Cordell Jones installed cabinets and countertops as an employee for 15 years before launching Simply Solid LLC in Farmington, New Mexico, in late 2022. The company makes custom wood cabinets and installs custom-cut countertops by sourcing solid surface materials from Staron, Corian, Bellavati, and Wilsonart. These non-porous surfaces are resistant to bacteria, mold, and mildew, making them ideal for hospital and home countertops, kitchens, and bathrooms where cleanliness is essential. The materials are available in solid colors and luxurious patterns.
Simply Solid’s first contract was inked in the second quarter of 2023, and Jones, who operated the one-person shop, relied on a son for help with installation. Bigger jobs ensued, including countertops for the public areas of a large Farmington hotel, and Jones soon realized he needed more help, especially with administrative processes. While working with the nonprofit business development organization WESST on bookkeeping, pricing, and marketing, Jones was introduced to Denise Williams, Innovation Director at New Mexico MEP. At the time, Jones was juggling installation appointments and new-prospect meetings, as he managed – not always successfully – inventory, cost increases, and production.
New Mexico MEP’s Williams led Jones through several Value Stream Mapping (VSM) exercises, each focused on specific business areas. VSM creates a visual diagram of the processes that take products from administration through delivery.
With diagrams in hand, a checklist was developed to manage installation dates and access to job-site essentials like electricity and water. Standardized steps were created to ensure efficiency and error-free installation. The company hired a bookkeeper, who was instrumental in creating a separate accounting category for shipping fees, which are continually increasing. Additional staff were hired to enable Jones to focus on clients, production, and time management.
The results are impressive. Simply Solid transformed from a one-person shop to a four-employee business. It increased its share of commercial jobs from 35 percent of total to 50 percent. The decreased share of residential work increased the company’s standardization processes, which increased profits. Additional tools and staff allowed the company to increase its capacity from one job per week to up to six per week.
“Denise helped me with managing my time, and her focus is totally on what your needs are,” said Jones. “I didn’t realize that I’m a visual learner! She takes notes, she pays attention, and you can tell she really does care.”
Denise Williams praised the company’s efforts. “Cordell continues to adapt, even as his office space becomes more compact each month to accommodate operational needs,” she said. “Simply Solid has seen steady growth, and the former showroom has evolved into a full-fledged fabrication space, reflecting the company’s hands-on approach. Expansion capabilities are in place with a new trailer, branded signage for the truck and shop, and a recent business loan.”
Learn more about Simply Solid LLC. Contact New Mexico MEP to find out how VSM and other tools can transform a company.