What is it?

The SCORE Business Review Program is an in-depth confidential assessment process targeted towards small companies that have been in business for two or more years, have annual sales ranging from a few hundred thousands of dollars to a couple of million dollars and are trying to solve problems and/or get to the next level of growth.

The objective is to provide guidance to owners/management helping to improve the overall management of the company, by advising on operational and strategic issues.

What's Involved?

The Business Review Program involves a detailed review, on a confidential basis, of companies desiring this service. The review would take place at the business site. The program is action-oriented with up to three SCORE counselors participating. The review could either address the complete business or be focused on one or more problem areas such as marketing, operations, logistics, finance, cost containment, strategic planning, government contracting, etc.

Business Reviews may take two forms: either a one-day intensive session at the client's site or a series of sessions over a six month or longer period. The former is best suited when one specific issue or strategy is involved and the intent is to fix a problem. The latter approach is best when there are several interrelated issues and the goal is to solve problems and/or map out a growth strategy.

The Process

A one-day Business Review would involve company personnel as determined by the owner/CEO. The SCORE counselors will provide recommendations and/or action items at the end of the visit.

An ongoing Business Review focuses on the Business Process. There is an agreed agenda, the CEO and his/her key direct reports attend each session (particularly the first session) and presentations are made from each of the key functional areas. These are action-oriented sessions. Action items are taken by the owner/CEO and followed up at subsequent reviews. Business reviews are problem focused; they are not show and tell sessions. Strong emphasis is placed on areas where individuals need help; staff members are encouraged to ask for help, thus improving communication and effectiveness of the management team.

About SCORE and the Counseling Team

SCORE is a nation-wide, non-profit organization working in partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to help small businesses achieve success. The Washington Metropolitan Area chapter has fifty volunteer counselors who have owned or run their own businesses and/or have served as senior executives in both private industry and the Federal Government. In addition to the main DC office, counseling services are also provided at offices throughout Northern Virginia and in Prince George's and Montgomery Counties, Maryland.

How To Get Started

If you are interested in finding out more about SCORE's Business Review process, contact Laverne Webb at our main DC office (202-272-0390). Usually, a one-hour free counseling session in our office is the first step where the Business Review program can be discussed and next steps agreed to.