Implementing SAP is a complex journey that requires more than just technical expertise—it demands strategic foresight and a commitment to change. Success hinges on aligning business processes with SAP’s framework, engaging stakeholders early, and fostering a culture of adoption. Avoid Over-Customization and Embrace SAP’s Framework Adapting business practices to SAP’s inherent structure streamlines processes and maximizes ROI. Excessive customization increases costs and diminishes SAP’s benefits. Instead of forcing SAP to fit outdated processes, organizations should optimize workflows to leverage its full capabilities. Prioritize Early Business Engagement Engaging business users from the outset ensures the system aligns with real operational needs and secures user buy-in. Precise, business-driven requirements and acceptance criteria prevent costly rework. Success depends on dedicated resources that share a vision and understand the transformation journey ahead. Champion Change and User Adoption A visible executive sponsor must communicate SAP’s strategic value and actively remove barriers. Sustaining momentum requires building super-user networks, thorough testing, and celebrating milestones. Comprehensive training alone isn’t enough—its effectiveness relies on strong leadership, user engagement, and a continuous improvement mindset. By focusing on these principles—strategic alignment, early involvement, and a human-centered approach—organizations can drive successful SAP transformations and maximize their investment. To learn more about how to implement these strategies effectively, contact our Business Transformation Practice Lead today.

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future-facing buzzword—it’s a tool businesses are using right now to work smarter, move faster, and uncover insights in ways never before possible. At RedCloud, we believe in practical, secure innovation, and Microsoft Copilot is a clear example of how AI can transform the modern workplace. In a recent session hosted by RedCloud’s Power Platform Lead, Nate Davis, we explored how Microsoft Copilot is already making a difference—and how RedCloud is helping organizations take full advantage. What Is Microsoft Copilot? Microsoft Copilot is an umbrella term for a wide range of AI-powered assistants, or “agents,” built into everyday tools like Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. These agents can generate content, summarize information, suggest edits, draft presentations, pull insights from emails and files, and more. Some of the most widely used Copilot tools include: Microsoft 365 Copilot – Embedded in Office apps to help users write, analyze, and summarize with ease. This agent is accessible via desktop or mobile app, browser, Teams, and embedded in Office apps. Copilot Studio  – A low-code/no-code platform for building custom AI agents tailored to unique business needs. GitHub Copilot  – Designed for developers to write and optimize code faster. Copilot for Sales and Service  – Tailored solutions that boost productivity in CRM and customer support functions. Copilot in Fabric  – For advanced data modeling, analytics, and visualization. Each Copilot serves a unique purpose—but together, they form a flexible ecosystem that helps teams work more efficiently. Why Prompting Matters To get the most out of AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, it’s not just about using them—it’s about how you use them. A well-crafted prompt (the question or instruction you give to the AI) leads to more accurate, helpful, and context-specific results. At RedCloud, we help clients develop this essential skill through prompt coaching, hands-on training sessions, and real-world examples. One powerful resource we leverage is Copilot Prompt Coach—a built-in feature that offers real-time suggestions and improvements to help users write better prompts directly within Microsoft 365. It’s like having a prompt expert by your side, guiding you toward clearer, more effective communication with AI. For example, instead of asking, “Help me plan a training,” a more effective prompt might be: "Help me plan a Copilot training session aimed at improving productivity for a group of non-technical users. Include an overview, step-by-step guidance, and best practices." Small improvements in how you communicate with AI can yield dramatically better results, and tools like Prompt Coach make it easier than ever to level up your prompting skills. Real-World Copilot Use Cases Copilot isn’t just a concept—it’s part of many professionals’ daily workflows. Some common use cases we’ve seen among clients include: Summarizing lengthy reports or email threads Rewriting internal communications to sound more polished Execute multi-step research and analysis on topics that require more reasoning Preparing meeting agendas using data from multiple sources Brainstorming new ideas or outlining complex projects RedCloud also encourages agent switching—the practice of using different Copilot tools for various steps in a workflow. For