Archive for category: News

Georgia WRD Awards Competitive Bid Contract to Brandt for Go Outdoors Georgia System

The State of Georgia has awarded a competitive bid contract to Brandt, a leading provider of outdoor recreation management solutions. The contract is for the renewal and enhancement of the Go Outdoors Georgia system, a comprehensive platform that facilitates license sales, permits, and reservations for various outdoor activities in the State. The State’s previous contract was out of contract renewal options and after a competitive bid and a thorough review process, Brandt earned the Georgia contract to be administered by the Wildlife Resources Division (WRD).

WRD is a government agency dedicated to the conservation and management of the state’s wildlife and natural resources. As part of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the WRD oversees a wide range of activities, including hunting, fishing, boating, and wildlife management. WRD is responsible for ensuring sustainable wildlife populations, protecting and enhancing habitats, promoting outdoor recreational opportunities, and educating the public about the importance of conservation. One of the key initiatives undertaken by WRD is the development and management of the Go Outdoors Georgia system. This comprehensive platform serves as a centralized hub for license sales, permits, and reservations related to outdoor activities in the state. The system has played a crucial role in streamlining processes, enhancing accessibility, and improving the overall user experience for outdoor enthusiasts.

Brandt has been a key player in the outdoor recreation management industry for several years, providing comprehensive solutions to government agencies and organizations across the country. The company’s extensive experience and proven track record were crucial factors in securing the contract renewal with Georgia.

“We are honored to have been awarded the contract for the Go Outdoors Georgia system by Georgia. We are excited to work together to further improve the system to deliver a seamless and user-friendly experience for Georgia’s outdoor enthusiasts.”

Matt Mitchell, Chief Revenue Officer of Brandt

The Go Outdoors Georgia system has played a pivotal role in facilitating outdoor activities in the state. By providing an efficient and user-friendly platform for license sales, permits, and reservations, the system has streamlined processes and enhanced accessibility for residents and visitors alike. With the contract awarded to Brandt, users can expect further refinements that will continue to enhance their experience. Brandt showcased their commitment to prioritizing efficiency, user satisfaction, and innovation throughout the previous contract term. After securing the renewal contract through a competitive bid process, WRD and Brandt are poised to build upon their previous successes and create an even more robust and effective Go Outdoors Georgia system leveraging technology to enhance access to nature and preserve the state’s rich natural heritage for generations to come.

About Georgia Wildlife Resources Division (WRD)
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is comprised of five divisions which carry out DNR’s mission to sustain, enhance, protect and conserve Georgia’s natural, historic and cultural resources. As one of five divisions within DNR, the Wildlife Resources Division (WRD) is charged with conserving, enhancing and promoting Georgia’s wildlife resources, including game and nongame animals, fish and protected plants.

About Brandt Information Services
Brandt Information Services (Brandt) is a leading provider of software solutions designed to streamline operations and improve customer experiences across various industries. With a focus on innovation and customer success, Brandt offers robust software platforms that address the unique needs of its clients. The company has a proven track record in developing user-friendly systems that simplify complex processes and enhance efficiency. Brandt’s solutions are known for their scalability, flexibility, and ability to adapt to evolving industry requirements. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, Brandt empowers organizations to optimize their operations, deliver exceptional services, and drive growth.

Go Outdoors Florida’s New Hard Cards

Our partner, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) released new license card designs! Hard cards are collectible, credit-card style documents that are an alternative to paper licenses. Cards are printed with a customer’s most up-to-date licenses and permits for easy access when hunting or fishing.

Customers can purchase the designs at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or using the app. Funds from hard cards help support conservation efforts and marketing initiatives for our state partners. The new cards feature art from Guy Harvey and Ed Anderson. Check out the designs!

