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Using state-of-the-art IT tools, including Web 2.0 possibilities, we address key
operational areas as part of a comprehensive approach in addressing the needs of
management. Technology Engineers helps organizations implement information
technologies that deal with the complexities created by growth and change.
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Technology Engineers was tasked by Louisiana Economic Development (LED) to create a
secure, web-based solution for putting Louisiana small businesses in direct
contact with incentive programs offered by the state. The results were dramatic
for LED’s Community Outreach Services Division.
LED offers a range of programs that assist small businesses and entrepreneurs
throughout Louisiana. These programs assist in areas such as:
- State procurement and public contracts
- Consideration for bidding on selective service or product
purchases by state agencies
- Business training: marketing, accounting, business planning and
more
- Determining eligibility for the Bonding Assistance Program
- Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) information.
Following their inception, these government programs steadily gained popularity
and the existing application process became labor-intensive and
time-consuming. Requests were submitted by small businesses, using in-depth
paper forms, which were then manually processed and reviewed by LED staff. In
some cases, businesses did not provide certain information or meet specific
qualifications and had to be contacted via phone to re-submit forms. Staff
members, in addition to their regular duties, were required to field an
excessive number of calls related to program questions. LED management knew they
needed to either increase staff or improve their process. They chose the latter
and contacted Technology Engineers with the challenge to transform this complex
process into an innovative and user-friendly Internet-based system.
The project was lead by John W. Matthews, Director of Community Outreach
Services Division, along with the Technology Engineers’ project team, which
included Kate Tomeny and Renee Moore. To initiate the project, the Technology
Engineers team analyzed the intricate data flow and business rules which
previously defined the process. Next, the web interface was developed to make
the system user-friendly and accessible to the public. This allowed clients to
enter data directly into a database when, previously, LED staff was required to
execute the data entry. After months of work, Technology Engineers completed an
integrated database that nearly eliminated the use of paper, simplifying the
entire process.
Now, with the new suite of web-based programs, small businesses can complete all
forms online, utilize built-in tools, pre-qualify for grants, track application progress and
review submitted invoices. LED management can review, approve or reject, and
analyze grants statewide with the click of a button. Furthermore, the system
asks a
variety of questions in order to decide on business eligibility before an
extensive amount of applications are filed, which saves the applicant time and
decreases unnecessary paperwork for LED. The system has led to an overall
increase in efficiency and a decrease in time-consuming phone calls. Best of
all, LED was not forced to increase staff.
The SmallBiz Suite of systems has connected individual entrepreneurs and
regional economic development professionals to databases designed to help
Louisiana businesses grow. The process of helping entrepreneurs and small
businesses has been transformed from a labor-intensive, paper-based system into
an Internet-based approach which has revolutionized the way LED and Louisiana do
business.
Click on an image to view the LED Image Gallery. |
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We deliver results – exceptional results. We see our clients’ needs in terms of
requirements, processes and final outcomes. With solutions that are advanced,
practical and effective, our clients have come to respect our independence and
value the problem-solving capability we deliver. |
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