Justin Fortieris the CEO of FYC Labs (based in Folsom, California) listed on 50Pros as a top 50 firm in Web Design, Web Development, Mobile App Design, CRM Optimization, and UX/UI Design.
In this Q&A, Justin shares his in-depth perspective, unique background, and insightful tips.
I got into my industry by starting out in the nightlife scene in San Diego, managing a cocktail lounge called El Dorado. Around this time, I collaborated with a brilliant designer, Pablo Stanley, who was looking for a fresh start after returning from San Francisco. Instead of hiring him for a mundane job, I proposed we start a business together. With just $1,500, we founded FYC Labs in 2012. Our beginnings were humble, working out of a tiny office in San Diego, and using our connections in the restaurant industry to secure initial clients. We transitioned from creating flyers and menus to tackling larger projects like building a CRM and CMS for Remax Mexico, which catapulted us into software development.
I was inspired to start my agency after working at El Dorado Cocktail Lounge in San Diego. Observing the success of the owners there made me realize the potential of venturing out on my own. The idea was further fueled by a desire to create something unique and impactful, which eventually led to the founding of FYC Labs.
I manage work-life balance by setting healthy boundaries and prioritizing authenticity in both professional and personal relationships. I believe in having an authentic culture where work-life balance isn't about blending personal life into work but treating work as an area to focus and learn. We have an unlimited PTO program at FYC, which allows team members, including myself, to take time off when needed to address mental health issues or simply recharge.
I've also recognized the importance of personal space and mental health. Accepting and managing natural highs and lows is crucial. I see work as a form of escapism for some individuals, myself included at times. Balancing the emotional energy among team members without burdening them with personal issues is a priority for me. Ice hockey has been a personal outlet for stress and maintaining my physical and mental well-being. It provides me with a break from work, allowing me to recharge.
The best piece of advice I received in my career is to have the courage to unapologetically eject from what isn’t working and to double down on what is. This advice, picked up from listening to various entrepreneurs, highlights the importance of recognizing when something isn't working and moving on quickly without excessive apologies. I've applied this in my work by rapidly iterating on ideas, learning from failures, and focusing on what drives success.
Outside of work, I enjoy engaging in activities that help me recharge and stay creative. Playing with my kids and sharing laughs with friends brings out my childish silliness, allowing me to act like I’m 15 or 12 again. This playful nature fuels the creativity and enthusiasm I bring to my business and life, nurturing the qualities that make me an interesting person and a loving family member. Being theatrical and silly with my kids rejuvenates that part of me, filling me with confidence.
Ice hockey is another significant part of my life, providing not only physical exercise but a way to unwind mentally. The camaraderie and post-game discussions with my teammates, many of whom are fellow entrepreneurs, turn these experiences into informal therapy sessions. These interactions dramatically rejuvenate my entrepreneurial spirit and offer a healthy way to release stress.
What I like most about my industry is the transformative impact it can have on people's lives. Seeing individuals who may have been overlooked in other sectors gain confidence and excel in technology, engineering, design, or marketing is deeply rewarding for me. Their personal and professional growth, such as buying a house, getting married, or starting a family, gives me a sense of pride much like a parent witnessing their child's success. At FYC, we've been able to facilitate life-changing events and career advancements, which makes my work incredibly fulfilling.
What I dislike most about my industry is the presence of contrived cultures. I've been part of environments that create a rah-rah front without genuine sincerity behind the scenes, where people message each other about how ""stupid"" certain activities are. I dislike when companies force mandatory fun and pretend everything is cohesive when, in reality, there's dissatisfaction among team members. There's something truly off-putting about an inauthentic culture. That's why authenticity and genuine engagement mean so much to me.
If I could make some changes in the industry, I'd start by addressing the issue of contrived cultures. I believe it's crucial for workplace environments to foster authenticity, where team members feel genuinely valued and excited about their work. Another key area is cybersecurity—I'd like to see more emphasis on enhancing security measures, particularly for startups that might be overly focused on rapid growth. In terms of AI, I think it's essential to ensure that ethical considerations are at the forefront, promoting transparency and accountability to make sure AI advancements serve a greater good. Additionally, I'd like to see technology and opportunities become more democratized, offering tools and resources to underrepresented groups, which can lead to a more innovative and inclusive industry. Lastly, sustainable and scalable innovations are vital—ensuring solutions contribute positively to societal challenges and remain flexible for future expansion would be key areas I'd focus on.
