TXDOT–Modernization Program

Overview

In a strategic partnership with TXDOT, Kaeppel played a central role in the Modernization Program, an agency-wide initiative aimed at revamping and modernizing processes, tools, and technology. The core of our engagement was facilitating change management. We imparted training to over 400 agency executives, change leaders, and team members, and took the lead in the execution and oversight of 76 projects and programs.

Areas of Improvement

  1. Organizational Modernization: The agency recognized a need to modernize its operations, processes, and technological tools to be more agile, efficient, and responsive to stakeholder needs.

  2. Employee Training: Training was a key component, aiming to equip more than 400 agency executives and members with the skills and knowledge to navigate the transformation.

  3. Change Management: Given the scale of the initiative, there was a clear demand for effective change management strategies to ensure a smooth transition.

Challenge

Modernizing an entire agency is no minor feat. Beyond the obvious technological shifts, it requires a profound understanding of organizational dynamics, people management, and strategy execution. Balancing the trifecta of people, process, and technology was the central challenge. Ensuring that the change was embraced and incorporated at all levels—from executives to team members—was essential for the program’s success.

Solution

Utilizing a robust suite of tools including Project Management, Organizational Design, Performance Management, Workforce Planning, ADKAR Change Management, Portfolio Governance, Training Development, and Training Delivery, we orchestrated a change that would resonate agency-wide. Our approach ensured that each of the 76 projects and programs under the Modernization Program was executed with precision and aligned with the overarching agency vision.

Outcome

The results of our collaboration with TXDOT were transformative. The Modernization Program led to a complete agency metamorphosis. There was a marked increase in employee engagement, and the feedback from stakeholders reflected heightened satisfaction levels.

Wellsense–PMO Transformation

Overview

Our collaboration with WellSense was a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing their organizational capabilities. Central to this effort was the fortification of their Project Management Office (PMO). While WellSense had a strong foundation in healthcare services, the primary goal was to refine their project management practices, making them more robust and adaptive. Furthermore, by strengthening the enterprise planning procedures, we sought to foster an environment where projects could not only be initiated efficiently but also seen to successful completion.

Areas of Enhancement

Upon our initial engagement, several areas were identified that could benefit from fine-tuning. While WellSense maintained commendable project management activities, there was room to refine and improve these practices. A unified approach to enterprise planning was necessary to bring cohesion across various projects and departments. Enhancing the consistency of project launches would ensure that all new initiatives aligned with the company’s vision and goals. Lastly, by standardizing the methodologies used in project coordination and operation, we aimed to introduce predictability and reduce overheads in their processes.

Challenge

The task at hand was multifaceted. Not only did we need to bring about a holistic transformation of WellSense’s PMO, but we also had the challenge of integrating seamlessly with their existing framework. Augmenting their team to align with the new PMO standards was essential to ensure the continuous flow of operations. Moreover, introducing and successfully marketing a new product within a mere six-month window was a significant undertaking. This rapid deployment was not just about speed but ensuring that the product met the highest quality standards and resonated with the target audience.

Solution

Our approach was systematic and methodical. By introducing cohesive PMO standards, we could ensure that project coordination was streamlined, reducing friction between teams and departments. This set of standards became the backbone for all project-related activities at WellSense. To facilitate a seamless PMO transition, we collaborated closely with the WellSense team, sharing insights, and ensuring knowledge transfer. The power of the PMO tools we brought to the table, including project plans, risk management strategies, and benefits analysis, was evident in the results. One of our crowning achievements was the successful launch of a new product in just six months without any complaints. This launch was a testament to our rigorous processes and the dedication of the WellSense team. Finally, by optimizing various facets of their operations, we were able to deliver over $5 million in cost savings for WellSense.

San Antonio Police Department–Website Design & Development

Overview

In collaboration with Firecat Studio as a HUB subcontractor, Kaeppel embarked on a pivotal project with the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD). Our core mission revolved around migrating the SAPD website from its previous domain, sanantonio.gov, to the more streamlined SA.gov. Additionally, we facilitated user-centric design workshops. The outcome of these sessions were tested prototypes, significantly reducing developmental friction.