KDWP’s New Flatlander Podcast Episode on Go Outdoors Kansas Licensing System

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks released an episode of their Flatlander Podcast focused on our new Go Outdoors Kansas system. Our digital license approach has accounted for over 60% of transactions to occur electronically through the Go Outdoors Kansas app or website. This, along with the new electronic check-in/check-out process, makes this one of our most feature-filled installs to date. We are excited about what the new system has in store for KDWP staff and its constituents! Check out the podcast episode here or listen below: https://ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/News/Flatlander-Podcast

Go Outdoors Louisiana Offers a New Reservation System for Louisiana State Parks

Louisiana State Parks and Brandt launched Go Outdoors Louisiana on June 1, 2022, a full-service parks and camping reservation system. The new launch included the release of a new central reservation system, point-of-sale system, call center, and golf course management system. The new reservation system will allow for a more streamlined booking process for customers at GoOutdoorsLouisiana.com to reserve campsites, cabins, purchase park passes, buy merchandise, and make a donation.

“With the launch of Go Outdoors Louisiana, we continue to expand our product offering and provide simple, modern and secure well-designed systems for our state partners. We are excited for the increase in revenue that this system will bring to Louisiana State Parks and its conservation efforts,” stated Richard Wise, CEO of Brandt.

About Brandt

Brandt Information Services provides simple, modern, and secure technology solutions to conservation agencies and their public users that transform the outdoors experience. The company serves organizations in the fishing, hunting, boating, and parks and camping industry with licensing, registration, reservations, and e-commerce technology and services.

Go Outdoors Kansas is the New Licensing System for Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks launched its new licensing system, Go Outdoors Kansas, on May 1, 2022. The new efficient system is designed to improve the user experience for KDWP, license agents, boat vendors, and its more than two million public license holders. “We are transforming the outdoors experience with our simple, modern, and secure Go Outdoors Kansas solution,” announced Richard Wise, Brandt CEO. Through the Go Outdoors Kansas website and mobile app, customers can purchase hunting and fishing licenses, complete harvest reports, register boats, and more.

Public customers may log in at GoOutdoorsKansas.com or download the mobile app GoOutdoorsKS. Durable license cards are available in two designs, crappie or pheasant, with artwork by KDWP’s Dustin Teasley and full card design by Brody Latham.  

The iOS and Android mobile apps allow users to access their licenses easily on their phones, view regulations and sunrise/sunset times in the field, and report harvests after hunting. Also included in the release is a private law enforcement mobile app for conservation officers to scan license documents and/or hard card QR codes to confirm customer status in the field, with or without cell phone reception. 

Over 500 license agent and boat vendor locations are now processing transactions through the online system. 

“Brandt will continue to work side by side with state agency partners on innovative new solutions that help improve the overall outdoors experience. We are proud to be live with Kansas,” stated Brandt’s President, Mike Wons. 

Brandt Information Services Acquires Terra Technology Group

NEW YORK, March 17, 2022  Brandt Information Services (“Brandt” or the “Company”), a NexPhase Capital-backed company and a leading provider of outdoor recreational licensing and camping reservation software, today announced the acquisition of Terra Technology Group (“TTG”), a leading SaaS technology provider for outdoor licensing and recreational solutions.

Since 2011, Brandt has grown strategically and organically to become a market leader in outdoor recreational support. The Company provides innovative software, as well as a technology-enabled suite of services, including call center, fulfillment, credit card processing, billing reconciliation, and digital marketing. These services enable public agencies to more effectively engage and grow consumers of hunting & fishing licenses and parks reservations.

With the addition of TTG’s platform, Brandt will be able to provide even more choices to best meet each agency’s needs. Under the Brandt name, Brandt’s Go Outdoors platform and the Terra platform will serve more than 18 partners in the U.S. and abroad.

“Brandt and TTG are two highly successful organizations in the outdoor recreational space, and we are excited to be able to offer both Go Outdoors and the Terra platform to our customers,” said Richard Wise, President of Brandt. “With this acquisition, Brandt has expanded our ability to serve all agencies’ licensing and reservations needs, and we look forward to helping more customers deliver easy and reliable, web-based automated experiences for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere across licensing, permitting, reservations and other purchases.”

