MyPE

Community Business Directory, Event Listings, News and Views from Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay

Nepotism – the new (old) definition

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Some time back my brother asked me to give a national association, of which he is a senior member, a price for redesign of their web site and monthly maintenance.

Now in our family the rules were established a long time ago so the following thoughts and actions occurred:

  • I felt enormously proud that he was willing to risk his reputation by recommending my work
  • I ensured that he was not part of the decision making process
  • My pressing need was to prove to his principals that I was more than capable
  • To ensure a level playing field I sought assurance that other quotes would be called for based on a common brief
  • In order to elevate my brother in the eyes of his association I would have to submit a price and level of service that would demonstrate that he had secured a bargain
  • I established a price and then halved it
  • I set about the work and spent double the time that was allowed
  • No variation orders were raised
  • Additional apps/plugins and hours were not charged for
  • To this day additional monthly hours have not been charged for

In addition I was recently told that my price was a third of the next lowest quote. It helps that I actually enjoy working on the web site and with the people involved and, to this day, do not take shortcuts.

Compare and contrast the above with how ‘business’ seems to work these days – and here I include the ‘business’ of government and the business of business:

  • If a family member recommends another members business there is always collusion to secure the highest price, lowest service and greatest kickbacks
  • The recommending family member is always part of the decision making process
  • No-one is interested in capabilities and track records
  • Prices are submitted based on who has colluded with who
  • A bargain is never a bargain
  • Variation Orders are open to complete abuse
  • Additional work is charged out at exorbitant rates
  • The sting in the tail is always ongoing maintenance

This is why, should anyone ever say to me; “You only got that job because of your brother” I can turn to them and quietly say; “No, you only got the exceptional price and service BECAUSE of my brother and our deep commitment to make each other stronger – he has saved you thousands upon thousands!”

I challenge you to show me any other government department or business that can say that!

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.