I wish people knew how incredibly transformative our industry can be—not just in terms of the technology we create, but in how it changes lives. Many individuals, who might have initially lacked confidence in their abilities or didn't see a path in technology, find themselves thriving and achieving personal milestones such as buying homes, starting families, or excelling in careers they never imagined. This industry provides opportunities for personal and professional growth beyond what many expect, showing that with the right support and environment, people can achieve amazing things .
One of the toughest business decisions I faced was early in my career when we landed our first major client, Remax Mexico. We were a small team with limited resources, and the pressure was immense. Not only did we have to deliver high-quality work, but we also had to do so in a different spoken language, which was an additional challenge at the time. The frameworks that we needed to rely on weren't as developed as they are today, which added to the complexity. Despite these hurdles, we pushed through, and successfully delivering that project became a cornerstone of our agency. It taught us resilience and set a high standard for future projects. That decision to take on such a challenging task not only bolstered our portfolio but also defined our potential as a burgeoning agency in the software development space.
When we first started, we leveraged our connections in the restaurant industry. Since I was managing El Dorado Cocktail Lounge in San Diego, I utilized the relationships we had with local restaurants and similar businesses to pitch our services. Initially, we focused on creating flyers and menus for these establishments. As we gained more experience and confidence, we expanded our offerings, which eventually led to more substantial projects, like developing a CRM and CMS for Remax Mexico. This gradual build-up from smaller projects to more significant undertakings helped us establish a client base and grow our reputation.
Today, we get clients primarily through our diverse projects and network built over the years. We have a mainstay agency, FYC Labs, which acts as a development and creative agency that focuses on web applications, mobile applications, and websites, catering to a variety of clients ranging from startups to larger enterprises. Our work often spins off into building our own products, allowing us to engage in angel investing and venture creation. This creates a vibrant ecosystem where we can discover and connect with exciting startups through our agency.
With our proven track record, reputable clients, and expanding skill set in areas like fintech, insuretech, and software development, we've managed to attract ongoing and diverse types of projects. We've capitalized on our robust systems, automation, and efficient development processes to solve more extensive and complex industry problems, which further helps in securing high-quality clients. Additionally, leveraging AI and cutting-edge technology allows us to provide innovative solutions, keeping FYC Labs at the forefront of the industry, and appealing to clients looking for forward-thinking partners.
At FYC Labs, our approach to continuous improvement and learning is deeply rooted in cultivating a system-oriented mindset. We emphasize building and refining our business systems to ensure they function effectively and support our daily operations. Trial and error play a key role, as we constantly evaluate what works and what doesn't, having the courage to move on from ineffective practices without dwelling on failures.
Moreover, sharing experiences and learning from others is invaluable. I regularly engage with a support network of fellow business owners, preferring dynamic conversations over traditional reading to gain insights into overcoming challenges. Being part of CEO round tables has been instrumental in this process.
Within FYC, we prioritize self-sufficiency and encourage employees to master our established systems. This empowers them to take initiatives and generate innovative ideas, contributing meaningfully to the company. By fostering a culture of authenticity, clarity, and openness, we create an environment where team members feel supported and motivated to grow, thus driving our agency forward through collective and continuous learning.
To stay updated on the latest technologies and tools, I place a strong emphasis on continuous learning and hands-on experimentation. At FYC Labs, we've been conducting learning labs, which are team sessions focused on diving deep into new topics and technologies. These include everything from AI integration to creating innovative solutions, like turning a mobile phone into a remote control for websites. These sessions facilitate pair programming and collaborative exploration of new ideas.
Additionally, I always encourage tinkering with new tools and tech. For example, rather than jumping straight to buying new applications, I often experiment with tools like ChatGPT to see if they meet our needs. This approach helps us understand and evaluate technologies before fully adopting or investing in them. Networking with industry peers and active participation in technology discussions on platforms like LinkedIn also keeps me informed about emerging trends.
One of the biggest issues that my firm, like many others in the tech industry, faces is the dual-edged sword of AI and automation. On one hand, AI helps enhance efficiency and allows us to undertake projects with greater complexity and creativity. However, it poses challenges by potentially displacing traditional roles within our teams, particularly in product engineering and design. Staying adaptive and embracing these technological advancements is both exciting and imperative, but it also requires us to rethink our workforce strategies and ensure we stay relevant and equipped with the necessary skills .
Additionally, cybersecurity continues to be a critical challenge. Despite the plethora of tools available, there remains a lack of adequate investment in basic security configurations. The increasing threat of social engineering attacks and other sophisticated digital threats demands constant vigilance and improvement in information security practices. Balancing the opportunities and risks brought by technology advancements is an ongoing challenge we face in the industry.
