UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Form 10-K

(Mark One) 

 

þANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 28, 2013

 

OR

¨TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from            to         

Commission File Number: 001-34006

THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

DELAWARE   48-1129619
     
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   identification number)

 

7300 COLLEGE BOULEVARD,

SUITE 302, OVERLAND PARK, KANSAS 66210

 (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE:

(913) 345-9315

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OF THE ACT:

 

Title of Each Class   Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
COMMON STOCK, $.005 PAR VALUE PER SHARE   The NASDAQ STOCK MARKET, LLC

PREFERRED STOCK PURCHASE RIGHTS

  The NASDAQ STOCK MARKET, LLC

 

SECURITIES REGISTERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(g) OF THE ACT:

NONE.

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. YES o NO þ 

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. YES o NO þ 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. YES þ NO o

 

 Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). YES þ NO o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. þ

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

             
Large accelerated filer o   Accelerated filer o   Non-accelerated filer o   Smaller reporting company þ
        (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). YES o NO þ 

 

The aggregate market value of the voting common stock held by non-affiliates of the Registrant, as of June 29, 2013 was approximately $11,700,000. Shares of common stock held by each executive officer, director and holder of 5% or more of the outstanding common stock have been excluded for purposes of this calculation. The treatment of such holders as affiliates for purposes of this calculation is not intended as a conclusive determination of affiliate status for other purposes. As of March 21, 2014, the Registrant had 8,762,530 shares of common stock, par value $0.005 per share (the Common Stock), issued and outstanding.

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 

The information required to be provided in Part III (Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14) of this Annual Report on Form 10-K is hereby incorporated by reference from our definitive 2014 proxy statement which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days of the end of our fiscal year ended December 28, 2013.

 

 
 

 

THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.

 

FORM 10-K

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

 

      Page
    PART I  
    Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information 2
Item 1.   Business 3
Item 1A.   Risk Factors 8
Item 1B.   Unresolved Staff Comments 8
Item 2.   Properties 8
Item 3.   Legal Proceedings 9
Item 4.   Mine Safety Disclosures 9
       
    PART II  
Item 5.   Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters, and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 9
Item 6.   Selected Financial Data 10
Item 7.   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 10
Item 7A.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 16
Item 8.   Consolidated Financial Statements 17
Item 9.   Changes in and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure 33
Item 9A.   Controls and Procedures 33
Item 9B.   Other Information 33
       
    PART III  
Item 10.   Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance 33
Item 11.   Executive Compensation 33
Item 12.   Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters 33
Item 13.   Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence 34
Item 14.   Principal Accountant Fees and Services 34
       
    PART IV  
Item 15.   Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules 34

  

Exhibits

Specimen Stock Certificate

Form of Restricted Stock Award

List of Subsidiaries

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

302 Certification of Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer

Section 906 Certification

 

1
 

 

PART I

 

On February 3, 2014, The Management Network Group, Inc. announced that it will operate around the world under the unified brand name "Cartesian". When used in this report, unless the context requires otherwise, the terms "Cartesian," "TMNG," "TMNG Global," "we," "us," "our" or the "Company" refer to The Management Network Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

 

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

 

With the exception of current and historical information, this Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements of plans and objectives, statements of future economic performance or financial projections, statements of assumptions underlying such statements, and statements of the Company's or management's intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "will be," "should," "could," "plan," "estimate," "intend," "continue," "believe," "may," "expect," "hope," "anticipate," "goal" or "forecast," variations thereof or similar expressions.

 

Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance or results. Our actual financial condition, results of operations or business may vary materially from those contemplated by such forward looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Factors that might affect actual results, performance, or achievements include, among other things, the factors described in "Risks Related to Current Economic Conditions and Technology" in Item 1 below and the following factors:

 

the Company's ability to successfully implement the strategic relationship with Elutions, Inc.;

 

the final outcome of the arbitration proceeding with the Company’s former chief executive officer;

  

conditions in the industry sectors that we serve, including the economic conditions in such industry sectors, that can result in slowing client decisions on proposals and project opportunities along with scope reduction of existing projects, and business consolidations, which can result in further price reductions and fewer client projects;

 

the financial condition and business strategies of our customers in the communications, digital media and technology industries and the investment banking and private equity firms investing in the communications industry;

 

overall economic and business conditions, including the current economic slowdown;

 

the level of demand for our services;

 

the potential continuation or recurrence of recent losses from operations, negative cash flow and reductions in our cash reserves;

 

our ability to retain the limited number of large clients that constitute a major portion of our revenues;

 

fluctuations in our quarterly operating results;

 

our ability to reduce our cost structure to align with reduced demand and to control costs under fixed fee contracts, which make up a substantial portion of our business;

 

our ability to compete in intensively competitive markets, including our ability to address actions by competitors that could render our services less competitive, such as increasing price competition in recent years, which may cause our revenues, gross profits and income to decline;

 

our ability to address the challenges of conducting business in foreign countries, including risks of unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates or fluctuations and changes in local laws;

 

the possibility of further impairments of goodwill if our financial performance does not meet or exceed our projections used to value the assets or if there is a further decline in our stock price;

 

our ability to successfully integrate acquisitions and to successfully locate new acquisition candidates;

 

our level of cash and non-cash expenditures;

 

technological advances and competitive factors in the markets in which we compete;

 

the possibility of the cancellation of key client contracts, which may be cancelled on short notice;

 

the ability to successfully launch new product and market initiatives;

 

the ability to retain key management and consulting personnel;

 

the possible reclassification of our independent contractors as full-time employees by the taxing and/or labor and employment authorities of competent jurisdiction;

 

the possibility of professional liability claims and costs and potential liability relating to such claims and other litigation affecting the Company;

 

the loss of key intellectual property;

 

our ability to satisfy the continued listing requirements of the NASDAQ Stock Market; and

 

the possibility that our ability to utilize tax net operating loss carryforwards to offset future taxable income will be limited if we are deemed to have an ownership change as defined by Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code.

 

2
 

 

Other factors that we have not identified in this document could also have this effect. All forward-looking statements made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are made as of the date hereof. We will not necessarily update the information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K if any forward-looking statement later turns out to be inaccurate.

 

ITEM 1.BUSINESS

 

GENERAL

  

Subsequent to the end of fiscal year 2013, TMNG Global announced that it had refined its organizational structure (see “Business Segments” in Item 1) and that it will now operate around the world under the unified brand name “Cartesian”, and has retired its operating unit brands, TMNG Global, CSMG and Cartesian.

 

Cartesian, a Delaware corporation, founded in 1990, is a leading provider of professional services and technical solutions to the global leaders in the communications, digital media, and technology industries. We offer a fully integrated suite of offerings including strategy, management, marketing, operational, and technology consulting services, as well as software solutions and application development (see "Services" in this Item 1). We have consulting experience in virtually every major aspect of managing and operating a global communications company. Our heritage of industry knowledge and deep technical and operational expertise has allowed us to continually enhance the software solutions and proprietary toolsets that enable our advisory, analytical, operational, and technical support. In this way, our clients can leverage our expertise to optimize their performance, improve cash flow and gain sustainable competitive advantage in the market.

 

Our clientele includes a variety of businesses whose products, services and interests are focused on the evolution of the communications industry, including communications service providers, cable multiple systems operators (MSOs) as well as technology companies, media and entertainment companies, and financial services firms that invest in the communications industry. Our clients are principally located in the United States, United Kingdom and Western Europe. We believe we are unique in our ability to provide a comprehensive business and technology solution to the communications industry, including strategy consulting and business planning, organizational development, market research and analysis, product/service definition and launch, customer acquisition and retention, program management, technical support, process modeling and software solutions for business support systems and operations support systems. Our software and application development capabilities are evolving both organically and through strategic partnerships with product focused companies.

 

Our services are provided by a blend of experienced senior professionals from the communications industry and professionals recruited from both universities and other professional services firms. As it relates to most key software and technology decisions, we believe our clients value our unbiased approach of providing technology-agnostic and vendor-neutral evaluations and recommendations that are based on a thorough knowledge of each solution and each client's unique situation. Therefore, we are able to capitalize on extensive experience across complex multi-technology communications systems environments to provide what we believe are the most sound and practical recommendations to our clients.

 

We have evolved our business from its original focus of providing primarily management and operational consulting services to today providing an integrated suite of technology solutions and service offerings to the communications marketplace. We have increased the depth and breadth of skill sets in our employee work base, diversified our technical competencies, expanded our core management consulting offerings and positioned our business to compete internationally. We believe these actions have expanded key client relationships, have differentiated us in the market with respect to serving the needs of large global communication service providers, and provided for expansion of our key direct distribution channel elements.

 

We have strengthened Cartesian's technology consultancy services and broadened our software solutions through our Ascertain® software, an innovative and modular software suite whose foundations feature advanced revenue assurance and data integrity tools that when customized and integrated into client environments support fixed, wireless, internet service provider (“ISP”), data and content environments. Ascertain reflects an intellectual property investment of over 15 years and we are refining and reinventing the software to meet the needs of today’s and future challenges. We are investing further in defining our go-to-market offerings that are built with technology at the core. These offerings are characterized by both monthly recurring revenue and higher margins, and success in growing our sales of these offerings will drive sustainability and predictability into our business model. Our new organizational structure is better designed to implement a software as a service (“SaaS”) model. We continue to harness the power of Ascertain to complement big data initiatives and overlay prebuilt solutions that will allow our customers to unlock the value of their data in real time. Ascertain is already embedded in a significant number of our large clients.

 

We have diversified our client base organically by building a cable and broadband practice. With the convergence of this industry around multiple video, data and voice service offerings, we are applying our traditional expertise in complex business processes, billing management, and mediation, as well as in leading functional areas like program management offices, across the global converging communications marketplace. We have developed solutions to assist content providers and media companies as they cope with the operational complexities of launching new products and services; attempt to streamline their business systems and processes following merger and acquisition activity; and address product lifecycle issues in the wake of competitive pressures. We have also provided program management, business process, service assurance and leadership teams for cable MSO's as they launch new digital voice product and service rollouts, including voice over internet protocol offerings, and focus on their 4G wireless launch through partnerships.

 

As the industry continues to evolve, including the recent transformational movement of business IT infrastructures to cloud environments and the development of “Big Data Analytics”, Cartesian expects to evolve and leverage its long history of engagement experience with clients to continue to evolve its software, develop new methodologies, and selectively expand its base of employee consultants.

 

Strategic alliance partnerships are a key element of our strategy. To complement our focus on leveraging our Ascertain software at the core of our offerings to build a more sustainable model, we also leverage third party platforms. On February 25, 2014, we entered into a strategic alliance and Investment Agreement with Elutions, Inc. ("Elutions"), a provider of operational business intelligence solutions. The terms of the Investment Agreement are detailed in Footnote 12, Subsequent Events, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statement included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements, of this report. Also, the Investment Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to this report. With regard to the commercial relationship, Elutions is an established firm and a leading provider of smart building and smart asset management solutions for energy management. Elutions uniquely combines technology and expertise to enable an M2M automated control and optimization of commercial and technical sites in a manner that can deliver significant energy savings with existing building infrastructure by optimizing use. Elutions’ end-to-end solution includes web-enabled application software, wireless and wireline networking hardware, energy management bureau services and engineering and integration services. In the communications sector that we primarily serve, energy consumption is a large and often sub-optimized component of operating costs and an area that continues to escalate as service providers invest in areas like datacenters. Together with Elutions, our joint value proposition is compelling and involves energy savings combined with operational intelligence and improvement with limited investment combined with a rapid payback for our clients. We currently expect to be an exclusive partner to the communications sector in North America for Elutions and also plan to have significant commercial activity in the UK and European markets. Initially in the partnership, Cartesian will initially provide lead generation to Elutions, assist with sales and marketing activities, prime contracts for Elutions with our clients, program manage the solution, and work with Elutions to deliver additional energy savings and operational benefits through the term of each customer managed service contract. Ultimately, Cartesian and Elutions intend to work jointly on evolving the product by utilizing joint software capabilities and capacities. This relationship creates a new growth avenue for Cartesian that is closely adjacent to our skill sets and leverages our existing client relationships.

 

3
 

 

MARKET OVERVIEW

 

The global communications industry is consolidating and evolving around a convergence of voice, data and video or content-based communications. Market factors including slowing growth rates in the markets we serve, regulatory decisions, new technologies, especially wireless devices and applications and social media, industry consolidation and the migration to cloud computing have stimulated growth and new investment in the sector. These dynamics are bringing new competitors to the market, such as Apple, Google and Netflix, challenging existing industry competitors to explore new business models, and driving consolidation within sectors such as traditional wireline and wireless telecommunications. In addition, cable communications companies that primarily offered video services historically are now positioning themselves as providers of voice and other data and content services. Wireline, wireless and cable companies alike are focused on convergence and partnering - where any type of content or application can be delivered seamlessly across fixed or mobile networks.

  

While communications companies are investing in future growth, companies across most industries and sectors, including communications and media, are operating with increased expense discipline with many reducing their cost structures through actions which include lowering total headcount, decreasing information technology expenses by migrating to cloud environments, and reducing spending on contractors and consultants. Spending decisions, both operating and capital expenses, are coming under increased scrutiny with a heightened focus on a demonstrated return on investment or lower total cost.

 

It has been our experience that because the expertise necessary to address the market's needs is typically outside communications companies’ core competencies, they must ultimately either recruit and employ talent with the necessary experience or retain outside specialists. Additionally, the convergence of the communications, media and entertainment industries has brought forth many new competitors from outside the traditional communications industries who we believe do not possess the experience or skill sets needed to execute new business plans. We believe due to the range of expertise required and the time and expense associated with hiring and training new personnel, bringing expertise in-house is often not a viable option. We believe customers will continue to contract with consultative firms or outsource some of the expertise required to adapt to new environments and capitalize on new technologies now emerging, while maintaining a cost effective structure. When retaining outside specialists, we believe communications companies need experts who fully understand the communications industry and can provide timely and unbiased advice and recommendations for cost-effective solutions, including big data analytics and expense avoidance. Cartesian has positioned its business to respond to these anticipated needs.

 

BUSINESS STRATEGY

 

Our objectives are three-fold. First, is to establish ourselves as the consulting company of choice to the global leaders in the communications, digital media, and technology industries, which includes the service providers, content creators, and technology companies that serve the industry and the financial services and investment banking firms that invest in the sector. In 2013 and continuing in the near term, we are placing greater emphasis on cultivating our top client relationships and these clients’ most strategic initiatives, with the goal of expanding market penetration and our share of business with these clients. We also continue to investigate opportunities with other, smaller clients that offer a high probability of a return on our business development investment. Secondly, we are evaluating ways to best evolve our software platform and expand our solutions to the sector, and third we look to develop software partnerships as appropriate to leverage products that complement our software solutioning. The following are detailed strategies we have adopted to pursue our objectives.

