CBS Reviews: No Longer Flying By The Seat Of Our Pants

Situation

Although the company had supplied fencing materials and installation services for over 60 years, the client shared that when Corporate Business Solutions first appeared on the scene, “It was an understatement to say that the business was chaotic.

It reminded me of a feeding frenzy for a pond full of Koi.  Every morning, the crews would arrive and circle around our salesmen, trying to find out what they were supposed to do for the day.  No one ever knew when a job was going to be scheduled (including the man scheduling them).  We were at least six weeks behind on installations.”

Process

Their CBS consultant worked on developing policies and procedures to make day-to-day operations function much more smoothly.  “Now scheduling is accomplished a week at a time, instead of daily, which allows us to let our customers know what is going on.  The crews are no longer allowed to come in day, after day, with unfinished projects, which has drastically increased productivity.”

Additionally, the consultant provided his input regarding new management.  “Before he arrived, I was the manager.  Now, we have a sales and marketing manager, an operations manager, a yard manager and an open position for a finance manager (which, most likely, will be filled by the end of the year).”  The client is looking forward to no longer having to serve as the financial manager and just fulfilling the role of President.

Bringing the management team up to speed was also part of the project.  “He has worked with our new sales manager on job profitability.  Before he came, we had no idea if our jobs were profitable, or not, and no understanding of how to figure it out.  Now, our jobs have a minimum 20% margin and we can track how well we are doing at meeting our goals.  We have a budget and a capital expenditure plan.  We were, literally, flying by the seat of our pants.  Now, we have a plan to follow and know where we are headed.”

Result

“Not only do I have a larger, clearer vision of where this company is going, I have the tools that I need to make it happen.”  The client further appreciates the fact that she will be able to contact her consultant, if she should need him.  “It gives me the reassurance that I need to go forward and turn this into a 10 million dollar a year business.  Thanks to him, I am excited about the future!”   Dana, President