Two Minds, One Philosophy
In 1994, Joe Guy and Phil Morris met when they both joined a startup technology consulting firm in Greensboro, North Carolina. It didn't take long for the two to realize they had a lot in common: they both believed in a structured approach to solution delivery. Plus, they shared similar philosophies - on managing project teams, client relationships, customer service and software quality assurance.

Moving Ahead
In May of 1996, Joe and Phil landed in Charlotte to open a new office for a regional technology consulting firm. In just two years, the team cultivated over $2 million in revenues for the company.

A Technological Leap
Early in 1998, the two left the comfort of regular paychecks to pursue their dream: establishing a principle-centered consulting firm dedicated to using a proven process and delivering well-targeted solutions. That same year, the dream was substantiated when the new company earned the distinction of becoming a certified Microsoft Partner.

Joe and Phil called the company Mariner - to them, the name symbolized their use of a well-established process to navigate around the usual risks associated with software engineering. They concluded, "When going to sea, you want to be accompanied by a seasoned veteran who's been there before and is able to ensure you arrive safely - a Mariner."