Following is a list of our white paper categories. Click on a category to see the titles and click on the title to see an abstract. Re-click to close the abstract or category.
Are You an Octopus?
Is your business in control or do you control your business? Do you delegate? Do you make all decisions big or small? Is it easier to do “it” yourself? You may be stifling your business and ignoring a key resource within your company. Identify the symptoms.
Read Full Article
Call “The A Team”
Using variable labor for key strategic positions is an affordable way to reduce costs while still providing the support you need to run your business. It is critical for every business to have key positions in place, but can you afford the luxury of a full-time in-house resource? This article explores valuable alternatives you should consider to attract the most competent resources at an affordable price.
Read Full Article
Drive Profit with Non-financial Metrics
So you aren’t a financial wizard. That’s OK. Most business owners aren’t. In fact, there are a surprising number of successful business owners who really don’t understand how to read or use financial statements. Some of you may think your tax returns are the only financial statements you need. However, each of you has your own way to keep score and make adjustments when you see there is a problem brewing. Even those of you that may be financially savvy use many non-financial measures to keep your business on course. Interestingly, you may not consider what you are using metrics because you may be using something very informal. The point is that everyone uses metrics in and out of business on a continuous basis.
Read Full Article
Grant Writing for the Rest of Us
Want some free money for something you were going to pay for anyway? This article is not for those who write scientific, medical or biotech grants. This is for everyday companies, big or small that have an opportunity to take advantage of state and federal grants.
Read Full Article
Is Your Company its Own Worst Enemy?
The customer is king. We all know it and believe it. But what happens when such a critical and basic rule isn’t followed by everyone within the organization? Read Jack’s real life example of a customer service breakdown and his checklist of things to look for in your process to keep it from happening to you.
Read Full Article
It’s All About Growth
Without top-line growth a business is in decline. Value is destroyed and the owner may not be able or willing to reverse the trend. It is not fair to anyone to let that happen. Are you willing to have your legacy be a shuttered business? What value will you receive in the end for all the hard work you put into building your business?
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 1)
Non-financial metrics are as important to all organizations (profit or non-profit, medical, service or manufacturing) as financial metrics. They help you understand the success of programs, focus on areas important for success, process control and problem solving. Using them effectively is the part most companies miss.
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 2)
In these trying economic times it is critical for every business to focus on what is most important. That focus should extend to all parts of the business, top to bottom. Those companies that are able to get their workforce focused on the Company strategies and ways to execute those strategies are using metrics as a powerful competitive advantage.
Read Full Article
Save Money Today, BIG Money Tomorrow
To unlock cash in today’s environment really takes creative thinking. The simple "cab driver" advice you hear on a continuous basis isn’t all that helpful. You need to find and fix systemic problems that drain cash day after day. What techniques do I recommend?
Read Full Article
Start Forecasting Now!
Whether your company is on a high growth roll, merely trying to survive this recession or somewhere in between, if you aren’t using forecasts, you may be incredibly lucky. The odds of continued success and building a high-value company are stacked against you. On the other hand, that may help explain why you are in survival mode. Forecasting can change the odds to your favor.
Read Full Article
Strategy is Fundamental
Why do "A" companies and top sports teams win? It isn’t just about ability, teamwork, practice or a killer ap. They have a plan. So why don’t more companies use strategic planning? Read on for compelling reasons why a strategic plan will add competitive advantage to your business.
Read Full Article
Top Characteristics to Thrive in Any Economy,
It may sound a bit cliché or premature for many companies, but there are many companies doing fine in the face of this recession. Some are in the “right” industry, some have a “killer” product or service and some are thriving by design.
Read Full Article
WIIFM
A profound acronym for “what’s in it for me?”. It covers many areas of your business, but starting from the source (your customer or prospect) and working its way upstream sometimes (a lot of times) loses its focus quickly.
Read Full Article
You Know you are in Big Trouble if?
Are you aware the first stage of business failure is denial? Could you recognize many of the obvious signs your company is in trouble? Are you trying to save your company by doing things that may not be the best for you and your family? Are you aware owners who recognize early signs they have more trouble than they can handle are more likely to take the steps necessary to successfully turn their company around?
Read Full Article
Are You an Octopus?
Is your business in control or do you control your business? Do you delegate? Do you make all decisions big or small? Is it easier to do “it” yourself? You may be stifling your business and ignoring a key resource within your company. Identify the symptoms.
