Even the most talented digital media firm will fail if it does not have a price structure that ensures profit. This requires an accurate understanding of operating costs obtained through in-plant data collection. The best method of data collection is through an Management Information System (MIS). Regrettably, my family's print shop has not yet updated to an MIS system. This limits our accuracy when bidding and charging jobs, hurting our bottom line.
For my senior thesis, I am researching and comparing different MIS providers to determine which best fits our company.
In order to successfully address the problem I am exploring in my senior thesis, I had to first understand why the problem exists. It is very unusual to find a print shop who has not yet embraced MIS technology, and I wanted to determine why we had not so that I could understand and prepare for potential implementation barriers.
By using Lean Six Sigma tools I determined a lack of employee knowledge to be the problem's source. I also determined that the best solution would be to hold company-wide informational sessions to inform employees about the benefits of an MIS. To see the full project report, click here.
The goal of this semester long project was to understand the challenges of a large scale group project and gain the strategies and tools to overcome them. My team decided to plan a redesign and reconstruction of the sidewalk system of the University of Houston.
While the construction project itself was theoretical, the research, planning and complications were very real. From this project I learned the importance of organization and communication when working with a large group of people. Organizational documents such as our team charter, code of expectations, and schedule were what kept our team together.
This project required our team to form a fictitious green company and make a presentation to a 'product acquisition manager' to convince them to purchase our product. My team chose to create an LED company, Green Light. My main responsibility on the team was to generate our company's branding elements, logo, business cards, and for the pitch's visual presentation.
The presentation was a fantastic learning experience. It taught me that in sales, every person on your team needs to know the product inside and out. I also learned that the best way to combat the nerves of public speaking is preparation.
