As engineers and architects, we solve problems every day. It's inherent not only in what we do but also in who we are. We are sometimes so eager to solve problems, that we reinvent the wheel. It can be difficult to reach for help when we've made a career out of solving the problems that come our way. Unfortunately when it comes to problems like maintaining cash flow or figuring out if that opportunity for the "biggest project we've ever done" is actually a good idea for our company, keeping your nose to the grindstone may often look more like sticking your head in the sand. Whatever your current problems are, or whatever goal you'd like to set for your company, chances are someone else in your industry has succeeded or failed at that same endeavor.
What if the answer was a similar firm that already made it through this current battle? What if they were willing to share what they learned in time for you put it to work for your business? What if the cost of doing this was much less than hiring that CEO/CFO/COO from down the street? What if there was a person you could touch base with each time a new scenario presented itself? Maybe you've landed on a good way through but are afraid to just launch it. What if there was a group of individuals who knew exactly what you're going through and could punch holes in your idea in a way that makes it stronger and increases the likelihood of success in applying it to your company?
You've also learned some very important things on your own, hey you made it this far. Maybe your experience can help some other engineering company get through their hurdles just a bit easier.
These are the things peer groups are made of.
For a larger discussion on the benefits of peer groups, request a free copy of our peer group white paper here.