The straight line

Human resources (HR) departments face some complicated and unique challenges during difficult economic times. For example, a business facing financial cutbacks may decide to cut the benefits budget in HR, and then require the department to motivate employees who are feeling the results of those budget reductions. Such a challenge may seem impossible to meet, but...

As the saying goes, “knowledge is power.” To derive valuable knowledge from your company’s operating data requires the development of an effective business intelligence (BI) program. Simply put, BI is a technology-driven process for analyzing data and presenting actionable information to help corporate executives, managers and others make more informed decisions. For example, if you’re clear...

Will pass-through entities still be popular under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)? The tax rules for pass-through entities, including S corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships and sole proprietorships, have generally become more beneficial — but also more confusing under the new law. So which type of entity is best for your business? The...

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) provides businesses with more than just lower income tax rates and other provisions you may have heard about. Here’s an overview of some lesser-known, business-friendly changes under the new law, along with a few changes that could affect some businesses adversely. Good News Many of the new law’s provisions...

Even in America, not all customers are created equal. If you apply the “Pareto Principle” to your sales department, you’re likely to make two discoveries: 80% of your revenue comes from 20% of your customers and 80% of your sales are generated by 20% of your sales team. The ratio varies by industry, and for some companies,...

If your company has a successful relationship with most of its clientele, you may think that it’s not necessary to put too much effort into customer relations. But you can’t just sit by and watch your policies work. To remain “best in class,” managers and staff members must continually be responsive to customers and their changing...