- Martin Group -

Communication is a vital part of any business. But, when your job is the training services manager and you are responsible for preparing all the materials and coordinating all of the training for your clients, communication is crucial. For Beth Davis of Irene, South Dakota, this is all part of a typical day at the office. Her day might even sound familiar – phone calls, e-mails and presentations. The only difference is that Beth works from her home office in her small hometown, while her company - Martin Group - is located in Mitchell, South Dakota.

In fact, Beth hasn’t found anything that she can’t do from her home office that her coworkers can do in Mitchell. High-speed Internet, provided by Knology, has allowed her to stay ahead of the times, even while living in a rural community.

Working from home has provided many advantages not only to Beth, but also to her employer. Beth has been able to use broadband technology to better schedule her time and, therefore, become more productive. Martin Group is able to reduce overhead and limit lost productivity due to additional travel time.

“There are about 450 people in Irene and we have better [Internet] connections than some people in Downtown Chicago,” said Davis. “We have some of the best resources and, because of this technology; we have been afforded some really great opportunities.”

The use of high-speed Internet has changed the way that Beth is doing her job. She uses e-mail for the majority of her communication, almost eliminating the use of the fax machine. Because of a nationwide client base, Beth also uses the Internet to host webinars - web-based presentations and meetings - and to conduct live, interactive online training. These webinars have reduced travel expenses and work time, while increasing customer communications and improving the personal relationships that make Martin Group so popular with its clients. Many clients are asking for additional online training and presentations in the future.

Technology is no longer out-of-reach for small communities. Businesses and individuals alike are able to take advantage of the opportunities that are provided by broadband Internet service. With the help of Knology, South Dakota and parts of Minnesota and Iowa can proudly claim itself as a leader in telecommunications technology.