Frederick Puno: Leading the Future with IT Innovation

Frederick R.Puno, Chairman And CEO, Diverse System Solutions Inc.

“Progress is impossible without change.” Over the course of time, technology has reshaped our society, breaking paths to a better future. Adopting change is essential for development. We’ve seen advancements in communication, healthcare, and education, connecting us in ways once unimaginable. It’s about keeping up with the times and imagining a brighter future. Change spurs new ideas, transcending boundaries and unveiling the bigger picture. Without it, we’d be trapped in the mud, unable to go forward. Accepting change helps us steer the journey, turning obstacles into stepping stones leading to growth. 

In our conversation with Frederick Puno, the visionary behind Diverse System Solutions Inc., he took us on a journey through the whirlwind of technological change. Reflecting on his 25-year career, Frederick witnessed technology evolve in ways he could never have imagined. Starting out as a junior software developer at the Technology Institute of the Philippines (T.I.P.), he managed student registration, admissions, and grades, cutting his teeth on the basics. During his time at T.I.P., Frederick also freelanced for Zuellig Pharma Philippines, crafting an offline database system for their chemist department. This experience was a turning point, shifting his focus from hardware to software development as the hardware market was becoming a crowded space.

After four years, Frederick took a leap of faith into the world of multi-level marketing (MLM) solutions. He developed real-time systems for user information, commission tracking, and activity dashboards. Back in 2005, with the internet in its infancy, he faced the challenges of limited speed and storage head-on. Yet, he successfully built a solid platform for AIM Global Inc. . and other MLM companies in the Philippines, U.S., and Asia. This success led him to establish Diverse IT Innovations Inc. in 2008, specialising in online MLM software solutions. However, due to the negative connotations surrounding MLM schemes, Frederick rebranded the company as Diverse System Solutions Inc. (DSSI) in 2019 to clear up misconceptions. Today, DSSI is a powerhouse in hybrid & cross-platform mobile development, big data solutions, scalable infrastructure, and eKYC solutions. Frederick’s journey highlights the importance of rolling with the punches and grabbing opportunities by the horns to drive progress forward.

Complexities of IT Integration 

A major hurdle in the IT industry is integrating current systems across multiple platforms. Frederick Puno, founder of Diverse System Solutions Inc. (DSSI), faces this head-on with his expertise in mobile hybrid and cross-platform development. The rapid evolution of hardware and mobile devices demands constant adjustments in software development. Device incompatibility, battery drain, software conflicts, and security glitches are ongoing issues due to the surge of new models and intense competition among mobile brands.
 
To navigate these rough waters, Frederick emphasises continuous learning and collaboration within his team. By fostering an environment where every member can voice their concerns, ideas, and suggestions, he boosts their morale and ensures they feel valued. This inclusive approach has proven to be a morale booster, as team members appreciate that their input is heard and considered. Moreover, Frederick supports his team’s professional growth, both morally and financially, encouraging them to advance their skills through schooling or online courses. His commitment to his team’s development ensures they stay ahead of the curve and are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of this fast-paced industry. The approach ensures DSSI remains competitive while fostering a devoted and skilled workforce prepared to tackle future technological advancements.

Adapting Leadership Strategies 

At Diverse System Solutions Inc. (DSSI), leadership has evolved significantly in response to the upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Frederick is guided by the belief that “sustaining the team’s well-being is key to sustaining the business.” He recognizes that maintaining productivity while managing new work routines demands more than just keeping the wheels turning. It requires a deep understanding of his team’s personal and professional needs. By ensuring that team members have the flexibility to balance work with family time and personal activities, he creates a supportive environment that keeps everyone engaged and motivated.

In the fast-moving world of IT, Frederick knows that keeping the team’s spirit high involves more than just managing projects. His hands-on experience in programming, database management, and security allows him to relate directly to the team’s challenges. When he steps in to help resolve a logic issue or refine a process flow, it builds trust and sets a high standard. As Frederick puts it, “Leading by example and learning together keeps the team’s fire burning.” He also fosters a culture of innovation by encouraging his team to think outside the box. This strategy improves their products and fosters significant change within the company and the broader community. Frederick’s blend of personal support and professional guidance ensures that DSSI remains agile and forward-thinking, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

For Up-and-Coming Entrepreneurs

Juggling the demands of a CEO role with the needs of an innovative IT solutions company is no small feat. Frederick Puno, who has expertly navigated Diverse System Solutions Inc. (DSSI) through tumultuous times like the COVID-19 pandemic, exemplifies this balance. As he aptly puts it, “We are now in the endless race for the latest technology, so be innovative or refuse to change with time and become outdated.” Frederick’s approach involves handling the curveballs, seizing opportunities, and making innovation the determining factor behind growth.

For budding entrepreneurs venturing into the IT solutions realm, Frederick’s advice is straightforward: “Keep on innovating.” In an industry where technology and client needs are in constant flux, sticking to clean architecture principles can be a game changer. Which means separating concerns to ensure each system component functions independently, following the Dependency Rule to keep parts loosely coupled, ensuring testability to catch issues early, and maintaining independence from external agencies to stay nimble. New endeavours can steer through the industry’s choppy waters and stay ahead of the curve by anchoring their efforts in these principles. 

Setting the Bar High

Moving Forward, Diverse System Solutions Inc. is dedicated to pushing the envelope in IT innovation. Over the next decade, the goal is to consistently enhance their products and services, fostering a culture of creativity and forward-thinking within the team. Frederick Puno highlights that innovation isn’t about reinventing the wheel but about approaching challenges with a fresh perspective and new methods. Which involves systematic management, thoughtful decision-making, and encouraging every team member to think outside the box.

To tackle future hurdles and seize emerging opportunities, DSSI plans to lead the way by shaping the future rather than merely reacting to it. This proactive approach aligns with the company’s key values and ensures they remain at the cutting edge of technology. By nurturing a culture of innovation and adaptability, DSSI aims to stay ahead in the ever-evolving IT solutions market, setting new benchmarks for the industry.