Most cost-cutting efforts fall flat because they focus only on price. Sustainable savings come from a more strategic approach — one rooted in transparency, alignment, and control.

At Schooley Mitchell, we’ve found that three disciplines consistently separate short-term cuts from lasting results.

1. Benchmark Market Data
   You can’t negotiate what you don’t understand. Without market visibility, you’re negotiating in the dark.
   Whether it’s telecom, SaaS, shipping, or merchant services, knowing what others pay for the same level of service turns guesswork into leverage.
2. Right-Size Features and Usage
   Even with competitive pricing, many companies overpay because their service mix doesn’t match actual needs.
   Real savings come from aligning features, usage, and fit — trimming what’s unused, consolidating what’s redundant, and matching service levels to real demand.
3. Audit Continuously
   Costs drift. Vendors change rates, billing errors creep in, and usage evolves.
   A one-time savings project won’t hold.
   Routine audits and feedback loops are what keep savings real — month after month.

The Hidden Opportunity

Most organizations believe they’ve already “cut the fat.”
Yet we routinely uncover 5–25% in additional savings across categories like freight, telecom, merchant processing, waste, and software — often without switching providers or disrupting operations.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need a massive consulting engagement to find hidden savings.
You just need a partner who knows where to look.
Curious what’s hiding in your contracts?
I’d be glad to share a few examples — just ask.

John Rumasuglia works with Schooley Mitchell to help Idaho businesses improve margins and free up resources for growth. From Hailey, he supports manufacturers, nonprofits, and service providers across the Wood River Valley. More information is available at www.schooleymitchell.com/jrumasuglia