As we bid farewell to the challenges and triumphs of the past year, I’d like to take a moment to recognize the remarkable fortitude and resilience exhibited by the small business community. In our 30-year ERP consulting journey, we have faced a fair number of economic and global uncertainties, learning valuable lessons along the way. Today, we see a unique opportunity to make an even greater impact for our clients and their businesses. Our commitment to Propel Businesses Forward remains unwavering in the coming year.
Through times of uncertainty and change, we have noticed some key strategies business leaders adopt that consistently differentiate high-performing businesses from the rest. As we enter the New Year together, we are thrilled to share some of the valuable insights we have gathered along our journey:
First and foremost, it is essential to have a deep understanding of your purpose. This is the compass that will guide all of your business decisions. Your purpose is the heart of your business, setting the tone for your journey ahead.
As we continue to navigate global uncertainty, it’s crucial for businesses to remain agile. Many are leveraging automation & technology to gain real-time visibility — in order to remain competitive, stay on top of costs & forecast accurately, reduce administrative costs and streamline processes so they can do more with less.
Technology plays a crucial role here. The move towards cloud-based systems and finding practical applications of AI continues to be at the forefront of leadership priorities. Having access to key insights anytime anywhere enables leaders to make data-backed decisions quickly and therefore pivoting their strategy if necessary. It also allows for greater flexibility and business continuity in challenging times and, of course, automating mundane tasks and simple processes to reduce errors and costs.
Finally, focus on your People. In addition to the clients you serve and the communities you do business in, a motivated and skilled workforce is an invaluable asset. Nurture a positive work culture, provide skill development opportunities, and empower your team to contribute their best.
Over the last few years we’ve been honoured to receive the Small Business of the Year recognition by Canadian SME, and we are brimming with excitement as we hand over the torch to other ambitious small businesses like yours this year.
Let’s inspire, collaborate, and keep pushing the boundaries of progress together.
On behalf of The Answer Company team, we wish you all a healthy and fulfilling year ahead.
Shawn Ostheimer
Founder and President, The Answer Company
Since 1994, Shawn has been at the forefront of driving The Answer Company’s expansion, transforming it into one of Canada’s largest independent firms specializing in ERP and Accounting software implementation and consulting. Collaborating closely with leading technology partners such as Sage and Acumatica, Shawn brings their solutions to life for clients. With over three decades of experience in implementing financial and management software systems, Shawn has played a pivotal role in enhancing various aspects of clients’ businesses. Actively involved in company operations, his primary focus is advancing clients through the strategic use of technology. Shawn’s unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding customer service has not only been crucial to the company’s success but has also become a cornerstone of The Answer Company’s culture.
