How Barrett’s Technology Solutions Team Manages for Success
Bill Ekstrand (Production Manager), Susan Karoll (Controller), Brian Perreault (President), John Cook (VP of Operations)
Disciplined Management and Process Drives Consistent Results
Most technology integration companies react to problems as they arise, scrambling to keep projects on track and clients satisfied. Barrett's Technology Solutions takes a different approach; one that is methodical, disciplined, and proactive. After 58 years of evolution from electronics retailer to custom technology integration firm, we've discovered that exceptional client outcomes require more than technical expertise—they demand disciplined leadership and processes. We believe that what sets us apart isn't just technical mastery of home automation and entertainment technology, but our commitment to structured business management and processes that ensure that every project delivers predictable, high-quality results for clients. Because when that happens, our company is successful.
EOS - A Management System
Our leadership operates on the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), a complete set of practical tools that helps entrepreneurs get what they want from their businesses. Rather than relying on theory or management fads, EOS provides a structured approach to managing and optimizing business processes through six key components: Vision, People, Data, Issues, Process, and Traction. This methodology is specifically designed for privately held entrepreneurial businesses with 10-250 employees who are growth-minded—exactly our profile. The system has transformed management from reactive firefighting to proactive leadership, where every team member understands not just what they're doing, but why they're doing it and how it connects to the company's broader vision. This systematic approach directly translates into the consistency and reliability our clients experience throughout every project.
Our Annual Leadership Intensive Section
Every fall, the leadership team blocks out two full days for its most critical meeting of the year. It's not the typical corporate retreat; it's an intensive strategic session where they step completely away from daily operations to work on the business. The agenda covers three essential areas: reflecting on the year's achievements and measuring progress against established goals, engaging in the high-level discussions that truly shape company direction, and setting clear annual objectives that will guide every decision in the coming year. As President Brian Perreault explains, "I feel very fortunate to work alongside such a strong leadership team with a wealth of experience."
The annual planning session creates the foundation for aligning the organization. When quarterly goals are set and weekly adjustments are made, every team member understands exactly how their work contributes to Barrett's overall success. Every strategic objective drives down to clear, achievable goals that everyone understands and gets behind.
From Annual Vision to Quarterly Execution
The EOS system helps us translate annual strategies and objectives into actionable 90-day priorities known as “rocks” in EOS terminology. Research shows that 90 days represents the optimal timeframe for human focus—long enough to accomplish meaningful work, yet short enough to maintain urgency and adapt to changing conditions. Once the leadership team establishes company-wide annual objectives, each department leader sets quarterly goals for every team member that align with those broader targets.
"John Cook, our VP of Operations, has been instrumental in creating processes and standards that deliver consistent, predictable results," notes Brian. "Our Controller, Susan Karoll, provides the financial insight and metrics that help us make the best strategic decisions. And with Bill Ekstrand, our Production Manager, guiding our Project Managers and Technicians, we're able to execute quality work and meet project deadlines."
Client Impact
When leadership teams operate with clear metrics, processes, and accountability, clients benefit through consistent project delivery, proactive communication, and strategic decision-making based on data rather than guesswork. Instead of wondering whether their project will stay on schedule, Barrett's clients work with a company where every team member understands their role and timeline. "Together, our leadership team complements one another's strengths, keeping the company healthy and ensuring we deliver high-quality systems and excellent ongoing support to our clients and trade partners," Brian emphasizes.
Barrett's Technology Solutions’ success over nearly six decades isn't accidental—it's the result of disciplined leadership and proven business systems. While technology has evolved dramatically since 1966, our commitment to professional management ensures consistent excellence. When you choose Barrett's Technology Solutions, you're partnering with a company whose leadership operates with the same precision they build into your systems.
