fbpx

Tip of the Spear Ventures

Venture Capital | Private Equity

Blog

Business Entity Transformation – Why It’s Important?

By

Business entity transformation is a term increasingly being used to refer to the merging and the resulting integration of a transformed organization to the corporate structure. A transformational change results from either internal or external pressure from the organizational community. The result is the invention of a new and potent business entity that efficiently takes over the role of the prior organization. This process can be very fast and dramatic one, but it can also be quite cluttered. But a true business may transform demand for a string of subtle steps that may yield far-reaching gains over the short-run and into the future.

One such step that many businesses are missing due to their adoption of a”quick-fix” approach is an analysis of the way the new organizational structure will probably impact key stakeholders. Normally, this analysis is done by a business coach or an advisor hired within the transformation effort. The objective is two-fold. First, the coach or adviser will help a company identify which portions of the business have to be transferred or replaced. The next component of the analysis is to assess the impact that the new regulatory demands will have to the various stakeholders. These demands may vary widely and may even be changing based on the state of the market.

The new regulatory demands impacting key stakeholders may include new technological developments, new managerial functions, new fiscal obligations and lack of control. For instance, if the new technological demands result from the creation of a cheaper and much more efficient product, the general earnings might actually increase instead of decrease. In addition, a business facing new regulatory conditions may be forced to consider altering the scope of its product offering so as to remain competitive. This may lead to the creation of a new product which is much better suited to the new regulatory conditions. However, the new technological merchandise may also lead to increased costs for the company, which the CEO may not be willing to absorb in the face of a declining revenue stream.

The next significant element of business entity transformation requires the effect that the new technological requirements will have on the manner in which the business does business. The results of the study can be highly detrimental to the long-term viability of the organization in the event the new technological needs do not encourage the organizational objectives. The chief benefit from this component is that the transformation can provide a competitive edge for a company that is already mature enough to capitalize on the new technological opportunities, without needing to invest substantial amounts of funds into training and recruitment efforts that may not prove to be fruitful.

Additionally, the results of the study will serve as the foundation for assessing the impact that any changes that are made will have on employees and the operational processes that employees currently work. Frequently, companies which are undergoing a company change will create significant structural modifications to their work environment and worker arrangements, in order to make room for the new technological inventions. In this situation, the modification of this organizational structure will frequently result in a decrease in employee numbers, with a corresponding decline in the potential employment benefits for the employees. These implications need to be weighed carefully before making any changes to the organizational workforce.

This analysis must also address the question of whether the implementation of the new regulatory demands will have a material effect on the organization’s ability to continue operations. If the new technological demands are implemented and there is a requirement for elevated levels of automation, the greater level of regulation or oversight will likely have an influence on the expense of operating the business. This growth in regulation and supervision could lower the sustainability of the company and the company might be forced to shut its operations. On the other hand, the majority of businesses which can adapt quickly and mitigate the impact of the regulations and oversight, will be the firms which will continue to function in the current period. The new regulation changes and the associated costs will likely force some businesses to seek a reexamination of their organizational structure and how they handle their companies, but those that can accommodate will continue to flourish.

The greatest effects of the business entity transformation is a question that has to be addressed from the company and its management. The extent to which the new regulatory requirements and the resulting efficiencies and cost savings are absorbed into the organization’s revenue stream is going to have an immediate effect on the type of profits the organization can understand. Although the amount of the profits realized may diminish slightly, it’s very likely that the pace of return on the capital invested in the new organizational structure and the surgeries will outweigh the losses in the adoption of new technology and improved efficiencies.

It’s important for the organization to comprehend all of the ramifications of the business entity transformation process and the consequences that will occur over time. All these have to be assessed and examined in the context of the company’s overall financial health and the kind of growth or decline that’s anticipated later on. It is also important for the organization to have a successful succession planning process in place to address any issues that arise because of the company entity transformation. The best solution to dealing with these issues is to implement a change management process in place to ensure all changes are properly recorded, monitored and controlled. This includes the involvement of senior management, that’s designated to create sure the aims of the transformation are fulfilled and are being preserved. The higher competitiveness and potential for enhanced functionality also require the organization to acquire extra skills and expertise so as to remain at the forefront of the industry and meet the changing demands of consumers.

Is Your Structure Prohibiting Business Entity Transformation?

By

The Point: Business entity transformation can mean big results for business owners, regardless of entity size. Transforming a small company into a larger company with bigger revenue and market share can be a daunting challenge. It can also be time-consuming, costly, and ineffective if the owners don’t know what they’re doing. So in this post, we’ll explore a simple — yet insightful — framework for helping business owners understand their obligations to inform themselves as they prepare for, and successfully execute, a business entity transformation… Enjoy!