example, start by brainstorming in Web Chat, refine your insights in Word, and finalize your deliverables in PowerPoint. This approach mirrors how we already use various Microsoft Office apps, but adds an AI-powered layer to accelerate tasks. How RedCloud Helps Clients Implement Copilot Our team at RedCloud offers a structured approach to Copilot adoption and innovation. We meet organizations where they are—whether they’re in the early exploration phase or ready for enterprise-wide deployment. Here’s how we support Copilot success: Strategy & Assessment We evaluate readiness, identify opportunities, and build roadmaps tailored to your business goals. Licensing & Readiness We guide you through Microsoft 365 Copilot licensing options, help you procure the right licenses, and ensure your organization meets all technical prerequisites for a successful rollout. Integration & Connectors From deployment to configuration, we help with the technical integration of Copilot within your Microsoft 365 environment and beyond. This means setting up online third-party connectors to securely extend Copilot’s reach to external data sources, enhancing its ability to deliver relevant, real-time insights across your processes. Custom AI Agents Development From Building Autonomous, Retrieval, Chatbot, or other various types of agents on Copilot, Azure, and more Training & Change Management RedCloud leads workshops, demos, and user training to ensure high adoption and long-term success. A Smart Start to Your AI Journey As Microsoft continues to evolve Copilot’s capabilities, businesses that begin their AI journey now will be ahead of the curve. RedCloud combines deep expertise with a people-first mindset to ensure your AI tools are not only functional but also transformational. Ready to explore what Copilot can do for your business? Let’s start a conversation about how AI can streamline your processes and empower your teams. Reach out to RedCloud’s Data & AI team  to get started.

At RedCloud, we work with clients who are navigating major change, and one of the biggest shifts we’re seeing right now is within the Transformation Office itself. What used to be a clear function focused on implementing change is now evolving into something more complex. Transformation Offices are being asked not only to execute  change but also to shape  it strategically. With AI and automation now disrupting nearly every part of the business, transformation teams are under pressure to keep up—and level up. If you lead or support transformation work, you’ve likely felt this shift. The role is no longer just about rolling out new systems or managing projects; it has evolved to encompass broader responsibilities. It’s about becoming a true strategic partner to the business, while still delivering results on the ground. Doing More with Less (Yes, Really) From workforce retirements and talent gaps to mounting regulatory and consumer demands, there’s no shortage of challenges. In the utility space, for example, up to 37% of the workforce is expected to retire by 2031—yet only 44% of companies have a long-term plan in place. At the same time, budgets are tight, and the bar for impact is higher than ever. The pressure is real, and AI is here, whether your team is ready or not. As Bill Nye put it best: “Instead of just doing less, we have to find ways of doing more with less.” Building the Foundation for AI-Driven Transformation AI can supercharge transformation—but not without the right foundation. At RedCloud, we help teams assess their readiness across five key dimensions: OCM Process Maturity  Are your change management practices consistent and built into every initiative, or are they still reactive and ad hoc? Understanding AI’s Potential  Does your team know what AI can actually  do beyond chatbots and automation? Can they spot high-impact use cases aligned to business goals? Infrastructure and Tooling  Do you have scalable, enterprise-ready tools, or are you relying on free AI tools for individual tasks? AI in Action  Are you actively utilizing AI to enhance your team's efficiency? Are you measuring impact and sharing wins? OCM Data as a Strategic Asset for Transformation  Are you managing your data in ways that drive portfolio-level decisions and enable dynamic reporting? Using a self-assessment model, organizations can score themselves from Level 1 (Emerging) to Level 5 (Empowered) in each area and then develop an action plan to move forward. What Comes Next? The Transformation Office Accelerator isn’t just about theory; it’s backed by tools that help you make change stick. From saturation mapping and stakeholder journey reviews to real-time project-level change dashboards, these resources provide enhanced visibility, alignment, and informed decision-making. And the best part? Everyone benefits—employees, leadership, OCM practitioners, and transformation leaders alike. Want to explore what your transformation office could look like in the age of AI? Let’s talk about what’s possible and how RedCloud can help you get there.