Areas of Improvement

  1. Website Migration: The need was evident: transition the SAPD website to a new domain, offering the city’s residents a more straightforward and memorable access point.
  2. User Experience: While functional, there was room for the SAPD website to offer a more enriched user experience, making information retrieval more intuitive.
  3. Vendor Engagement Model: Beyond the immediate project, we aspired to transform our collaboration into a benchmark for future vendor interactions with the city of San Antonio.

Challenge

Website migration, especially for a city’s critical department, goes beyond mere content transfer. It’s about ensuring a smooth transition of all functionalities, maintaining uninterrupted public service. Simultaneously, optimizing user experience, given the diverse user base of a police department’s website, called for profound insights and understanding. Working harmoniously with the city’s ITSD team added layers of complexity, as we aimed to set an unparalleled standard for vendor engagement.

Solution

With a meticulous migration plan in place, we ensured a seamless transition of all components of the original website to SA.gov. Alongside, our alliance with Firecat Studio enriched the user-tested design workshops, culminating in prototypes that brilliantly countered developmental challenges. These prototypes were pivotal in producing a user-friendly final website. Our close-knit collaboration with the city’s ITSD team, facilitated in part by our partnership with Firecat Studio as a HUB subcontractor, was instrumental in not only meeting our project objectives but also in sculpting a vendor engagement paradigm that San Antonio could look upon with pride.

Trinity University–Digital Transformation

Overview

Kaeppel embarked on a comprehensive engagement with Trinity University, targeting both the digitization of their operations and a holistic IT transformation. Our dual mission was to rejuvenate the HR and Finance Department’s outdated systems while elevating the maturity of the entire IT system, paving the way for the seamless introduction of the Workday platform.

Areas of Improvement

  1. Legacy Systems & Process Gaps: The HR and Finance departments operated on legacy systems that, while functional, were not optimized for the modern needs of the university. Coupled with process inefficiencies, there was a clear need for digitization.
  2. ITIL Maturity & Potential Risks: An initial assessment of Trinity’s IT infrastructure revealed its maturity was not at par with the demands of the Workday platform. Without strategic enhancements, the transition risked challenges and potential disruptions.
  3. Data Quality, Efficiency & Practice Areas: Across both projects, a recurring theme was the need for better data quality and efficiency, and specific improvements in practice areas like security, asset management, and data reporting.

Challenge

Modernizing university operations and IT systems is a mammoth task. It was essential to ensure that the transition from legacy systems, especially in pivotal departments like HR and Finance, was smooth. Furthermore, enhancing the IT system’s maturity to prepare for the Workday platform introduction, without overhauls, added layers of complexity to our mission.

Solution

Our approach was two-pronged yet integrated:

  • Digitization: After thorough evaluations, we identified and bridged gaps in the HR and Finance department’s processes. By migrating to the Workday platform, we not only replaced the aging systems but ensured a quantum leap in data quality and efficiency. The outcome was staggering — procedures that took two weeks were now streamlined to just two clicks.

  • IT Transformation: Utilizing the ITIL framework as a guiding principle, we delved deep into Trinity’s IT ecosystem. Every facet, from security to asset management, was enhanced to progress Trinity to ITIL 3 maturity. Our role wasn’t just that of implementors; we provided leadership, ensuring a cohesive transformation aligned with Trinity’s vision.

The culmination of our endeavors resulted in increased labor savings, heightened customer satisfaction, and a university IT system primed for the future.

Platinum Dermatology Partners – Revenue Cycle Management & Process Alignment

Overview

Platinum Dermatology Partners, a national dermatology network, aimed to manage rapid acquisition growth and align processes, particularly with their offshore partner. They partnered with Kaeppel Consulting to maintain productivity and integrate workflows effectively.