 

- Develop and evolve offerings, solutions and thought leadership

 

We plan to continue expanding and evolving our end-to-end solutions both organically and through alliance partners. Expanding our consulting and technical solutions involves building the capabilities that support change elements in the adoption of IP and wireless technology, support of convergence of communications with media and content, with emphasis on wireless, and the migration of IT environments to cloud computing platforms. We plan to continue to extend our product and service offerings to the communications, digital media and technology industries. We believe service providers will be strategically focused on the following key initiatives: adding, bundling and converging service offerings (i.e., wireline, wireless, high-speed data and video); reduction of costs and driving operational efficiency; reassessment of core competencies in order to leverage strengths and minimize weaknesses; migration to new technologies - next generation wireless and IP and driving efficiency in their business models while spending less on information technology in the near term, given the current economic environment. We also believe that our clients will expand service offerings through cloud IT environments and look to such environments to reduce operating costs. We have expanded our strategic and operating expertise surrounding the creation and operation of cloud infrastructure and services. Our solutions will assist clients in redefining their competitive position, launching new products and services and generating revenues through integrated offerings. Such offerings will also be focused on increasing clients' efficiencies in these transformations. We will also continue to strengthen our position with clients by leveraging our embedded software-based solutions, including Ascertain and Ascertain-based solutions, including through development of applications based on these solutions in such areas as mobile handset recapture and leasing. We are also expanding our offerings to include managed services, with partners like Elutions, as previously discussed and further highlighted, surrounding these initiatives.

 

- Recruit and retain high quality professionals

 

We believe a key element of our business model is the attraction and retention of high quality, experienced consultants. Our two primary challenges in the recruitment of new consulting personnel are the ability to recruit talented personnel with the skill sets necessary to capitalize on an industry undergoing revolutionary change and the ability to execute such recruitment with an appropriate compensation arrangement.

 

We enhance consultants' existing skill sets with proprietary toolsets that provide methodologies they use to augment their experience and help analyze and solve clients' problems. We utilize a network of databases to serve as a knowledge base, enabling consultant collaboration on engagements and providing support information and updates of Cartesian current toolsets and releases of next generation tools. Finally, we continue to manage our flexible and unique employee and independent subject matter expert model to maximize skill set offerings, while minimizing the effect of non-billable consultant time.

 

- Enhance our geographic presence

 

We plan to further enhance our presence beyond the United States and United Kingdom, with emphasis on current top revenue generating clients on the European continent. We believe the competitive market expertise of our U.S. consultants can be a key factor for foreign companies facing the business issues associated with deregulation and competition, especially in Europe. We believe Cartesian Limited and our strategy consulting expertise strengthen Cartesian's presence and capabilities in key European markets.

   

- Increase penetration within top revenue-generating clients

 

In response to the economic downturn, we adjusted our sales strategy to focus on increasing the number of engagements within our top revenue-generating clients and minimize new business related costs. The approach included volume pricing arrangements and was designed to give us both revenue visibility and add efficiency to the model so as to ensure optimum utilization of our consultant base. In fiscal year 2013, 83% of our revenues came from our ten most significant customers, up from 82% in fiscal year 2012.

 

4
 

 

- Strengthen alliances and partnerships to expand our reach and offerings 

 

We have a history of effective partnerships with large software and managed services firms. We intend to seek to enhance our position with select partners that best complement our business as we pursue our strategic objectives.

 

Subsequent to the close of fiscal year 2013, the Company announced it has entered into a commercial partnership and an investment agreement with Elutions, Inc., a provider of operational business intelligence solutions that significantly improve energy efficiency, asset performance and workforce productivity. Through the partnership, Cartesian is positioned to help its North American and European clients drive significant energy and operational savings through implementing Elutions’ proven Smart Buildings and Smart Assets solutions in combination with Cartesian’s managed solutions capabilities. 

 

SERVICES

 

Cartesian provides a robust portfolio of strategic, management, and technical consulting, as well as products, services and technical solutions, to the communications industry worldwide, including:

 

- Technical Consultancy & Software Solutions

 

We provide technical consultancy and software solutions specialized for the communications industry. We have vast experience working with and implementing numerous communications software products. Our expertise includes requirements definition and capture, data analysis, selecting and implementing mediation, provisioning, customer and inter-operator billing products, integration systems to provide resilient automated processes, migrating end-customer products, customers and networks, and planning, managing and executing end-to-end systems and software testing.

 

We have developed a proprietary software platform, Ascertain, which allows us to rapidly create new software products, one-off tools and complete custom solutions to support customer goals and mitigate risks in their business. Available in an on-premise or cloud-based model, the Ascertain platform has been used as the foundation for our assurance solutions business, our SmartXchange mobile device recapture service, as well as numerous custom client solutions. 

 

- Strategy and Business Case Development

 

We provide comprehensive strategic analysis to service providers, media and entertainment companies, equipment manufacturers and financial investors in the communications industry. Our approach combines rigorous qualitative and quantitative analyses with a detailed understanding of industry trends, technologies, and developments. We provide clients with specific solutions to their key strategic issues relating to their existing business as well as new product and service opportunities. Our services include business case development, data and content strategies, marketing spending optimization, service and brand diversification, enterprise and small business strategies, technology commercialization and operational strategies.

 

5
 

 

- Marketing

 

We provide a breadth of marketing services to support our clients from strategy, to planning, through execution. Our deep understanding of the global communications environment and our creative and rigorous analytic techniques enable us to craft winning marketing strategies and programs for our clients. We see individual business issues in the context of overall industry financial and value relationships, allowing us to deliver detailed, focused and pragmatic recommendations and blueprints for sustainable impact and change. We provide program management and project delivery to support execution across the broad spectrum of marketing services such as Customer Segmentation, Customer Experience Assessment, Product Management, Retail Sales Channel Assessment and Marketing Communications.

 

- Knowledge Management

 

We assist our clients in managing the process of capturing and cultivating information that exists within their organizations. We utilize an integrated partnership approach to seamlessly leverage an organization's human knowledge capital. We provide a tailored solution to solve problems associated with knowledge creation and distribution, sharing and leveraging existing knowledge, tools and processes. Our approach connects people to information to enable organizations to best leverage existing assets, define competitive advantage and create measurable business value.

 

- Revenue and Cost Management

 

Revenue management is now evolving into a proactive discipline covering cost reduction and optimization as well as profitability enhancement. Cartesian applies its robust revenue management methodologies to all phases of the service activation and revenue processes and approaches revenue assurance from an end-to-end, order-to-cash perspective. Proprietary toolsets, combined with in-depth operational expertise and a track record of success have proven to be the winning formula to enable our clients to generate significant cash flow improvements.

 

As mentioned, Cartesian has expanded its suite of revenue assurance assessment tools to include Ascertain®, a flexible, scalable, configurable revenue management and data integrity toolset that provides timely evaluation of processes, metrics and control points. A fifth generation platform developed by the revenue assurance experts at Cartesian, Ascertain ® is among the industry's most widely deployed revenue assurance tools in Europe and is able to support fixed, wireless, ISP, data, and content environments.

 

- Program Management

 

We have a track record of success in the management, execution and delivery of quality consulting services in a cross-functional program management environment. We provide independent, impartial, centralized management and governance of a complex series of inter-related projects using a small group of experienced and dedicated resources. Our approach enables an organization to deliver projects faster, with higher quality, at less cost and within estimates, to meet - and often - exceed expectations. Our project management office, or PMO, engagements are supported by a superb track record, proven tool sets and methodologies, a focus on ‘what works' and a keen understanding of both the financial imperatives of the business and the drivers of customer satisfaction.

 

- Business and Operations Process Redesign and Reengineering

 

We provide clients with efficient, integrated business and operational processes, supporting technology systems and web-centric interfaces across all business support systems and operating support systems, or BSS/OSS, applications. Our BSS/OSS approach is holistic, assessing each system and process from the point of customer acquisition to provisioning, billing, collections and accounts receivable management with a focus on operational efficiency and optimizing cash flow. We assist companies in taking a proactive approach to reviewing existing business and operating models. By properly addressing gaps in their process, they have the potential to recover millions of dollars annually.

 

- Corporate Investment Services

 

We provide a wide range of services to investment banking and private equity firms in connection with investments and mergers and acquisitions in the communications industry. Services include evaluation of management teams and business plans, identification of strengths and weakness of the other company, and analyses of the company's financial models, systems, products and operational and business processes. Post-investment support is also provided to help customers in the optimization of their investment. 

 

6
 

 

COMPETITION

 

The market for communications consulting services remains intensely competitive, highly fragmented and rapidly changing. We face competition from major business and strategy consulting firms, large systems integration and major global outsourcing firms as a result of the outsourcing of business support systems and operating support systems by communications companies, offshore development firms from the Asian markets, equipment and software firms that have added service offerings, boutique consulting firms and customers' internal resources. We believe that there has been a significant increase in recent years in demand for firms that can bundle business process outsourcing, or BPO, with systems and technical integration. Many of our competitors are large organizations that provide a broad range of services to companies in many industries, including the communications industry. In addition, we compete with boutique firms that maintain specialized skills and/or geographical advantages. Many information technology consulting firms also maintain significant practice groups devoted to the communications industry. Many of these competitors have significantly greater financial, technical and marketing resources and greater name recognition than us.

 

We believe that the principal competitive factors in our market include: the ability to provide payback on our services to clients through proven business cases; the ability to provide innovative solutions; the ability to provide deep and proven expertise and talent; the ability to provide capability and expertise in delivering complex projects through teams located globally; availability of resources; price of solutions; industry knowledge; understanding of user experience; and sophisticated project and program management capability.

 

We believe we have a competitive advantage due to our exclusive focus on the communications, digital media and technology industries, and the comprehensive offerings we provide to our customers. We also believe the complementary experience and expertise of our professionals represents a competitive advantage. With the communications industry experiencing consolidation, the convergence with media and entertainment, increased bandwidth demands driven by the adoption of consumer devices and social media, and the migration to cloud computing, we believe our principal competitive factor is our specialized and continual focus on the communications industry and the ability to develop and deliver solutions that enhance client revenue and asset utilization and provide return on investment. Our biggest challenge is normally the customer's internal resources and budget constraints. As a result, the most significant competitive advantage becomes long-term relationships with key client executives that have developed over time from consistency in responsiveness to their needs, quality and reliability of consultants and deliverables, and an appropriate price/value formula.

 

We have experienced reduced demand in certain offerings and a market trend of increased price competition, resulting primarily from market evolution and large firms with offshore capabilities and the financial resources to aggressively price engagements in which they have a particular interest in obtaining and the ability to provide technical support and outsourcing. These developments have required us to focus on decreasing our overall cost structure to align with lower revenue levels and direct our resources toward our top revenue generating clients in which we are deeply imbedded.

 

RISKS RELATED TO CURRENT ECONOMIC CONDITIONS AND TECHNOLOGY

 

We are subject to a number of risks relating to general economic and industry conditions, developments in technology and regulatory changes.

 

The economic outlook, as always, is subject to change. The sector in which we operate is currently going through significant consolidation. Consolidation within the sector tends to result in increased consolidation of competitors. The supply chain divisions within larger clients, given sector consolidation, also tend to reduce the number of vendors utilized and to negotiate volume programs with select preferred vendors. This activity could result in further price reductions, fewer client projects, under-utilization of consultants, reduced operating margins and loss of market share.

 

In addition, the European markets continue to face challenges and regulatory environments are evaluating new policies to support significant growth in wireless and broadband services. In addition, the rate of change brought about by new technology within the communications and media sector and related impact on our clients' business models may cause our clients to cancel or delay consulting initiatives. Our efforts to down-size, when necessary, in a manner intended to mirror a downturn in economic conditions, could encounter delays and be costly. In addition, global economic change could add to volatility in foreign exchange rates, result in further reduced demand for our services, cause continued pricing pressure and possible project cancellations or delays, and possibly reduce revenues and operating margins as a result of price reduction pressures for our services.

 

Declines in our revenues and gross profits would have a significant impact on our financial results, particularly because a significant portion of our operating costs are fixed in advance of a particular quarter. In addition, our future revenues and operating results may fluctuate from quarter to quarter based on the number, size and scope of projects in which we are engaged, the contractual terms and degree of completion of such projects, any delays incurred in connection with a project, consultant utilization rates, the use of estimates to complete ongoing projects, general economic conditions and other factors. Any of these events could materially and adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

EMPLOYEES

 

Our ability to recruit and retain experienced, highly qualified and highly motivated personnel has contributed greatly to our performance and will be critical in the future. We offer a flexible recruiting model that enhances our ability to attract consultants and to effectively manage utilization. Our consultants may work as full time or part time employees. We also have relationships with many independent contracting firms to assist in delivery of consulting solutions. Our current base of independent firms has specialized expertise in discrete areas of communications, and we typically deploy these firms only when their unique expertise/offering is required.

 

During fiscal year 2013, we utilized approximately 398 consultants, representing a combination of employee client service personnel and independent contracting firms. Of these, 317 were employee consultants and approximately 81 were working on engagements for us primarily through independent subcontracting firms. In addition to the consultants, we have an administrative staff of approximately 42 employees in the accounting and finance, marketing, recruiting, information technology, human resources, legal and administrative areas. As of December 28, 2013, we had 283 total employees, of which 222 were full-time.

 

7
 

 

BUSINESS SEGMENTS

 

We identify our segments based on the way management organizes the business to assess performance and make operating decisions regarding the allocation of resources. In accordance with FASB ASC 280 "Segment Reporting," we have concluded that we have two reportable segments: the North America segment and the EMEA segment. During the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013, the North America segment was comprised of three operating segments (Strategy, North America Cable and Broadband, and North America Telecom), which were aggregated into one reportable segment based on the similarity of their economic characteristics. Beginning in January 2014, the three operating segments within North America were integrated to better align the Company’s go-to-market and service delivery capabilities and to maximize opportunities in serving telecommunications, media and technology customers. The EMEA segment is a single reportable, operating segment that encompasses the Company's operational, technology and software consulting services outside of North America. Both reportable segments offer management consulting, custom developed software, and technical services.

 

For a discussion of operating results by segment, please see Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and Note 5, Business Segments, Major Customers and Significant Group Concentrations of Credit Risk, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 “Consolidated Financial Statements” of this report.

 

MAJOR CUSTOMERS

 

Since our inception, we have provided services to over a thousand domestic and international customers, primarily communication service providers and large technology and applications firms serving the communications industry and financial firms that invest in the sector. In recent years, we have added to our base of customers with cable, media and entertainment clients looking to leverage communications infrastructure to deliver offerings to the market. We depend on a small number of key customers for a significant portion of revenues. For fiscal year 2013, four customers accounted for 22%, 19%, 12% and 10%, respectively, of our revenues. No other single customer accounted for 10% or more of our revenues. Also during fiscal year 2013, our top ten customers accounted for approximately 83% of total revenues. We generally provide discounted pricing for large projects on fixed commitments with long-term customers. Because our clients typically engage services on a project basis, their needs for services vary substantially from period to period.

 

We continue to concentrate on large wireline, wireless, and cable MSOs headquartered principally in North America, the United Kingdom and Western Europe, as well as media and entertainment clients. We seek to offer broad and diversified services to these customers. We anticipate that operating results will continue to depend on the volume of services provided to a relatively small number of customers.

 

FOREIGN MARKETS

 

A substantial portion of our business is conducted in foreign markets and a substantial portion of our revenues and costs are derived from our international business. Our international revenues in the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013 represented 40.7% of our total revenues, up from 30.6% in the same period of 2012. For information on results of operations and assets by geographic location, please see Note 5, Business Segments, Major Customers and Significant Group Concentrations of Credit Risk, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 “Consolidated Financial Statements” of this report. Our international operations expose us to a number of business and economic risks, including unfavorable foreign currency exchange rates or fluctuations; our ability to protect our intellectual property; the impact of foreign laws, regulations and trade customs; U.S. and foreign taxation issues; potential limits on our ability to repatriate foreign profits; and general political and economic trends, including the potential impact of terrorist attacks or international hostilities. If we are unable to achieve anticipated levels of revenues from or efficiently manage our international operations, our overall revenues and profitability may decline.

