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AI Powered Proposals: Shipley's Game-Changing Partnership with pWin.ai

March 7th, 2024

For over 50 years, Shipley has set the benchmark of excellence in proposal development and the business development lifecycle. Since our inception, Shipley has been at the forefront of innovation and is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership that integrates technology and Shipley methodology like never before.

In February, we launched Shipley AI, our new program of guidebooks, trainings, and consulting capability for generative AI adoption the Shipley way. The first book of the series, Shipley AI: Primer, is the foundation of all to come through that program.

Shipley AI harnesses the transformative power of AI-aided proposal development. We envision a future where AI and proposal professionals work in harmony, leveraging their unique strengths to achieve unparalleled success. This spirit of Shipley AI assumes that an ideal software tool can put theory into action to realize massive value from AI in Business Development. We developed a comprehensive framework outlining the essential characteristics and expected value of an AI-aided proposal tool that meets Shipley AI standards.

After an extensive evaluation of the current AI tools in the market, we are thrilled to announce our exclusive partnership with pWin.ai. As a leader in developing AI-powered software for proposals, pWin.ai embodies the core Shipley AI principles. And through the continuing partnership, Shipley and pWin.ai will co-create the ultimate reflection of half a century of proposal and BD wisdom through the latest AI technology—for a future where AI enhances our capabilities, making us more efficient, creative, and successful.

pWin.ai is available now, and by joining today, you'll be at the forefront of innovation in proposal development. We will be announcing an advisory council very soon. The advisory council will play a pivotal role in guiding the evolution of this transformative tool and helping to shape the future of AI-aided proposal development.

Don't miss this chance to be part of something truly revolutionary. Join us in redefining the standards of proposal development for the AI era.

Shipley Associates-Lohfeld Consulting Group Strategic Alliance FAQs

About the Strategic Alliance
1. What is the purpose of this strategic alliance?
This strategic alliance strengthens our market position, expands our capabilities, and allows us to better serve our clients. This allows us to offer training electives for our certification program through Lohfeld, enhances Lohfeld Consulting's global reach and creates opportunities for Shipley's licensees, and enables us to respond quickly to the evolving GenAI marketplace in bid and proposals.
2. Will Lohfeld and Shipley remain independent, or will they be fully integrated?
Both companies will operate independently after the strategic alliance. This structure allows each company to maintain its unique identity and focus on delivering value to clients while exploring collaboration opportunities. They will operate under a strict firewall policy that prevents the disclosure of any competition-sensitive data.

From a governance perspective, Lohfeld's CEO Beth Wingate will report to Shipley's CEO Todd Barnett and the Shipley board.
3. How will this strategic alliance affect Shipley’s strategy?
Our overall strategy remains unchanged.
4. Will Shipley and Lohfeld continue to compete?
Yes, we will compete as firewalled subsidiaries of private equity groups routinely do. At times, we may partner on a case-by-case basis.
Impact on Employees and Licensees
5. Will there be layoffs because of the strategic alliance?
There are no planned layoffs. Both companies will continue to operate independently and remain focused on growth, not cost-cutting.
6. How will this affect my role and responsibilities?
Your role and responsibilities will remain the same.
7. Will employee benefits, policies, or compensation change?
Shipley's employee benefits, policies, and compensation practices will remain unchanged.
8. Will there be opportunities for employees to work on projects with the acquired company?
At times, we will jointly collaborate on projects according to the direction given in our firewall policy.
9. How will this impact Shipley's global licensees?
We anticipate that the strategic alliance between Shipley and Lohfeld will drive more global opportunities as we expand our client base. We will continue to follow the Global Sales Protocol, sharing it with Lohfeld's leadership.
Operational Changes
10. How will this strategic alliance impact our day-to-day operations?
There will be no immediate changes to our day-to-day operations. Each company will continue to operate independently while exploring synergies that benefit both organizations.
11. What happens to existing partnerships or vendor agreements?
Existing partnerships and vendor agreements will remain in place. Any potential changes will be carefully evaluated and communicated as needed.
Clients and Markets
12. How will this strategic alliance benefit our clients?
  • ‍ Expand Training Opportunities: Shipley and Lohfeld’s globally recognized professional training programs will continue to create a seamless pathway for professionals to develop their skills and credentials, ensuring they remain competitive in today’s dynamic business environment.‍
  •  Enhance Global Reach: Lohfeld Consulting Group will leverage Shipley’s worldwide operations to expand its services across Shipley’s international network that covers 40 countries through 17 regional offices.‍
  •  Exploit Generative AI Capabilities: Both organizations bring deep expertise assisting companies to take advantage of the “force multiplier” capabilities GenAI offers for business development, capture, and bid and proposal development through training, workshops, implementation, and consulting support.
13. How will this affect our position in the market?
The strategic alliance solidifies our position as a market leader by expanding our capabilities, offerings, and talent pool.
The Transition
14. Who should I contact if I have questions or concerns about the strategic alliance?
Please reach out to your manager with any questions. We are committed to keeping communication open throughout this process.
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