The Challenge

Platinum Dermatology Partners faced several challenges:

  • Rapid Growth: Managing a rapid acquisition growth phase and aligning processes.
  • Offshore Coordination: Coordinating with an offshore partner to maintain productivity.
  • Process Alignment: Ensuring workflows and functions were balanced and integrated.

Our Solution

Kaeppel Consulting provided a comprehensive solution that included:

  1. Interim Management: Provided interim management to bridge the gap and maintain productivity during the transition.
  2. Workflow Integration: Integrated workflows and balanced functions across the organization, including the offshore partner, IKS.
  3. Technology Optimization: Utilized native systems, including BI tools, billing, electronic records collections, and Microsoft Teams for effective data management and communication.
  4. Performance Maintenance: Maintained performance levels and created a culture of excellence.

Results

Kaeppel Consulting’s efforts resulted in successful alignment of offshore and national teams, maintaining productivity and performance levels. The integrated workflows and optimized processes ensured smooth operations and supported the rapid growth phase.

Conclusion

Kaeppel Consulting’s expertise in revenue cycle management and process alignment enabled Platinum Dermatology Partners to manage their rapid growth effectively and maintain high performance levels.

Catawba – Revenue Cycle Transformation & Central Billing Office Optimization

Overview

Catawba, an integrated health system, sought to transform its revenue cycle and optimize its Central Billing Office (CBO) to address underperformance issues. They partnered with Kaeppel Consulting to enhance staff productivity, financial performance, and leverage technology more effectively.

The Challenge

Catawba faced several challenges:

  • Underperformance: Issues with staff productivity, financial performance, and structural inefficiencies.
  • Technology Utilization: Not leveraging technology effectively for optimal performance.
  • Performance Tracking: Lack of tracking for staff and performance KPIs.

Our Solution

Kaeppel Consulting provided a comprehensive solution that included:

  1. Revenue Cycle Transformation: Implemented new workflows and optimized billing systems to improve efficiency.
  2. Central Billing Office Optimization: Developed a new organizational structure and standardized data collection practices.
  3. Technology Integration: Upgraded the billing platform and integrated BI tools, electronic records, and Microsoft Teams for better data management and reporting.
  4. Performance Dashboards: Created executive dashboards to monitor financial and staff productivity levels.

Results

Kaeppel Consulting’s efforts resulted in a significant improvement in staff productivity, financial performance, and structural efficiency. The new organizational structure and optimized technology usage led to better data management and performance tracking, ensuring long-term success.

Conclusion

Kaeppel Consulting’s comprehensive approach to revenue cycle transformation and CBO optimization enabled Catawba to overcome underperformance challenges and achieve operational excellence.

CVR Energy – Lean Six Sigma Training and Budget Optimization

Overview

CVR Energy aimed to achieve cost savings and build a continuous improvement culture within their finance team. They partnered with Kaeppel Consulting to provide Lean Six Sigma training and leadership development.

The Challenge

CVR Energy faced several challenges:

  • Cost Savings: Achieving a 10% savings in the annual budget cycle.
  • Training Needs: Providing Lean Six Sigma training for the finance team.
  • Leadership Development: Building a continuous improvement culture through leadership training.

Our Solution

Kaeppel Consulting provided a comprehensive solution that included:

  1. Lean Six Sigma Training: Delivered training for the finance team, including Lean/Kaizen events.
  2. Leadership Training: Developed leadership skills to build a continuous improvement culture.
  3. Hydrocarbon Inventory Control: Improved tools and equipment controls for better financial management.

Results

Kaeppel Consulting’s efforts resulted in a 10% savings in the annual budget cycle for CVR Energy. The Lean Six Sigma training and leadership development fostered a culture of continuous improvement, leading to sustained financial and operational benefits.

Conclusion

Kaeppel Consulting’s expertise in Lean Six Sigma and leadership training enabled CVR Energy to achieve significant cost savings and build a robust continuous improvement culture.