 

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

 

Our success is dependent, in part, upon proprietary processes and methodologies. We rely upon a combination of copyright, trade secret, and trademark law to protect our intellectual property. Additionally, employees and consultants sign non-disclosure agreements to assist us in protecting our intellectual property. We utilize the tradename "Cartesian" in our business. Solely for convenience, trademarks and trade names referred to in this Form 10-K may appear without the ® or tm symbols, but such references are not intended to indicate, in any way, that we will not assert, to the fullest extend under applicable law, our rights, or the rights of the applicable licensor to these trademarks and trade names.

 

SEASONALITY

 

In the past, we have experienced seasonal fluctuations in revenues in the fourth quarter due primarily to the fewer number of business days because of the holiday periods occurring in that quarter. We continue to experience fluctuations in revenue in the fourth quarter and with global expansion, may experience fluctuations in summer months and other holiday periods.

 

WEBSITE ACCESS TO INFORMATION

 

Our internet website address is www.cartesian.com. We make available free of charge through our website all of our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), including our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended ("Exchange Act"), as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to the SEC. The charters of our audit, nominating and compensation committees and our Code of Business Conduct are also available on our website and in print to any stockholder who requests them. 

 

ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 1B.UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 2.PROPERTIES

 

Our principal executive offices are located in a 10,400 square foot facility in Overland Park, Kansas. This facility houses the executive, corporate and administrative offices and is under a lease which expires in August 2018. In addition to the executive offices, we also lease the following facilities which are primarily utilized by management and consulting personnel.

  

Location  Sq. Feet   Lease Expiration
McLean, Virginia   4,881   July 2019
Boston, Massachusetts   11,763   April 2016
Somerset, New Jersey   2,910  

May 2017

London, England   11,825   November 2015

 

8
 

 

We have two separate sublease agreements with two unrelated third parties on a combined total of 3,885 square feet of office space in the London Gate Street property through October 2015.

 

ITEM 3.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

On January 10, 2012, Richard P. Nespola, the Company’s former chief executive officer, former chairman of the board and a former member of the Company’s Board of Directors, filed an action, Richard P. Nespola v. The Management Network Group, Inc., against the Company with the American Arbitration Association. In the action, Mr. Nespola claims, among other things, that the Company breached his employment agreement and an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing by: (i) improperly deciding not to renew his employment agreement, and (ii) subsequently deciding to terminate his employment for cause. Mr. Nespola seeks in excess of $1.6 million in damages plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

 

On March 3, 2014, the arbitrator in the proceeding issued an interim award, finding that Mr. Nespola's employment was terminated without cause and that Mr. Nespola is entitled to severance under his employment agreement. In the second phase of the proceedings, the arbitrator will rule on Mr. Nespola's claim for damages, attorneys' fees and costs based upon the interim award and the Company's claim for certain attorneys' fees and costs. Based on the interim ruling, the Company believes it is probable that a liability exists for contractual severance, attorneys' fees and costs at December 28, 2013 related to this action. The Company has recorded a liability of $1.5 million during the thirteen weeks ended December 28, 2013 for the amount of severance which may be payable under the terms of Mr. Nespola’s employment agreement. The amount of any award granted by the arbitrator could be materially higher than the liability recorded. See Footnote 10, Commitments and Contingencies, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements, of this report.

 

In addition, the Company may become involved in various legal and administrative actions arising in the normal course of business. These could include actions brought by taxing authorities challenging the employment status of consultants utilized by the Company. In addition, future customer bankruptcies could result in additional claims on collected balances for professional services near the bankruptcy filing date. The resolution of any of such actions, claims, or the matters described above may have an impact on the financial results for the period in which they occur.

 

ITEM 4.MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

 

Not applicable.

 

PART II

 

ITEM 5.MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

Our Common Stock is quoted on the NASDAQ Stock Market under the symbol TMNG. The high and low price per share for the Common Stock for the fiscal years ending December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012 by quarter were as follows:

 

   High   Low 
First quarter, fiscal year 2013  $3.54   $2.22 
Second quarter, fiscal year 2013  $3.19   $2.54 
Third quarter, fiscal year 2013  $3.09   $2.55 
Fourth quarter, fiscal year 2013  $3.14   $2.67 

  

   High   Low 
First quarter, fiscal year 2012  $3.07   $1.49 
Second quarter, fiscal year 2012  $2.88   $1.96 
Third quarter, fiscal year 2012  $2.45   $1.91 
Fourth quarter, fiscal year 2012  $2.40   $2.12 

 

The above information reflects inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, markdown or commissions and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.

 

As of March 21, 2014, there were approximately 29 holders of record of our Common Stock.

 

Holders of Common Stock are entitled to receive ratably such dividends, if any, as may be declared by the Board of Directors out of funds legally available. To date, we have not paid any cash dividends on our Common Stock and do not expect to declare or pay any cash or other dividends in the foreseeable future.

 

During the year ended December 28, 2013, we did not sell any unregistered equity securities.

 

(c) ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

The following table provides information about purchases by the Company (and its affiliated purchasers) during the quarter ended December 28, 2013, of equity securities that are registered by the Company pursuant to Section 12 of the Exchange Act:

 

9
 

 

   Purchases of Equity Securities (1)         
Period  Total Number of
Shares Purchased
   Average Price
Paid per Share
   Total Number of Shares
Purchased as part of
Publicly Announced
Plans or Programs
   Maximum Number of Shares
that May Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or Programs
(2)
 
November 24, 2013 through December 28, 2013   14,760   $2.99    -   $2,000,000 

 

(1)

Shares withheld from a non-vested stock award that vested in December 2013 to settle the recipient’s income tax withholding obligation. As of December 28, 2013, there are 705,000 shares of non-vested restricted stock outstanding for which the award recipients may request shares to be withheld in the future to settle the recipients’ income tax withholding obligations.

(2)On February 27, 2014, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had approved a common stock repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to $2 million of Company common stock through June 30, 2015. Under the program, repurchases may be made by the Company from time to time in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions depending on market conditions, share price and other factors. The stock repurchase program may be modified or discontinued at any time by the Board of Directors.

 

ITEM 6.SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 7.MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Statements included in this discussion that are not statements of current or historical information may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements of plans and objectives, statements of future economic performance or financial projections, statements of assumptions underlying such statements, and statements of the Company's or management's intentions, hopes, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, such as "will be," "should," "could," "plan," "estimate," "intend," "continue," "believe," "may," "expect," "hope," "anticipate," "goal" or "forecast," variations thereof or similar expressions. Certain risks and uncertainties could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in such forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause a difference include, but are not limited to, our ability to successfully implement the strategic relationship with Elutions, the final outcome of the arbitration proceeding with the Company’s former chief executive officer, conditions in the industry sectors that we serve (including the delay of client decisions on proposals and project opportunities along with scope reduction of existing projects), overall economic and business conditions (including the conditions in the credit markets and general economic conditions), our ability to retain the limited number of large clients that constitute a major portion of our revenues, technological advances and competitive factors in the markets in which we compete, and the factors identified in the Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information in Part I of this report. Other factors that we have not identified in this document could also have this effect. All forward-looking statements made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are made as of the date hereof. We will not necessarily update the information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K if any forward-looking statement later turns out to be inaccurate.

 

We report our financial data on a 52/53-week fiscal year for reporting purposes. Fiscal years 2013 and 2012 were both composed of 52 weeks. For further discussion of our fiscal year end see Item 8, "Consolidated Financial Statements," Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, "Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies," contained herein.

 

OVERVIEW

 

Included in Item 1, "Business" is discussion that includes a general overview of our Business, Market Overview, Business Strategy, Services and Competition. The purpose of this executive overview is to complement the qualitative discussion of the Business from Item 1.

 

Cartesian is among the leading providers of professional services and technical solutions to the global leaders in the communications, digital media, and technology industries. We offer a fully integrated suite of consulting offerings including strategy, organizational development, knowledge management, marketing, operational, and technology consulting services. We have consulting experience with almost all major aspects of managing a global communications company. Our portfolio of solutions includes proprietary methodologies and toolsets, deep industry experience, and hands-on operational expertise and licensed software. These solutions assist clients in tackling complex business problems.

 

Our global investments in targeting the cable industry have re-positioned our business to better serve consolidating telecommunications carriers and the converging global media and entertainment companies. The convergence of communications with media and entertainment, the pace of technological change in the sector, and the consolidation of large telecommunications carriers have required us to focus our strategy on serving our clients in both North America and European markets, continuing to expand our offerings with software products and strengthening our position within the large carriers and media and entertainment companies. Subject to the effects of cyclical economic conditions, our efforts are helping us build what we believe is a more sustainable revenue model over the long-term, which will enable us to expand our global presence. We continue to focus our efforts on identifying, adapting to and capitalizing on the changing dynamics prevalent in the converging communications, media and entertainment industries, as well as providing our wireless and IP services within the communications sector.

 

Our financial results are affected by macroeconomic conditions, credit market conditions, and the overall level of business confidence. Economic volatility has continued to impact our customer base and has resulted in continued higher levels of unemployment, and significant employee layoffs and reductions in capital and operating expenditures for some of our significant clients in the communications, media and entertainment sectors. We are also experiencing greater pricing pressure and an increased need for enhanced return on investment for projects or added sharing of risk and reward.

 

Revenues are driven by the ability of our team to secure new project contracts and deliver those projects in a way that adds value to our clients in terms of return on investment or assisting clients to address a need or implement change. For fiscal 2013, revenues increased 4.5% to $55.4 million from $53.0 million for fiscal 2012, driven by our EMEA segment which experienced an increase in project volumes. Our international revenues were approximately 40.7% of total revenues during fiscal 2013 as compared to 30.6% for fiscal 2012. Our revenues are denominated in multiple currencies and may be impacted by currency rate fluctuations.

 

10
 

 

Generally our client relationships begin with a short-term engagement. Our sales strategy focuses on building long-term relationships with both new and existing clients to gain additional engagements within existing accounts and referrals for new clients. Strategic alliances with other companies are also used to sell services. We anticipate that we will continue to pursue these marketing strategies in the future. The volume of work performed for specific clients may vary from period to period and a major client from one period may not use our services or the same volume of services in another period. In addition, clients generally may end their engagements with little or no penalty or notice. If a client consulting engagement ends earlier than expected, we must re-deploy professional service personnel as any resulting non-billable time could harm margins.

 

Cost of services consists primarily of compensation for consultants who are employees as well as fees paid to independent contractor organizations and related expense reimbursements. Employee compensation includes certain non-billable time, training, vacation time, benefits and payroll taxes. Gross margins are primarily impacted by the type of consulting services provided; the size of service contracts and negotiated discounts; changes in our pricing policies and those of competitors; utilization rates of consultants and independent subject matter experts; and employee and independent contractor costs, which tend to be higher in a competitive labor market.

  

Our gross margin was 37.6% for fiscal 2013 compared with 37.8% for fiscal 2012. In general, the most significant items that impact our margins include the mix of project types, utilization of personnel and competitive pricing decisions, including volume discounts.

 

Sales and marketing expenses consist primarily of personnel salaries, bonuses, and related costs for direct client sales efforts and marketing staff. We primarily use a relationship sales model in which partners, principals and senior consultants generate revenues. In addition, sales and marketing expenses include costs associated with marketing collateral, product development, trade shows and advertising. General and administrative expenses consist mainly of costs for accounting, recruiting and staffing, information technology, personnel, insurance, rent and outside professional services incurred in the normal course of business.

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2013 increased 7.7% to $22.8 million from $21.2 million for fiscal 2012. Selling, general and administrative expenses also increased as a percentage of revenues to 41.1% in fiscal 2013 from 39.9% in fiscal 2012. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses is due primarily to a liability and expenses of $1.5 million that we recorded as a result of the interim ruling in the arbitration action brought by the Company’s former chief executive officer as described in Footnote 10, Commitments and Contingencies, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements and additional non-cash compensation expense of $717,000 related to the issuance of service-based and performance-based non-vested shares, offset partially by proactive measures taken by us to lower operating costs to better align with core revenue generating activities. We continue to evaluate selling, general and administrative expenses to maintain an appropriate cost structure relative to revenue levels.

  

We recorded net losses of $2.1 million and $1.2 million for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase in the net loss is due to the liability and expenses of $1.5 million that we recorded as a result of the interim ruling in the arbitration action and the other factors described above. The rate of change in the communications industry, driving convergence of media and telecommunications, consolidation of providers and expanded deployment of wireless capabilities have added both opportunity and uncertainty for our clients. Consolidation within the sector tends to result in increased consolidation of competitors. The supply chain divisions within larger clients, given sector consolidation, also tend to reduce the number of vendors utilized and to negotiate volume programs with select preferred vendors. This activity could result in further price reductions, fewer client projects, under-utilization of consultants, reduced operating margins and loss of market share. Declines in our revenues can have a significant impact on our financial results. Although we have a flexible cost base comprised primarily of employee and related costs, there is a lag in time required to scale the business appropriately if revenues are reduced. In addition, our future revenues and operating results may fluctuate from quarter to quarter based on the number, size and scope of projects in which we are engaged, the contractual terms and degree of completion of such projects, any delays incurred in connection with a project, consultant utilization rates, general economic conditions and other factors.

 

Cash and cash equivalents increased by $1.6 million during fiscal 2013 primarily due to cash flows from operating activities of $2.1 million, consisting of positive changes in working capital of $2.7 million, partially offset by negative cash flow from the results of operations (after adding back non-cash items to our net loss and before changes in working capital) of $0.6 million.. The positive changes in working capital during fiscal 2013 were primarily due to a decrease in accounts receivable and an increase in trade accounts payable and accrued liabilities, offset partially by an increase in prepaid and other assets. During fiscal 2012, cash and cash equivalents decreased by $1.1 million primarily due to operating activities, including negative cash flow from the results of operations (after adding back non-cash items to our net loss and before changes in working capital) of $0.3 million and negative changes in working capital of $0.6 million. The changes in working capital during fiscal 2012 were primarily due to an increase in accounts receivable. At December 28, 2013, we had working capital of approximately $17.2 million. Working capital decreased by $1.0 million from December 29, 2012 primarily due to negative cash flow from the results of operations (after adding back non-cash items to our net loss and before changes in working capital) in addition to purchases of office equipment, software and computer equipment.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Our significant accounting policies are summarized in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 "Consolidated Financial Statements" of this report.

 

While the selection and application of any accounting policy may involve some level of subjective judgments and estimates, we believe the following accounting policies are the most critical to our consolidated financial statements, potentially involve the most subjective judgments in their selection and application, and are the most susceptible to uncertainties and changing conditions:

 

Impairment of Goodwill and Long-lived Assets;

 

Revenue Recognition;

 

Accounting for Income Taxes;

 

Research and Development and Software Development Costs; and

 

Share-based Compensation Expense.