When your organization agrees that it’s time to get a system or set of tools, how do you choose? You might have a dozen or more options to choose from, but which one is right for you and your team? At RedCloud, we’ve developed a structured approach that will help you navigate the many SaaS options available to you, one that will ensure a successful implementation that delivers long-term value to your organization. In this blog, we'll cover the critical steps to get to the right SaaS vendor. Ultimately, we hope you'll find this helpful in identifying the best-fit solution for your organization's unique organizational landscape and goals. Step 1. Assessing Internal Needs The effort begins with developing a thorough understanding of your organization's unique requirements and priorities. This involves performing a detailed review of existing documents and requirements, often in parallel with conducting gap analysis stakeholder interviews. These interviews are crucial for delving into current state challenges, a future state vision, and discovering specific needs related to optimizing workflows, automating notifications, reporting & dashboards, as well as change management and training. You can leverage many different applications to help streamline this varied process, but at the end of the day, what matters is that you have a person running this assessment who is excellent at synthesizing information and distilling it down to a cogent set of requirements that you’ll use as a guide in vendor evaluation. Step 2. Establish Evaluation Criteria & Weights Once your internal needs are clearly defined, the next step involves establishing clear criteria and a scoring model for evaluating potential SaaS vendors. Start by defining categories for assessment, such as Content, Functionality, Technical Capabilities, Reporting, Administration, and Support. Each category can then be assigned a weight based on its importance in your vendor selection decision. After the scoring model is set and drafted into a scorecard or form template, your stakeholders can begin the process of evaluating and scoring the prospective vendors who provide their product demos to your team. Beyond looking at a vendor's feature set, you should also consider their integration capabilities with your existing internal systems to achieve maximum value. Keep in mind that different implementation options may be available with different potential vendors. Evaluate whether an all-SaaS solution is sufficient or if a hybrid approach (combining SaaS with on-premise components) better fits your organization's infrastructure and security requirements. Additional considerations, such as data security for confidential information, flexibility with existing data structures, and the effort required for the system integration(s), are paramount in this step. Be sure to consult with your IT Leadership and reach an agreement about the upcoming implementation approach. Having a shared understanding of a vendor’s approach to server updates, scaling, and hardware management will save you headaches later when you require ongoing involvement from your internal IT team(s). Step 3. Analysis & Recommendation With the vendor demos and scoring complete, it is finally time to synthesize all of the information gathered and make an informed recommendation. Compare how well each prospective solution satisfies your identified requirements and align those findings with the weighted evaluation scores. The goal is to recommend a vendor that not only meets your immediate needs but also offers benefits in terms of speed, security, and a support model that aligns with your operational preferences. If you're able to demonstrate that you've undertaken this structured methodology when delivering your recommendation, you'll be sure to align your leadership around a chosen SaaS vendor who will drive new efficiencies, become a strategic asset, and support long-term growth for your organization. Want Help? Selecting the right SaaS vendor is a critical decision that can significantly impact your organization's efficiency and growth. At RedCloud, we understand the complexities involved in this process and are here to help you navigate the selection and consensus-building that’s required. Contact us today , and let our experts guide you through a successful selection process that delivers lasting value, high adoption, and an engaged user base.

A leading global thrift retailer faced growing pains as it scaled operations across hundreds of stores, warehouses, and nonprofit networks in North America and Australia. Despite its strong commitment to sustainability and reuse, its inventory planning relied heavily on fragmented Excel tools and manual workflows. These outdated methods resulted in misaligned deliveries, inefficiencies, and data silos that hindered progress. Partnering with RedCloud Consulting, the retailer replaced its patchwork of spreadsheets with a modern, connected Power Platform solution—bringing real-time collaboration, accurate forecasting, and enterprise-wide visibility to life. Client Situation This global thrift retailer, known for reselling secondhand goods through a network of nonprofit partners and store brands across the U.S., Canada, and Australia, found itself at a crossroads. Its mission to drive sustainability through reuse was being hindered by critical challenges in forecasting inventory and coordinating operations across a vast ecosystem. Legacy forecasting tools—Excel-based templates like the Inventory Management Tool (IMT), Dedicated Delivery Plan (DDP), and Stock on Hand Forecaster (SOH) were siloed, lacked data integrity, and couldn’t support real-time collaboration. These manual processes made it nearly impossible to keep inflows and outflows in sync with processing capabilities and store-level demand. Complicating matters, a wide range of stakeholders, including store managers, supply chain teams, logistics coordinators, and nonprofit delivery partners, were working off disconnected data sources. To streamline operations and elevate forecasting accuracy, the retailer turned to RedCloud Consulting for a scalable, enterprise-ready solution. Our Approach RedCloud partnered closely with internal teams across sourcing, store support, IT, and operations to