"Isthmus" to explore Epic Systems' transformation of the Dane County economy

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How far can Dane County ride the success of Epic Systems? Marc Eisen will answer that question in the Feb. 20, 2014, edition of Isthmus, in a cover story titled "Epic Opportunity."

"Done right," Eisen writes, "we're talking about the foundation for Dane County's 21st-century economy being built on the medical software industry: lots of good-paying information technology jobs that fuel an expanding housing market, a glittering downtown with hip restaurants and music clubs, a rising tax base to fund new community services, and a lot more resources to deal with the serious problems of poverty."

Founded in 1979 by Judith Faulkner, Epic Systems is the world leader in the burgeoning health-care software market. It has 6,800 employees and a recorded $1.5 billion in sales in 2012. Eisen has followed the company's rise, reporting on its stunning growth, its unique headquarters, and its decision to locate in Verona rather than Madison.

Eisen previously reported on Epic's effect on the community in a June 20, 2008, cover story, published in four parts:

Eisen followed that story one week later with a report on the company's impact on Verona:

Isthmus previously covered the growth of Epic Systems in a cover story by Tom Laskin, published Jan. 27, 2006:

The story of Epic as a driver of growth in Dane County goes back well over a decade. Eisen explored the company's preparations to move from Madison to Verona in a cover story published May 17, 2002:

A couple weeks later, Eisen reported on the land deal behind the move:

Follow the latest twist in the company's saga with Eisen's "Epic Opportunity" on Thursday, Feb. 20.