PCF Consulting Group

PCF offers five primary service lines:

1. Executive Advisory Service
2. Multi-channel & business strategy
3. Internet and multi-channel marketing
4. Technology assessment & planning
5. Project Management
   

Executive Advisory Services (EAS)

Top executives of many multi-channel retailers and business service providers -- even those who have achieved success -- may find real value in having access to an objective third party: one who is up to speed on industry best practices, has strong strategic skills and who can help build consensus across the executive team.

EAS is a retainer based service that teams our top principals with the leaders at the client organization.  Through EAS, a PCF Consulting Group principal is on-call to help the "C" office and leaders of the direct channels:

• Think through key strategies
• Improve the quality and depth of annual or multi-year business plans
• Sort out issues related to the organizational structure, technology improvements, vendor or provider conflicts or returns on marketing investments needed to drive growth 

EAS doesn't displace the EVP or SVP of an interactive or direct to consumer division, but rather helps ensure that this capable executive has the bandwidth and support to move the organization forward in an integrated manner.  PCF can also help frame large investment decisions and assist the executive team when considering capital spending, acquisitions or new third party ventures.

Strategy and Business Planning

Every multi-channel enterprise needs to take strategy and business planning to a new level.  By definition, multi-channel requires linking channel-specific plans so that the customer experience is enhanced while sales and profitability are improved.  Too often, plans are structured by channel, rather than across the enterprise -- too few companies have an executive responsible for "multi-channel" -- so help is needed to get such a plan done.  That's where PCF can come in and work with the team to develop a multi-year roadmap and plan that covers the entire organization, not just the on-line, store or catalog units in isolation.   PCF has the experience and toolkit to help make this part of a client's on-going business process.

We can also help plan acquisitions and division integration projects and ensure everyone understands the goals, the specific initiatives that will drive value and specify what needs to be done, who will get it done, and how it will be measured.

Multi-channel and Internet Marketing

PCF's focus is on helping clients achieve rapid revenue generation (generally in less than 3 months from concept development to execution).  We focus on all channels -- Stores, Call Center, Catalog, Web, Kiosk, Mobile, etc. -- looking for opportunities to increase revenues and apply best practices to enhance current execution.  Our "quick start" methodologies and proprietary tools help us identify the gaps in your present marketing plan and set-up testing and starter projects to ramp up revenue quickly.   Our recommendations will include program design, creative recommendations, promotional techniques, site experience, search, affiliate or email initiatives -- whatever it takes to increase revenues and improve returns. 

PCF can bring the framework and approach to make your current team and their third party service providers and agencies more effective.  We can add bandwidth and experience to your existing staff so that your next few, or incremental, projects can move ahead in a timely way.

Technology Assessment & Planning

PCF focuses on linking technology architecture, processes and tools to business and marketing plans.  Our objective is to avoid over-investing in technology.

PCF principals can help your organization with all facets of technology planning and measurement.  We are not an implementation team, but rather a strategic advisor who can help your company:

- Select a technology architecture that will drive your business and scale as your business grows

- Determine the best approach to provide functionality on a cost-effective basis:  outsourcing, package implementation, custom development or integration, or in-house development

- Identify, select and plan implementation of needed third party solutions so you can expand functionality of your internet offerings (e.g., search, customer service, email, etc.)

We are knowledgeable about and have worked with many of the major industry platform players and software providers.  We are provider agnostic and recognize that each client needs a tailored solution.  However, we apply our experience in bidding, negotiating, and installation to ensure that your team progresses at an appropriate pace and direction.   Our comprehensive and proven RFP templates are tailored for each client, but are recognized and valued by the provider community.

Project Management 

PCF has experienced consultants who have helped clients execute marketing plans, select technology and manage third party tool deployments of many types.  Our experience saves time, reduces risk and leads to higher payback. 

We can lead technology assessment and procurement processes, including RFP/RFI development and vendor negotiations, and we can project manage or oversee the implementation phase.  Whether your project is launching a new web platform, a fulfillment center automation or redesign project or the implementation of a new order management system, PCF has the practical experience needed to identify and manage all areas of the project.

Give us a call to discuss your project management needs.

PCF can assist virtually any retailer with their multi-channel and on-line issues:

•    Department stores
•    Specialty fashion & apparel
•    Luxury 
•    Hard lines
•    Off-price
•    Consumer services