The Power of Shared Values in Professional Relationships

In the world of technology and innovation, it's easy to get caught up in the metrics: product milestones, delivery timelines, and growth charts. But sometimes, it's the deeply personal moments that remind us of the human connections underpinning all our professional endeavours. Recently, I received a message that beautifully encapsulated this truth.?

It came from a colleague at ManageEngine UEMS , Arunkumar Uthandan who is leading the development of OS Deployer and it cantered around something as seemingly simple as a cap. But this cap was no ordinary item; it carried with it a story, a legacy, and a connection to Ghost Software, a journey that has been close to my heart for years and my entry into the world of IT and software distribution back in late 90s.?

In his message, he shared how he had kept the Ghost Software cap safe ever since I gifted it to him over 8 years ago when ManageEngine released their first version of OS Deployer. While he didn’t fully understand its history at the time, he respected the gesture. Over time, as he learned more about the cap’s significance and the story of Ghost Software, it took on a special meaning for him as well. To him, it became more than just a symbol of legacy—it embodied the passion, hard work, and shared aspirations that define our partnership.?

What struck me most was his plan to display the cap prominently when we achieve a significant milestone together. He’d saved it for that purpose—not as a keepsake to be stored away, but as a visible reminder of the shared effort, trust, and respect that have fuelled our collaboration.?

Reading his words, I was reminded of something fundamental: our work isn’t just about the tools we build or the solutions we deliver. It’s about the relationships we forge along the way. These relationships—built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to excellence—are what elevate our work from transactional to truly meaningful.?

The cap’s journey, from a simple gift to a cherished symbol, reflects the broader narrative of our professional lives. It’s a testament to the power of shared values and the impact they can have on our collaborations. When we invest in each other as people—not just as colleagues or business partners—we create bonds that inspire and sustain us through challenges and triumphs alike.?

As we continue working toward new milestones with OSDeployer and beyond, I’m filled with gratitude for the connections that make this journey so rewarding. It’s moments like these that remind me why we do what we do—not just to innovate, but to connect, inspire, and build something greater together.?

To my colleague at ManageEngine: thank you for cherishing the cap and all that it represents. I look forward to the day when it takes its place as a symbol of our shared success.?

Here’s to many more milestones, both professional and personal, and to the relationships that make them meaningful.?

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The original message?

“Dear Thorir,?

I wanted to share something close to both of us – the CAP you gifted me. While I might not have fully understood its history and sentimental value at the time, I deeply respected the gesture and have kept it safe ever since.?

After learning its significance, it has taken on a special meaning for me too. It represents more than just a symbol of legacy – it embodies the passion and hard work behind your journey with Ghost Software.?

I’ve been saving it for a special moment, and my plan is to display it prominently when we achieve a significant milestone together. It will serve as a constant reminder of our shared efforts and your inspiring journey.?

Thank you for trusting me with something so meaningful. Here’s the photo of it, safe and cherished as always.?

Arunkumar Uthandan?