design a cohesive, role-based forecasting platform using Microsoft Power Platform. At its core: a trio of seamlessly integrated Power Apps. Inventory Management Tool (IMT):  This tool empowers leadership and sourcing teams to forecast demand and plan inventory needs across the organization. Dedicated Delivery Plan (DDP):  This plan converts high-level forecasts into detailed weekly delivery schedules, broken down by store, vendor, and delivery type. Stock on Hand (SOH): Enables store managers to monitor, manage, and fine-tune daily inventory levels, ensuring alignment with forecasted targets. Each app was designed to “talk” to the others, automatically populating values and syncing data to minimize manual work. Users benefit from intelligent defaults, autofill logic (like Year-over-Year and multi-week averaging), and the ability to customize forecasts with just a few clicks. To foster adoption, a central Home App was developed, providing access to relevant tools tailored to each user’s role. A Feedback App also encouraged continuous improvement by capturing user input during development. The solution’s standout feature? Deep integration with the organization’s internal Location Management system. The platform dynamically adjusts access and visibility by syncing with real-time employee and store assignments. That means a district manager sees only their stores, and a store manager sees just their own; no manual setup is needed. Power Platform Dataflows further enhanced the system by synchronizing key data, such as inventory transfers and stock levels, from the company’s Snowflake environment into Dataverse, ensuring everything remains current and accurate. The solution is fully multilingual, offering English, French, and Spanish based on device settings or user preferences to support global teams. Impact The new Inventory Forecasting Solution (IFS) has transformed operations from disjointed spreadsheets into a smart, centralized platform that connects sourcing, store leadership, and supply chain management. With accurate, real-time data and collaborative forecasting, teams can now align product flow with store capacity, improve turnaround time, and reduce overstock or understock issues. Field leaders have a clear view of what’s coming and when, improving execution and communication across the board. Automated logic, role-based access, and smart defaults eliminate repetitive manual entry, saving valuable time each week. Additionally, thanks to its flexible and scalable architecture, the platform is well-equipped to evolve as business needs change. Most importantly, this solution strengthens the retailer’s sustainability mission by ensuring the right product reaches the right location at the right time, maximizing reuse and reducing waste across its global network.

An international technology company faced growing strain on its supply chain systems as demand increased. To ensure scalability and efficiency, RedCloud Consulting partnered with the client to provide expert change management support, guiding adoption of new processes, roles, and tools. By combining structured change management, effective communication strategies, and innovative measurement tools, RedCloud facilitated a smoother transformation and sustained supply chain improvements. Client Situation The client sought to transform its supply chain organization to reliably scale with market demands. Challenges included: Adoption of new systems and processes across a large, global workforce Need for clear roles, responsibilities, and accountability for impacted teams Ensuring change management practices could scale from small to large projects Measuring engagement and communication effectiveness to drive adoption RedCloud was engaged to improve readiness, streamline communication, and foster adoption of the new supply chain systems. Our Approach RedCloud applied a multi-faceted change management strategy: Proactive Communication & Engagement: Utilized storytelling, creative infographics, and workshops to foster understanding, engagement, and awareness of the transformation. Communication Metrics Dashboard: Developed dashboards to track employee engagement with emails, workshops, and project sites, enabling data-driven adjustments to communication strategies. Persona Repository & RASCI Matrix: Built a live SharePoint repository containing project personas, FAQs, training resources, and contacts to provide transparency and guide change management decisions. S calable Project Management: Created visual representations of deliverables and held weekly meetings to proactively manage changes to timelines and priorities. Prosci ADKAR-Based Readiness: Leveraged change management frameworks to increase awareness, knowledge, and readiness through targeted communications, training, and feedback loops. Impact RedCloud’s efforts delivered measurable outcomes: Improved Communication Effectiveness: Dashboards allowed the team to measure engagement, identify gaps, and optimize messaging in real-time. Enhanced Transparency & Accessibility: The persona repository provided consistent and accessible data, enabling faster and more informed decision-making. Scalable Change Management: Tools and processes supported projects of varying size and complexity while ensuring alignment across teams. Increased Transformation Readiness: Employees gained awareness, knowledge, and confidence in the new systems, driving smoother adoption. Data-Driven Decision Making: The team leveraged metrics and insights to continually refine approaches, improving overall transformation outcomes. Lessons learned—such as using clear communication metrics, establishing accessible persona data, and embedding structured change management—helped ensure long-term success and adoption across the supply chain organization. By integrating structured change management with innovative measurement and communication tools, RedCloud enabled the client to successfully scale its supply chain transformation, ensuring adoption, alignment, and readiness across all teams. Ready to drive strategic transformation in your organization? Contact RedCloud’s Strategy and Transformation Practice team today to learn how we can help manage complex transformations, increase adoption, and deliver measurable impact.