Since I started in this business, I've observed significant changes driven by technology and industry trends. One of the most notable transformations has been the integration of artificial intelligence and automation into various aspects of digital marketing and operations. This has dramatically altered how we approach tasks like content creation, SEO, and customer service, making them more efficient and data-driven.
Another change is the evolution of business websites, which have become more interactive and integrated with AI and machine learning for enhanced personalization and data analysis. The industry's scope has expanded from simple web design and development to more complex software solutions and strategic partnerships, addressing larger systemic challenges.
I've also noticed that the industry's capability to solve more substantial problems has grown. At FYC Labs, for example, we've progressed from assisting smaller clients with relatively minor challenges to tackling significant industry-wide concerns like cash flow management and payments. This evolution reflects a broader trend in the industry, where agencies are stepping up to provide more comprehensive and impactful solutions.
Looking to the future, I see several significant changes occurring in the industry. AI and automation will continue to rise, particularly in the creation of startup applications, SaaS products, and small business tools. AI is expected to drive more of the development process, enabling us to focus more on high-level projects while automating menial tasks. This shift, rather than reducing jobs, will offer us the opportunity to work on more sophisticated and creative challenges.
Additionally, the integration of shared code bases across multiple platforms, such as mobile web applications for both iOS and Android, is set to become more prevalent. This approach will streamline development processes and enhance efficiency, allowing us to build with a single code base.
In the future, I see companies that successfully blend proprietary data with AI having a strong competitive edge. By integrating domain-specific knowledge with AI, businesses can create richer, more valuable content that enhances SEO and user engagement. This not only optimizes their online presence but also allows them to tailor experiences that stand out in the competitive digital landscape.
Before approaching FYC Labs or a similar firm, a company should ask themselves a series of reflective questions to ensure they are prepared for a productive collaboration. Firstly, they should understand what specific problem they are seeking to solve. Is it merely a desire to innovate for the sake of innovation, or is there a genuine need to enhance efficiency, security, or user engagement?
Next, they should consider whether they have a clear vision of the outcomes they wish to achieve. What are their long-term goals, and how does this project align with their strategic objectives? This will help frame the project in a way that aligns with both their immediate needs and future aspirations.
Furthermore, it's crucial they evaluate their internal team's preparedness to integrate the solutions provided. Do they have the necessary infrastructure and skill sets to adopt and maintain the new system once it's implemented? They should also consider what success looks like to them. Having clear metrics or indicators of success will ensure both parties work towards the same objectives.
Lastly, they should assess whether they are ready to support an authentic and transparent collaboration. Same as FYC Labs, it is believed an authentic partnership can significantly enhance project outcomes.
When a company is interested in hiring FYC Labs, the best approach is to engage in open and transparent communication with us. I recommend starting with a clear understanding of your goals and needs for the project, which helps us tailor our solutions effectively. Collaboration with us should be approached as a partnership rather than a mere transactional relationship. This means being ready to engage in meaningful dialogues, sharing insights and expectations candidly. It's essential for potential clients to articulate their challenges and desired outcomes clearly so we can align our strategies and efforts accordingly.
Business with us is most successful when both parties commit to ongoing communication and feedback throughout the project's lifecycle. This ensures that we can adapt swiftly to any changes and continue refining our approach to meet your evolving needs. Whether it's providing detailed documentation, participating in regular meetings, or being open to iterative development processes, fostering an open and collaborative environment lays the groundwork for a successful partnership.
To maintain strong client relationships and ensure long-term partnerships at FYC Labs, we emphasize the importance of authenticity, communication, and delivery on our promises. Trust plays a crucial role in our interactions, starting with something as fundamental as paying all stakeholders on time—a practice we've embedded as part of our ethos. It's not just about having contacts or claiming good relationships; it's about ensuring the integrity and reliability behind those relationships.
We engage clients as partners, fostering open communication and aligning our understanding of their needs and goals. By consistently providing strategic guidance and impactful results, we solidify our reputation as a trusted partner. Our approaches, such as leveraging systems for efficient project execution and offering customized solutions, have resulted in significant growth and success stories, like our collaborations with Aura Finance and ReMax Mexico.
Additionally, we strive to provide empathetic partnership, understanding the intricacies of the product, business, and challenges faced by our clients. It's about more than just coding—it's about being a thoughtful and engaged partner, ensuring that the solutions we provide are not only efficient but also empathetic to the clients' vision.
