ONCE YOU ARE CERTIFIED
Once a firm has been certified, the Southwest TAAC will help secure the benefits it desires. The preparation for assistance consists of a document describing the company’s needs: a diagnostic analysis and a specific assistance plan. The government will routinely pay 75% of the cost of developing a diagnostic analysis and the assistance plan.

DIAGNOSTIC ANALYSIS
The Southwest TAAC will prepare a diagnostic analysis of the firm’s operations including its internal and external operating environments. This report will provide the groundwork on which the assistance plan will be built.

ADJUSTMENT PLAN
The Assistance Plan is a written report showing that the firm is aware of its strengths, weaknesses and potential problems, and has a clear, credible and rational strategy for recovery. The plan will identify specific actions the firm wishes a consultant to take on its behalf. Most firms opt for marketing, manufacturing, MIS, ISO 9000 accreditation or product development help. However, each assistance plan is specifically tailored to the needs of each individual company. The completed assistance plan and the diagnostic analysis is submitted to the U.S. Department of Commerce for final approval before implementation. Acting as liaison between DoC and the client firm, Southwest TAAC has the experience and training to help ensure that the plan will be approved. Should changes be required, TAAC staff will work with the company to facilitate quick turnaround.