 

11
 

 

Impairment of Goodwill and Long-lived Assets - As of December 28, 2013, we had $8.2 million in goodwill, which is subject to periodic review for impairment. FASB ASC 350 "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other" requires an evaluation of indefinite-lived intangible assets and goodwill annually and whenever events or circumstances indicate that such assets may be impaired. The evaluation is conducted at the reporting unit level and compares the calculated fair value of the reporting unit to its book value to determine whether impairment has been deemed to occur. As of December 28, 2013, we have approximately $3.9 million and $4.3 million in goodwill allocated to the North America Telecom and EMEA reporting units, respectively. Any impairment charge would be based on the most recent estimates of the recoverability of the recorded goodwill. If the remaining book value assigned to goodwill in an acquisition is higher than the estimated fair value of the reporting unit, there is a requirement to write down these assets.

 

Fair value of our reporting units is determined using a combination of the income approach and the market approach. The income approach uses a reporting unit's projection of estimated cash flows discounted using a weighted-average cost of capital analysis that reflects current market conditions. We also consider the market approach to valuing our reporting units utilizing revenue and EBITDA multiples. We compare the results of our overall enterprise valuation as determined by the combination of the two approaches to our market capitalization. Based on the results of the annual step one impairment test, management concluded that there was no impairment of goodwill during fiscal years 2013 and 2012. As of the date of the annual impairment test for fiscal year 2013, the fair values of our North America Telecom and EMEA reporting units exceeded their carrying value by 79% and 173%, respectively.

  

The following describes the significant management judgments related to these approaches and includes a sensitivity analysis with respect to those judgments (provided that a sensitivity analysis is not included for the North America Telecom or EMEA reporting units due to the magnitude of the relative amount of fair value over carrying value):

 

Anticipated future cash flows and terminal value for each reporting unit - The income approach to determining fair value relies on the timing and estimates of future cash flows, including an estimate of terminal value. The projections use management's estimates of economic and market conditions over the projected period including growth rates in revenues and estimates of expected changes in operating margins. Our projections of future cash flows are subject to change as actual results are achieved that differ from those anticipated. Because management frequently updates its projections, we would expect to identify on a timely basis any significant differences between actual results and recent estimates.

 

Selection of an appropriate discount rate - The income approach requires the selection of an appropriate discount rate, which is based on a weighted average cost of capital analysis. The discount rate is affected by changes in short-term interest rates and long-term yields as well as variances in the typical capital structure of marketplace participants. The discount rate is determined based on assumptions that would be used by marketplace participants, and for that reason, the capital structure of selected marketplace participants was used in the weighted average cost of capital analysis. Given the current volatile economic conditions, it is possible that the discount rate will fluctuate in the near term.

 

Selection of an appropriate multiple - The market approach requires the selection of an appropriate multiple to apply to revenues or EBITDA based on comparable guideline company or transaction multiples. It is often difficult to identify companies or transactions with a similar profile in regards to revenue, geographic operations, risk profile and other factors.  Given the current volatile economic conditions, it is possible that multiples of guideline companies will fluctuate in the near term.

 

In accordance with FASB ASC 360, "Property, Plant and Equipment," we use our best estimates based upon reasonable and supportable assumptions and projections to review for impairment of long-lived assets to be held and used whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of our assets might not be recoverable.

 

Revenue Recognition - We recognize revenues from time and materials consulting contracts in the period in which our services are performed. We recognized $17.7 million and $19.5 million in revenues from time and materials contracts during fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively. In addition to time and materials contracts, our other types of contracts include fixed fee contracts. We recognize revenues on milestone or deliverables-based fixed fee contracts and time and materials contracts not to exceed contract price using the percentage of completion-like method described by FASB ASC 605-35, "Revenue Recognition - Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts ". For fixed fee contracts where services are not based on providing deliverables or achieving milestones, we recognize revenues on a straight-line basis over the period during which such services are expected to be performed. During the fiscal years 2013 and 2012, we recognized $37.7 million and $33.5 million, respectively, in revenues on fixed fee contracts. In connection with some fixed fee contracts, we receive payments from customers that exceed recognized revenues. We record the excess of receipts from customers over recognized revenue as deferred revenue. Deferred revenue is classified as a current liability to the extent it is expected to be earned within twelve months from the date of the balance sheet.

  

The FASB ASC 605-35 percentage-of-completion-like methodology involves recognizing revenue using the percentage of services completed, on a current cumulative cost to total cost basis, using a reasonably consistent profit margin over the period. Due to the longer term nature of these projects, developing the estimates of costs often requires significant judgment. Factors that must be considered in estimating the progress of work completed and ultimate cost of the projects include, but are not limited to, the availability of labor and labor productivity, the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, and the impact of delayed performance. If changes occur in delivery, productivity or other factors used in developing the estimates of costs or revenues, we revise our cost and revenue estimates, which may result in increases or decreases in revenues and costs, and such revisions are reflected in income in the period in which the facts that give rise to that revision become known.

 

We also develop, install and support customer software in addition to our traditional consulting services. We recognize revenues in connection with our software sales agreements under FASB ASC 985-605, utilizing the percentage of completion-like method described in FASB ASC 605-35. These agreements include software right-to-use licenses ("RTU's") and related customization and implementation services. Due to the long-term nature of software implementation and the extensive software customization based on normal customer specific requirements, both the RTU’s and implementation services are treated as a single element for revenue recognition purposes.

 

In addition to the professional services related to the customization and implementation of software, we also provide post-contract support ("PCS") services, including technical support and maintenance services as well as other professional services not essential to the functionality of the software. For those contracts that include PCS service arrangements which are not essential to the functionality of the software solution, we separate the FASB ASC 605-35 software services and PCS services utilizing the multiple-element arrangement model prescribed by FASB ASC 605-25, "Revenue Recognition - Multiple-Element Arrangements". FASB ASC 605-25 addresses the accounting treatment for an arrangement to provide the delivery or performance of multiple products and/or services where the delivery of a product or system or performance of services may occur at different points in time or over different periods of time. We utilize FASB ASC 605-25 to separate the PCS service elements and allocate total contract consideration to the contract elements based on the relative fair value of those elements utilizing PCS renewal terms as evidence of fair value. Revenues from PCS services are recognized ratably on a straight-line basis over the term of the support and maintenance agreement.

 

12
 

 

Accounting for Income Taxes - Accounting for income taxes requires significant estimates and judgments on the part of management. Such estimates and judgments include, but are not limited to, the effective tax rate anticipated to apply to tax differences that are expected to reverse in the future, the sufficiency of taxable income in future periods to realize the benefits of net deferred tax assets and net operating losses currently recorded and the likelihood that tax positions taken in tax returns will be sustained on audit. We account for income taxes in accordance with FASB ASC 740 "Income Taxes." As required by FASB ASC 740, we record deferred tax assets or liabilities based on differences between financial reporting and tax basis of assets and liabilities using currently enacted rates that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. FASB ASC 740 also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. As of December 28, 2013, cumulative valuation allowances in the amount of $32.1 million were recorded in connection with the net deferred income tax assets. As required by FASB ASC 740, we have performed a comprehensive review of our portfolio of uncertain tax positions in accordance with recognition standards established by the guidance. Pursuant to FASB ASC 740, an uncertain tax position represents our expected treatment of a tax position taken in a filed tax return, or planned to be taken in a future tax return, that has not been reflected in measuring income tax expense for financial reporting purposes. As of December 28, 2013, we have no recorded liability for unrecognized tax benefits.

  

We have generated substantial deferred income tax assets related to our domestic operations, and to a lesser extent our international operations, primarily from the accelerated financial statement write-off of goodwill, the charge to compensation expense taken for stock options and net operating losses. Within our foreign operations, mostly domiciled within the United Kingdom, we have generated deferred tax assets primarily from the charge to compensation expense for stock options and operating losses. For us to realize the income tax benefit of these assets in the applicable jurisdiction, we must generate sufficient taxable income in future periods when such deductions are allowed for income tax purposes. In some cases where deferred taxes were the result of compensation expense recognized on stock options, our ability to realize the income tax benefit of these assets is also dependent on our share price increasing to a point where these options have intrinsic value at least equal to the grant date fair value and are exercised. In assessing whether a valuation allowance is needed in connection with our deferred income tax assets, we have evaluated our ability to generate sufficient taxable income in future periods to utilize the benefit of the deferred income tax assets. We continue to evaluate our ability to use recorded deferred income tax asset balances. If we continue to report domestic or international operating losses for financial reporting in future years in either our domestic or international operations, no additional tax benefit would be recognized for those losses, since we will not have accumulated enough positive evidence to support our ability to utilize net operating loss carry-forwards in the future.

 

International operations have become a significant part of our business. As part of the process of preparing our financial statements, we are required to estimate our income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. We utilize a "cost plus fixed margin" transfer pricing methodology as it relates to inter-company charges for headquarters support services performed by our domestic entities on behalf of various foreign affiliates. The judgments and estimates used are subject to challenge by domestic and foreign taxing authorities. It is possible that such authorities could challenge those judgments and estimates and draw conclusions that would cause us to incur liabilities in excess of those currently recorded. We use an estimate of our annual effective tax rate at each interim period based upon the facts and circumstances available at that time, while the actual annual effective tax rate is calculated at year-end. Changes in the geographical mix or estimated amount of annual pre-tax income could impact our overall effective tax rate.

 

Research and Development and Software Development Costs - Software development costs are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC 985-20, "Software - Costs of Software to Be Sold, Leased, or Marketed." Capitalization of software development costs for products to be sold to third parties begins upon the establishment of technological feasibility and ceases when the product is available for general release. The establishment of technological feasibility and the ongoing assessment of recoverability of capitalized software development costs require considerable judgment by management concerning certain external factors including, but not limited to, the date technological feasibility is reached, anticipated future gross revenue, estimated economic life and changes in software and hardware technologies. We capitalize development costs incurred during the period between the establishment of technological feasibility and the release of the final product to customers if such costs are material. During fiscal years 2013 and 2012, $525,000 and $499,000, respectively, of these costs were expensed as incurred. No software development costs were capitalized during either fiscal year 2013 or 2012.

 

Share-based Compensation Expense - We grant stock options and non-vested stock to our employees under stock incentive plans and also provide employees the right to purchase our stock at a discount pursuant to an employee stock purchase plan. The benefits provided under these plans are share-based payment awards subject to the provisions of FASB ASC 718, “Compensation-Stock Compensation.” Under FASB ASC 718, we are required to make significant estimates related to determining the value of our share-based compensation. If factors change and we develop different assumptions in the application of FASB ASC 718 in future periods, the compensation expense that we record under FASB ASC 718 may differ significantly from what we have recorded in the current period. There is a high degree of subjectivity involved when using option pricing models to estimate share-based compensation under FASB ASC 718. Changes in the subjective input assumptions can materially affect our estimates of fair values of our share-based compensation. Certain share-based payment awards, such as employee stock options, may expire worthless or otherwise result in zero intrinsic value as compared to the fair values originally estimated on the grant date and reported in our financial statements. Alternatively, values may be realized from these instruments that are significantly in excess of the fair values originally estimated on the grant date and reported in our financial statements. Although the fair value of employee share-based awards is determined in accordance with FASB ASC 718 and SEC’s Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) SAB No. 110 using an option pricing model, such value may not be indicative of the fair value observed in a willing buyer/willing seller market transaction.

 

For stock options, we calculate grant date fair value using the Black-Scholes valuation model. Our expected stock-price volatility assumption is based on historical volatilities of the underlying stock which are obtained from public data sources. The expected term of options granted is based on the simplified method in accordance with the SAB No. 110 as our historical share option exercise experience does not provide a reasonable basis for estimation. Expense for the awards ultimately expected to vest is recognized on a graded vesting schedule over the vesting period.

 

For non-vested, performance-based stock awards, compensation expense is recognized based on management’s expectations with regard to achievement of certain performance and service conditions. The fair value of the awards is determined based on the market value of the underlying stock at the grant date. Expense for the awards ultimately expected to vest is recognized on a straight-line basis over the implied service period of the award. There is a high degree of subjectivity involved when determining the number of awards which are expected to vest over the service period based on projections of the underlying performance measure. Changes in assumptions related to the achievement of the performance measure may materially affect the amount of expense recognized by the Company for performance-based non-vested stock.

 

13
 

 

For non-vested, service-based stock awards, compensation is recognized based on achievement of service conditions alone. The fair value of the awards is determined based on the market value of the underlying stock at the grant date. Expense for the awards ultimately expected to vest is recognized on a graded vesting schedule over the vesting period.

 

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In July 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2013-11, Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists (“FASB ASU 2013-11”).   The update requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except as follows. To the extent a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. The provisions of FASB ASU 2013-11 are effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of the provisions of FASB ASU 2013-11 will have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

FISCAL 2013 COMPARED TO FISCAL 2012

 

REVENUES

 

Revenues increased $2.4 million, or 4.5%, to $55.4 million for fiscal year 2013 from $53.0 million for fiscal year 2012. The increase in revenues was primarily related to our EMEA segment which experienced an increase in project volumes.

 

North America Segment - North America segment revenues decreased $3.5 million or 9.2%, to $34.8 million for fiscal year 2013 from $38.3 million for fiscal year 2012. During fiscal year 2013, this segment provided services on 163 customer projects, compared to 165 projects performed in fiscal year 2012. Average revenue per project was $213,000 and $232,000 for fiscal years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively. Revenues recognized in connection with fixed price engagements totaled $22.9 million and $24.2 million, representing 65.8% and 63.2% of total revenues of the segment, for the fiscal years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively. There were no revenues from software licensing during both fiscal 2013 and 2012.

 

EMEA Segment- EMEA segment revenues increased 40.0% to $20.6 million for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013 from $14.7 million for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012. The increase in revenues was primarily related to an increase in demand for consulting services and technical solutions. During fiscal years 2013 and 2012, this segment provided services on 210 and 157 customer projects, respectively. Average revenue per project was approximately $87,000 and $75,000, respectively, for the fiscal years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012. Revenues from post-contract support services were approximately $2.3 million and $2.9 million for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively. Software licensing revenues were immaterial in fiscal 2013 and 2012.

  

COST OF SERVICES

 

Cost of services increased 4.8% to $34.5 million for fiscal year 2013 compared to $33.0 million for fiscal year 2012. Our gross margin was 37.6% for fiscal year 2013, compared to 37.8% for fiscal year 2012. Cost of services during fiscal year 2013 was $21.3 million and $13.2 million in our North America and EMEA segments, respectively. Cost of services during fiscal year 2012 was $23.4 million and $9.6 million in our North America and EMEA segments, respectively. Our North America segment gross margin was 38.5% for fiscal year 2013 compared to 39.0% for fiscal year 2012. The decrease in gross margin in 2013 as compared to the same period of 2012 in our North America segment is primarily due to a reduction in both revenues and utilization within our strategy consulting practice and increased pricing pressure by client supply chain groups for placement of subject matter experts. Our EMEA segment gross margin was 36.1% for fiscal year 2013 compared to 34.8% for fiscal year 2012. The gross margin increase in the EMEA segment is primarily related to increases in revenues per project and higher staff utilization. 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased 7.7% to $22.8 million for fiscal year 2013, compared to $21.2 million for fiscal year 2012. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses in fiscal 2013 is primarily due to a liability and expenses of $1.5 million that we recorded as a result of the interim ruling in the arbitration action brought by the Company’s former chief executive officer as described in Footnote 10, Commitments and Contingencies, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements and additional non-cash compensation expense of $717,000 related to service-based and performance-based non-vested shares described in Footnote 3, Share-based Compensation, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements, offset partially by proactive measures taken by us to lower salary and other personnel related costs and reduce travel and entertainment expenditures to better align our cost structure with our customer base and core revenue generating activities.

