uccess in business is never guaranteed, but the odds can be improved through planning, structure and discipline and the development of a comprehensive and articulate “business model”. Such a model would typically include a vision, a strategy, processes & systems and a way of organizing its resources.
At Vision to Action we don’t assume that every business has the same needs or is at the same stage of development so we don’t prescribe a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. Our initial goal is to help our clients complete their business model wherever they are in the process so the first thing we do is find the ideal starting point for our involvement. This is achieved by:
- Consulting with clients about their needs, goals or problems and their level of commitment;
- By conducting an initial assessment of the business;
If the vision is confused or can’t be articulated, clarifying the vision may be the best place to start. If the vision is clear but how to achieve it is unknown it may be best to start by developing a strategy or business plan. If there is a strategy but the business is disorganized or unable to take the first steps, it may be best to start with how it operates or its organization structure. Whatever the starting point is, we adapt our approach to what is most needed by our clients.
We use a range of tools, diagnostics, workshops and training programs depending on our clients’ needs. If nothing appropriate exists, we can develop something. Don’t be concerned, we’re not tool or theory junkies. We understand their limitations and we’re beyond being swayed by fads. You won’t be force-fed our own brand of the truth either; whatever is present for our clients is what we deal with.
Our core business philosophy is to seek win/win. We want our customers to believe that they get value for the money they pay and a positive return on their investment. For this reason our fees are based on the following principles:
- Free consultations: we don’t charge you to tell us what you’re looking for. This is done on our time and we are committed to helping you clarify your needs so that we can propose the very best services for you;
- Flexible fee arrangements: our preference is to work on a total value basis as opposed to an hourly basis. We find this helps our clients to determine their budget and the pace at which they will invest. But we are flexible and creative so allow us to explore different possibilities with you that work for you and work for us.
- No surprises: we agree on fee structures upfront, where possible, and we provide transparency on the costs throughout our working relationship. We want you to keep using us and refer us to others;
Because we offer a range of different services and consultants/service providers we cannot determine what the fees will be until we have met with you to discuss your needs. After an initial meeting we will provide you with a professional proposal or bid.
You’ve probably heard the phrase “too busy working in the business to work on the business”. Many business owners or managers cannot find the time or don’t have the skills to develop a business plan or think about how to market their services. They may want fresh energy to help them overcome the inertia that holds them back or they may be looking for an objective perspective or new ideas.
At Vision to Action our role is to facilitate thinking to drive action. We don’t just try things and hope for results; we focus on the process that leads to the results. We bring the structure and discipline our clients may not have, we conduct the research they don’t have the time to do and we bring the creativity and resources to help our clients solve persistent problems and generate new possibilities. Our goal is to empower our clients to make their own decisions but ensure they have the support and expertise to guide them as they implement the plans.
