Recently a friend here in Phoenix called me. She had a dilemma. A client of hers had a spreadsheet they used for client orders.
The client actually received a blank spreadsheet each ordering period, filled in their order, and sent it back. The problem was it left too many decisions to the customer. Mistakes in data resulted in numerous questions, mistakes, and customer calls.
Here is why technology is really amazing. She sent me the sheet, we discussed, via a Skype call, what they needed, I created a simple proof of concept in about an hour, and then shared my desktop and demonstrated where I was going.
After some modification and process questions, they had a new solution, using Excel lookup values on a hidden sheet, protected fields, and checks and balances to ensure the client’s order was correct when submitted.
So far, they have had a 95% reduction in customer calls and have had a 100% reduction in errors.
For me, removing manual and tedious labor is a passion.
The fact that tools exist that allow me to quickly assess and then demonstrate a solution – all remote – means I can save my client’s money while providing amazing results.
