Project Case Study
I-9 Employment Verification & Audit for Commercial Landscape Company
Challenge
A fast-growing services company (the “Client”) was expanding into new cities and exploring M&A opportunities. Its HR operations were heavily manual, particularly in employment verification and onboarding. Inconsistent I-9 processes, duplicate paperwork, and limited use of its existing HRIS created inefficiencies and compliance risks. These gaps became critical when the Client entered due diligence with a prospective buyer. Concerns over labor practices, incomplete hiring protocols, and falsified documentation led the buyer to pause the transaction—putting growth plans and enterprise value at risk.
Solution
FSI Consulting was engaged to assess HR operations using its proprietary Hierarchy of Effective HR Management model. Through leadership interviews, a review of all I-9 documentation, and system assessments, FSI identified key weaknesses and opportunities. Recommendations focused on digitizing and standardizing the employment verification process, leveraging the Client’s existing HRIS for electronic I-9s, integrating E-Verify, and implementing clear policies to eliminate duplicate data entry and manual spreadsheets. FSI also recommended a full recruiting and onboarding overhaul, moving to mobile-enabled applications and electronic new-hire documentation to broaden applicant reach and improve compliance.
Impact
The project’s timing was critical. The Client’s halted M&A process highlighted the real financial impact of weak HR practices. By addressing document integrity, implementing electronic verification, and formalizing policies, the Client not only improved compliance and efficiency but also restored credibility with investors and strategic buyers. FSI’s roadmap positioned HR as a true business partner, capable of supporting rapid growth while reducing regulatory and reputational risks. As the Client re-engages in M&A discussions, its stronger HR foundation helps protect enterprise value and signals to the market that it is committed to rigorous, transparent, and scalable people practices.
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