“TTG is proud to join Brandt, an outdoor industry leader, with its strong reputation of continuous innovation and technology improvements,” said Jeff Roberts, General Manager of TTG. “Our complementary platforms offer our customers and agency partners unique technology and services built to capture real-time, high quality data that is critical for their success. We are thrilled to be able to continue this mission as part of a broader platform.”

Financial terms were not disclosed.


About Brandt

Since 1985, Brandt Information Services has provided local, state and federal agencies, as well as private organizations, with innovative solutions to maintain large-scale technology projects, streamline business processes, manage a variety of transaction systems and support agency operations. The company has successfully scaled with organic growth in the outdoor recreational industry with products and services to support hunting, fishing, boating and camping transactions.

About Terra Technology Group

Terra Technology Group is a leading provider of next-generation outdoor licensing and recreational solutions. TTG partners with fish and wildlife agencies to provide innovative technology for conservation and natural resource licensing needs. The company offers more than a decade of experience in developing and operating license and permit point of sale, event management and CRM software throughout the United States.

About NexPhase Capital

NexPhase Capital (“NPC”) is a thematic and operationally focused private equity firm that invests in lower middle market growth-oriented companies within three distinct sectors: consumer, healthcare, and software. The firm partners with companies that have reached a growth inflection point and are seeking a value-added partner to help navigate the company’s “next phase.” The NPC team has extensive industry and operational experience and NPC’s partners have invested together for over a decade. The firm has completed over 80 investments, including add-ons, and targets control equity investments between $25 million and $150 million. For more information, please visit www.NexPhase.com.

Go Outdoors South Carolina is here!

SCDNR logo

COLUMBIA, S.C., March 15, 2022

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is excited to announce the launch of Go Outdoors South Carolina—our new licensing and boat titling system. The new system makes it easier for our customers to:

  • View and purchase hunting and fishing licenses, permits and tags.
  • Apply for lottery hunts.
  • Register and renew watercraft.
  • Report turkey harvest through SC Game Check.
  • Upgrade to a licensing hard card.
  • Purchase SCDNR gear or make a donation through the Go Outdoors SC Shop.

Additionally, the new system brings with it a new multi-functional app. The new GoOutdoorsSC app will allow users to:

  • Also view and purchase hunting and fishing licenses, permits and tags.
  • Report turkey harvest through SC Game Check.
  • Have online resources like regulations, harvest data, the new SC Public Fishing Access platform at your fingertips.

This app is available in both the Apple and Google Play Store.

We hope this transition brings with it an improved user experience.

Turkey Hunters make sure to delete the previous app and download the GoOutdoorsSC app to report your harvest. The app from last year is no longer functional.

Find our new licensing system here.

GFP Launches Go Outdoors South Dakota

January 3, 2022

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) launched a new e-commerce system, Go Outdoors South Dakota.

This system combines the purchases of hunting and fishing licenses with state parks camping reservations and other purchases. The new system makes it easier and more convenient for the public to log in and view their preference points, purchase hunting and fishing licenses, make park reservations, and manage their profile information.

“We are very excited to offer a one stop shop for customers looking to pursue their next outdoor adventure. The new e-commerce system makes it easier for family and friends to get outdoors and create long lasting memories and traditions,” said Kevin Robling, GFP Department Secretary.

Log in and check out the new system today at GoOutdoorsSouthDakota.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I log in to the new system?

Go to gooutdoorssouthdakota.com and begin by logging into or creating a mySD account. New with the system is integration with the statewide single sign on to provide additional account security and connection between other state agency systems. If you have an existing account with mySD, please use the email address on file. If you need to create a new mySD account, you will be prompted to do so after entering your unique email address. Every family member will need a unique email address for their mySD account to proceed. Upon verifying your customer information, you will be brought to the Customer Home Page where you can manage your profile information.

Will I still be able to purchase at a license agent location?

