EPIQ provides technology-based products and services to attorneys, trustees and debtor companies administering cases in the federal bankruptcy system. According to CEO Tom Olofson, the firm's computer systems have allowed it to complete a successful acquisition strategy and focus on service and financial fundamentals.

Stephen Carter, CEO for the career transitions services company, argues that a strong reputation helps Right Management continue to expand. This group of consultants provides organizational consulting and a variety of other executive services, all which help build the right reputation for Right Management.

Teamwork and good service have helped this sign manufacturer succeed. Chris Lopez, president of this sign installation and service group, claims that attention to client need and first-rate employees help Mid-America Sign better serve the Kansas City metropolitan area.

By providing complete conference planning services Bishop-McCann helps companies with every detail involved in event planning. From the program design to registration, Bishop-McCann has established itself as a leader in the meeting and event planning industry, according to CEO Dan Nilsen.

This Lenexa-based company has combined key acquisitions and an established service reputation to account for its continued growth. With Tom Grant as CEO the company has emerged a national laboratory testing and information provider.

Helix depends on its architectural design services and strategic marketing efforts to expand its business. Reeves Wiedeman, CEO of the architecture and interior design group, sees the company as an emerging, dynamic firm that has a proprietary approach to providing design services.

The financial industry is the main focus of this sales and marketing communications company. CEOs Dan Salva and Mark O'Renick believe that by narrowing its services to the financial industry and agriculture community they are able to attract talented, passionate employees.

Burns & McDonnell offers a variety of engineering, architecture, construction, environmental and information technology services. Dave Ruf, CEO of the employee-owned company, argues that expanding into the new markets, such as the design-build industry, has helped Burns & McDonnell expand so swiftly.

> Kevin Tubbesing, CEO for the computer and telephone consulting company, believes its growth is attributable to a strong referral network and the addition of new services and phone products. CIO provides its computer and telephone consulting, products and solutions to small- and medium-sized businesses.

An aggressive sales staff and a company-wide commitment to customer service have helped Liberty Hardwoods grow, according to Larry Sumner, CEO for the company. The wholesale hardwood lumber and plywood distributor has also broadened its services in its existing markets, now serving a nine state region.