Read Full Article
Drive Profit with Non-financial Metrics
So you aren’t a financial wizard. That’s OK. Most business owners aren’t. In fact, there are a surprising number of successful business owners who really don’t understand how to read or use financial statements. Some of you may think your tax returns are the only financial statements you need. However, each of you has your own way to keep score and make adjustments when you see there is a problem brewing. Even those of you that may be financially savvy use many non-financial measures to keep your business on course. Interestingly, you may not consider what you are using metrics because you may be using something very informal. The point is that everyone uses metrics in and out of business on a continuous basis.
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 1)
Non-financial metrics are as important to all organizations (profit or non-profit, medical, service or manufacturing) as financial metrics. They help you understand the success of programs, focus on areas important for success, process control and problem solving. Using them effectively is the part most companies miss.
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 2)
In these trying economic times it is critical for every business to focus on what is most important. That focus should extend to all parts of the business, top to bottom. Those companies that are able to get their workforce focused on the Company strategies and ways to execute those strategies are using metrics as a powerful competitive advantage.
Read Full Article
Strategy is Fundamental
Why do "A" companies and top sports teams win? It isn’t just about ability, teamwork, practice or a killer ap. They have a plan. So why don’t more companies use strategic planning? Read on for compelling reasons why a strategic plan will add competitive advantage to your business.
Read Full Article
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - January 2012, New Year's Resolution - Plan Your Transition
The New Year brings with it a time of renewal and a fresh perspective on business ownership and transition. Creating and having a plan to build the business value you need to successfully transition your business is a great New Year’s resolution.
Jan 1, 2012 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - October 2011, Transition Planning Case Study - Part II of III
Transition Planning Case Study - Part II of III
Oct 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - September 2011, Transition Planning Case Study - Part I of III
Transition Planning Case Study - Part I of III
Sep 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - November 2011, Transition Planning Case Study - Part III of III
Transition Planning Case Study - Part III of III
Nov 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - August 2011, Should an ESOP be Part of Your Internal Transition Plan?
If you are a business owner who is turning to your managers as a transition option, you are not alone. This newsletter explains how an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) can also be used to assist with the transition. The ESOP is a vehicle that is very much misunderstood in the marketplace today, but may the perfect addition to a transition plan that is focusing on a management buyout.
Aug 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - July 2011, No Transition is a Panacea; the Pros and Cons of Internal Transfers
This newsletter reviews the pros and cons of two internal non-gifting options, providing insights into what details owners should focus on when considering a transfer to their current employees and/or family.
Jul 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - June 2011, Internal vs. External Transfers
This Transition Strategies Newsletter compares the internal transfer methods for businesses to the external transfers and examine why it’s important for business owners to consider both options in designing their transition strategy plans.
Jun 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - May 2011, The Myth of Easy Business Transitions
The easy business transition is a myth. The more you are aware about the need to follow a process to achieve your transition, the stronger you will be when it comes time to execute a transition that assists you in meeting your goals.
May 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - April 2011, Client Waiting to Sell Their Business? It May Not Be Worth the Wait
This newsletter provides comparison to the benefits of waiting for an increase in profits against the drawbacks of being exposed to higher capital gains tax rates, higher ordinary income tax rates, a crowded marketplace of sellers and a potential loss opportunity for appreciation in investment accounts.
Apr 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - March 2011, Is Your Company Ready For Your Transition? A Pre-Due Diligence Exercise
Because there is no strategy that factors immortality into your transition equation, you need to be aware that transitioning out of your business and protecting your wealth is a task that is solely your responsibility.
Mar 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - February 2011, Top Ten Reasons to Plan Your Exit in 2011
A proactive approach to exit planning is the best approach. In this article, you will learn about 10 reasons why you should plan your approach sooner rather than later.
Feb 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - January 2011, How Will Your Exit Be Impacted By the Extension of the Bush Tax Cuts?
Just before the close of 2010, President Obama signed into law the Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 (the Act). The big question is, how will the extension of these tax cuts impact your potential exit from your business?
Jan 1, 2011 Download PDF Email
The Edge - Transition Strategies Newsletter - December 2010, Your Financial Readiness for Your Business Transition: Measuring Your Post-Transition Goals & Lifestyle
One of the most important questions to answer in planning a business transition is, can I afford my transition? In order to answer this question you need to understand your financial position and how much you depend upon the business for your personal lifestyle.
Dec 1, 2010 Download PDF Email
Strategy is Fundamental
Why do "A" companies and top sports teams win? It isn’t just about ability, teamwork, practice or a killer ap. They have a plan. So why don’t more companies use strategic planning? Read on for compelling reasons why a strategic plan will add competitive advantage to your business.
Read Full Article
Do You Have Contingency Plans?