Business Entity Transformation

It’s All About Entity Transformation… But Where Do You Focus First?

Business owners — For our purposes, those that lead and own the business entity initiatives, regardless of if they are actually equity owners — are required to inform themselves about any and all changes in their business structure, product mix, or market shares through whatever means necessary. For example, a business may have recently incurred new technological breakthroughs and may now face new regulatory requirements. They may face changing market demands as customers demand more products and services with less money. Or they may have recently entered into an acquisition deal and now need to comply with new reporting and disclosure regulations. Each of these examples requires careful and detailed communication with key stakeholders. Failure to communicate properly and fully can result in fines or penalties, and can also result in potential harm to the business entity itself by diminishing its ability to protect and grow the business.

Business Entity Transformation Is More Than Strategy and Communication

It is not only the business that must be notified and informed of changes in its structure, product mix, or market shares (i.e., Strategy). Organizations engaged in transforming their business must also notify employees, officers, and other key executives. Business transformers should always remember that the first person in the chain of command, after the CEO and board of directors, makes the final decisions. Employees will likely be hesitant to question the new policies regarding pay and working conditions. Executives may also hesitate to raise questions regarding their own bonuses and stock options. By providing early and accurate notification of changes to all employees, the business can avoid this sort of crisis.

Business Entity Transformation From New Technological Breakthroughs

The business must also be aware of the potential impact that any new technological breakthroughs or regulatory requirements may have on its ability to operate and compete effectively. A major change in one technology can eliminate or reduce the need for certain functions, and require the development of new or additional technologies. Similarly, a change may make it necessary to retool the business’s methods to take advantage of the new technologies. The methods by which a business operates can change over time as well, if it is pursuing a strategy focused on market segmentation. Both of these scenarios can result in significant disruptions to a business’s operations and may require adjustments to business processes and employee routines.

Business Entity Transformation Is Change

Businesses also face the challenge of integrating changes with current practices. If the business has been successful in the past in the formation and execution of its strategies, it may prove difficult to change the same strategies and execute the same processes. For example, if the business has successfully established a balanced mix of internal and external resources, it may prove difficult to change to a new sales and marketing strategy if it is based on the same internal resources and practices. Likewise, if an existing procurement strategy is effective, changing to a new procurement process could result in a loss of competitive advantage.

Another difficulty faced by a business that wishes to convert to a different legal entity is that of change management. There are many issues involved in change management, such as identifying who will manage change activities, evaluating the impact of any new regulation, and ensuring that the new regulation complies with the corporate governance standards already in place. Changing the makeup of a board of directors or personnel to include new members while maintaining key personnel may prove difficult, if not impossible, once regulatory requirements are implemented. Moreover, there may be an added administrative cost involved in tracking personnel changes and making any other personnel changes necessary to implement the new regulation. Finally, the implementation of new regulations can have a negative impact on cash flows and liquidity and the need to obtain additional capital in order to support the new regulation. This risk could be reduced by better aligning company objectives with business governance standards.

Business Entity Transformation – Where To Get Help?

Businesses should seek assistance when they are in danger of changing their legal structure. The legal documentation for incorporating a new corporation, limited liability company, partnership, or corporation varies from state to state. It is important to identify the requirements of the state in which one wishes to incorporate and make sure that the legal documents are current and comply with the requirements. A business that wishes to convert from a C-corp to a S-corp will have to register the corporation, obtain special certificates, and pay taxes on the transfer of shares and assets. Business owners may feel overwhelmed by the rapidly changing corporate governance requirements and the potential costs and risks associated with these changes. Hiring a consultant can help reduce the stress and complexity of navigating the complexities of incorporating a new business entity.

SUMMARY

The most important thing that a business owner should remember is that a business entity is often very different from the “person” that owns and controls the business. A business is often a complex legal structure that consists of many different parties and relationships. Business governance is often referred to as “business code”, and this code is often very difficult to understand and follow. Consulting an attorney who specializes in business law can provide insight into the current requirements for incorporation and a review of the possible future changes that may affect a business’s structure and management. When incorporating a new business entity, it is important to hire an attorney who understands the complexities of incorporating and knows how to navigate the ever-changing business terrain.

Sam Palazzolo

10 Criteria Every Investor Wants to Know

By

The Point: We see a lot of investment opportunities (sometimes too many!) However, we rarely see “quality” investment opportunities cross our desk. It’s not the colors of the presentation, the font, or the graphics used that I’m talking about regarding quality. What I am focusing on is the following 10 criteria every investor wants to know… Enjoy!

