Leveraging Certification to Drive Success

Innovation for a changing business climate

As 2010 unfolds, we pause to reflect on the lessons of the past and are inspired by the possibilities that lay ahead. The biggest challenge we all face today is identifying ways to build, grow, and sustain our business through 2010 and beyond. As a small-, minority-, woman-, disadvantaged-, or veteran-owned business enterprise (SMWDVBE), how can you leverage your certification to achieve your goals?   

The business climate is rapidly changing with globalization, therefore competition increases. To remain competitive, organizations must look for ways to grow, innovate, and create quality products or services that strengthen their position in the marketplace. As a result, companies must align themselves with multifaceted suppliers that provide flexibility, cultural competency, and thought leadership. 

As you plan for the future, ask yourself: are you strategically positioned to compete effectively? To answer, you must first analyze the current landscape and determine the value you bring to the sourcing process.

Connecting the dots

Diversity and Inclusion is a growing initiative in the business community, as more and more companies realize the direct impact diversity brings to their organization, community, and economy. Simply put… building a broader, more inclusive supply base is essential for organizations to compete in a global market.  

Value of Certification to Corporations:

• Validates diverse status – ensures the firm is 51%-owned, -controlled, and -operated by a SMWDVBE (does not ensure quality, cost-efficiency, or service delivery)
• Opportunity to create a more inclusive supplier network
• Develops a supply chain that mirrors their customer/consumer base
• Assists companies in meeting their internal and customer supplier diversity initiatives
• Alignment with qualified SMWDVBEs for:
  • New Business Opportunities
  • Preferred Supplier Status
  • Strategic Alliances / Joint Ventures
• ROI
  • Innovation
  • Cost Savings
  • Quality
  • Service Delivery

Consider this

In a competitive environment, we know that quality, service, and cost are prerequisites to winning awards. How will you distinguish yourself from the pack?

Certification is an important part of business development and there is growing evidence on the value that it brings. When competing for business opportunities, diverse certification can be a strong differentiator. Companies and government agencies with diversity initiatives proactively seek SMWDVBE firms for partnership. Certification will provide you with access to corporate procurement, but to be clear—you must perform and deliver quality products and services to stay engaged. 

Another aspect of the new economy is an increased focus on government contracting and a renewed focus or demand for qualified diverse suppliers, (small/disadvantaged; veteran; 8a; HUB Zone, etc.). It is important to apply for additional certifications in all categories that you qualify. This will open opportunities across multiple sectors—both private and public—by meeting client requirements for diverse utilization. 

Value of Certification to Suppliers:

• Access to corporate contracts
• Increased visibility (Web sites, databases)
• Networking
• Professional Development / Training
• Customer Satisfaction
• Competitive Differentiator
• Grow Market Share

Perspective

Supplier diversity is a business imperative and leveraging your certification to meet the needs of corporate supplier diversity programs can be very lucrative for SMWDVBEs. Understanding your customer needs, being prepared, and delivering innovative solutions will allow you to reap the benefits of these rewarding programs now and into the future.

Certification Resources:

• MBE – National Minority Supplier Development Council (www.nmsdc.org)
• WBE – Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (www.wbenc.org)
• 8(a) / SDB / HUB Zone / - Small Business Administration (www.sba.gov)

For local or state government certification resources, check your nearest Small Disadvantaged Business Office.

Achieving peak performance requires service excellence, ensures sustainability, and drives
profitability … think of the possibilities!