Our client’s SAP-supported initiative faced significant setbacks due to fragmented project management and engineering-led solutions, resulting in delayed timelines and stalled user adoption. RedCloud partnered with the client to place strategic collaboration and user-focused solutions at the center of the initiative. By prioritizing engagement, training, and alignment between business and IT, we helped drive sustainable adoption, meaningful engagement, and long-term success across the organization. Client Situation The client’s SAP implementation was encountering major challenges: Project timelines were slipping due to a lack of cohesive management End users were not fully engaged, resulting in stalled adoption Training and testing occurred too late in the process, causing frustration and misalignment The initiative required a fresh approach that integrated strategic partnerships, proactive stakeholder engagement, and user-centric solutions to turn the project around and ensure value realization. Our Approach RedCloud focused on three core strategies to drive momentum and deliver measurable impact: Just-in-Time System Testing & End-User Training: Worked closely with process owners and UAT leads to ensure users were informed and prepared well before testing began, improving alignment and reducing post-go-live issues. Proactive Stakeholder Engagement: Maintained consistent communication and relationship-building with IT and business stakeholders to uncover insights, anticipate challenges, and earn trust throughout the implementation. Fostering Collaboration Between Business & IT : Encouraged a “small wins” approach, using each milestone to build confidence, demonstrate progress, and strengthen connections across teams. This approach emphasized timing, context, and the human side of technology, shifting the focus from purely technical delivery to a holistic, user-centered transformation. Impact The RedCloud-led approach resulted in: Increased user readiness and engagement ahead of system go-live Stronger alignment between business and IT, fostering trust and collaboration Reduced post-implementation frustration and improved adoption rates A foundation for long-term SAP success, emphasizing sustainable change and continuous improvement This project reinforced a key insight: successful SAP implementation depends not only on technology but also on strong collaboration, clear communication, and a user-centric mindset. Next Steps Organizations facing complex SAP or digital transformation initiatives can benefit from RedCloud’s Business Transformation Services . Our team guides clients through change with agility, ensuring sustainable adoption and long-term impact across industries.

RedCloud partnered with a key division of a multinational software company to modernize reporting processes for critical, systemic product issues. By implementing a Power Platform solution with real-time dashboards, the client improved visibility, decision-making, and resource prioritization across projects. Client Situation The client tracked and addressed the largest and most systemic issues across a suite of products. However, their reporting processes were largely manual and disjointed: Leadership relied on month-end reports compiled from spreadsheets and decks, consuming significant employee hours. Disparate data sources made it difficult to maintain consistency or transparency across stakeholders. Slow and static reporting hindered evidence-based decision-making and resource allocation. RedCloud was engaged to modernize reporting and provide a centralized, efficient system that could support rapid, informed decisions. Our Approach RedCloud applied a structured, end-to-end approach: Data Audit & Consolidation: Identified and pulled data from multiple platforms, including sales, project management, and engineering tools, and consolidated it into a central database. Custom Reporting Solution: Developed a Power Platform solution with real-time dashboards, visual graphs, high-level project summaries, and hover-over details for deeper insights. Stakeholder Collaboration: Worked closely with the client to understand specific reporting needs and built a flexible system to support evolving requirements. Training & Enablement: Supported leadership and stakeholders in using the dashboards to extract actionable insights and generate customized reports with minimal effort. Impact RedCloud’s solution delivered measurable benefits: Improved Visibility: Leadership now has access to real-time project data, enabling more transparent monitoring of critical initiatives. Time Savings: Reduced manual effort previously spent compiling spreadsheets, decks, and other summary documents. Enhanced Decision-Making: Dashboards allow rapid evaluation of resources, identification of barriers, and prioritization of high-impact fixes. Evidence-Based Strategy: Stakeholders can now make informed decisions with confidence, using consistent and centralized data. Scalable & Adaptable: The solution can evolve with future needs, enabling expansion to additional projects and teams. By integrating disparate data into a single platform and automating reporting, RedCloud empowered the client to optimize project oversight, improve stakeholder collaboration, and accelerate resolution of systemic issues. Ready to modernize your reporting and decision-making? Contact RedCloud’s Digital Solutions Practice team today to learn how we can help you streamline data management, reporting, and stakeholder insights.

