Common Questions from Clients

Are the results "real"?

Early in the program, we work with your financial people to determine how results will be measured directly in your financial statements. We also develop operating measurements for the key cost and revenue drivers of the business. In this way we are able to link the activity-based operating environment to your financial statements. This provides you with the levers you need to lead your organization and to drive your business performance.

"Following are some of the improvements we have experienced already: A 17% increase in the number of quotes sent to Prospects with a 61% increase in the number of quotes that were followed up on. An increase of almost 100% in the number of Sales Calls made by our Outside Sales Reps. Our business is growing at a rate approaching 40% year-over-year. We have some 'positive turnover' within the Sales Team, which has resulted in a stronger, more focused team."

President, Aluminum Extrusion & Fabrication

Why can't we do it internally with our own managers?

In most cases, the managers we work with do not have the time or resources required to do what we do. There is no shortage of good ideas in most companies. Actually communicating those good ideas throughout the organization, getting people to work across functions, physically changing processes and systems, and modifying the skills and behaviors of employees and managers is time-consuming and extremely difficult. This is exactly what Carpedia does.

The inherent disadvantage for your managers is that they have a business to run and day-to-day fires to put out, while we can dedicate our time and attention to what needs to be done. A typical project requires approximately 2500 hours to identify, quantify, communicate, train, install and sustain change. Our clients' managers simply do not have an additional 2500 hours to fit into their schedule. They use Carpedia to provide them with the information and resources required to move their business forward.

"Through their unobtrusive work with our management team in the areas of Service, Transportation and SG&A, we have collectively managed to secure an ROI of 2.8:1, exceeding the promised ROI of 2.3:1."

President, Construction Equipment Rental

How much time is required by various levels of management?

A certain degree of time and commitment is vital from all levels of management at our client companies during the project phase. However, Carpedia's approach is designed to complement, not disrupt the day-to-day activities of personnel during the project.

Our consultants are trained to gather information through observation techniques that are designed to be non-disruptive. We will map out the key processes and ask client staff to critique and offer their comments/issues on a wall chart. This involvement promotes ownership and many ideas begin to flow from this process. As we ask the client staff to describe some of their recurring issues they begin to understand that we are there to help improve and not hinder their progress.

"From the initial contact with the company, to the analysis and the main 12 week project, Carpedia met and often exceeded our company’s expectations. We were especially impressed with the professionalism and work ethic of the Carpedia team members. As promised, they managed to deliver the project without disrupting our day to day operation."

Executive Vice President, Designers & Manufacturers of Decorative Lighting

How effective is the methodology for generating management ownership?

Carpedia's methodology is built entirely around gaining buy-in from local client managers. We involve all levels of managers and employees from the outset by working 100% on-site and out in the working environment. We do not retreat to boardrooms or company offices. All work is done out in the open which is designed to interest and engage the organization.

“The project has been carried out in a very professional and collaborative manner. The resulting non-threatening environment enabled a full acceptance and even enthusiasm by the employees. On many occasions Carpedia staff blended in so well it felt like they were Alcatel employees.”

General Manager, Global Communications Company

How can I find out if Carpedia can help my company?

Before we work in any business we perform what we call an "opportunity analysis" to determine if we can improve operating cash flows over and above what you and your managers are already doing. The analysis is a 2-3 week business review that examines your company's products, key processes, management systems and organizational behaviors.

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