Central Louisiana firms urged to upgrade to compete

Representatives from software and computer giants Microsoft and Hewlett-Packard were in Alexandria on Friday to encourage Alexandria-area businesses to stay competitive by upgrading their computer software.

"Research is helping other companies innovate," Shane Snipes, senior technical training manager for Microsoft, told the dozens of local businessmen and women who attended the sessions Friday. "It can help you, too."

The program at the Courtyard

The program at the Courtyard by Marriott nearly Alexandria Mall was funded by HP and hosted by Alexandria-based research company Intech.

"This was as a matter of fact to inform our clients, help them manage their businesses more efficiently," said Bill Hoppe, director of finance and business development for Intech. "The more they know, the more competitive they can be."

Snipes makes similar presentations all over the world. Friday's two sessions focused on the benefits to businesses of upgrading to Windows 7 Professional from older operating systems, as so then as newer products and services just as Office 2010 and the web-based "Cloud."

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recognized the Bank of Montgomery as the state's Lender of the Year last month. The bank approved loans in excess of $29.8 million for rural businesses throughout the state.

"Business Beat" by Jeff Matthews runs every Sunday. Send news and tips to jmatthews@thetowntalk.com or call 487-6380.