Foundation

Ishi was founded in 1994 as a firm that would solve business problems through the creative use of technology. At Ishi, we have an environment in which like-minded problem solvers provide value by truly addressing the challenges of enterprise software, rather than burdening clients with jargon, unproven technology or sub-par talent.

Platform for Entrepreneurship

Ishi has always been infused with an ethic of entrepreneurship, in which technology is merely a way in which we support our underlying objective, which is to create a great firm that will survive our own lifetimes. We believe that with the right team, it does not matter what we do. The path we travel together is more meaningful than where we are headed. So far, we have capitalized on our passion for technology to create a firm that combines what we enjoy with a business model that provides our collective livelihood.

A Living Company

Over the years, one of the hallmarks of Ishi’s survival and success has been its resilience. The lessons we have learned through our experiences have been invaluable in shaping our approach to business and technology, as well as in developing our perspective on life and our place in the world. One example was the way in which we rode the dot-com wave. The late 90’s had everyone talking about the next big technology stock. Being in technology ourselves, it was quite tempting for us to follow the horde and dream of an IPO. However, our operating principles told us otherwise. Our adherence to the ideal of the living company has guided us towards being self-capitalized and conservatively financed. This has also demanded that we follow a path of organic growth. This approach requires discipline, and it was our commitment to these values that steered us away from the path that consumed so many entrepreneurs of the day.

Challenges

Another challenge to our existence came on 9/11/2001. No one could have predicted what an effect this event would have on the fabric of the American economy, or how it would change the face of New York forever. Our largest client at the time was Marsh, Inc. and we worked with them on the 96th floor of Tower 1. We lost many dear friends that day, and believe that we should continue to honor their memory and what they stood for. In the days following the tragedy, we worked hard to restore services at Marsh and deployed everyone at Ishi to work with the families of Marsh employees to provide services, including a switchboard and a forum to exchange information. There was never any question in our minds about this. It was just the right thing to do.

Survival

The economic fallout from 9/11 called into question our ability to survive, but again, a return to our roots and our core values guided us towards the path of right action, and we were able to rescue the firm and begin the road to recovery. In the process, we weathered economic cycles, learned what we were made of, and redefined our capabilities, culture and core strengths.

Future

Over the past two years, Ishi has been on a growth trajectory, both in revenues and in client and employee relationships. At Ishi, we have a view of the long term, and are constantly working to ensure the success of the firm into the future. We believe that our commitment to our core values and principles, our disciplined approach to focus, and our ability to forge long-term relationships will provide us with a strong foundation on which to build a firm that will be respected and admired.