Profitability Improvement and Expense/Cost Control

TSI leverages its process improvement proficiency along with best practices in operating expense, organization structure and technology analysis to help its clients remove unneccessary costs without impairing service, quality or speed.   Relative to other approaches to achieve similar objectices, TSI's approach is holistic, centered on (i) assessing the value and efficiency of processes, (ii) analyzing effort, costs, (iii) leveraging the use of technology and (iv) defining/improving financial and operational performance metrics.  This approach will create a more substantive and sustainable foundation for both short and long-term improvement.

TSI’s approach to projects of this nature leverages its “Six Step Performance Improvement” Methodology, a sound, pragmatic approach developed by Managing Partner Dan Feely, who also developed methodologies at a number of consulting firms.  This approach is a blend of process improvement, turnaround and change management methodologies.   Key components of our approach include:

A holistic look at key process components – TSI’s approach objectively examines the use of people, process (including policy) and technology within the scope of each engagement.  We respectfully and objectively test and challenge existing practices that may contribute to unneeded complexity, cost, inefficiency or the lack of quality.

Multi-dimensional Fact-finding – while it is nearly impossible or at least not cost-effective to visually observe every process being done, TSI strives to remove bias and understand an organization’s reality versus just input from a vocal minority.  TSI does this by:

• Creating a survey to gather input beyond those involved in mapping processes
• Interviewing key individuals involved with the processes
• Collaborating with key subject matter experts (SMEs) and other visionaries
• Performing informal observation

Process, Effort and Cost Analysis – TSI quantifies what processes and organizations “cost” in terms of people, effort and dollars.  In doing so, we:

• Review policies that direct how work is done today (e.g. relevance, compliance)
• Identify opportunities for efficiencies and cost reduction in processes and technology, including risk factors
• Examine the organization and its structure for potential improvement
• Identify critical success factors and dependencies.

 Implementation Management – TSI analyzes the information gathered to:

• Plan short, mid and long-term implementation steps and timeline
• Address change management, organization change and communication plans
• Measure progress and refine approach as required

Leveraging Best Practices – TSI, with its expertise in both industry and higher education, can adapt best practices proven in the private sector and combine these with higher education practices to produce optimal solutions.