It is important for you to focus on yourself before you work on more business related long-term strategic planning. "Put your own mask on first" comes to mind. You did not spend all your time building a successful business just to let it disappear because you didn’t put key, and sometimes simple, safeguards in up front did you?
Read Full Article
Have You Thought About Your Future Lately?
As an owner or partner of a thriving business, do you have all the pieces in place to take care of your family? Are your business strategies aligned with you and your partner’s personal goals and objectives? These questions and more may be very difficult and uncomfortable to discuss or address. But what if something sudden were to take you out of the business?
Read Full Article
What is Value?
The current turmoil in the stock markets has a severe affect on our personal psyche, but does it really affect your business’s long-term value? It shouldn’t. The long-term value of your business is built, and superior value takes effort and time. But it is something every business owner must do to ensure a valuable, lasting and transferable asset.
Read Full Article Download PDF Email
Will your business survive?
What will happen to your business if you were suddenly and unexpectedly removed from it? It happens. If your business is all about you the effects could be devastating. If you are like Joe and don't prepare, it could happen to you.
Read Full Article
Are You an Octopus?
Is your business in control or do you control your business? Do you delegate? Do you make all decisions big or small? Is it easier to do “it” yourself? You may be stifling your business and ignoring a key resource within your company. Identify the symptoms.
Read Full Article
Call “The A Team”
Using variable labor for key strategic positions is an affordable way to reduce costs while still providing the support you need to run your business. It is critical for every business to have key positions in place, but can you afford the luxury of a full-time in-house resource? This article explores valuable alternatives you should consider to attract the most competent resources at an affordable price.
Read Full Article
It’s All About Growth
Without top-line growth a business is in decline. Value is destroyed and the owner may not be able or willing to reverse the trend. It is not fair to anyone to let that happen. Are you willing to have your legacy be a shuttered business? What value will you receive in the end for all the hard work you put into building your business?
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 1)
Non-financial metrics are as important to all organizations (profit or non-profit, medical, service or manufacturing) as financial metrics. They help you understand the success of programs, focus on areas important for success, process control and problem solving. Using them effectively is the part most companies miss.
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 2)
In these trying economic times it is critical for every business to focus on what is most important. That focus should extend to all parts of the business, top to bottom. Those companies that are able to get their workforce focused on the Company strategies and ways to execute those strategies are using metrics as a powerful competitive advantage.
Read Full Article
Start Forecasting Now!
Whether your company is on a high growth roll, merely trying to survive this recession or somewhere in between, if you aren’t using forecasts, you may be incredibly lucky. The odds of continued success and building a high-value company are stacked against you. On the other hand, that may help explain why you are in survival mode. Forecasting can change the odds to your favor.
Read Full Article
Strategy is Fundamental
Why do "A" companies and top sports teams win? It isn’t just about ability, teamwork, practice or a killer ap. They have a plan. So why don’t more companies use strategic planning? Read on for compelling reasons why a strategic plan will add competitive advantage to your business.
Read Full Article
Top Characteristics to Thrive in Any Economy,
It may sound a bit cliché or premature for many companies, but there are many companies doing fine in the face of this recession. Some are in the “right” industry, some have a “killer” product or service and some are thriving by design.
Read Full Article
Do You Have Contingency Plans?
It is important for you to focus on yourself before you work on more business related long-term strategic planning. "Put your own mask on first" comes to mind. You did not spend all your time building a successful business just to let it disappear because you didn’t put key, and sometimes simple, safeguards in up front did you?
Read Full Article
Will your business survive?
What will happen to your business if you were suddenly and unexpectedly removed from it? It happens. If your business is all about you the effects could be devastating. If you are like Joe and don't prepare, it could happen to you.
Read Full Article
A Rebranding Journey
There may be a time in your business’s lifecycle when you may find your company name just doesn’t fit. Things may have changed between what you did, are doing and trying to do. There are many companies who have been able to reinvent themselves without changing their identity and there are those who found their identity was more of a liability than an asset. So what are you to do? It is a decision you can’t take lightly, but when you do make the decision to change, it should be done strategically and with a solid, detailed plan and budget.
Read Full Article
Are You in a Foxhole?
It is important for your business to continue working on your company’s strategic direction regardless of the economic cycle. Although it is imperative to move carefully in light of the current economic uncertainty, you must continue to move forward. You must identify areas of opportunity to adjust or focus your strategies.
Also featured in The Woonsocket Call.
Read Full Article
I’m Out of Compliance. Now What?
Critical tips every business owner needs to consider if they have an outstanding bank loan about how to navigate the "new lending environment". Consensus among many bankers is that communication is key, but having a recovery plan is critical to that discussion.