Tip of the Spear 10 criteria every investor wants to know
https://www.slideshare.net/TipoftheSpearVentures/tip-of-the-spear-ventures-pitch-deck

Every once in a while, a presentation is made to us at Tip of the Spear Ventures that makes us stop. Similar to the social media attention grabbing headline or video, these presentations make us want to know more about what the entrepreneur has going on. What are the criteria that most often make us stop and take notice?

What follows are the 10 criteria every investor wants to know (and what every entrepreneur should put in their presentation deck):

OVERVIEW

Simply put, the overview is the starting place to grab investors attention. Who are you? What are you about to do that’s great? Why should we look at page number two in this presentation? Every investor will want to know a high-level overview of what you’re doing (briefly!)

ELEVATOR PITCH

You have 30-seconds in an elevator to tell the investor what is so special about your company. Can you do it in 30 seconds? Will the investor know what you’re talking about (or are you too deep in the weeds)? Every investor will want to know in short/concise fashion what you’re working on.

TEAM / ADVISORS

More times than not, we’re looking to invest in people. So who are the people that are directly / indirectly involved with your initiative? What experience do they have? What are they doing to add value to the organization? Every investor will want to know who comprises the team and advisors to the team.

MARKET

Is there really an opportunity, and more important is the solution to the opportunity going to have some redeemable quality (i.e., $$$)? Every investor will want to know what the size of the problem is, as well as the solution.

BUSINESS MODEL

Will you offer a demonstration (not during the pitch presentation, but as a part of your business model)? Every investor will want to know how you plan on making money. Will your revenue source be business to consumer (B2C), business to consumer (B2C), or business to government (B2G)? Will your business model consist of a one-time sale, recurring revenue models (RUNDLE!), and/or rely on affiliates? Every investor will want to know what your business model is.

RESULTS

Are you/your venture pre-revenue (a nice way of saying we haven’t made any money yet — zero)? Are you post-revenue, and if so what have the financial and other key performance indicators (KPIs)? Every investor will want to know what your results have been and what you anticipate them to be.

COMPETITION

You probably will not be operating in “blue” water (meaning little/no competition). So if you are operating in “red” water (with competition), who are your competitors? What are the results your competitors are accomplishing? When you compare your offering to that of your competitors, how do you stack up? Every investor will want to know about the competition.

EXIT STRATEGY

I’ve been told that exit strategies do not need to be spelled out — and I’m not certain why? We always want to know is this a “build/hold” or “build/sell” strategy? If it’s targeted to sell, what and when is the exit to occur? Every investor will want to know about your planned exit strategy.

CAPITAL REQUEST

You are probably pitching or presenting your company to raise capital. If so, how much are you looking to raise? Upon successful raise, what will you do with the money? Most important, what can the investor expect to get for their investment? Every investor will want to know your capital request.

CLOSE / Q&A

If the presentation model of “Tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, and tell them what you told them” holds true, bring the conversation home with a strong closing. Always leave time at the end of your presentation for questions and answers. Nothing is more frustrating for an investor to not have time to ask questions — they will typically not hunt down the entrepreneur afterwards to ask. They also might ask the same question, or the question that gets asked might be the one you answer with the reason why investors decide to invest. Every investor will want to know how you close and have time for Q&A.

SUMMARY

In this post, we’ve explored the “10 Criteria Every Investor Wants to Know.” Follow this guide when you’re searching for capital, looking for support, and/or launching your entrepreneurial talents.

Sam Palazzolo

5 Ways Coronavirus has Changed Mergers and Acquisitions

By

The Point: The COVID-19 pandemic has altered our expectations of mergers and acquisitions. If speed kills deals, and the coronavirus impact on mergers and acquisitions was not spared, the swiftness of doubt and uncertainty inflicted has shifted business values. As a result, we’re seeing mergers and acquisitions in a new light. So in this post, we present 5 ways coronavirus has changed mergers and acquisitions… Enjoy!

5 Ways Coronavirus has Changed M&A

There are five important shifts in mergers and acquisitions as a result of the coronavirus, which will permanently change the business of merging and/or acquiring businesses:

Change in the Understanding of Employees

Businesses have realized the value of their front-line teams in getting stuff done. Together with the efforts of the team members — many of whom are often at the lower end of the pay scale — many companies could not have lasted through the pandemic. So, how are individual perceptions of meaningful work and a special calling in some specific jobs influenced by the Covid-19 pandemic? It’s only when a crisis hits that we can identify the attractiveness of some functions — while other functions tend to lose out to those identified as low or dull. Ask yourself, who’d be the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for you now — someone who produces the materials/tools/information which you require or your C-Suite leader who coordinates/reports on? Where exactly is the value now? The answers to these questions pose serious implications for M&A.