Houston Community College – Website Program Management

Overview

Houston Community College (HCC) aimed to modernize its website to better serve its diverse user base. They required experienced developers familiar with the TerminalFour Content Management System (CMS) and expertise in managing the website as a program. HCC partnered with Kaeppel Consulting for this critical project.

The Challenge

Houston Community College faced several challenges:

  • Stakeholder Management: Ensuring all stakeholder requirements were met.
  • Program Management: Managing the website as a program rather than a project.
  • Content Management Expertise: Finding experienced developers for the TerminalFour CMS.

Our Solution

Kaeppel Consulting provided a comprehensive solution that included:

  1. Experienced Developers: Sourced developers with expertise in TerminalFour CMS.
  2. Program Management: Managed the website as a program, focusing on continuous improvements and stakeholder engagement.
  3. User-Centered Design: Developed a modern, user-focused website that addressed the needs of multiple user types.

Results

Kaeppel Consulting’s efforts resulted in the successful launch of a new, modern website on time. The website highlighted the size and quality of HCC and its dedication to education, while ensuring all technical requirements and third-party integrations were met. The new website addressed user requirements through an intuitive architecture and design process.

Conclusion

Kaeppel Consulting’s program management and content management expertise enabled Houston Community College to launch a modern, user-focused website that met stakeholder needs and technical requirements.

Comal ISD – Lean Six Sigma Training for Administration

Overview

Comal Independent School District (ISD) sought to educate its administration on Lean Six Sigma principles to save costs and improve the customer experience. They partnered with Kaeppel Consulting for training and operational excellence.

The Challenge

      • Cost Savings: Reducing costs through process improvement.
      • Customer Experience: Focusing on customer requirements and satisfaction.
      • Leadership Training: Educating the administration on Lean Six Sigma principles.

        Comal ISD faced several challenges:

Our Solution

Kaeppel Consulting provided a comprehensive solution that included:

  1. Workshops and Training: Delivered 3 workshops with different administrators and teams.
  2. Operational Excellence: Held training sessions focused on eliminating waste and establishing KPIs and success metrics.
  3. Lean Six Sigma Education: Trained the leadership team on Lean Six Sigma principles and practices.

Results

Kaeppel Consulting’s efforts resulted in educated administrators equipped with Lean Six Sigma principles, improved processes and procedures, and established KPIs and success metrics for the district. This led to cost savings and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

Kaeppel Consulting’s Lean Six Sigma training and operational excellence initiatives enabled Comal ISD to reduce costs and improve the customer experience through better process management and leadership education.

Bexar County Sheriff’s Department – Comprehensive Review, Triage, & Roadmap

Overview

The Bexar County Sheriff’s Department, under the leadership of newly elected Sheriff Susan Pamerleau, sought to recover its reputation and build a culture of transparency and continuous improvement. They partnered with Kaeppel Consulting for a comprehensive review and roadmap development.

The Challenge

    • Reputation Recovery: Establishing a roadmap for improvement.
    • Employee Engagement: Building a culture of trust and improving retention.
    • Continuous Improvement: Developing a continuous improvement culture and mindset.

      The Bexar County Sheriff’s Department faced several challenges:

Our Solution

Kaeppel Consulting provided a comprehensive solution that included:

  1. Vision and Strategic Objectives: Developed a new Vision, Mission, Core Values, and strategic objectives for a 3–5 year horizon.
  2. Roadmap Development: Created a roadmap of projects and facilitated leadership through ownership and prioritization.
  3. Process Triage: Assessed the as-is state of office locations, scheduling, tools, and managing the jail.
  4. KPI Development: Established KPIs and performance scorecards for each division.

Results

Kaeppel Consulting’s efforts resulted in a new vision and strategic objectives for the department, a comprehensive roadmap of projects, and long-lasting improvements in processes and employee engagement. The department continues to use the outcomes of the triage process for ongoing improvement.

Conclusion

Kaeppel Consulting’s comprehensive review and roadmap development enabled the Bexar County Sheriff’s Department to recover its reputation and build a culture of transparency and continuous improvement.