STERLING BRINGS TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS TOGETHER

Process Problem Solvers Grow Profits Through Streamlining

Jim Donahue has been passionate about the power of utilizing information technology to streamline work processes ever since his first job after graduating from Michigan State University. At Moore Greens, a regional wholesale florist on Detroit's west side where he rose from buyer to president, Donahue led the transition from typewriters to computers by automating procedures that dated back to the company's 1931 start.

A new career path was carved, leading first to computer sales and support as a founding partner of a business services company in Livonia, Michigan. After four years of expanding that venture, Donahue sold his interest to pursue a broader version of management consulting. The entrepreneur had a vision of blending business and technology expertise into a Plymouth-based professional services firm offering something much more valuable than new software and hardware. In his vision, this new endeavor would shine as a sterling example of solid, high-value business structure analysis and performance improvements.

"We show companies and government agencies how to use computer systems for strategic decision-making, not as electronic notepads that simply record decisions made the old-fashioned way," explains Donahue, who created Sterling Solutions of America in 1990 to serve private and public sector clients. "We help turn computer systems into a profit-generating resource with measurable returns."

Sterling's problem-solving approach involves a detailed analysis of workplace routines to identify opportunities for automation, efficiency, paperwork elimination, waste reduction, time savings and other process improvements that translate directly - as well as promptly -- into productivity and cash flow, or better public services without higher costs. Sterling also creates customized technology solutions and process supports for corporate, industrial or government needs by adapting an organization's existing systems or designing upgrades with enterprise software.

"This is not an area for cookie-cutter solutions," says the company founder, who makes sure project research includes line-level observations and conversations. "Workers closest to the process have the best ideas on how to solve problems, yet managers often tune them out."

That immersion in the culture of a company or public agency, which endures a comprehensive analysis before major recommendations are developed, reflects a business approach that emphasizes long-term framing. "We become deeply engaged in and connected to the businesses we serve," says Donahue. "Sterling makes sure we fix the problem - and the factors that could cause others like it."

"A total solution goes beyond diagnosing and resolving a problem," he adds. "It streamlines how information, materials, products and services flow through an organization."

To help clients of varied sizes and in diverse fields operate more efficiently, Sterling specialists focus on "process problem solving." In addition to addressing challenges flagged by managers, project teams examine overall operations for a full perspective on current and potential information bottlenecks, production logjams and inefficient use of equipment, materials, time or other resources. "The investment in prevention is far less than the cost of recovery," notes the Plymouth Company's founder.

While its attention focuses on technology, Sterling takes care to present suggestions in an accessible, jargon-free way. "Our clients don't use 'geek speak' and neither do we," stresses Jerry Willick, project management specialist. "We use everyday business terms in management presentations and staff training so they can understand and use what we share."

For clients, one important payoff is more time for managers and workers to focus on core operational functions such as administrative tasks, record keeping and other routine support tasks are automated. For law enforcement agencies, that payoff translates directly into increased public safety as officers spend more time on policing and less on paperwork.

In addition to business clients in the fields of automotive supply, manufacturing technology and retailing, Sterling serves municipal governments, court systems, sheriff's departments and police forces. Donahue and Willick are well positioned for public sector assignments thanks to work experience in uniform, as well as in elective office in the founder's case.

Donahue served two years as treasurer of bustling Canton Township, where he raised a family and still lives. That community grew from 5,000 residents in 1970 to 46,000 in 1980, when his term ended. The public service provided hands-on exposure to municipal finance and dealings with state and county agencies, a background that's valuable now as Sterling helps public sector clients generate new revenue, expand services and secure government grants.

"We have a track record of being able to effectively help leaders produce funding for the programs their constituents demand," comments Donahue. "We help governments afford services without increasing the cost to taxpayers."

He and Willick also have credibility in the law enforcement community - "the brotherhood," as Donahue puts it - because they're insiders.

Willick is a retired Warren police lieutenant who directs the criminal justice training academy at Macomb Community College, while Donahue graduated from a similar program at Schoolcraft College and became an Inkster reserve police officer in 2003.

"When we talk to police chiefs or train officers on how to use mobile computers, it helps a lot that Jerry and I have direct experience with police work," says the company president.

Their practical and technical experience, along with specialized skills of other Sterling Solutions of America team members, are applied to client services with flexibility, affordability and commitment. "We bring creativity, fast response and individual attention - which are just three advantages of a nimble, owner-operated firm," says Donahue.

When the Michigan entrepreneur switched from mainly selling electronic components to becoming a one-stop source for process improvements, it was a pioneering direction for a computer dealer. Now he welcomes the challenges and rewards of an in-depth connection to the businesses Sterling serves. "We have a 15-year track record of helping businesses improve productivity and processes through the use of technology," Jim Donahue says. "We're different because we don't just know technology -- we know what to do with it to make a lasting difference for our partners."