RedCloud partnered with a multinational technology company to modernize its sales support program by simultaneously managing the program and measuring its effectiveness. Using the Microsoft Power Platform, RedCloud streamlined reporting, automated data capture, and provided real-time analytics to improve program management, enhance ROI, and optimize resource allocation. Client Situation The client had created a global sales support program to address local country challenges for dispersed accounts. However, leadership realized that managing the program while measuring its effectiveness was difficult: Reporting processes were manual and time-consuming, relying on bulk data downloads. Metrics were difficult to track, which prevented visibility into program performance and ROI. Inefficient reporting threatened the ongoing funding of the program and limited management’s ability to make informed decisions. RedCloud was engaged to design a scalable, automated solution to track program effectiveness, thereby freeing up the sales team to focus on customer engagement. Our Approach RedCloud applied a structured, technology-driven approach: Assessment & Data Audit: Evaluated the client’s sales data capture, warehouses, queries, and reporting processes to identify inefficiencies. Database Optimization: Renormalized the sales database to automate the capture of over 20 critical sales data points and eliminate redundant manual processes. Automation of Processes: Developed automated routines to manage and track sales activities, reducing manual effort and errors. Real-Time Reporting & Analytics: Built dynamic queries and dashboards via the Power Platform, enabling management to view program effectiveness by region, product, personnel, or other criteria. Scalability & Flexibility: Designed the system to accommodate additional reporting requirements and provide secure, geo-specific access. Impact RedCloud’s solutions produced measurable improvements: Enhanced Program Visibility: Managers gained access to real-time reports, improving decision-making and enabling timely interventions. Time & Resource Efficiency: Automation freed sales teams from manual reporting tasks, allowing them to focus on customer engagement and sales opportunities. Improved Data Accuracy & Scalability: Renormalized databases and automated workflows reduced errors and enabled a more scalable reporting system. ROI Demonstration: With improved analytics and reporting, the program was projected to achieve a 50x return on investment. Sustainable Process Improvements: Flexible reporting and automated dashboards ensure long-term program effectiveness, transparency, and adaptability. By combining strategic program management with technology-enabled analytics, RedCloud helped the client optimize program performance while providing tangible evidence of value. RedCloud’s partnership transformed the client’s sales support program into a highly measurable, efficient, and scalable solution. Leadership now has the insights and tools to track effectiveness, make informed decisions, and maximize ROI.

This summer, Sadie Sider-Echenberg brought her passion for problem-solving and teamwork to RedCloud as a Computer Science intern from the University of South Florida. A dedicated NCAA Division I soccer player with international experience playing professionally in France, Sadie was drawn to RedCloud’s boutique consulting environment, where collaboration and hands-on learning thrive. During her internship, she tackled real-world challenges, such as creating a live Power BI dashboard, and gained valuable insights into the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the consulting industry. Beyond her technical skills, Sadie’s adaptable spirit and love for the Pacific Northwest reflect the vibrant energy she brought to the team. What attracted you to our internship program, and how does it align with your career goals? Many things attracted me to RedCloud’s internship program! I was especially excited about the opportunity to join a smaller, boutique consulting firm, where I could work closely with others, take on meaningful projects, and truly learn from the people around me. As someone who has played team sports my entire life, I’m drawn to environments where collaboration and learning are integral to the daily experience, and RedCloud stood out as a place that truly values these aspects. What also stood out to me is how well the consulting industry aligns with the reasons I chose to study Computer Science- my interests in problem-solving and working creatively. On a personal note, I spent last summer in Seattle playing for a semi-professional soccer team and fell in love with the Pacific Northwest. It’s not only an amazing place to live—with all the outdoor activities and great people—but is, of course, a huge hub for tech, which makes it an exciting place to be at this early stage of my career. Where do you go to school, and what are you studying? I attend the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, Florida, where I will be entering my senior year this fall and studying Computer Science. I also compete in the NCAA DI with the women’s soccer team! What’s something new you’ve learned about the consulting industry that surprised you? I think how big of a role recruitment plays in consulting and how quickly projects and proposals come and go has surprised me. Working in the Bellevue office, I see how recruiters constantly work to find new projects and the right people to work on each one. It fascinates me how the industry is so fast-paced and constantly changing. What's one thing people don't know about you that they would be surprised to discover? I played professional soccer for Le Havre FC in France during the 2022-2023 season. That year, I did online school to continue my degree. Living, playing, and studying in France was a life-changing experience. Among many things, that year taught me to be adaptable and