change isn't just about pushing updates or sending memos—it's about keeping your people on board while the ship turns. Start With the Real
The Future of Work Is Flexible—And Here’s How Companies Can Make It Happen
The workplace isn’t what it used to be, and that’s a good thing. Employees want more autonomy, better work-life balance, and the ability to do their jobs without being chained to a desk from nine to five. For small businesses, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity. You don’t have the sprawling HR departments or endless budgets of large corporations, but you do have something better—agility. If you’re willing to rethink traditional work structures, you can create a remote or flexible work
Revolutionize Hiring with the Latest Recruitment Innovations
In the competitive realm of recruitment, staying ahead requires more than just traditional methods. The integration of technology and data-driven strategies is reshaping how organizations attract and retain talent. By adopting innovative approaches, companies can not only streamline their hiring processes but also enhance their appeal to prospective employees. This shift towards modern recruitment practices is essential for businesses aiming to secure the best candidates in a rapidly changing job