 

INCOME TAXES

 

During the fiscal years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012 we recorded income tax provisions of $114,000 and $106,000, respectively. The income tax provisions for both periods are related to deferred taxes recognized on goodwill amortized for income tax purposes but not for financial reporting purposes. For both fiscal years, we recorded no income tax benefit related to our domestic and international pre-tax losses in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 740, "Income Taxes", which requires an estimation of our ability to use recorded deferred income tax assets. We currently have recorded a valuation allowance against all domestic and international deferred income tax assets generated due to uncertainty about their ultimate realization as a result of our history of operating losses. If we continue to report net operating losses for financial reporting in either our domestic or international operations, no additional tax benefit would be recognized for those losses, since we will not have accumulated enough positive evidence to support our ability to utilize the net operating loss carry-forwards in the future.

 

NET LOSS

 

We had a net loss of $2.1 million for fiscal year 2013, compared to a net loss of $1.2 million for fiscal year 2012. The increase in the net loss is due to the liability and expenses of $1.5 million that we recorded as a result of the interim ruling in the arbitration action and the other factors described above.

 

14
 

 

STATEMENT REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASUREMENT

 

In addition to net loss and net loss per share on a GAAP basis, Cartesian's management uses a non-GAAP financial measure, "Non-GAAP adjusted net income or loss," in its evaluation of our performance, particularly when comparing performance to the prior year's period and on a sequential basis. This non-GAAP measure contains certain non-GAAP adjustments which are described in the following schedule entitled "Reconciliation of GAAP Net Loss to Non-GAAP Adjusted Net Income (Loss)." In making these non-GAAP adjustments, we take into account certain non-cash expenses and benefits, including tax effects as applicable, and the impact of certain items that are generally not expected to be on-going in nature or that are unrelated to our core operations. Management believes the exclusion of these items provides a useful basis for evaluating underlying business performance, but should not be considered in isolation and is not in accordance with, or a substitute for, evaluating our performance utilizing GAAP financial information. We believe that providing such adjusted results allows investors and other users of our financial statements to better understand Cartesian's comparative operating performance for the periods presented. Cartesian's non-GAAP measure may differ from similar measures by other companies, even if similar terms are used to identify such measures. Although Cartesian's management believes the non-GAAP financial measure is useful in evaluating the performance of its business, Cartesian acknowledges that items excluded from such measure have a material impact on our net loss and net loss per share calculated in accordance with GAAP. Therefore, management uses non-GAAP measures in conjunction with GAAP results. Investors and other users of our financial information should also consider the above factors when evaluating Cartesian's results.

 

RECONCILIATION OF GAAP NET LOSS TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED NET INCOME (LOSS)

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except per share data)

 

   Fifty-Two
Weeks Ended
December 28,
2013
   Fifty-Two
Weeks Ended
December 29,
2012
 
         
Reconciliation of GAAP net loss to non-GAAP adjusted net income (loss):          
GAAP net loss  $(2,052)  $(1,187)
           
Depreciation and amortization   670    767 
Non-cash share based compensation expense   737    21 
Accrued severance liability   1,491    - 
Tax effect of applicable non-GAAP adjustments (1)   114    106 
Adjustments to GAAP net loss   3,012    894 
           
Non-GAAP adjusted net income (loss)  $960  $(293)
           
           
Reconciliation of GAAP net loss per diluted common share to non-GAAP adjusted net income (loss) per diluted common share:          
GAAP net loss per diluted common share  $(0.28)  $(0.17)
           
           
Depreciation and amortization   0.09    0.11 
Non-cash share based compensation expense   0.10    0.00 
Accrued severance liability   0.20    - 
Tax effect of applicable non-GAAP adjustments (1)   0.02    0.02 
Adjustments to GAAP net loss per diluted common share   0.41    0.13 
           
Non-GAAP adjusted net income (loss) per diluted common share  $0.13  $(0.04)
           
Weighted average shares used in calculation of non-GAAP adjusted net income (loss) per diluted common share   7,203    7,103 

 

(1)The Company calculated the tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments by applying an applicable estimated jurisdictional tax rate to each specific non-GAAP item after consideration of the Company’s valuation allowance.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities was $2.1 million and $(0.9) million for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively. Cash flows used in the results of operations (after adding back non-cash items to our net loss and before changes in working capital) were $0.6 million and $0.3 million for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively. During fiscal 2013, changes to net working capital increased cash from operating activities by $2.7 million, while changes to net working capital resulted in a decrease in cash from operating activities of $0.6 million during fiscal 2012. Changes in net working capital during fiscal year 2013 were primarily due to a decrease in accounts receivable and an increase in trade accounts payable and accrued liabilities, including the accrual of $1.5 million in contractual severance to the Company’s former chief executive office, offset partially by an increase in prepaid and other assets while changes in net working capital during fiscal year 2012 were primarily due to an increase in accounts receivable.

 

15
 

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $0.5 million and $0.3 million for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively. The net cash used in investing activities during both fiscal years 2013 and 2012 related exclusively to the purchase of office equipment, software and computer equipment.

 

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities was $(1,000) and $42,000 for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively. The net cash used in financing activities during fiscal year 2013 related to $44,000 used to repurchase common stock for employee income tax withholding offset by $43,000 received for stock purchases made under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Financing activities during 2012 related exclusively to proceeds received for stock purchases made under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

 

At December 28, 2013, we had approximately $13.8 million in cash and cash equivalents and $17.2 million in net working capital. At December 28, 2013, $3.4 million of our cash and cash equivalents were denominated in British pounds sterling, which we would be able to repatriate, if needed, without any negative U.S. income tax consequences. In addition, as discussed below, subsequent to fiscal 2013 year end, the Company received cash of $5.3 million upon the closing of the transaction contemplated by the Investment Agreement entered into with Elutions. We believe we have sufficient cash and cash equivalents to meet anticipated cash and working capital requirements, including anticipated capital expenditures for at least the next 12 months and the funding of any liability associated with the arbitration with our former chief executive officer. Furthermore, based on an analysis of our investments classified as cash equivalents, we do not believe that we have any material risk related to the liquidity or valuation of these investments, nor do we believe that we have any material counterparty credit risk related to these investments. Should our cash and cash equivalents prove insufficient, we may need to obtain new debt or equity financing to support our operations or complete acquisitions. If we need to obtain new debt or equity financing to support our operations or complete acquisitions in the future, we may be unable to obtain debt or equity financing on reasonable terms. We have established a flexible model that provides a lower fixed cost structure than most consulting firms, enabling us to scale operating cost structures more quickly based on market conditions, although there is a lag in time required to scale the business appropriately if revenues are reduced. Our strong balance sheet has enabled us to make acquisitions and related investments in intellectual property and businesses we believe are enabling us to capitalize on the current transformation of the industry; however, if demand for our consulting services is reduced and we experience negative cash flow, we could experience liquidity challenges at some point in the future.

 

On February 25, 2014, the Company entered into an Investment Agreement with Elutions, a provider of operational business intelligence solutions. Under the Investment Agreement, among other things, the Company agreed to issue and sell shares of common stock to Elutions and the parties agreed that a subsidiary of Elutions would loan funds to a subsidiary of the Company. On March 18, 2014, the Company and Elutions completed the closing of the transactions contemplated under the Investment Agreement. At the Closing, the Company issued and sold 609,756 shares of common stock to Elutions at a price of $3.28 per share, for an aggregate purchase price of $2.0 million and the Company's subsidiary, Cartesian Limited, issued a non-convertible promissory note payable to Elutions Capital Ventures S.à r.l, a subsidiary of Elutions, in an aggregate original principal amount of $3.3 million. The promissory note bears interest at the rate of 7.825% per year, payable monthly, and matures on March 18, 2019. See Footnote 12, Subsequent Events, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements, of this report and the Investment Agreement incorporated by reference as Exhibit 10.26 to this report.

 

On March 3, 2014, the arbitrator in the action by the Company’s former chief executive officer issued an interim award finding that Mr. Nespola's employment was terminated without cause and that Mr. Nespola is entitled to severance under his employment agreement. In the second phase of the proceedings, the arbitrator will rule on Mr. Nespola's claim for damages, attorneys' fees and costs based upon the interim award and the Company's claim for certain attorneys' fees and costs. Based on the interim ruling, the Company believes it is probable that a liability for contractual severance, attorneys' fees and costs exists at December 28, 2013 related to this action. The Company has recorded a liability of $1.5 million for the amount of severance which may be payable under the terms of Mr. Nespola’s employment agreement. The amount of any award granted by the arbitrator could be materially higher than the liability recorded. See Footnote 10, Commitments and Contingencies, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements, of this report.

  

FINANCIAL COMMITMENTS

 

As described in the Company’s discussion of liquidity and capital resources above, on March 18, 2014 the Company’s subsidiary, Cartesian Limited, issued a non-convertible promissory note in the amount of $3.3 million as part of the Investment Agreement with Elutions. The promissory note may be called by the holder at any time and may be prepaid by Cartesian Limited after 18 months if the trading price of the Company's common stock exceeds $5.50 per share for a specified period of time and may be prepaid by Cartesian Limited at any time after 30 months. Upon occurrence of an event of default, the Note would bear interest at 9.825% per year and could be declared immediately due and payable. See Footnote 12, Subsequent Events, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8, Consolidated Financial Statements, of this report.

 

During fiscal year 2012, the Company renewed a purchase agreement, committing to purchase a minimum of $285,000 in computer software over a three year period ending in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. As of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively, the Company had obligations of $119,000 and $214,000 remaining under this commitment.

 

  

ITEM 7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Not applicable.

 

16
 

 

ITEM 8.CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of

The Management Network Group, Inc.

Overland Park, Kansas

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Management Network Group, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, stockholders' equity, and cash flows for the 52-week periods ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the 52-week periods ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP  
   
Kansas City, Missouri  
   
March 28, 2014  

 

17
 

THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

   December 28,
2013
   December 29,
2012
 
   (In thousands, except share data) 
         
ASSETS          
CURRENT ASSETS:          
Cash and cash equivalents  $13,780   $12,177 
Receivables:          
Accounts receivable — billed & unbilled   11,864    12,975 
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts   (148)   (213)
           
Net receivables   11,716    12,762 
Prepaid and other current assets   1,751    658 
           
Total current assets   27,247    25,597 
           
NONCURRENT ASSETS:          
Property and equipment, net   1,202    1,355 
Goodwill   8,225    8,160 
Other noncurrent assets   150    204 
           
Total Assets  $36,824   $35,316 
           
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY          
CURRENT LIABILITIES:          
Trade accounts payable  $2,036   $975 
Accrued payroll, bonuses and related expenses   4,249    4,003 
Accrued severance liability   1,491    - 
Deferred revenue   591    605 
Other accrued liabilities   1,631    1,809 
           
Total current liabilities   9,998    7,392 
           
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES:          
Deferred income tax liabilities   586    472 
Other noncurrent liabilities   342    441 
           
Total noncurrent liabilities   928    913 
           
Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)          
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:          
Common stock:          
Voting — $.005 par value, 20,000,000 shares authorized; 8,491,382 (including 454,760 treasury shares) and 7,667,708 (including 440,000 treasury shares) shares issued as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively; 8,036,622 and 7,227,708 shares outstanding as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively   42    38 
Preferred stock — $.001 par value, 2,000,000 shares authorized as of December 28, 2013 and $.001 par value, 10,000,000 shares authorized as of December 29, 2012; no shares issued or outstanding as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012          
Additional paid-in capital   178,054    177,278 
Accumulated deficit   (144,796)   (142,744)
Treasury stock, at cost   (3,589)   (3,545)
Accumulated other comprehensive income —          
Foreign currency translation adjustment   (3,813)   (4,016)
           
Total stockholders' equity   25,898    27,011 
           
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity  $36,824   $35,316 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

18
 

 

THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

 

   Fifty-Two
Weeks Ended
December 28,
2013
   Fifty-Two
Weeks Ended
December 29,
2012
 
   (in thousands, except share data) 
         
Revenues  $55,371   $53,009 
Cost of services   34,529    32,951 
Gross Profit   20,842    20,058 
Selling, general and administrative expenses (includes non-cash share-based compensation expense of $737 and $20 for the fiscal years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively)   22,784    21,155 
Loss from operations   (1,942)   (1,097)
Other income   4    16 
Loss before income taxes   (1,938)   (1,081)
Income tax provision   (114)   (106)
Net loss   (2,052)   (1,187)
Other comprehensive loss:          
Foreign currency translation adjustment   203    314 
Comprehensive loss  $(1,849)  $(873)
           
Net loss per common share          
Basic and diluted  $(0.29)  $(0.17)
           
Weighted average shares used in calculation of net loss per common share          
Basic and diluted   7,131    7,103 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

19
 

 

  

THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

 

   Fiscal Year Ended 
   December 28,   December 29, 
   2013   2012 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:          
Net loss  $(2,052)  $(1,187)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:          
Depreciation   670    767 
Share-based compensation   737    21 
Deferred tax expense   114    106 
Other   (75)   10 
Other changes in operating assets and liabilities:          
Accounts receivable, net   1,261    (1,154)
Prepaid and other assets   (999)   112 
Trade accounts payable   1,008    50 
Deferred revenue   (26)   360 
Accrued severance liability   1,491    - 
Accrued liabilities   (78)   17 
           
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   2,051    (898)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:          
Acquisition of property and equipment   (525)   (289)
           
Net cash used in investing activities   (525)   (289)
           
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:          
Repurchase of common stock   (44)   - 
Issuance of common stock through employee stock purchase plan   43    42 
           
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities   (1)   42 
           
Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents   78    72 
           
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   1,603    (1,073)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   12,177    13,250 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $13,780   $12,177 
           
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:          
Accrued property and equipment additions  $136   $260 
Leasehold improvements acquired through lease incentive  $113   $- 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements. 

 

20
 

 

THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

   Common Stock $.005 Par
Voting
   Additional
Paid In
   Accumulated   Treasury   Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
     
   Shares   Amount   Capital   Deficit   Stock   Income   Total 
   (In thousands, except share data) 
Balance, December 31, 2011   7,533,872   $38   $177,215   $(141,557)  $(3,545)  $(4,330)  $27,821 
Shares issued for employee stock purchase plan   23,836         42                   42 
Non-vested stock grants   110,000                             - 
Share-based compensation             21                   21 
Other comprehensive income — Foreign currency translation adjustment                            314    314 
Net loss                  (1,187)             (1,187)
                                    
Balance, December 29, 2012   7,667,708   $38   $177,278   $(142,744)  $(3,545)  $(4,016)  $27,011 
                                    
Shares issued for employee stock purchase plan   23,674         43                   43 
Non-vested stock grants   800,000    4    (4)                  - 
Purchases of treasury stock                       (44)        (44)
Share-based compensation             737                   737 
Other comprehensive income — Foreign currency translation adjustment                            203    203 
Net loss                  (2,052)             (2,052)
                                    
Balance, December 28, 2013   8,491,382   $42   $178,054   $(144,796)  $(3,589)  $(3,813)  $25,898 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

21
 

  

THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1. ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

Nature of Operations - On February 3, 2014, The Management Network Group, Inc. ("Cartesian" or the "Company") announced that it will operate around the world under the unified brand name "Cartesian". Cartesian was founded in 1990 as a management consulting firm specializing in providing consulting services to the converging communications industry and the financial services firms that support it. A majority of the Company's revenues are from customers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Western Europe. Cartesian's corporate offices are located in Overland Park, Kansas.

