Reference no: EM133959221

Web Case 12 Strauss Communications Leading the Market through Effective Operations

Jonathan Strauss, President of Strauss Communications, was able to successfully start his business career while completing high school and beginning his post-secondary studies at the University of Winnipeg. He first achieved public prominence in Winnipeg at age 14 when he and a school friend launched a computer upgrades and accessories business that earned $100,000 in revenue in its second year. Now, aged 22, Jonathan oversees all operations of his company's divisions: events management and publishing. In less than six years he has built the firm into Winnipeg's largest event management company, and as publisher and editor of the Computer Post he has guided the newspaper to a 200 percent increase in circulation.

Services of the firm are outlined below;

• Budgeting. Strauss Communications has developed plans for events with budgets ranging from $5,000 to $500,000, and can assist clients in the preparation of their budget.

• Speaker arrangements. The firm is skilled at organizing events requiring speakers and offers experts for over 160 subject matters for events ranging from computer industry forums to educational conferences. The firm handles the speaker recruitment, contractual negotiations, travel arrangements, accommodations, and follow-up recognition.

• Venue selections. Strauss Communications has worked extensively with the Winnipeg Convention Centre, and has built a solid relationship with its management and staff.

• Graphic design. The firm offers unique in-house design services, which ensures both lower costs and faster turnaround times for clients. Services range from name tags and programs to signage.

• Systems. The firm operates efficient systems for the registration process and can handle up to 5,000 attendees arriving within an hour. A custom-designed FileMaker database tracks attendees, speakers, and all aspects of the event. All members of the service team have e-mail capability, and a dedicated server enables the broadcasting of up to 500 different numbers at one time. Accounting is tracked using Quickbooks software, and monthly reports are produced for income and expense reports. Systems are continuously upgraded to enhance performance.

Jonathan Strauss was recognized by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) as one of the "top ten Young Entrepreneurs in Canada in 2001." He has also been recognized by Maclean's magazine as one of the "Top 100 Canadians to Watch."

Questions:

1. How do the operating systems used by Strauss Communications contribute to its overall competitive position?

2. What statistical methods could be employed to enhance the service offered by the firm?

3. What factors of quality management does Strauss Communications employ?