B2B Marketing Trainer and Consultant
Franco Folini discusses the benefits of perpetual licenses over rental options in a recent interview. He highlights that stable organizations prefer ownership for cost-effectiveness and comfort, especially those with strict software certification processes. While rental options are growing, many users remain resistant, emphasizing the need for clarity in choosing the best licensing model.
The author reflects on their experience presenting on e-commerce at an Italian technical institute after 17 years. They highlight that, despite their global achievements, local media visibility remains a crucial measure of success in their hometown. Subsequent articles in local newspapers showcased their presentation and garnered unexpected attention.
BAIA, established in 2006, aimed to unite Italian professionals in San Francisco and Silicon Valley who felt disconnected from traditional Italian associations. In 2015, they launched BAIA Geeks, focusing on tech professionals through monthly meetups. Now independent as ItaliaGeeks, the group continues to grow, fostering networking and collaboration among members.
A presentation I gave on November 4th, 2015, in San Francisco for the Italiani di Frontiera Silicon Valley Tour lead by Roberto Bonzio. Silicon Valley culture is different. We must be aware of cultural differences to have a successful business meeting. These are the 22 most important rules I presented in San Francisco in 2015... Continue Reading →
The article discusses the challenges of becoming a successful developer outside of Silicon Valley, focusing on Salvatore Sanfilippo, creator of Redis, who succeeded from Sicily. It highlights the importance of building connections, the value of open-source projects, and the role of Italian culture in his achievements, offering insights for aspiring tech professionals.
Roberto Bonzio, a unique figure in Italian journalism, inspires students and professionals by sharing stories of dreamers from the Silicon Valley and history. He emphasizes the power of storytelling to evoke optimism and encourage personal transformation. Through his initiative, "Italiani di Frontiera," he connects innovative thinkers and suggests that embracing cultural challenges can spark a much-needed revolution in Italy.
The article discusses the significance of effective networking for Italians in Silicon Valley, emphasizing the importance of transparency, patience, and cultural sensitivity. It outlines strategies for building meaningful connections, listening actively, and following up after events. Networking is portrayed as a gradual process that can lead to valuable opportunities and relationships.
Questo è il secondo blog post della serie Wiki of Ideas. Le idee proposte sono pubbliche e chiunque può utilizzarle. Chiedo solo che gli eventuali utilizzatori ne riconoscano la paternità analogamente a quanto accade con una fotografia rilasciata sotto licenza Creative Commons Attribution Share Alike. La torre medioevale di Castionetto di Chiuro in Valtellina. Recentemente restaurata,... Continue Reading →
Questo blog post è il primo di una serie che ho scelto di chiamare Wiki of Ideas per sottolinearne il carattere collaborativo e aperto. Ciascuno di questi post contiene il seme per un nuovo business. Le idee presentate sono pubbliche e chiunque può utilizzarle. Chiedo solo che gli eventuali utilizzatori ne riconoscano la paternità analogamente a quanto... Continue Reading →
Da tempo mi gira in testa una sorta di meta idea: creare un sistema in cui chiunque possa registrare un'idea rendendola pubblica e utilizzabile liberamente e gratuitamente da altri. Il vincolo principale è che chiunque utilizza queste idee ne riconosca la paternità e non possa brevettarle prevenendo altri dall'utilizzarle.Dalla mia analisi risulta che il sistema migliore per realizzare... Continue Reading →
Novedge, founded in 2003 by Franco Folini and Cristiano Sacchi, transformed software distribution by selling 3D design software online, bypassing traditional value-added resellers (VARs). Over a decade, Novedge expanded its catalog to nearly 10,000 titles and adapted to tech-savvy customers needing minimal support, highlighting shifts towards online and cloud-based software sales.
Articolo apparso nel novembre 2012 sulla rivista Marie Claire Franco Folini e Cristiano Sacchi negli uffici di Novedge Si sono conosciuti 25 anni fa in Italia, al Politecnico di Milano, durante una ricerca per la tesi di laurea. Entrambi poi hanno tentato la carriera accademica, intraprendendo strade diverse, per poi riunirsi di nuovo a San... Continue Reading →
Ellen Ruppel Shell's book "Cheap, The High Cost of Discount Culture" examines the allure of low prices and their psychological impact in one part, while the second critiques the implications of discount culture. The author's approach is inconsistent, and the analysis overlooks differences between traditional retail and online shopping, which the reviewer finds disappointing.
In March 2008, Roberto Bonzio interviewed someone at Novedge, producing an insightful article that accurately captured their complex business insights. Unlike most journalists, Bonzio demonstrated exceptional listening skills, crafting a piece that respected the interviewee’s perspectives. This work later featured in his book, "Italiani di frontiera: Dal west al web."
Ian Wright, CEO of Wrightspeed, aims to revolutionize high-performance electric cars. At a recent event in San Francisco, he showcased the X1 prototype, which exceeded his expectations in terms of public interest and media exposure. Wright emphasizes the unique advantages of electric drive systems over internal combustion engines, aiming to compete with luxury brands like Ferrari and Porsche.
Nazzareno Gorni, co-founder of NWEB, discusses MailUp, Italy's leading email marketing service, in an interview. With a focus on global expansion and mobile integration, Gorni highlights the challenges of language barriers and competition. He offers advice on effective newsletters and emphasizes the importance of networking through BAIA for growth opportunities.
Robert McNeel, CEO of McNeel & Associates, discusses the evolution and success of Rhino, a CAD modeling software, in an interview. Founded in 1980, the company transitioned from accounting software to CAD, amassing over 150,000 global users. McNeel emphasizes the importance of user feedback and an open file format, which distinguishes Rhino in a competitive market.
Antonio Pellizzaro, Lead Developer at Actify, discussed the SpinFire product line, emphasizing the importance of informal CAD visualization for diverse users. Key challenges include ensuring user-friendly communication tools and integrating various file formats. He predicts future CAD visualization will focus on collaboration rather than radical advancements in viewing technology.
My interview with Sean Flaherty, the CEO of Nemetschek North America, the American branch of Nemetschek AG, the German company that is well known worldwide for products like VectorWorks and Allplan.
In a March 2007 NOVEDGE blog interview, Alex Mazzardo, Managing Director of EVOQE, discusses the launch of solidThinking Modeler, a product tailored for product designers and engineers seeking advanced modeling tools. Unlike competitors, Modeler enhances creativity through its unique Construction History feature. Future developments include new plug-ins and significant innovations for solidThinking version 8.
Franco Folini is a marketing trainer and consultant with a background as an e-commerce entrepreneur in Silicon Valley. He taught at UC Berkeley Extension and currently teaches at the University of Strasbourg and Università della Montagna in Edolo, Italy. Recently, he moved back to his native Valtellina in the Italian Alps. Franco frequently speaks about the impact of AI and other technologies on marketing. For more details, visit his LinkedIn profile or email him at folini@gmail.com.