 

Principles of Consolidation - The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Cartesian and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

Name of Subsidiary   Date Formed/Acquired
TMNG Europe Ltd. ("TMNG Europe")   March 19, 1997
The Management Network Group Canada Ltd.   May 14, 1998
TMNG.com, Inc.   June 18, 1999
TMNG Marketing, LLC   September 5, 2000
TMNG Technologies, Inc.   August 27, 2001
Cambridge Strategic Management Group, Inc. ("CSMG")   March 6, 2002
Cambridge Adventis Ltd.   March 17, 2006
Cartesian Ltd. ("Cartesian Limited")   January 2, 2007
RVA Consulting, LLC ("RVA")   August 3, 2007
TWG Consulting, Inc.   October 5, 2007

 

Fiscal Year - The Company reports its operating results on a 52/53-week fiscal year basis. The fiscal year end is determined as the Saturday ending nearest December 31. The fiscal years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012 each include 52 weeks of operating results and consists of four equal 13-week quarters. The fiscal years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012 are referred to herein as fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. As described in further detail below, significant estimates include the estimates of costs to complete used to recognize revenues on fixed fee contracts, estimates utilized in measuring the fair value of our reporting units with goodwill, estimates used to determine the liability related to the arbitration with our former chief executive officer and estimates used to determine the recoverability of deferred contract costs.

 

Revenue Recognition - The Company recognizes revenue from time and materials consulting contracts in the period in which its services are performed. In addition to time and materials contracts, the Company also has fixed fee contracts. The Company recognizes revenues on milestone or deliverables-based fixed fee contracts and time and materials contracts not to exceed contract price using the percentage of completion-like method described by Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 605-35,"Revenue Recognition - Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts." For fixed fee contracts where services are not based on providing deliverables or achieving milestones, the Company recognizes revenue on a straight-line basis over the period during which such services are expected to be performed. In connection with some fixed fee contracts, the Company may receive payments from customers that exceed revenues up to that point in time. The Company records the excess of receipts from customers over recognized revenue as deferred revenue. Deferred revenue is classified as a current liability to the extent it is expected to be earned within twelve months from the date of the balance sheet.

  

The FASB ASC 605-35 percentage-of-completion-like methodology involves recognizing revenue using the percentage of services completed, on a current cumulative cost to total cost basis, using a reasonably consistent profit margin over the period. Due to the longer term nature of these projects, developing the estimates of costs often requires significant judgment. Factors that must be considered in estimating the progress of work completed and ultimate cost of the projects include, but are not limited to, the availability of labor and labor productivity, the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, and the impact of delayed performance. If changes occur in delivery, productivity or other factors used in developing the estimates of costs or revenues, the Company revises its cost and revenue estimates, which may result in increases or decreases in revenues and costs, and such revisions are reflected in income in the period in which the facts that give rise to that revision become known.

 

The Company develops, installs and supports customer software in addition to the provision of traditional consulting services. The Company recognizes revenue in connection with its software sales agreements under ASC 985-605, utilizing the percentage of completion-like method described in ASC 605- 35. These agreements include software right-to-use licenses ("RTU's") and related customization and implementation services. Due to the long-term nature of the software implementation and the extensive software customization based on normal customer specific requirements, both the RTU’s and implementation services are treated as a single element for revenue recognition purposes.

 

In addition to the professional services related to the customization and implementation of its software, the Company may also provide post-contract support ("PCS") services, including technical support and maintenance services as well as other professional services not essential to the functionality of the software. For those contracts that include PCS service arrangements which are not essential to the functionality of the software solution, the Company separates the FASB ASC 605-35 software services and PCS services utilizing the multiple-element arrangement model prescribed by FASB ASC 605-25, "Revenue Recognition - Multiple-Element Arrangements". FASB ASC 605-25 addresses the accounting treatment for an arrangement to provide the delivery or performance of multiple products and/or services where the delivery of a product or system or performance of services may occur at different points in time or over different periods of time. The Company utilizes FASB ASC 605-25 to separate the PCS service elements and allocate total contract consideration to the contract elements based on the relative fair value of those elements utilizing PCS renewal terms as evidence of fair value. Revenues from PCS services are recognized ratably on a straight-line basis over the term of the support and maintenance agreement.

 

22
 

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, money market investments and short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less when purchased.

 

Property and Equipment - Property and equipment are stated at cost or acquisition date fair value less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expense as incurred. Depreciation is based on the estimated useful lives of the assets and is computed using the straight-line method, and capital leases, if any, are amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. Asset lives range from three to seven years for furniture and fixtures, software and computer equipment. Leasehold improvements are capitalized and amortized over the life of the lease or useful life of the asset, whichever is shorter. The Company reviews long-lived assets to be held and used for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of these assets might not be recoverable in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 360, "Property, Plant and Equipment.” No impairments were identified in any period presented.

 

Managed Services Implementation Revenues and Costs – Managed service arrangements provide for the delivery of a software or technology based solution to clients over a period of time without the transfer of a license or a software sale to the customer. For long-term managed service agreements, implementation efforts are often necessary to develop the software utilized to deliver the managed service. Costs of such implementation efforts may include internal and external costs for coding or customizing systems and costs for conversion of client data. The Company may invoice its clients for implementation fees at the go-live date of the underlying software. Lump sum implementation fees received from clients are initially deferred and recognized on a pro-rata basis as services are provided. Specific, incremental and direct costs of implementation incurred prior to the services going live are deferred pursuant to FASB ASC 605-35-25 and amortized over the period that the related ongoing services revenue is recognized to the extent that the Company believes the recoverability of the costs from the contract is probable. If a client terminates a managed services arrangement prior to the end of the contract, a loss on the contract may be recorded, if applicable, and any remaining deferred implementation revenues and costs would then be recognized into earnings generally over the remaining service period through the termination date. During the fiscal year ending December 28, 2013, implementation costs of $560,000 related to managed services contracts were deferred. No implementation costs related to managed services contracts were deferred during the fiscal year ending December 29, 2012.

 

Research and Development and Software Development Costs - Software development costs are accounted for in accordance with FASB ASC 985-20, "Software - Costs of Software to Be Sold, Leased, or Marketed." Capitalization of software development costs for products to be sold to third parties begins upon the establishment of technological feasibility and ceases when the product is available for general release. The establishment of technological feasibility and the ongoing assessment of recoverability of capitalized software development costs require considerable judgment by management concerning certain external factors including, but not limited to the date technological feasibility is reached, anticipated future gross revenue, estimated economic life and changes in software and hardware technologies. The Company capitalizes development costs incurred during the period between the establishment of technological feasibility and the release of the final product to customers if such costs are material. During fiscal years 2013 and 2012, $525,000 and $499,000, respectively, of these costs were expensed as incurred. No software development costs were capitalized during either fiscal year 2013 or 2012.

 

Goodwill - The Company accounts for goodwill in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 350, "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other." Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations accounted for as purchases. The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment on an annual basis on the last day of the first fiscal month of the fourth fiscal quarter and whenever events or circumstances indicate that these assets may be impaired. The annual impairment test for fiscal year 2013 was performed as of October 26, 2013. The Company determines impairment by comparing the net assets of each reporting unit to its respective fair value. In the event a reporting unit's carrying value exceeds its fair value, an indication exists that the reporting unit goodwill may be impaired. In this situation, the Company must determine the implied fair value of goodwill by assigning the reporting unit's fair value to each asset and liability of the reporting unit. The excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the amounts assigned to its assets and liabilities is the implied fair value of goodwill. An impairment loss is measured by the difference between the goodwill carrying value and the implied fair value.

 

Fair value of the Company’s reporting units is determined using a combination of the income approach and the market approach. The income approach uses a reporting unit's projection of estimated cash flows discounted using a weighted-average cost of capital analysis that reflects current market conditions. The Company also considers the market approach to valuing its reporting units utilizing revenue and EBITDA multiples. The Company compares the results of its overall enterprise valuation as determined by the combination of the two approaches to the Company’s market capitalization. Significant management judgments related to these approaches include:

 

Anticipated future cash flows and terminal value for each reporting unit - The income approach to determining fair value relies on the timing and estimates of future cash flows, including an estimate of terminal value. The projections use management's estimates of economic and market conditions over the projected period including growth rates in revenues and estimates of expected changes in operating margins. The Company’s projections of future cash flows are subject to change as actual results are achieved that differ from those anticipated. Because management frequently updates its projections, the Company would expect to identify on a timely basis any significant differences between actual results and recent estimates.

 

Selection of an appropriate discount rate - The income approach requires the selection of an appropriate discount rate, which is based on a weighted average cost of capital analysis. The discount rate is affected by changes in short-term interest rates and long-term yields as well as variances in the typical capital structure of marketplace participants. The discount rate is determined based on assumptions that would be used by marketplace participants, and for that reason, the capital structure of selected marketplace participants was used in the weighted average cost of capital analysis. Given the current volatile economic conditions, it is possible that the discount rate will fluctuate in the near term.

 

Selection of an appropriate multiple - The market approach requires the selection of an appropriate multiple to apply to revenues or EBITDA based on comparable guideline company or transaction multiples. It is often difficult to identify companies or transactions with a similar profile in regards to revenue, geographic operations, risk profile and other factors.  Given the current volatile economic conditions, it is possible that multiples of guideline companies will fluctuate in the near term.

 

Income Taxes - The Company recognizes a liability or asset for the deferred tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax basis of assets or liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements. A valuation allowance is provided when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of a deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Company records the financial statement effects of an income tax position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits. The Company recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. The measurement of any unrecognized tax benefit is based on management’s best judgment. The Company reviews these estimates and makes changes to recorded amounts of uncertain tax positions as facts and circumstances warrant.

 

23
 

 

Foreign Currency Transactions and Translation - Cartesian Ltd. and the international operations of Cambridge Strategic Management Group, Inc. conduct business primarily denominated in their respective local currency, which is their functional currency. Assets and liabilities have been translated to U.S. dollars at the period-end exchange rates. Revenues and expenses have been translated at exchange rates which approximate the average of the rates prevailing during each period. Translation adjustments are reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive loss in the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity. Accumulated other comprehensive loss resulting from foreign currency translation adjustments totaled $3.8 million and $4.0 million, respectively as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, and is included in Total Stockholders’ Equity in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Assets and liabilities denominated in other than the functional currency of a subsidiary are re-measured at rates of exchange on the balance sheet date. Resulting gains and losses on foreign currency transactions are included in the Company’s results of operations. Realized and unrealized exchange gains included in the results of operations during fiscal 2013 were $15,000 while realized and unrealized exchange losses included in the results of operations during fiscal 2012 were $16,000.

 

Derivative Financial Instruments - There were no open foreign currency forward contracts as of December 28, 2013 or December 29, 2012. The Company may use forward contracts to provide an economic hedge against fluctuations in accounts receivable denominated in currencies other than its functional currencies, but has not designated such contracts as hedges for accounting purposes. The Company utilizes valuation models for foreign currency forward contracts that rely exclusively on Level 2 inputs, as defined by FASB ASC 820, Fair Value Measurement and Disclosures. Gains and losses on foreign currency forward contracts are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Loss. The change in fair value of foreign currency contracts was not material to the Company's results of operations or financial position for fiscal year 2013 or 2012.

 

Share-Based Compensation - The Company accounts for stock based compensation using the provisions of FASB ASC 718, "Compensation-Stock Compensation" and the SEC's Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 110 ("SAB No. 110") which require the measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards based on estimated fair values. The Company values its stock options using the Black-Scholes model to determine fair value. See Note 3, Share-Based Compensation.

 

Loss Per Share - The Company calculates and presents earnings (loss) per share using a dual presentation of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share. Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. The weighted average number of common shares outstanding excludes treasury shares held by the Company. Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed in the same manner except that the weighted average number of shares is increased for dilutive securities.

 

In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 260, "Earnings per Share," the Company uses the treasury stock method for calculating the dilutive effect of employee stock options and non-vested shares. The employee stock options and non-vested shares will have a dilutive effect under the treasury stock method only when average market value of the underlying Company common stock during the respective period exceeds the assumed proceeds. For share-based payment awards with a performance condition, the Company must first use the guidance on contingently issuable shares in FASB ASC 260-10 to determine whether the awards should be included in the computation of diluted earnings per share for the reporting period. For all non-vested performance-based awards, the Company determines the number of shares, if any, that would be issuable at the end of the reporting period if the end of the reporting period were the end of the contingency period. In applying the treasury stock method, assumed proceeds include the amount, if any, the employee must pay upon exercise, the amount of compensation cost for future services that the Company has not yet recognized, and the amount of tax benefits, if any, that would be credited to additional paid-in capital assuming exercise of the options and the vesting of non-vested shares. For fiscal years 2013 and 2012, the Company has not included the effect of stock options and non-vested shares in the calculation of diluted loss per share as it reported a net loss for these periods and the effect would have been anti-dilutive.

  

Recent Accounting Pronouncements - In July 2013, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2013-11, Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists (“FASB ASU 2013-11”).   The update requires that an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, should be presented in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except as follows. To the extent a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward is not available at the reporting date under the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of a tax position or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not require the entity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for such purpose, the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements as a liability and should not be combined with deferred tax assets. The provisions of FASB ASU 2013-11 are effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The Company does not anticipate that the adoption of the provisions of FASB ASU 2013-11 will have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

 

2. GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

 

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013 are as follows (in thousands):

 

   North         
   America   EMEA   Total 
Balance as of December 29, 2012  $3,947   $4,213   $8,160 
Changes in foreign currency exchange rates   -    65    65 
                
Balance as of December 28, 2013  $3,947   $4,278   $8,225 

 

The Company had gross goodwill and accumulated goodwill impairment losses as of the beginning and end of fiscal years 2013 and 2012 as follows:

 

   As of
December 28,
   As of
December 29,
   As of
December 31,
 
   2013   2012   2011 
Gross balance of goodwill (including foreign currency adjustments)  $67,849   $67,765   $67,552 
Accumulated goodwill impairment losses (including foreign currency adjustments)   (59,624)   (59,605)   (59,557)
Net balance of goodwill  $8,225   $8,160   $7,995 

 

24
 

 

The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment on an annual basis on the last day of the first fiscal month of the fourth quarter and whenever events or circumstances indicate that these assets may be impaired. The Company performs its impairment testing for goodwill in accordance with FASB ASC 350 "Intangibles-Goodwill and Other." Based on the results of the annual step one impairment test, management concluded that there was no impairment of goodwill during fiscal year 2013 or fiscal year 2012.

 

3. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company estimates the fair value of its stock options and stock issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan using the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. Groups of employees or non-employee directors that have similar historical and expected exercise behavior are considered separately for valuation purposes. Assumptions used in estimating the fair value of stock options granted include risk-free interest rate, expected life, expected volatility factor, and expected dividend rate. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield at the time of grant for a term equal to the expected life of the stock option; the expected life is determined using the simplified method of estimating the life as allowed under SAB No. 110; and the expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company's stock price for a period of time equal to the expected life of the stock option. There were no stock options granted during fiscal years 2013 and 2012.

