Proposed Project for the MSU Industrial Math Students

Applied Mathematics in win/loss analysis

In a relatively mature industry such as contract office furniture, understanding the meaning around win/loss data is very important. This industry is very complex with several different drivers that lead an end-user customer to make a final purchase. While we collect a vast amount of data, it has always been a challenge to synthesize these resources into something that is meaningful and can influence strategic and tactical decision making. With both numerical as well as text data available, we are looking for ways to apply advanced mathematics to provide insights into patterns that may exist or are beginning to emerge based on our own past experiences.

This project, which will build on the 2006 project, will dive deeper and will relate even more data to our sales efforts to get better insight into why customers make their purchase decisions and why they choose a manufacturer. Due to the sensitive nature of this project, this project will require working under a confidentiality agreement.

*About Steelcase Inc.

Steelcase, the global leader in the office furniture industry, helps people have a better work experience by providing products, services and insights into the ways people work. The company designs and manufactures architecture, furniture and technology products. Founded in 1912 and headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Steelcase (NYSE: SCS) serves customers through a network of more than 800 independent dealers and approximately 13,000 employees worldwide. Fiscal 2006 revenue was $2.9 billion. Learn more at www.steelcase.com.