…a business review?
If you haven’t, maybe it’s time you did.
Why do we need a business review?
I met with a prospective customer last week and, as we discussed what I do, I explained why a business review makes sense. Just as you don’t have to suspect wrongdoing by your finance office to conduct an annual financial audit, a business review provides a similar review of your billing and customer service functions.
A business review provides an opportunity for an outside expert to examine how you do things and make recommendations for improvements. Even if you think your business office is operating efficiently, there are often areas that can be improved upon.
This is what Frankie Maness, the County Manager of Montgomery County, NC, had to say on the Testimonials page of my website about a business review I conducted for the County:
“I’ve been managing water systems for nearly two and a half decades and witnessed many changes in technology and practices. We recently completed a business review with Gary and just when I think I’m on top of the efficiencies in the industry, Gary enlightened us on the cutting-edge solutions and practices that forward our initiatives even more. In fact, on the very day we received Gary’s report, we began reaching out and implementing some of the recommended solutions. We expect additional revenue and cost savings as a result!”
What does a business review entail?
Depending on the size of your utility, I come onsite for one day or a few days. I interview key administrative staff and observe your customer service and billing staff going about their daily routines. I ask questions and take notes, with an eye out to identify opportunities for time and cost savings.
I then use these notes to draft a written report, which identifies areas of improvement and recommends possible revisions to policies, procedures, and fees; complete with analysis, recommendations, and an action plan. I also make myself available to present the report to your management or board, and answer any questions they may have.
What does it cost?
The cost of a business review is determined by the size of your business office, which impacts how much time I spend on-site. If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact me. As an added incentive, for the first three utilities that mention they saw this here, I’m offering a 20% discount.
Want to know more?
If you’re interested in a business review, or just have questions, please give me a call at 919-673-4050 or email me at gary@utilityinformationpipeline.com. I’ll be glad to help in any way I can.
© 2024 Gary Sanders