Cogent Analytics came to us during a time of firm growth. Internally, we knew that our management’s direction (or lack of it) needed to be adjusted if we wanted to maintain our size or even grow the firm further. SCA had operated in a small business silo type of organization and used our smaller size to market ourselves as a boutique Architectural firm where a principal would follow our clients’ project from start to finish and be the client’s day-to-day contact. As the firm grew, we struggled with the silo (vertical) management system we had used for many years.

During our initial contact with Cogent Analytics and David Drylie, we learned that it was time to change our management style. This idea was not just a statement; David conducted an analysis of our business and provided a Discovery report, allowing us to see the facts that may warrant some level of management modification. As time progressed, we decided to contract with Cogent Analytics, and Warren Witter joined the team.

Warren was embedded in our office for seven weeks. During this time, Warren helped us to understand where the Principals may want to make changes in our current operations, staff involvement in management, accountability, finances, and sustainability. The main management modification which we learned from Warren was what each of the principal’s roles should be in order to empower our staff to take responsibility for the day-to-day project management without the principals having to do all the management work. Changing our mindset on management has allowed us to focus on the business, which has always been our downfall. As Warren helped our office define the several areas of our business requiring modification, he also provided a path for change for each of those areas.

We understand the path to change is going to be a long road, but with the help of Warren and Cogent, we understand our path and the steps needed to continue our firm’s growth and profitability. We look forward to Cogent’s continued help in the weeks, months and years to come as your guidance has been priceless.

Jeff Mullen
Principal
Stewart & Connors Architects