A mobile computing solutions company headquartered in London is striving to be on the cutting edge of mobile technology, with Hebron, Ky. playing a major role in that goal.
Psion, which has specialized for more than 40 years in the field of mobile technology -- such as personal digital assistants (PDA), imaging and scanning used in reading bar codes, and mobile computers -- has called Hebron the home of its North American headquarters for approximately 10 years, says Bree Rosen, marketing communications manager for Psion.
The company's technology is used in more than 80 countries throughout the world, in a multitude of industries ranging from airport operations, automotive manufacturing and warehouse distribution. Its list of clients runs the gamut from BMW to Volkswagen and Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railway Company.
Not only does the company focus on creating new mobile technologies, but on ways that allow that technology to operate in harsh, demanding environments -- hence the "rugged" tag regarding Psion's products.
Psion's facility in Hebron acts as more than just the main headquarters for the Americas, however.
"We have a state-of-the-art depot that fixes devices, as well as a full-service office with accounting, marketing and sales," Rosen says.
The company prides itself on its adaptive ingenuity regarding both its products and its work environment. That forward thinking has resulted in the creation of a new business model by the company, Open Source Mobility, which revamps how Psion customers make purchases and have their issues resolved.
"Psion computers are innovative because we believe in Open Source Mobility," Rosen says. "We have an open platform for our partners, customers, employees and anyone who wants to be involved to tell us what they are looking for with their device."
As part of this new concept, Psion created their own online community, IngenuityWorking.com, to gather the company's partners, developers and customers throughout the world to work together in tackling the demands of the global marketplace.
"You can see this type of collaboration at work," says Rosen. "We also have devices that are flexible in nature and adapt to business needs."
That innovation and creativity extends not only to the company's partners, but its employees as well.
"We are all encouraged to brainstorm and get involved in our online community tool," Rosen says. "We have a very collaborative, fast-paced work environment."
Psion also stands out from its competitors in its adaptability.
"We are the only manufacturer that designs devices that are adaptable and easily updated with new technologies without have to purchase a whole new device," says Rosen.
The company's ability to provide that service takes some strain off its customers.
"This helps our customers lower their total cost of ownership and enables them to continue to grow their business without worrying about their mobile devices," Rosen says.
Psion has done more than just contribute cutting-edge mobile technology to Hebron, however. It's also boosted to the local economy.
"We've brought jobs into the community, participated in charity events (such as the Campbell Lodge Boys Home) and have added to the region by offering a great place to work," Rosen says. "Our benefits are really great and enable employees to have a well-balanced lifestyle."
The company has also been able to hold its own despite the economic woes other companies have endured throughout the U.S.
"It hasn't been easy," she says. "But we are very optimistic about this year and look forward to 2012."
Being a pioneer in the field of mobile handheld computers, in addition to the Open Source Mobility concept and IngenuityWorking.com website, could position Psion as an attractive option for potential investors.
"Psion offers potential investors the opportunity to get involved with a company that is revolutionizing the way mobile computing companies work," says Rosen. "Our company is an open forum where anyone can get involved. The future investments will be endless once people realize there is need to purchase adaptable technology."
The future seems endless for Psion.
"We will be one of the most innovative mobile computing companies in the market (in five years)," Rosen says.
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