Yes. Most license agent locations will continue to sell GFP licenses. While the system launched on December 15, 2021, it would be a good idea to call ahead before visiting a license agent to make sure they are prepared to sell you a license.

Did my preference points get transferred?

Yes! All preference points on your customer account will remain valid with the new system. The preference points purchased for 2022 season are already included in the point values displayed on your account available now. For example, you purchased one preference point for Gavins Point Paddlefish on December 10, 2021 where previously you had zero. Now you will have one displaying for 2022. If you notice any irregularities with your account, please call our customer support line at 605.223.7660.

What is Auto-Renew?

Once you complete a purchase through the new system, you may be asked to sign up for auto-renew. This is a feature that allows you to automatically renew any applicable licenses/permits when they are about to expire using a stored payment method. If you choose to enroll, you will receive an email 10 days in advance notifying that your eligible licenses will be renewed using Auto-Renew. You may adjust your auto-renew settings (including stored payment) at any time before your license(s) expires through your customer profile.

Licenses eligible for auto-renew include resident small game, annual fishing, combination, and furbearer licenses. The habitat stamp will be automatically added to your cart and auto-renew with your other licenses you have selected. Nonresident annual fishing, shooting preserve, and predator/varmint licenses are also eligible for auto-renew.

Did my Auto-Renew run?

Automatic renewal of customer licenses were issued on January 3, 2022 this year. Customers with a valid payment option on file, who met the customer criteria to automatically renew their licenses, received a purchase confirmation email to the email address listed on their customer account. Log in to your account to confirm your current and 2022 licenses are on file. The system is up to date on all transactions. If you do not see the licenses you were expecting to auto-renew, please purchase accordingly.

What is a Durable South Dakota Collector’s Card?

When you purchase a license and/or permit through the system, you may be asked if you would like to upgrade to a durable card for $5. This optional, durable card is a valid form of proof of purchase that will not be damaged by water, sun, dirt, or regular wear and tear like the traditional paper document. The card is made of credit card-like material that contains your customer and license information on one side, and on the other side features artwork from Terry Redlin, America’s most popular outdoor artist and South Dakota native.

Cards are mailed within 5-10 business days of purchase to the customer mailing address on file. At the time of printing, eligible licenses currently held by the customer will print on the card. Hunters are still required to carry the physical tags for big game in addition to the collector’s card. Current licenses that will be printed on the card include: habitat stamp, annual fishing, annual small game, combination, furbearer, predator/varmint, and migratory bird.

Two artwork options are available to print on your collector’s card at this time. You may order one of each design, if desired, at time of purchase. GFP intends to offer new artwork on the collector’s cards each year, so start with the first one!

Will my mobile app still work?

As part of the system transition, there are new mobile app versions available for download. If you have the previous mobile app, please update the app through the app store. If you do not have the app already downloaded, search for “Go Outdoors South Dakota” to find GFP’s official mobile app for iOS and Android. Note: users will not automatically be updated to the latest app version. To access the latest version of the app each user must manually update/download the Go Outdoors SD app.

The app will allow you to purchase licenses and access your license information, no matter where you are. You may download multiple customer licenses to offer one secure digital license document location for families, groups, and more. This will also be a legal means of carrying your licenses in the field. In addition to storing multiple customers’ documents, you are able to sign up for season reminders and access regulations documentation.

How do I check my upcoming parks reservations and make a new reservation?

GFP has consolidated the camping reservations system into the new e-commerce system! You may now log in to gooutdoorssouthdakota.com with your mySD account to access your upcoming reservations. You may also purchase Park Entrance Licenses and/or make a campsite reservation at any state park in our great state.

If you notice any irregularities with your account, please call our customer support line at 800.710.2267

Brandt Information Services Named Best & Brightest Company to Work For Sixth Consecutive year

Brandt Information Services is honored to have been selected for the sixth consecutive year as one of the 2021 Best & Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation. While the winners are not ranked, Brandt has been recognized as one of 167 winning organizations of 1,500 nominations across the country. Brandt will be honored during the Illuminate Business Summit in January 2022.