open-minded, which I’ve tried to take with me into all areas of my life. What project or task have you worked on that you’re most proud of during your time here? Recently, I collaborated with Beau (Platte) and Benny (Swedberg) on a task where I assisted in creating a Power BI dashboard to display findings based on the results of a survey. Beau used the dashboard as a presentation tool to display metrics in real-time as the audience took a survey. It was one of my first experiences with Power BI, and figuring out how to synchronize it with Microsoft Forms and adapt to live updates was a challenging, yet fun, problem to solve. It was very cool to work on a project I knew would be used ‘in real life’ and gain experience bridging business problems with software solutions. I was very happy to hear that the presentation went well, and I played a small part in its success. What’s one fun or unexpected fact about you that people may be surprised by? I played rugby in high school and loved it. I think people may be surprised by this because I’m (not quite) 5’3. Quick picks: Coffee or tea? Early bird or night owl? City life or outdoor escape? Coffee!! I also love tea (especially Matcha), but being a college student, I’ve become a bit coffee dependent. Night owl, but I’m trying to change that. I like both, which is a big reason I love Seattle. Share one of your favorite quotes. It’s a long one, but one of my favorite quotes is ‘The Man in the Arena’ by Theodore Roosevelt: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”

Meet Amy Paron, RedCloud’s dynamic Office Manager and Senior HR Generalist, whose multifaceted role keeps the company running smoothly and its culture thriving. From ensuring employees are set up for success with essential tools and resources to fostering positive employee experiences through onboarding and HR support, Amy’s dedication is evident in every task she undertakes. With a passion for welcoming new team members and creating a supportive workplace, she embodies RedCloud’s commitment to excellence. Beyond work, Amy finds joy in traveling, outdoor adventures, and spending quality time with her daughter, Bella. Let’s dive into her unique perspective and learn more about the journey that brought her here. Describe your role and what you do in a nutshell: As the Office Manager and Senior HR Generalist, I have the privilege of wearing multiple hats that contribute to our company's overall success and smooth operation. As Office Manager, I ensure that our office environment is efficient and well-stocked with supplies, snacks, and necessary equipment. This includes ensuring employee laptops are set up and ready to go so everyone has what they need to succeed. As Senior HR Generalist, I support key HR functions, including onboarding, offboarding, employee relations, and benefits administration. I enjoy helping foster a positive work culture and ensuring employees feel supported and informed. What do you enjoy most or find especially interesting about your current role? I’m particularly passionate about onboarding new employees. I love being the first face they see when they join, welcoming them warmly, and guiding them through the process of settling in. Sharing the unique culture of RedCloud and introducing them to the exceptional benefits we offer is always fulfilling, as it sets the tone for their journey with us. What are you most proud of in your career so far? One of the proudest moments in my career was playing a key role in growing Cozi Inc., a Seattle-based software company, from its early stages through to its eventual sale to Time Inc. It was an incredible journey of transformation, and being a part of that process was deeply rewarding. Tell us about something interesting you've learned recently. I recently finished reading "Entangled Life" by Merlin Sheldrake, which has shifted my perspective on nature. I knew that trees communicate with each other, but I was fascinated to learn that they do so through a complex underground network of fungi that connects their root systems. This book is a beautiful example of the interconnectedness of all life. If you could suggest a book for the entire team to read, what would it be and why? I would recommend The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer. This book explores how developing consciousness can help us live in the present moment and let go of past thoughts and memories that limit our happiness. It offers deep insights into how we can achieve self-realization and personal growth. Another book I’d suggest is "Unfu*k Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life" by Gary John Bishop. While the title is provocative 😉 it’s a fantastic resource for reprogramming negative thought patterns and empowering ourselves to live the life we’re truly meant to live. What obsolete technology do you still have a soft spot for? I have a soft spot for my record player! There's something special about listening to vinyl records — the rich, analog sound is irreplaceable.  What piece of advice would you share with your younger self? I would remind my younger self that life is fleeting and time moves faster than you realize. Don’t wait to take the trip, make that career change, or spend time with your loved ones. Say yes to the opportunities that come your way, and don’t put off decisions or experiences for tomorrow. Today is all that is promised. What are you passionate about or enjoy outside of work? Outside of work, my greatest passion is spending quality time with my daughter, Bella. I also love traveling and exploring new cities and countries. Some of my favorite pastimes are outdoor activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking, and relearning how to ski (I'm not doing very well at this one!). Giving back to the community through philanthropic efforts is also close to my heart. When I have downtime, I enjoy baking, practicing aerial silk acrobatics, solving crossword puzzles, and reading.

