Team J – Perceptive Software Benchmarking experience

On November 17, 2009, Team J from the Executive Potential Program (EPP) of the Graduate School had the unique experience of visiting with Perceptive Software – rated as one of Kansas City’s Best Places to Work for five times making them one of only three Kansas City companies to receive the Kansas City Business Journal award five times. Perceptive software is a software development firm that specializes in enterprise content management (ECM) software and is headquartered in suburban Kansas City. They have now embarked on the global market and their future looks more than promising. Despite the downward slide in today’s economy, they have managed to increase their profit margin last year by 23% and have become the fastest growing enterprise company in the world – far distinguishing themselves from their competitors. To what does Perceptive software attributes to their rapid growths and success? We were about to find out – our aim was to benchmark their best practices with the hopes of possibly implementing them within the Federal Government – given our current challenges.
From the moment you set foot in Perceptive Software you quickly see that their most valued assets are their employees. Not only does the building features state-of the art architecture equipped with the latest software and technology- they have also incorporated fun elements in what is known as their “decompression” chambers – these elements included a PS3, Wii and an X- box Video game – and oh, let’s not forget the huge slide between the second and first floor. Also included were a dodge ball court and a fully equipped fitness center. At Perceptive Software, their concept of “happy employees’ makes happy customers” is not just rhetoric but a way of being. They have gone through great length in ensuring that the work environment not only accommodates their employee’s individuality but also fosters an atmosphere for creativity and collaboration. They attribute most of their success to teamwork, communication and respect. To further foster the sense of camaraderie, Perceptive Software encourages their employees’ and their families to participate in organized company events throughout the year.

Although a small Midwestern firm, Perceptive Software truly exemplifies how a having a true sense of commitment to your employees and customers can positively affect the company’s bottom line. I would like to thank Perceptive Software, on behalf of Team J of the EPP graduate school, for allowing us to have an inside look at some of your best practices -it was truly a rewarding experience.