With over 20 years of experience conducting the Best and Brightest competitions, the National Association for Business Resources (NABR) has identified numerous best Human Resource practices and provided benchmarking for companies that continue to be leaders in employment standards. All 2021 companies that are selected to be recognized nationally will be featured in the online edition of Corp! Magazine.

About the Best & Brightest Companies to Work For Program

The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For® competition identifies and honors organizations that display a commitment to excellence in operations and employee enrichment that lead to increased productivity and financial performance. This competition scores potential winners based on regional data of company performance and a set standard across the nation. This national program celebrates those companies that are making better business, creating richer lives and building a stronger community as a whole.

To learn more about Brandt’s culture and career opportunities, please visit the Brandt Careers page.

Brandt Information Services ranks as a Top 100 Best Place to Work

Brandt Information Services, LLC (Brandt), a Tallahassee-based Information Technology solutions and outdoor marketing firm, has been named one of Florida Trend’s Best Companies To Work For In Florida. The recognition comes off the heels of their recent honor as one of the Best & Brightest Companies to Work for in the Nation.

Florida Trend’s annual Best Companies list features one hundred companies ranked in small, medium and large employer categories. Brandt secured the 18th spot in the midsized employer category. With nearly 250 team members, Brandt is also the only Tallahassee headquartered company to be ranked in the midsize category. More than 200 of Brandt’s team are based in Florida while other team members are working from home across the country. This Best Companies achievement adds to Brandt’s high honor as a one of the overall top ranking Best and Brightest Companies to Work For earning the #1 ranking nationally in the Small Company Category.

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a best place to work, an award rooted in the success of our amazing team,” said John Thomas, CEO. “This award is a testament to the clients and partners we serve and a key indicator of the unmatched service we provide.”

To participate, companies or government entities were required to have at least 15 workers in Florida and to be in operation for at least one year. Companies that chose to participate underwent an evaluation of their workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The process also included a survey to measure employee satisfaction. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. 

“Success starts with our team” said Richard Wise, President. “We make a conscious effort every day to create a space that empowers our team to be the best version of themselves. This award demonstrates Brandt’s dedication to creating a culture where people want to work and reflects how our team feels about what we do.” 

Brandt provides technology solutions, marketing strategies and consulting services, including software products and mobile apps to support natural resource agencies, particularly in the outdoor recreational space.

To learn more about Brandt’s culture and career opportunities, visit https://www.brandtinfo.com/careers. For a list of the 100 Best Companies To Work For In Florida, go to www.floridatrend.com/BestCompanies.

  

About Brandt

Brandt Information Services offers innovative technology solutions to support natural resource agencies by promoting outdoor participation, customer outreach, marketing, and streamlining business operations through customized recreational licensing & registration solutions. Brandt’s growth in the industry is backed by their customer-first partnership approach and industry-first features which has resulted in expansion of state agency partnerships across the country. For over 35 years, Brandt has offered local, state, and federal agencies and private organizations best in class technology solutions and services.

 

About Florida Trend  

Florida Trend is Florida’s Business Authority—an award-winning media company delivering balanced, trusted, in-depth business news and information across print and digital platforms. Florida Trend reports on all industry sectors, including health care, education, research and technology, finance, law, transportation and real estate. Its monthly business magazine is read by more than 270,000 influential business, civil and governmental leaders, and its companion website, FloridaTrend.com, garners a million page-views and over 170,000 unique visitors each month. 

About Best Companies Group 

Best Companies Group works with partners worldwide to establish and manage “Best Places to Work,” “Best Companies” and “Best Employers” programs. Through its thorough workplace assessment, utilizing employer questionnaires and employee-satisfaction surveys, BCG identifies and recognizes companies that have been successful in creating and maintaining workplace excellence. For more information, visit www.BestCompaniesGroup.com