Do we need to bring a laptop for every meeting?

Integrated rooms can start meetings directly from the touchscreen. Owl-style devices require a user laptop and USB connection each time.

Why can’t remote participants hear us clearly?

All-in-ones use small built-in mics that struggle in larger rooms. Integrated systems use distributed microphone arrays and DSP for consistent pickup.

Can an Owl connect to our existing speakers or ceiling mics?

No. Owl-style devices are closed ecosystems and do not integrate with external hardware.

How long does an integrated install take?

Most installs take a few days, depending on room size and complexity, and can be scheduled to minimize downtime.

Leadership Lessons from 30+ Years in Business: A Conversation with Deb Pierson

Katie Robinette
24 hours ago
3 min read

Updated: 28 minutes ago

Leadership is often shaped by moments of challenge and reflection. For Deb Pierson, President & CEO of Pierson Computing, her path has been marked by valuable lessons about appreciating employees, embracing honesty, and leading through unexpected obstacles. In this interview, Deb shares insights from her experience that reveal how thoughtful leadership and clear values can drive growth and build strong teams.

Appreciating Employees Beyond Simple Thanks

Q: What is something experience has taught you that you wish you knew earlier?

Deb: One of the biggest lessons for me has been taking the time to truly appreciate employees. Early on, I didn’t realize how important that was. I thought saying “thank you” here and there was enough.

Then I had an employee tell me, “I’ve worked here for five years, and you’ve never acknowledged my anniversary.” That really stuck with me.

I realized that because I was wearing so many hats, I needed to put systems in place to make sure recognition didn’t get overlooked. It doesn’t come naturally to me—but now I know how important it is, especially as we’ve grown.

Honesty as a Core Value in Business

Q: What’s one value that is non-negotiable in how you do business?

Deb: Honesty.

I use that word intentionally instead of “integrity” because I think it’s more direct and easier to understand. Honesty means telling the truth—whether that’s meeting a commitment or owning up to why you didn’t.

If we’re going to miss a deadline, that means being honest with the client about what’s happening. It also applies internally—being honest in feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable.

That’s something I’m still working on. It’s easy to soften things, especially in employee evaluations, but honesty is a core value we continue to strive for.

Leading Through Crisis and Teamwork

Q: Can you share a moment in your career that shaped how you lead today?

Deb: There’s one moment that really defined our approach to teamwork and leadership.

Early on, we were managing a project where a subcontractor was doing installations. One night, around 8 PM, we got a call that the subcontractor had walked off the job. There were about 50 desktops sitting in an office in Harrisburg—not installed—and employees were coming in the next morning.

So, we jumped into action. Jeff and I, our team, and even friends and family showed up. We worked until 3 AM getting everything installed. My mother-in-law was even there helping.

That experience really shaped our teamwork value. It showed me that I never want to ask someone to do something I wouldn’t do myself. At the same time, as a leader, you have to balance that with where your time is best spent.

Building Leadership Skills Over Time

Tech Evolve. Your business has to evolve with it.

Q: What’s one challenge that has made you better at what you do?

Deb: Honestly, the biggest challenge is that the industry is always changing.

In IT, you can’t just say, “This is what we do,” and stay there. We started with desktop installs and big CRT monitors. Then Chromebooks came along, which completely changed the business model. Then Pro AV.

It’s a constant evolution—figuring out what’s next, how to adapt, and how to meet new client needs.

The other side of that is knowing when something isn’t the right fit. Not every opportunity is one you should take. You have to recognize when you don’t yet have the expertise and be willing to say no—or wait until you’re ready.

How Success Changes as You Grow

Q: How has your definition of success changed over time?

Deb: It’s changed a lot.

In the early days, I had a six-month-old when we started the business. Success looked like being able to raise my family while making enough to live—finding some version of balance, even if it was chaotic.

Today, success looks very different. It’s about building a company that’s strong enough to give people opportunities—to grow, get promoted, and develop new skills.

It’s about having systems in place to support that growth and asking employees, “What’s next for you?” That’s what keeps me motivated now.

Building a Business—and a Life—Together

Q: What’s something people might not know about your journey as a business owner?

Deb: Working with Jeff, my husband, has been both a challenge and a huge strength. We’ve had to learn how to set boundaries around work and personal life, which is something we’re always adjusting.

But he’s also been my greatest support. Whether it’s being in the warehouse building carts or helping on-site, I truly can’t imagine doing this without him.

At the end of the day, we’re a team—and that’s made all the difference.

Final Thoughts on Leadership and Growth

Leadership isn’t something you master, it’s something you grow into over time. And as Deb’s journey shows, the most meaningful success isn’t just measured in what you build, but in the people you support, the values you uphold, and the team you grow along the way.