How Engagements Run
From discovery call to final handover — the stages of working with Dogwood Way on operational improvement.
From first conversation to finished work
Every engagement follows the same backbone, though the depth and duration change with the advisory area you choose. This page explains what to expect at each stage so you can plan time with your team before we begin.
Discovery call
A free 30-minute conversation by phone or video. You describe your company, who is involved in decisions, and what has been frustrating you. We ask clarifying questions and suggest whether a full review or a narrower engagement fits. No obligation to proceed.
Scope and quote
Within three business days we send a written proposal: scope, timeline, fee, and what we need from you to start. You review with co-owners or advisors. We adjust scope if needed before you accept.
Kickoff
Once the deposit is received, we schedule a kickoff session with key stakeholders. We confirm interview lists, site access, and document requests. You receive a one-page engagement plan with dates locked in.
Fieldwork
On-site visits, staff interviews, and document review happen during this phase. We minimise disruption — interviews are 30–45 minutes and scheduled in advance. You have a single point of contact (Priya Nair) for scheduling questions.
Analysis and draft
We share preliminary findings with you before finalising the report. This is your chance to correct misunderstandings or add context we could not see from the outside. Nothing is delivered to your wider team without your review.
Delivery and handover
Final report, presentation to leadership, and agreed action priorities. For Operational Health Reviews, a follow-up call four weeks later checks progress. You keep all materials we produce.
What we need from you
- A senior decision-maker available for kickoff and delivery sessions
- Permission for staff to participate in confidential interviews
- Access to relevant procedures, org charts, and recent operational data
- Honesty about internal politics — we cannot navigate family dynamics we do not know about
Typical timelines
| Advisory area | Calendar time |
|---|---|
| Team & Role Mapping | 2 weeks |
| Cash Flow Clarity | 3 weeks |
| Operational Health Review | 4 weeks |
| Succession Readiness | 6–8 weeks |
After the engagement
Some clients book quarterly check-ins; others implement independently. We do not auto-renew or lock you into retainers. If you want continued support, we quote it separately.
Ready to start?
Request a discovery call or review our advisory areas to choose an engagement type.