Whether your vision is rapid growth, higher productivity, stakeholder value or quality improvement, getting there starts by understanding what it takes to reach your goals. The logical first step is an objective assessment of current conditions, commonly referred to as an operations assessment or a GAP Analysis. So to achieve your strategic goals you need to know what it takes to get there.

Operations Assessment

Getting there begins with an objective assessment of where your organization is now. What are its core processes, critical metrics, and performance levels compared to industry standards?

What does a GAP Analysis Involve?

Typically a Gap Analysis is a two day engagement that identifies discrepancies between a company's baseline and target goals in its most critical areas: revenue, quality, productivity, and resource utilization. The result is a plan with specific action steps and resources required to achieve objectives.

Criteria for Assessment

" Employment Size - How many people does your company employ?

" Primary Location - Is the business in the U.S., Canada or abroad?

" Level of Interest - Is there a high level of interest among employees?

" Urgency of Need - Do you need an assessment immediately?

" Organization Maturity - How experienced is the company?

" Management Commitment - Does management offer full support?

The Gap Analysis Typically Consists of Five Activities:

Activity 1: Pre-planning

Prior to the on-site visit, analysts review key business documents such as your Business Summary, Organization Chart, Employee Handbook, and Financial Statements.

Activity 2: Introductory Meeting

Gap analysis methodology and deliverables are outlined for your top management by a Principal Consultant.

Activity 3: Data Gathering

Interviews of a cross-section of your organization's personnel are conducted, operations observed, and data collected.

Activity 4: Gap Analysis Report

A detailed report and MS Project Plan is produced within five business days by a Consulting Team.

Activity 5: Concluding Meeting

The Gap Analysis Report and recommendations are presented to your management by a Principal Consultant.

Get a Return on Your Investment

The Gap Analysis fee typically starts at about $2,500 and will vary depending on the size of the company and scope of the assessment. However, with a strong GAP Analysis, this fee can prove to be quite small compared to the benefits for your company - improving revenue, quality, productivity and resource utilization.