 

With the exception of the service-based non-vested share awards and the performance-based non-vested share awards discussed below, nearly all of the Company's share-based compensation arrangements utilize graded vesting schedules where a portion of the grant vests annually over a period of two to four years. The Company has a policy of recognizing compensation expense for awards with graded vesting over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in-substance, multiple awards. This policy has the effect of accelerating the recognition of expense when compared to a straight-line amortization methodology.

 

As of December 28, 2013, the Company has two share-based compensation plans under which awards are outstanding, which are described below. The compensation cost that has been charged against operations for those plans under FASB ASC 718, "Compensation - Stock Compensation" was $724,000 and $8,000 during fiscal year 2013 and fiscal year 2012, respectively. The Company recognized no income tax benefit for share-based compensation arrangements for fiscal year 2013 and fiscal year 2012. In addition, no compensation costs related to these arrangements were capitalized in either year. As of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to all share-based compensation arrangements was approximately $1,920,000 and $240,000, respectively. The unrecognized compensation cost as of December 28, 2013 is expected to be recognized over a period of 39 months. The Company has historically issued and expects to continue to issue new shares to satisfy stock option exercises, vesting of nonvested shares or purchases of shares under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

 

1998 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

 

The Company's 1998 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended and restated, is a stockholder approved plan, which provides for the granting of incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options to employees, and nonqualified stock options, nonvested stock, and restricted stock units to employees, directors and consultants. The 1998 Plan is scheduled to expire in June 2019. As of December 28, 2013, the Company has 1,578,696 shares of the Company's common stock available for issuance upon exercise of outstanding options or for future awards under the 1998 Plan.

 

Stock Options

 

Incentive stock options are granted at an exercise price of not less than market value per share of the common stock on the date of grant as determined by the Board of Directors. Vesting and exercise provisions are determined by the Board of Directors.

  

As of December 28, 2013, all options granted under the 1998 Plan were non-qualified stock options. Options granted under the 1998 Plan generally become exercisable over a three to four year period beginning on the date of grant. Options granted under the 1998 Plan have a maximum term of ten years.

 

A summary of the option activity of the Company's 1998 Plan as of December 28, 2013 and changes during the fiscal year then ended is presented below:

 

           Weighted    
       Weighted   Average    
       Average   Remaining  Aggregate 
       Exercise   Contractual  Intrinsic 
   Shares   Price   Term  Value 
Outstanding at December 29, 2012   347,293   $10.60         
Forfeited/cancelled   (82,200)  $10.91         
                   
Outstanding at December 28, 2013   265,093   $10.50   2.9 years  $9,450 
                   
Options vested and exercisable at December 28, 2013   265,093   $10.50   2.9 years  $9,450 

 

There were no options granted during fiscal year 2013 or fiscal year 2012. As of December 28, 2013 there is no remaining unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to the unvested portion of stock options issued under the 1998 Plan.

 

Nonvested Shares

 

Service-Based Non-vested Share Awards - As of December 29, 2012, the Company had 110,000 shares of non-vested stock outstanding that vest solely based on employee service. These shares had a weighted average grant date fair value of $2.26 and were scheduled to cliff vest after a one-year service period that commenced on the date of the grant, December 17, 2012. All 110,000 shares vested on December 17, 2013, and no remaining service-based non-vested shares were outstanding as of December 28, 2013.

 

25
 

 

The service-based non-vested share award for the 110,000 shares was valued at the date of grant, based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock, and was expensed using the straight-line method over the requisite service period (which was the vesting period of the award). During 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded $237,000 and $8,000, respectively, of stock-based compensation expense in connection with the service-based non-vested share awards granted in December 2012. As of December 28, 2013, there was no unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, related to the service-based non-vested share awards while there was $240,000 of unrecognized compensation cost as of December 29, 2012. The total fair value of the service-based non-vested share awards that vested during 2013 was $329,000.

 

A summary of the status of service-based non-vested shares awards issued under the 1998 Plan as of December 28, 2013 and changes during the fiscal year then ended is presented below:

 

       Weighted
Average
 
       Grant Date 
   Shares   Fair Value  per share 
Outstanding at December 29, 2012   110,000   $2.26 
Vested   (110,000)  $2.26 
Outstanding at December 28, 2013   -   $- 

 

Performance-Based Non-vested Share Awards - On April 8, 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved an equity incentive program under the 1998 Plan pursuant to which the Board of Directors granted performance-based non-vested share awards for a total of 800,000 shares of Common Stock to various executive officers and employees of the Company. All 800,000 non-vested shares have a grant date fair value of $3.14 per share. The first potential vesting date is the Company's earnings release date for its 2014 first fiscal quarter and each subsequent potential vesting date is each of the Company's quarterly earnings release dates thereafter through the release date for the first quarter of 2017. Shares not vested as of the release date for the first quarter of 2017 are forfeited. Except for termination of employment in certain circumstances following a change of control, the unvested portion of an award is forfeited upon any termination of employment. Under the terms of the awards, vesting is partially accelerated and each award is converted to a time-vested award upon a change of control of the Company. The holders of shares underlying non-vested share awards have all of the rights of stockholders of the Company, including the right to receive dividends and to vote the shares, until the shares are forfeited to the Company.

 

Stock-based compensation cost for performance-based non-vested share awards is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of shares expected to be earned at the end of the performance period, based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant, and is recognized as expense using the straight-line method over the performance period based upon the probable number of shares expected to vest. The Company estimates and excludes compensation cost related to awards not expected to vest based upon estimated forfeitures. During fiscal 2013, the Company recorded $487,000 of stock-based compensation expense in connection with the performance-based non-vested share awards granted in April 2013. As of December 28, 2013, there is an estimated $1.9 million of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, related to the performance-based non-vested share awards. The unrecognized compensation cost at December 28, 2013 is expected to be recognized over a period of 39 months.

 

A summary of the status of performance-based non-vested shares awards issued under the 1998 Plan as of December 28, 2013 and changes during the fiscal year then ended is presented below:

 

       Weighted
Average
 
       Grant Date 
   Shares   Fair Value  per share 
Outstanding at December 29, 2012   -   $- 
Granted   800,000   $3.14 
Outstanding at December 28, 2013   800,000   $3.14 

 

2000 SUPPLEMENTAL STOCK PLAN

 

The Supplemental Stock Plan expired May 23, 2010. The outstanding awards issued pursuant to the Supplemental Stock Plan will remain subject to the terms of the Supplemental Stock Plan following expiration of the plan. The Supplemental Stock Plan provided the Company's common stock for the granting of nonqualified stock options to employees and was not subject to stockholder approval. Vesting and exercise provisions were determined by the Board of Directors. Options granted under the plan generally become exercisable over a period of up to four years beginning on the date of grant and have a maximum term of ten years.

  

A summary of the option activity of the Company's Supplemental Stock Plan as of December 28, 2013 and changes during the fiscal year then ended is presented below:

 

           Weighted    
       Weighted   Average    
       Average   Remaining  Aggregate 
       Exercise   Contractual  Intrinsic 
   Shares   Price   Term  Value 
Outstanding at December 29, 2012   102,000   $11.44         
Forfeited/cancelled   (19,400)  $11.88         
                   
Outstanding at December 28, 2013   82,600   $11.33   3.5 years  $0 
                   
Options vested and exercisable at December 28, 2013   82,600   $11.33   3.5 years  $0 

 

26
 

 

There were no options granted during fiscal year 2013 or fiscal year 2012. There were no options exercised during fiscal year 2013 or fiscal year 2012. As of December 28, 2013 there is no remaining unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to the unvested portion of stock options issued under the Supplemental Stock Plan.

 

EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

 

Under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), shares of the Company's common stock may be purchased at six-month intervals at 85% of the lower of the fair market value on the first day of the enrollment period or on the last day of each six-month period over the subsequent two years. Employees may purchase shares through a payroll deduction program having a value not exceeding 15% of their gross compensation during an offering period. During both fiscal years 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized net expense of $13,000 in connection with FASB ASC 718 associated with the ESPP.

 

On June 14, 2013, the stockholders of the Company approved amendments to the ESPP. The amendments to the Plan include the following: (1) an extension of the ESPP term from June 8, 2014 to June 14, 2023; and (2) an increase in the maximum number of shares of Common Stock that may be issued under the ESPP from 372,209 shares to 622,209 shares.

 

4. SUPPLEMENTAL BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION

 

Accrued payroll, bonuses and related expenses and Other accrued liabilities consist of the following (amounts in thousands):

 

   December 28, 2013   December 29, 2012 
         
Accrued payroll, bonuses and related expenses          
Accrued payroll  $1,308   $1,395 
Accrued bonuses   1,774    1,721 
Accrued payroll taxes   580    558 
Other   587    329 
   $4,249   $4,003 
           
Other accrued liabilities          
Sales and value-added taxes payable  $889   $871 
Other   742    938 
   $1,631   $1,809 

 

5. BUSINESS SEGMENTS, MAJOR CUSTOMERS AND SIGNIFICANT GROUP CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK

 

The Company identifies its segments based on the way management organizes the Company to assess performance and make operating decisions regarding the allocation of resources. In accordance with the criteria in FASB ASC 280 "Segment Reporting ," the Company has concluded it has two reportable segments: the North America segment and the EMEA segment. The North America segment is comprised of three operating segments (Strategy, North America Cable and Broadband, North America Telecom), which are aggregated into one reportable segment based on the similarity of their economic characteristics. The EMEA segment is a single reportable, operating segment that encompasses the Company's operational, technology and software consulting services outside of North America. Both reportable segments offer management consulting, custom developed software, and technical services.

 

Management evaluates segment performance based upon income (loss) from operations, excluding share-based compensation (benefits), depreciation and intangibles amortization. There were no inter-segment revenues during fiscal years 2013 and 2012. In addition, in its administrative division, entitled "Not Allocated to Segments," the Company accounts for non-operating activity and the costs of providing corporate and other administrative services to all the segments. Summarized financial information concerning the Company's reportable segments is shown in the following table (amounts in thousands):

 

   North
America
   EMEA   Not Allocated
to Segments
   Total 
As of and for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013:                    
Revenues  $34,759   $20,612        $55,371 
Income (loss) from operations   8,352    4,923   $(15,217)   (1,942)
Interest income             4    4 
Income (loss) before income tax provision   8,352    4,923    (15,213)   (1,938)
Depreciation and amortization             670    670 
Total assets  $4,894   $6,822   $25,108   $36,824 
                     
As of and for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012:                    
Revenues  $38,283   $14,726        $53,009 
Income (loss) from operations   10,374    2,677   $(14,148)   (1,097)
Interest income             6    6 
Income (loss) before income tax provision   10,374    2,677    (14,132)   (1,081)
Depreciation and amortization             767    767 
Total assets  $7,519   $5,243   $22,554   $35,316 

 

Segment assets, regularly reviewed by management as part of its overall assessment of the segments' performance, include both billed and unbilled trade accounts receivable, net of allowances, and certain other assets, if applicable. Assets not assigned to segments include cash and cash equivalents, current and non-current investments, property and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets and deferred tax assets, excluding deferred tax assets recognized on accounts receivable reserves, which are assigned to their segments.

 

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In accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 280-10, revenues earned in the United States and internationally based on the location where the services are performed are shown in the following table (amounts in thousands):

 

   Revenues   Loss Before Income Tax
Provision
 
   Fiscal Year
2013
   Fiscal Year
2012
   Fiscal Year
2013
   Fiscal Year
2012
 
United States  $32,845   $36,789   $(1,150)  $(750)
International:                    
United Kingdom   20,464    13,344    (716)   (272)
Other   2,062    2,876    (72)   (59)
Total  $55,371   $53,009   $(1,938)  $(1,081)

 

Major customers in terms of significance to Cartesian's revenues (i.e. in excess of 10% of revenues) for fiscal years 2013 and 2012 and accounts receivable as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012 were as follows (amounts in thousands):

 

   Revenues 
   Fiscal Year 2013   Fiscal Year 2012 
   North
America
   EMEA   North
America
   EMEA 
Customer A  $12,014        $14,363      
Customer B  $829   $9,890   $23   $3,559 
Customer C  $6,347        $5,860      
Customer D  $5,329        $6,675      

 

   Accounts Receivable 
   December 28,
2013
   December 29,
2012
 
Customer A  $1,756   $2,679 
Customer B  $4,056   $1,289 
Customer C  $565   $1,085 
Customer D  $595   $1,314 

 

Revenues from the Company's ten most significant customers accounted for approximately 83% and 82% of revenues in fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

Substantially all of Cartesian's receivables are obligations of companies in the communications, media and entertainment industries. The Company generally does not require collateral or other security on its accounts receivable. The credit risk on these accounts is controlled through credit approvals, limits and monitoring procedures. The Company records bad debt expense based on judgment about the anticipated default rate on receivables owed to Cartesian at the end of the reporting period. That judgment is based on the Company's uncollected account experience in prior years and the ongoing evaluation of the credit status of Cartesian's customers and the communications industry in general.

 

6. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

 

   December 28,
2013
   December 29,
2012
 
   (In thousands) 
Furniture and fixtures  $1,703   $1,620 
Software and computer equipment   5,289    4,974 
Leasehold improvements   1,537    1,410 
    8,529    8,004 
Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization   7,327    6,649 
   $1,202   $1,355 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense on property and equipment was $670,000 and $767,000 for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively.

 

7. INCOME TAXES

 

For fiscal years 2013 and 2012, the income tax benefit (provision) consists of the following (amounts in thousands):

 

   Fiscal
Year
2013
   Fiscal
Year
2012
 
Federal deferred tax expense, net  $(85)  $(102)
State deferred tax expense, net   (29)   (4)
           
Total  $(114)  $(106)

 

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The Company has reserved all of its domestic and foreign net deferred tax assets with a valuation allowance as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, in accordance with the provisions of FASB ASC 740 "Income Taxes." Realization of the deferred tax asset is dependent on generating sufficient income in future periods. In evaluating the ability to use its deferred tax assets, the Company considers all positive and negative evidence including the Company's past operating results, the existence of cumulative losses in the most recent fiscal year and the Company's forecast of future income. In determining future income, the Company is responsible for assumptions utilized including the amount of state, federal and international operating income, the reversal of temporary differences and the implementation of feasible and prudent tax planning strategies. These assumptions require significant judgment about the forecasts of future income and are consistent with the plans and estimates the Company is using to manage the underlying business.

