Early in 2011, E&A formally introduced its revolutionizing concept for software implementation called ISOC^TM (Initialize, Stabilize, Optimize, and Capitalize). ISOC is an evolution of an approach that started several years ago developed around E&A’s core belief in continuous improvement as a means for the small to medium sized business (SMB) to gain real value from their information technology.  Through the ISOC systems management process, E&A's customers can successfully implement high caliber business solutions with the assurance that:

• Systems solutions are properly fitted to the business environment
• Resources expended are not disproportionate to the desired outcome
• Resources are not expended unless absolutely necessary - and not until the time needed
• Solutions are delivered in the most efficient timeframe possible
• Risk tolerance is commensurate with the systems solution objective

The E&AROI Factor, which was first introduced in 2009, comprises the Optimization Phase (or the third component) of ISOC. While there is always some immediate payback when a new software system is installed, the E&AROI Factor is where the pursuit of significant payback with an upgrade or new implementation really begins.

The E&AROI Factor is a strategy guided by the principles of Vision, Leadership, Commitment and Value. It is a discovery process designed to define a general plan for improvement in components of the business process that can drive high payback for the organization. E&AROI Factor has already helped many customers increase the value they received from their ‘IT' system. However, many customers have not invested in this offering and continue to miss opportunities for real payback.

This year E&A is taking E&AROI Factor concept to the next level by infusing it with focused initiatives. As the first step of our continuous improvement program, customers will gain insight into their performance in areas like the order to cash cycle, and cash to procurement cycle. Both of these areas can have major impacts on cash flow and need to be reviewed regularly for improvements. Application of the E&AROI Factor will provide a blueprint for the organization to assess and improve in these two key areas of the business process by providing insight into the following:

• The need for standardization of critical processes
• The delivery of the “critical data” in a timely manner
• Development of key KPI’s to facilitate management by exception
• Identifying the causes that drive shipment delays
• Determination of the optimum product mix
• Assessing vendor reliability
• Assessing the organization’s reliability in servicing its customers
• Quantifying the “true” contribution of product to the bottom line
• Appraisal of the product conversion cycle from inventory to cash by the application of Inventory Dollar Days and Throughput Dollar Days TOC concepts

E&AROI Factor evolves the purpose of inventory management from merely fulfilling orders to driving growth in volume and profits by dynamically managing product mix/contribution and improvement of the overall conversion to cash process. By the application of E&AROI Factor, the organization will put itself on the fast track to improving its overall product delivery processes and to effectively, and reliably, manage its inventory investment.

To my knowledge, there is no professional service organization in the industry that has developed the concepts and processes that ISOC represents. In fact, a few of our clients are already realizing the benefits of E&A’s unique solution.  We are confident that our common sense approach will reduce the organizational stress from upgrades and new implementations and provide a manageable approach with real payback.

I encourage you to take advantage of ISOC and E&AROI Factor. E&A wants you to recover your investment and more from your information technology!