Late 2004 and early 2005 I spent a fair bit of time in the US working with a team at Bearing Point on a supply chain management proposal. The work started out with a focus on the implementation of a near real-time IM system for 15 developing nations, but quickly evolved into a much broader information gathering and analysis to build a strategy for in-country rollouts of supply chain management systems. Huge learning curve; I now know more about supply chains, especially medical ones, than I ever imagined I would need to.
Its nice to know it was appreciated. (Pure bragging below the fold)
For the past five months Earl has worked with me on a proposal team preparing a response to a Request for Proposal (that) involves establishment of a Supply Chain Management System (SCMS) in 15 countries (12 in Africa, Haiti, Guyana, Viet Nam) with a high incidence of HIV/AIDS.
[...] The supply chain must provide a full range of anti-retroviral drugs, other pharmaceuticals and medical surgical supplies. This proposal effort fully taxed the team involved because of the complexity, the many unknowns and the sheer size and scope of the solicitation—treat 2 million people with anti-retrovirals and treatment and care for 10 million people.
Earl’s input into this proposal effort was truly remarkable. He is a visionary, an individual who quickly grasps complex issues and provides practical solutions to difficult problems. After spending time with a team of clinicians who engage in treatment of HIV positive patients, Earl devised a concept to combine patient conditions and treatment protocols with “formulary” baskets of pharmaceuticals to form the basis for a sophisticated forecasting and modeling tool. This idea resonated within the team and became the cornerstone for the proposal’s forecasting model.
Earl possesses extraordinary knowledge of information management and information technology. He masterfully applies IM/IT concepts to meet the needs of clients but he first understands client requirements, then solves their challenges in innovative ways. His writing and speaking skills are truly exceptional and were heavily relied upon throughout development of the proposal. Earl is a man of great character and competence. His integrity is above reproach. I recently retired from thirty years of active duty with the Army Medical Department. During that time I met many truly talented and dedicated men and women serving their country. Earl ranks with the very best Soldiers I served with on active duty and I unequivocally give him my highest endorsement.
Richard L. Ursone
Senior Manager
BG (Ret) Army Medical Department
If you think I might be able to help with something you are doing that involves a little thinking outside the planet, or is involved with designing or implementing an IS project, feel free to call.
Woo hoo! I never got a reference like that. Congrats :-)
Posted by: Taka | March 15, 2005 at 03:46 PM