Background
A software startup found early success in selling mobile application tools to corporate IT departments across many industries. Unfortunately, after a few years it became clear this was a tough business to scale and grow. It was too diverse and customers were looking for finished solutions not tools. The leaders realized they had to niche their focus on a specific industry and build out a set of products in order to survive and thrive. Signs pointed to the commercial security market as a good target.
The leadership team engaged the Sundheim Group to help them get on the same page, make tough decisions, and accelerate execution of this new direction.
How we supported the client
Strategic Planning + Team Building – We started by designing and delivering a series of facilitated planning sessions to help the senior team clarify priorities and a plan of attack. The sessions got unresolved issues out into the open and out of the way so that much needed strategic dialogue could happen. Most importantly, these sessions helped the team take several options off the table so they could focus on the ones that could provide the greatest impact.
Execution Support – We provided direct support to the product and business development teams as they executed the new plans. Specifically we helped them improve project leadership, communication, and decision making in order to accelerate time to market.
Leadership Coaching and Advising – Throughout the engagement we coached and advised members of the senior leadership team.
The engagement spanned one year.
Results
Within a year, the firm had established a strong foothold in the commercial security market putting them in a solid position to capitalize on government contracts – which they were able to do 18 months later. Two years after that they successfully sold themselves to larger software firm.
“The Sundheim Group helped us ‘get our act together’ for lack of a better term. Before their involvement we had a lot of good ideas but we had trouble moving them to action. They were instrumental in our ability to ramp up quickly and build a great product.”
CEO