If you're thinking about starting your own agency in this industry, my advice is to focus on building strong systems right from the outset. Systems are more crucial than your product, your ideas, or even your creativity. They form the backbone that will allow your business to adapt and succeed over time. The best systems will also attract the right people, leading to a supportive and capable team that can help propel your business forward.
It's vital to have the right motivation—ensuring you're starting your business for reasons beyond just wanting more time off or freedom. The true drive should stem from a genuine desire to create something meaningful and impactful. This intrinsic motivation will keep you going through the inevitable challenges.
Additionally, remember to surround yourself with people who are supportive and share your vision. Building a strong network is crucial. This includes clients, employees, and partners who resonate with your mission and values. Stay agile and be prepared to adapt, as the market and technologies are constantly changing. Lastly, ensure authentic leadership by maintaining self-awareness and authenticity, which will foster a transparent culture and meaningful contributions from your team.
Networking plays a crucial role in growing our business at FYC Labs. It’s essential not only for acquiring new clients but also for fostering a supportive community of peers and collaborators. I've always believed that the people you surround yourself with, including clients, employees, and partners, are vital to success. Finding the right people and building strong relationships with them can provide the emotional and business support needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.
Additionally, networking allows us to participate in various initiatives like our Fractal Group, which acts as a consortium of businesses supporting one another. By leveraging our network, we can share resources, insights, and opportunities, further enhancing our growth and resilience. This interconnected community helps us create synergies across different ventures, allowing us to tackle larger projects and innovate continuously.
To keep our team members motivated and engaged, we prioritize authenticity and meaningful contribution within FYC Labs. We create an environment where our employees feel valued and are encouraged to contribute beyond their specific job descriptions. This allows them to find purpose in their work and ensures they understand how their efforts fit into the bigger picture.
We emphasize open communication, where team members are free to ask questions and make mistakes. This approach fosters a culture of learning and growth, making our employees feel more comfortable and supported. We also focus on crafting roles that align with our genuine business needs and support transitions to roles that allow individuals to contribute more effectively.
FYC Labs has gained significant recognition in the industry, notably being ranked at No. 791 on the 2023 Inc. 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America. This achievement underscores the company's rapid expansion and influence.
In terms of client success, we've made a substantial impact on businesses like OpenGrants, where we helped achieve a remarkable 717% year-over-year increase in annual organic search traffic, leading to a 134% growth in their user base. This translated to a leap in users from 8,000 to 25,000 within a year, illustrating the tangible growth facilitated by our strategies. Furthermore, OpenGrants experienced a 24-fold increase in revenue, showcasing the financial benefits derived from our innovations.
At an industry level, FYC Labs continues to push the boundaries of digital marketing and operations, with the integration of OpenAI technologies and advancements such as our WordPress plugin setting new standards. Additionally, I am deeply involved in nurturing the broader tech ecosystem by supporting startups through the FYC Syndicate and serving in advisory roles across various tech initiatives. This dedication not only advances our agency's capabilities but also contributes to a flourishing entrepreneurial and technological environment.
One notable instance where FYC Labs went above and beyond was with our client ReMax Mexico, which was one of our most challenging and significant projects. This opportunity required us to build their website from scratch, transitioning from working primarily on WordPress websites to developing a full CRM and CMS for them. This was not only conducted under a high-pressure environment but also involved integrating various components within different spoken and programming languages. Despite facing limitations with the frameworks available at the time, we managed to exceed ReMax's expectations. The success of this project contributed significantly to the growth of our agency, catapulting us into a distinguished software development company. Such experiences taught us resilience and set a standard of excellence that we continue to uphold today.
FYC Labs is about more than just delivering technology solutions; we're deeply invested in creating an authentic and supportive work environment that extends to our client relationships. We strive to foster a culture where creativity is encouraged, and making mistakes is seen as a valuable part of the learning process. Our unlimited PTO policy is an example of this, as it supports our team members' mental health and personal needs.
We consistently challenge ourselves with ambitious projects, using innovation and agility to keep us at the cutting edge of the industry. By embracing new technologies like AI and leveraging them through our development and marketing processes, we enhance our ability to deliver unique, effective solutions that cater to each client's needs.
Additionally, at FYC Labs, we've developed a vibrant ecosystem through initiatives like our Fractal group, which enables us to support and invest in startup growth. Our goal is to inspire transformative change and encourage sustainability in every project we undertake, contributing positively to both our clients and the wider community.
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