Consulting Insights

Explore bold ideas

Discover articles, blog posts, white papers, and insights from the team at Pepper Foster. Our team of experts, thought leaders, and industry professionals share their insights and opinions on everything from the latest trends in technology and business to personal growth and development.

How we think

Blog Post

Is Wall Street's Relationship with the S&P 500 Parasitic?

The S&P 500 has seen a surge in average annual returns, rising from around 6% in the 1960’s and 1970’s to over 20% recently. Yet, the average lifespan of companies listed on the S&P 500 has plummeted, from 67 years to just 15 years or less. This paradox raises a critical question: Is being in the S&P 500 bad for business?

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Blog Post

New Tech, Same Challenges

As organizations increasingly turn to Artificial Intelligence (AI) to revolutionize their operations, the journey from conceptualization to implementation presents challenges reminiscent of past technological adoptions, such as ERP systems and cloud deployments. The parallels are striking, offering valuable lessons for businesses navigating the AI landscape.

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White Paper

HR is Where Change Goes to Die!

The days of treating change management as unnecessary or a luxury are thankfully in the past. Most organizations now accept effective change management as essential to maintain business relevancy, achieve enterprise-wide transformation, and realize value. However, many organizations are still stifling their change management teams and making the value realization of transformations more elusive.

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Blog Post

Is AI the New Dot-Com?

The late 1990s were marked by a frenzied surge of investments in dot-com companies, driven by the promise of the internet revolutionizing business and personal life. And then came the crash. Today, AI is experiencing a surge of interest and investment reminiscent of the dot-com boom. So, will its growth parallel the dot-com boom and bust or the cloud's more steady ascent? And when should companies invest in developing their AI future?

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Blog Post

US Healthcare's Dual Crisis

The US healthcare system is facing a dual crisis: a growing shortage of healthcare professionals and increasing financial pressures from Medicare reimbursements. These issues are intertwined, creating significant challenges but also opportunities for those who can navigate them effectively.

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Blog Post

Is There a White-Collar Recession in the US Right Now?

The term "white-collar recession" has started to surface in 2024 as several high-profile companies announce significant white-collar layoffs. But what does this mean? How does it contrast with the employment trends seen among blue-collar workers? What are the root causes? And, should we be worried?

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White Paper

AI for M&A - Hype or Substance?

The world of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) has experienced a flexuous journey in recent years. The COVID recovery, changing financial climate, and now Artificial Intelligence (AI) have all shaped the future of deal-making. In this white paper, we explore the nuanced reality of AI for M&A in 2024, dissecting both the hype and substance surrounding its integration into the M&A process. Drawing on historical evidence and industry insights, we strive to provide a holistic analysis of the current state of AI in M&A and articulate the conditions under which it can evolve to provide real value.

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Press

Minneapolis Star Tribune Article Featuring Pepper Foster

A great article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune about the return of companies to downtown Minneapolis that includes coverage of Pepper Foster's recent move to a bigger office in downtown and includes some great quotes and photos of our people and space including Todd Dale, Nathan Caskey, & Jamie Kissell.

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White Paper

M&A Surge: Riding a Wave of Optimism or Desperation?

In late March 2024, Pepper Foster Consulting surveyed 115 US-based C-level and senior executives at companies with over 5,000 employees. All of those surveyed had visibility to and knowledge of their organization’s plans for M&A. The survey covered growth pressure, current M&A activity, key drivers, M&A focus, and deal size.

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-Client NPS Survey

How we help our clients

Success Story

Desk with customer experience map centered

Driving a Customer Experience Vision

Truck manufacturer prioritizes customer experience, establishes CX organization, and lays foundation for success.

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Success Story

Portland, OR skyline with Mt. Hood centered

Making the Case for Oregon to Host the Olympics

Portland and Oregon deemed feasible to host the Summer Olympics; gaining support from local organizations.

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Success Story

Facilitator organizing stakeholder contributions

Aligning the Executive Team & Board on a Bold Growth Strategy

Company's leadership aligned on growth strategies, leading to improved financial performance and long-term sustainability.

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Success Story

Stakeholder report highlighting market share and opportunities for growth

Competitor Analysis Consulting: Making Informed Product Strategy Decisions

Market research guided software company's product vision, enabling strategic decisions aligned with corporate strategy.

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Success Story

Consumer selecting the right product

Choosing the Right Procurement Solution

Non-profit health insurance organization selects and implements new procurement software system on time and under budget.

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Success Story

IT Department works together to secure funding for future projects

Developing a Comprehensive IT Strategy

Education services firm successfully develops and implements comprehensive IT strategy for growth and consolidation.

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