PC Systems Inc. manufactures electrical interconnect solutions, including customized design of wire harnesses and cable assemblies to customer specification. They operate in a 23,000 sq. ft. manufacturing space located in Ridgway, PA and have 49 employees. PC Systems has had steady growth since inception in 2001, and bases their success on the flexibility to meet the changing needs of customers. Additionally, their work in a variety of industries allows customers to benefit from shared technologies and acquired knowledge.
As PC Systems was transitioning ownership, they focused on establishing a new sales and operational direction for the company. During this process and initial meetings with a NWIRC Strategic Business Advisor (SBA), several specific challenges were identified, including 1) the need to adjust pricing to incorporate overhead, but remain competitive; 2) attracting and retaining skilled employees, navigating supply chain issues, and future cash flow concerns. The company sought “a new set of eyes” to take a look at the company to help prioritize areas of improvement. In order to address operational goals and business challenges, the NWIRC SBA recommended working collaboratively with economic development partner Steel Valley Authority and a trusted service provider with a track record of success assisting manufacturers with improved sales, sales process, and marketing performance. A business action plan was developed upon completing a thorough assessment and research regarding growth opportunities, competition, costing methodology, current sales and financials, and employee turnover. The PC team worked on establishing priority goals, identifying key actions, and outlining responsibilities and milestone timeframe.
PC Systems is implementing recommendations provided and an action plan is in the works to move forward with a project to address pricing and margin. Leadership anticipates results around $150k in increased sales, creation of 10 jobs, and increased investments of $55k. The process for developing the business action plan qualified for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) Area Development Mini-Grant Program to offset the project costs.