Our experience has convinced us that consulting works best i.e. produces "rapid, sustainable, results", when:

• We combine our expertise with your "knowledge of the terrain" i.e. knowledge about your company and its unique situation
• We solve a problem in iterative - learn and do - cycles

Consequently, we have designed an approach based on the concepts of "hypothesis driven" problem solving and "action learning"

• We devise a solution in 12-16 weeks no matter the size of the organization or complexity of the problem
• Clients pay only for our expertise not for our time
• We train key stakeholders so they can continue to "tweak" the solution
• We continue as advisors to help as needed.
• Periodically, we provide a pulse check to make sure everything is working as planned

What is "Hypothesis Driven" problem solving?

Hypothesis driven problem solving tries to find the shortest path to the solution of a problem. It is based on the premise that the problem solver is an expert in the field. Hence, seeing the symptoms they have a fair idea of what the cause(s) of the problem are. This judgement or instinct about the possible causes is termed "hypotheses" (or hunch?). The expert then collects data to prove or disprove their hypotheses - quickly leading to the solution.

Of course the key here is expertise - in the abscence of which this could be a very difficult process for the client! 

What is Action Learning?

Action learning is a continuous process of learning and reflection with the intention of getting something done:

• Learning is centered on the need to find a solution to a real problem.
• It does not use project work, job rotation, or any form of a simulation such as case studies or business games.
• Learning is voluntary and learner driven, while individual development is as important as finding the solution to the problem.
• It is iterative - learning and doing happen in cycles.

What is the process?

There are five steps to this process: 

1. Step 1 Diagnose: We spend the first week of the engagement working with you to identify the issues and establish the scope (2-5 days). The key deliverable of this step is a "technology assessment" that drives not only the engagement but also your technology plan or IT Strategy going forward
2. Step 2 Action Plan: Next, we establish steps, roles and responsibilities, deliverables and timeline for the engagement (< 5 days)
3. Step 3 Training: We provide formal training, as needed, in cutting edge framework and approach (2 days)
4. Step 4 Implementation: Next, we execute the action plan to complete the engagement (6-8 Weeks)
5. Step 5 Feedback: Our clients have the option to retain us on an ongoing basis on discounted rates. This retainer provides for scheduled "pulse checks" to update the "technology assessment". This ensures that the solution we devised is working or to make course corrections, as needed. Alternatively, this retainer can be used to provide advisory services on issues not related to the original engagement.

Please note that none of these steps are mandatory and we tailor each engagement to the specifics of the situation.

Why Action Learning?

Action Learning is the most effective way to leverage consulting resources. Our expertise is combined with our client's knowledge of their issues and environment to deliver rapid and repeatable results.

Action learning puts you, our client, in control:

• You can choose consulting or training or any combination of the two
  At each step,
• You chose to use our services or do it internally
• You make a decision to go forward or not

Why an emphasis on “quantifying” results?

We measure and quantify results to make informed decisions:

• Focus: Attain a common understanding of the direction and to know when we have reached major milestones and the destination
  - Investment Focus: What areas should we invest in?
  - Investment Level: Should we spend less/more on IT?
• Motivation: Motivating and changing behavior sometimes requires the measurement of results and proportionate rewards
  - How do we motivate employees to support this action?
  - How do we motivate employees to change current behavior?
• Feedback: Learn from the data/observations along the way for course correction or other suitable action
  - Do we need to change our strategic direction?
  - Does this new technology warrant a change in our strategy?
  - Should we build this system or buy it?

What is our expertise in?

Our expertise is in Business Strategy, IT Strategy, e-Strategy, IT Portfolio Rationalization, Enterprise Architecture Planning, Vendor Relationship Management and Risk Management

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