Small-business owners, you deserve a moment in the spotlight. In this regular column, we'll highlight entrepreneurs from all over the U.S., in any number of industries, who can answer the question, "What makes you stand out from the crowd?" We know you're proud of your accomplishments — now you can tell the world about them, too.

Ranjini Poddar, owner of Artech Information Systems, answers our questions:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

We are among the few certified women-owned businesses to provide information technology services on a global level. We've developed a unique offering, intertwining our global presence with existing services to provide our clients with 24/7 service.

My name is: Ranjini Poddar
My business is: Artech Information Systems
Industry: Information technology services
Location: Cedar Knolls, N.J.
Year founded: 1992
Number of employees: 2,200
Web address: artechinfo.com

What's the best part about owning your own business?

The best part about owning a business is the sense of achievement that comes when the company-wide team exceeds expectations, and the sense of knowing that this can only be accomplished when the team comprehends our firm's high-end goals and executes them using proven methodologies and heartfelt values.

What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?

After doubling our revenue over three consecutive years, each percentage point of further growth has been a tremendous challenge. Moving forward, we are compelled to identify opportunities at an accelerated pace and expand our offering while not losing sight of the client-centric processes and quality customer care that are key to our business philosophy.

What's the best business advice you can offer?

You must make the time to develop high-end strategies while also be willing to execute them at the most practical level. Many entrepreneurs get caught up in the planning but never follow up with those tactics necessary to achieve their objectives. Others survive day-to-day at the operational level but never develop the type of long-term strategic planning that will help them grow over the long run.

Which organization referred you to smSmallBiz's Stand Out?

Women's Business Enterprise National Council orWBENC.

Are You a Stand Out?
To be considered for this column, please send an email (and a digital headshot!) to Editors@smSmallBiz.com , answering these questions:

My name is:
My business is: (name of business, plus description)
Location:
Year founded:
Number of employees:
Web address:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?
What's the best part about owning your own business?
What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?
What's the best business advice you can offer?
If a business organization referred you to us, please tell us which one.