Michael Barber

Beyond Metrics: Moments Build Our Strongest Teams

Like every year, this one was defined by metrics and outcomes. They matter. They always do. They’re how the business grows and how the work mostly gets measured. But 2025 was also built in the moments around them. In lunches that turned into real, honest, and often hilarious conversations. In planning sessions filled with post its where ideas were sharpened, fought for the good work, and got ridiculously excited for what’s on the horizon. In yummy dinners that stretched longer than expected. In coffees that started (and sometimes ended) the day. In conferences that reminded us we’re not doing this work in isolation. And in the everyday chats that gave us space to get to know each other. Metrics measure output…sometimes. It’s the in between moments that build teams and partnerships. I’m deeply grateful for the StarTech.com marketing team. You all handled a new CMO with grace, patience, and candor. For an executive team that welcomed me into the circle. For a broader organization that worked hard all year long, brought necessary perspective always, and an extended a hand and hug to get to know me. And for our partners, whose collaboration and commitment made so much of this possible. The work mattered. The people mattered more. Here’s to our 2025, and, what I can only imagine, will be a bananas of a 2026.