Desa Exceeding Expectations

Business Consulting and Services

"The South Carolina Minority Business Development Center--operated by DESA-- has assisted my company in virtually every phase of our business.  My construction company has faced many challenges over the years and The Center (along with DESA) has played a major role in helping us to find solutions.  Having access to a team of professional consultants as resources  makes it possible for me to overcome business weaknesses and gives me a competitive advantage." 
– Willie Frazier
President, W. Frazier Construction Company, Inc.

The Assignment:

Assess the W. Frazier Construction Company's business strategy, financial management, and marketing and procurement practices, then provide professional consulting services to help the company grow. 

Challenges:

  • The company had three trucks and a moderate amount of work, but additional marketing and procurement efforts were needed to  maximize equipment use. 
  • DESA identified operating procedures and financial management structure changes that needed to be implemented.  
  • Further work revealed human resource issues that needed to be addressed.

How DESA Exceeded Expectations:

  • With DESA's guidance, The Center designed a strategy to increase W. Frazier Construction Company's capital and contracting opportunities.
  • The Center helped the company become accredited through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulations (LLR).
  • Once licensed, the company used DESA's help to  to connect with the SC Department of Transportation and procure several lucrative contracts. 
  • The Center prepared documentation, helping the company establish a line of credit with a local bank. 
  • The Center also identified a Certified Public Accountant with strong construction experience.
  • Ultimately, the company received bonding, and business opportunities increased. 
  • DESA then provided support in developing and executing effective operations, procurements, and staffing and other human resource measures. 
  • The company eventually decided to downsize it operations and create a succession plan.  DESA aided in that transition.