Read Full Article
Drive Profit with Non-financial Metrics
So you aren’t a financial wizard. That’s OK. Most business owners aren’t. In fact, there are a surprising number of successful business owners who really don’t understand how to read or use financial statements. Some of you may think your tax returns are the only financial statements you need. However, each of you has your own way to keep score and make adjustments when you see there is a problem brewing. Even those of you that may be financially savvy use many non-financial measures to keep your business on course. Interestingly, you may not consider what you are using metrics because you may be using something very informal. The point is that everyone uses metrics in and out of business on a continuous basis.
Read Full Article
Is Your Company its Own Worst Enemy?
The customer is king. We all know it and believe it. But what happens when such a critical and basic rule isn’t followed by everyone within the organization? Read Jack’s real life example of a customer service breakdown and his checklist of things to look for in your process to keep it from happening to you.
Read Full Article
It’s All About Growth
Without top-line growth a business is in decline. Value is destroyed and the owner may not be able or willing to reverse the trend. It is not fair to anyone to let that happen. Are you willing to have your legacy be a shuttered business? What value will you receive in the end for all the hard work you put into building your business?
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 1)
Non-financial metrics are as important to all organizations (profit or non-profit, medical, service or manufacturing) as financial metrics. They help you understand the success of programs, focus on areas important for success, process control and problem solving. Using them effectively is the part most companies miss.
Read Full Article
Metrics Should be Everywhere (Part 2)
In these trying economic times it is critical for every business to focus on what is most important. That focus should extend to all parts of the business, top to bottom. Those companies that are able to get their workforce focused on the Company strategies and ways to execute those strategies are using metrics as a powerful competitive advantage.
Read Full Article
Save Money Today, BIG Money Tomorrow
To unlock cash in today’s environment really takes creative thinking. The simple "cab driver" advice you hear on a continuous basis isn’t all that helpful. You need to find and fix systemic problems that drain cash day after day. What techniques do I recommend?
Read Full Article
Start Forecasting Now!
Whether your company is on a high growth roll, merely trying to survive this recession or somewhere in between, if you aren’t using forecasts, you may be incredibly lucky. The odds of continued success and building a high-value company are stacked against you. On the other hand, that may help explain why you are in survival mode. Forecasting can change the odds to your favor.
Read Full Article
Strategy is Fundamental
Why do "A" companies and top sports teams win? It isn’t just about ability, teamwork, practice or a killer ap. They have a plan. So why don’t more companies use strategic planning? Read on for compelling reasons why a strategic plan will add competitive advantage to your business.
Read Full Article
Top Characteristics to Thrive in Any Economy,
It may sound a bit cliché or premature for many companies, but there are many companies doing fine in the face of this recession. Some are in the “right” industry, some have a “killer” product or service and some are thriving by design.
Read Full Article
WIIFM
A profound acronym for “what’s in it for me?”. It covers many areas of your business, but starting from the source (your customer or prospect) and working its way upstream sometimes (a lot of times) loses its focus quickly.
Read Full Article
You Know you are in Big Trouble if?
Are you aware the first stage of business failure is denial? Could you recognize many of the obvious signs your company is in trouble? Are you trying to save your company by doing things that may not be the best for you and your family? Are you aware owners who recognize early signs they have more trouble than they can handle are more likely to take the steps necessary to successfully turn their company around?
Read Full Article
Have You Thought About Your Future Lately?
As an owner or partner of a thriving business, do you have all the pieces in place to take care of your family? Are your business strategies aligned with you and your partner’s personal goals and objectives? These questions and more may be very difficult and uncomfortable to discuss or address. But what if something sudden were to take you out of the business?
Read Full Article
Are You in a Foxhole?
It is important for your business to continue working on your company’s strategic direction regardless of the economic cycle. Although it is imperative to move carefully in light of the current economic uncertainty, you must continue to move forward. You must identify areas of opportunity to adjust or focus your strategies.
Also featured in The Woonsocket Call.
Read Full Article
I’m Out of Compliance. Now What?
Critical tips every business owner needs to consider if they have an outstanding bank loan about how to navigate the "new lending environment". Consensus among many bankers is that communication is key, but having a recovery plan is critical to that discussion.
Read Full Article
Glimmers of Optimism? You Decide.
The economic news has been bad for many months, and up to a few weeks ago there were no signs of it getting better. Certainly the headlines and story content were all negative. But that is starting to change. Are you seeing any signs at all the carnage may begin to subside for your business? The horizon seems a bit brighter than last week. Are you ready to take advantage if it is?
Read Full Article