Meet Alvin Le, a Marketing and Information Systems student at the University of Washington who is currently interning at RedCloud. In this insightful conversation, Alvin tells us a bit about his tasks and projects, the skills he's leveraging from his academic background, and his observations about the RedCloud team's culture. Plus, find out his favorite app and how it enhances his dining experience! Why did you seek out an internship with RedCloud, and in the consulting industry? I met RedCloud Account Director Scott (Morton) at a University of Washington alumni event hosted by my fraternity and was immediately intrigued by his description of RedCloud. I connected with him on LinkedIn shortly after and reached out to ask if I could join RedCloud as a Consulting intern.  Fortunately for me, Scott was extremely accommodating and made the process easy and enjoyable. As a Marketing and Information Systems student at the University of Washington, working at RedCloud offers the perfect combination of marketing and technology that I seek in a role. I’ve always been drawn to consulting - I love the strategic, creative, and client-facing aspects of the industry - and I was actively seeking consulting opportunities that align with my background and interests. I found that in RedCloud, and I look forward to being a sponge of knowledge. What are your main tasks and projects as part of your internship? As I’m only a few weeks into my internship, I’m still learning the ropes of my assigned tasks and projects. I currently have the opportunity to work alongside Scott and assist him with monthly SLA MOSA reporting and Studio MOSA reporting. I also assist Yan Ma, a Senior Product Marketing Manager at RedCloud, with weekly Microsoft 365 newsletters as part of Microsoft client work. I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge in my first few weeks, and I’m excited to continue working on such fulfilling projects. What skills have you used, or do you think you'll use the most from school in your internship? Much of my coursework is directly applicable to my role at RedCloud. Material from my Marketing classes enables me to understand industry jargon, and my Information Systems curriculum provides a solid grasp of the technological landscape in which I work. I’ve previously worked on Marketing Consulting projects in school, which have developed the critical thinking skills, teamwork abilities, and growth-centered mindset necessary for a strong foundation in the field. I’m confident that I can leverage my resources at the UW Foster School of Business and past work experience to excel in this role and make a lasting impact on the RedCloud team. What is it like working with the RedCloud team? My experiences with the RedCloud team have been nothing but positive. Everyone I've interacted with has been friendly and helpful, from the recruiting process to onboarding and actual work dynamics. Although my work is primarily remote, it is clear that RedCloud emphasizes a close-knit culture that values its human resources.  What have been some of the biggest takeaways you had from your internship so far? So far, my internship has taught me valuable lessons about professional communication, essential business processes, and the importance of efficient teamwork. By assisting  seasoned consultants on my team, I observe and understand the professional synergies required to deliver weekly action items on time and of high quality. Along with industry-specific knowledge, I can apply these takeaways to future work experiences. Name a piece of tech you can’t live without or your favorite app? Currently, my favorite app is a restaurant-reviewing platform called Beli. Beli allows you to rate restaurants, bars, coffee shops, etc., you’ve visited using an intuitive algorithm that automatically ranks them. You can share your ratings with friends on the platform, read the reviews of others, and even make last-minute reservations. I would describe the user experience as a hybrid of Yelp and Instagram.  For an avid “foodie” like me, Beli encourages me to visit new restaurants with friends and family, adding a new factor of enjoyment and excitement to my dining experiences. I even used Beli to track the countries I visited when I spent a quarter abroad. I highly recommend this app to anyone who loves to explore their surroundings while traveling or to food lovers who want to track their eating experiences through social media.