Shift in Culture Priorities

Being kept apart from friends or family has shown team members where their true priorities lie — and it’s not work. Our relationships to the jobs we conduct have changed as a result of the pandemic. If you asked any part of your team what matters today, it will almost surely be family and their health. That’s where people wish to spend the majority of their time. When you realize that you could lose the people you love most, you see what actually matters. M&A will need to take and work with the changed priorities of organizational culture and the team members because when it comes to a choice, work will not come out on the top.

Change in Empathy and Compassion Expectations

One of the biggest adjustments demands M&A adapt to the individual’s with empathy and compassion. Whether they are in the workplace or working from your home, M&A professionals will need to use their own emotional intelligence (EQ) to understand each person’s situation, pressures, priorities, and values. No longer can M&A think of the organization’s team as a single thing or object — and this can and will be hard. More than ever, M&A will need to reveal themselves as people and build relationships with their own folks. Honest, accurate discussions about work and life will improve connection. Empathy and compassion will solidify it.

Change in the Power of Leadership

Having remote teams has meant leaders needed to step back from the job and let their people manage themselves. The M&A firms who gave their teams some autonomy and decision-making are the ones who have had the best results. It makes sense. To retain power, M&A will be to increase agility and decrease costs for the company in the long run. When you have the right people in the M&A function, don’t be afraid to show your faith in them? It’s time to let go of control over the particulars of people’s work and instead, begin to support them. Be certain they have everything that they need to make the ideal choice and get the job done.

Change in Attention and Direction

If there is one thing we learned during this time, it is that plans can be shattered at the drop of a hat. While planning is still important — Since you have to understand where you’re headed — it’s the results leaders need to concentrate on instead of the journey. Your purpose in M&A is to act as a driver, and that’s what’s going to maintain mergers and acquisitions strategy leading to results — or lack thereof.

SUMMARY

I see a significant move from strategy or process-led mergers and acquisitions towards a more agile one. While we still value powerful and elastic M&A, there’s presently a heavy focus on agility at Tip of the Spear.

Understanding Mergers and Acquisitions Strategy

By

The Point: When most people think about starting a business, they often think of starting from scratch — designing the business from scratch and making your own concepts and plans. But is this the right — or best — strategy for an entrepreneur? In this post, we’ll explore understanding mergers and acquisitions strategy… Enjoy!

Tip of the Spear Understanding Mergers and Acquisitions

This is actually easier than starting an entirely new company, as you have a known product to base your business around. However, buying an existing company can still help you get started on the right foot. Here is what you should know to get a lot out of your purchase. Read on for more information on mergers and acquisitions.

There are two ways to go about mergers and acquisitions (M&A). One way is through an all-cash transaction, which allows you to take over a majority of the assets of the other companies and you keep all of the equity. Another way to approach the process is by conducting a financial transaction, where you receive cash for a portion of the total equity. Both methods have different advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important that you carefully consider which option will be best for you.

The first thing to consider is whether or not there are synergies between the two companies. You want to be able to add to the strength of one company while keeping away from the weakness of the other. For example, buying a hospital that offers medical equipment to nursing homes could be a good move for both companies. However, buying a manufacturing company that makes products for the home repair industry could be a bad move for both companies. So the two mergers and acquisitions strategies have to be well thought out before you make a decision.

You also have to understand the benefits of the mergers and acquisitions. Some examples of these benefits include saving cash, leveling the corporate ladder, combining research and development, and better service to customers. In order for these benefits to be realized, you have to look at the costs of the transactions carefully. This means looking at both the direct and indirect costs involved with the transactions.

You should also determine the value of the acquired assets. You should compare the total assets acquired, including goodwill, to the total market value of the combined company. Remember that these purchases do not always result in absolute value. Sometimes, the actual net worth of the acquired business is less than the purchase price.

SUMMARY

In summary, the main goal of the acquisition and mergers and acquisitions strategies is to acquire a company that can provide a service or product that solves a problem for the buyer. One of the main downsides to acquisitions is the risk of acquiring weak companies that might not be able to support the obligations you have with them. Be sure to get all the facts before you decide on a strategy. Make sure you are familiar with all the terms before you enter into any agreements.