  

The following is a reconciliation between the provision for income taxes and the amounts computed based on loss before income taxes at the statutory federal income tax rate (amounts in thousands):

 

   Fiscal Year 2013   Fiscal Year 2012 
   Amount   %   Amount   % 
Computed expected federal income tax benefit  $658    34.0   $368    34.0 
State income tax benefit, net of federal benefit   186    9.6    11    1.1 
Rate differential on foreign operations   174    8.9    (76)   (7.1)
Forfeited vested stock options   (211)   (10.9)   (460)   (42.5)
Adjustment to estimated tax loss carryforward   (1,734)   (89.6)   (4)   (0.4)
Change in statutory and applicable tax rates   771    39.8    (1,845)   (170.7)
Non-deductible expenses   (62)   (3.2)   (73)   (6.8)
Other   (5)   (0.2)   (12)   (1.0)
Change in valuation allowance   109    5.7    1,985    183.6 
Total  $(114)   (5.9)  $(106)   (9.8)

  

The significant components of deferred income tax assets and the related balance sheet classifications, as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, are as follows (amounts in thousands):

 

   December 28,
2013
   December 29,
2012
 
Current deferred tax assets (liabilities):          
Accounts receivable  $45   $68 
Accrued expenses   109    61 
Valuation allowance   (154)   (129)
Current deferred tax asset  $-   $- 
           
Non-current deferred tax assets (liabilities):          
Goodwill and intangible assets  $4,811   $6,437 
Share-based compensation expense   803    856 
Net operating loss carryforward   24,265    22,842 
Other   480    458 
Foreign tax credit carryforward   1,006    1,006 
Valuation allowance   (31,951)   (32,071)
           
Non-current deferred tax liabilities  $(586)  $(472)

 

The federal net operating loss carryforward as of December 28, 2013 is scheduled to expire as follows (amounts in thousands):

 

   Amount   Year 
  $1,640    2015 
    5,602    2023 
    9,094    2024 
    7,432    2025 
    9,854    2026 
    5,152    2027 
    1,637    2028 
    3,279    2030 
    4,676    2031 
    4,798    2032 
    7,426    2033 
Total  $60,590      

 

29
 

 

As of December 28, 2013, the Company has a deferred tax asset of $2.1 million related to various state net operating loss carryforwards. These net operating losses expire at various times between 2014 and 2033. In addition, the Company has a deferred tax asset of $1.5 million related to foreign net operating loss carryforwards as of December 28, 2013 that have no expiration date. As of December 28, 2013, the Company has net of foreign tax credits of $1.0 million. If unutilized, the expiration of these foreign tax credits is $317,000 and $689,000 in fiscal years 2018 and 2019, respectively. The Company has not provided deferred taxes on undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries, because it is the Company's intention to reinvest these earnings indefinitely. The determination of the amount of deferred taxes related to investments in foreign subsidiaries that is essentially permanent in nature is not practicable.

 

The Company analyzes its uncertain tax positions pursuant to the provisions of FASB ASC 740 "Income Taxes." ASC 740 prescribes a two-step process to determine the amount of tax benefit to be recognized. First, the tax position must be evaluated to determine the likelihood that it will be sustained based on its technical merit. If the tax position is deemed "more-likely-than-not" to be sustained, the tax position is then assessed to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. The amount of the benefit that may be recognized is the largest amount that has a greater than 50 percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement with the taxing authority. Tax positions that previously failed to meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be recognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is met. Previously recognized tax positions that no longer meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold should be derecognized in the first subsequent financial reporting period in which that threshold is no longer met.

 

As of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, the Company had no recorded liability for unrecognized tax benefits.

 

The Company or one of its subsidiaries files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and various state and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2000. As of December 28, 2013, the Company has no income tax examinations in process.

 

8. LEASE COMMITMENTS

 

The Company leases office facilities, computer equipment and office furniture under various operating leases expiring at various dates through July 2019.

 

Following is a summary of future minimum payments under operating leases that have initial or remaining non-cancellable lease terms at December 28, 2013 (amounts in thousands):

 

Fiscal Year  Operating
Leases
 
2014  $1,590 
2015   1,546 
2016   600 
2017   435 
2018   335 
Thereafter   100 
Total minimum lease payments   4,606 
Future minimum rentals to be received under non-cancellable subleases   (364)
Minimum lease payments net of amounts to be received under subleases  $4,242 

 

Total rental expense, net of subtenant rents received, was approximately $1,106,000 and $1,327,000 for fiscal years 2013 and 2012, respectively, and was recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company recorded $202,000 and $121,000, respectively, in rental income from subtenants during fiscal years 2013 and 2012. Rents received from subtenants are recorded as an offset to rental expense.

 

9. LETTERS OF CREDIT

 

In connection with the leasing of office space, the Company provides security deposits in the form of two irrevocable letters of credit with financial institutions for the benefit of the respective landlords. As of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, the required, total collateral amount was $102,000 and $144,000, respectively. The collateral deposited for these letters of credit is included in "Other Noncurrent Assets" on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012. No obligation has been recorded in connection with the letters of credit on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012.

 

10. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

On January 10, 2012, Richard P. Nespola, the Company’s former chief executive officer, former chairman of the board and a former member of the Company’s Board of Directors, filed an action, Richard P. Nespola v. The Management Network Group, Inc., against the Company with the American Arbitration Association. In the action, Mr. Nespola claims, among other things, that the Company breached his employment agreement and an implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing by: (i) improperly deciding not to renew his employment agreement, and (ii) subsequently deciding to terminate his employment for cause. Mr. Nespola seeks in excess of $1.6 million in damages plus attorneys’ fees and costs.

 

On March 3, 2014, the arbitrator issued an interim award, finding that Mr. Nespola's employment was terminated without cause and that Mr. Nespola is entitled to severance under his employment agreement. In the second phase of the proceedings, the arbitrator will rule on Mr. Nespola's claim for damages, attorneys' fees and costs based upon the interim award and the Company's claim for certain attorneys' fees and costs. Based on the interim ruling, the Company believes it is probable that a liability exists for contractual severance, attorneys' fees and costs at December 28, 2013 related to this action. The Company has recorded a liability of $1.5 million in Accrued Severance Liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 28, 2013, for the amount of severance which may be payable under the terms of Mr. Nespola’s employment agreement. The Company has not recorded a liability relating to any amounts that may be awarded to Mr. Nespola in the arbitration with respect to his attorneys’ fees and costs because such amounts are not currently reasonably estimable. The Company is unable to reasonably estimate such amounts because the Company does not have information regarding the amount of attorneys' fees and costs incurred by Mr. Nespola or whether such fees or costs would be determined to be reasonable and because the amount of any award is subject to the determination of the arbitrator after further proceedings. As a result, the amount of any award granted by the arbitrator could be materially higher than the liability recorded.

 

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In addition, the Company may become involved in various legal and administrative actions arising in the normal course of business. These could include actions brought by taxing authorities challenging the employment status of consultants utilized by the Company. In addition, future customer bankruptcies could result in additional claims on collected balances for professional services near the bankruptcy filing date. When management has determined that an asset has been impaired or a liability had been incurred related to an action, claim or assessment and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated, the Company will record a liability for such estimated loss in the appropriate accounting period. The resolution of any of such actions, claims, or the matters described above may have an impact on the financial results for the period in which they occur.

 

During fiscal year 2012, the Company renewed a purchase agreement, committing to purchase a minimum of $285,000 in computer software over a three year period ending in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. As of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively, the Company had obligations of $119,000 and $214,000 remaining under this commitment.

  

11. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN

 

The Company offers defined contribution plans to eligible employees. Such employees may contribute a percentage of their annual compensation in accordance with the plans guidelines. The plans provide for Company contributions that are subject to maximum limitations as defined by the plans. Company contributions to its defined contribution plans totaled $1,197,000 and $955,000 in the years ended December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively.

 

12. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

Arbitration with Former Executive

 

As previously disclosed, Richard P. Nespola, the Company’s former chief executive officer, former chairman of the board and a former member of the Company’s Board of Directors, filed an action Richard P. Nespola v. The Management Network Group, Inc. , against the Company with the American Arbitration Association. On March 3, 2014, the arbitrator in the action issued an interim award, finding that Mr. Nespola's employment was terminated without cause and that Mr. Nespola is entitled to severance under his employment agreement. In the second phase of the proceedings, the arbitrator will rule on Mr. Nespola's claim for damages, attorneys' fees and costs based upon the interim award and the Company's claim for certain attorneys' fees and costs. Based on the interim ruling, the Company believes it is probable that a liability exists for contractual severance, attorneys' fees and costs at December 28, 2013 related to this action. The Company has recorded a liability of $1.5 million in Accrued Severance Liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 28, 2013, for the amount of severance which may be payable under the terms of Mr. Nespola’s employment agreement. See Note 10, Commitments and Contingencies.

 

Common Stock Repurchase Program

 

On February 27, 2014, the Company announced that its Board of Directors had approved a common stock repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to $2 million of Company common stock through June 30, 2015. Under the program, repurchases may be made by the Company from time to time in the open market or through privately negotiated transactions depending on market conditions, share price and other factors. The stock repurchase program may be modified or discontinued at any time by the Board of Directors. The Company expects to fund repurchases through cash on hand, future cash flow from operations and future borrowings. In order to facilitate repurchases, the Company may enter into a Rule 10b5-1 plan, which permits stock repurchases when the Company might otherwise be precluded from doing so under insider trading laws or because of self-imposed trading blackout period. 

 

Equity Awards

 

On March 10, 2014, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company granted performance-based non-vested share awards for a total of 40,000 shares of common stock under the 1998 Plan to one executive officer and one employee of the Company. All 40,000 non-vested shares have a grant date fair value of $3.93. The first potential vesting date is the Company's earnings release date for its 2015 first fiscal quarter and each subsequent potential vesting date is each of the Company's quarterly earnings release dates thereafter through the release date for the first quarter of 2017. Shares not vested as of the release date for the first quarter of 2017 are forfeited. Except for termination of employment in certain circumstances following a change of control, the unvested portion of an award is forfeited upon any termination of employment. Under the terms of the awards, vesting is partially accelerated and each award is converted to a time-vested award upon a change of control of the Company. The holders of shares of non-vested share awards have all of the rights of stockholders of the Company, including the right to receive dividends and to vote the shares, until the shares are forfeited to the Company.

 

On March 10, 2014, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company granted service-based non-vested share awards for a total of 81,000 shares of common stock and stock options exercisable for 50,000 shares of common stock under the 1998 Plan to various employees of the Company. The non-vested shares vest solely based on employee service. All 81,000 non-vested shares have a grant date fair value of $3.93 and will cliff vest after a one-year service period that commenced on the date of grant. The 50,000 stock options vest over a four year period and have an exercise price of $3.93.

 

On March 11, 2014, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of the Company granted stock options exercisable for 20,000 shares of common stock under the 1998 Plan to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company. The 20,000 stock options vest over a one year period and have an exercise price of $4.12.

 

Strategic Alliance and Investment by Elutions, Inc.

 

On February 25, 2014, the Company entered into an Investment Agreement with Elutions, Inc. ("Elutions") , a provider of operational business intelligence solutions. Under the Investment Agreement, the Company agreed to issue and sell shares of common stock to Elutions and to issue stock purchase warrants to Elutions, and the parties agreed that a subsidiary of Elutions would loan funds to a subsidiary of the Company. On March 18, 2014, the Company and Elutions completed the closing (the "Closing") of the transactions contemplated under the Investment Agreement.

 

At the Closing, (a) the Company issued and sold 609,756 shares of common stock to Elutions at a price of $3.28 per share, for an aggregate purchase price of $2,000,000, (b) the Company's subsidiary, Cartesian Limited, issued a non-convertible promissory note (the "Note") payable to Elutions Capital Ventures S.à r.l, a subsidiary of Elutions ("Elutions – Europe"), in an aggregate original principal amount of US$3,268,664, payable in equivalent Great Britain Pounds Sterling, and the Company issued to Elutions a common stock Purchase Warrant (Tracking) related to the Note to purchase 996,544 shares of Common Stock of the Company for $3.28 per share (the "Tracking Warrant"), and (c) the Company issued to Elutions a Common Stock Purchase Warrant (Commercial Incentive) pursuant to which Elutions can earn the right to purchase up to 3,400,000 shares of common stock of the Company at prices ranging from $3.85 per share to $4.85 per share based on the Company's financial results related to certain customer contracts obtained jointly by the Company and Elutions (the "Incentive Warrant"). The Incentive Warrant and the Tracking Warrant are referred to collectively below as the "Warrants".

 

31
 

 

The following provisions of the Investment Agreement and exhibits are subject to the Company obtaining stockholder approval of these provisions in accordance with the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market, LLC ("Nasdaq"), to the extent required by Nasdaq rules: (i) exercise of the Incentive Warrant, (ii) the effectiveness of the economic anti-dilution provisions in the Warrants and (iii) the right of Elutions to purchase additional securities of the Company, in connection with future issuances by the Company, pursuant to purchase rights in the Warrants and the preemptive rights granted to Elutions in the Investment Agreement. The Company has agreed in the Investment Agreement to present a proposal for the approval of these provisions to the stockholders at the Company's 2014 annual meeting of stockholders, currently scheduled for June 2014.

 

The Note issued at Closing by the Company's subsidiary, Cartesian Limited, in the aggregate original principal amount of US$3,268,664, bears interest at the rate of 7.825% per year, payable monthly, and matures on March 18, 2019. The Note may be called by the holder at any time and may be prepaid by Cartesian Limited after 18 months if the trading price of the Company's common stock exceeds $5.50 per share for a specified period of time and may be prepaid by Cartesian Limited at any time after 30 months. The obligations of Cartesian Limited under the Note are guaranteed by the Company pursuant to a Guaranty entered into by the Company at Closing and are secured by certain assets relating to client contracts involving Elutions pursuant to a Security Agreement entered into by the Company and Elutions at Closing. Amounts outstanding under the Note may be applied to the exercise price of the Company's common stock under the Tracking Warrant. Upon occurrence of an event of default, the Note would bear interest at 9.825% per year and could be declared immediately due and payable.

 

Under the Tracking Warrant, Elutions may acquire 996,544 shares of common stock of the Company for $3.28 per share at any time and from time to time through March 18, 2020. The Company may require Elutions to exercise or forfeit the Tracking Warrant at any time (i) after 18 months if the trading price of the Company's common stock exceeds $5.50 per share for a specified period of time and the Company meets certain cash and working capital thresholds and (ii) after 30 months if the Company meets certain cash and working capital thresholds. To the extent amounts are outstanding under the Note, Elutions and the Company (if the Company is requiring exercise of the Tracking Warrant by Elutions as described above) may offset such amounts against the exercise price for shares of common stock acquired under the Tracking Warrant.

 

Under the Incentive Warrant, Elutions can earn the right to purchase up to 3,400,000 shares of common stock of the Company at prices ranging from $3.85 per share to $4.85 per share based on the Company's financial results as described below. The Incentive Warrant expires on March 18, 2020. The right to acquire shares pursuant to the Warrant may be earned by Elutions based upon certain revenues or cash received by the Company under customer contracts acquired jointly with Elutions through a five year period from March 18, 2014 until March 18, 2019. The number of shares of common stock that may be acquired under the Incentive Warrant is determined by dividing four percent of such revenues and cash recognized or received by the Company in each year during the five year period by the warrant exercise price per share for that year. In addition, the right to acquire shares may vest at the end of the five-year period for contracts that have been signed and with respect to which revenues are expected to be earned or cash is expected to be received after the end of the five-year period. The exercise price increases $0.25 per year for shares earned in each year of the five-year period and is payable in cash, provided that Elutions has the right to utilize a cashless exercise procedure to acquire shares of common stock under the Incentive Warrant for a limited period of time each year after the right to acquire such shares vests. Any shares utilized to exercise such cashless exercise right will not reduce the maximum number of shares that may be earned and acquired under the Incentive Warrant.

 

Each of the Warrants has economic anti-dilution protection provisions which provide for adjustments in the Warrants in the event of issuances or deemed issuances of shares of common stock by the Company at a price less than market price at the time of issuance, subject to a number of exceptions. Each of the Warrants also permits Elutions (subject to certain exceptions) to purchase shares in future equity offerings made by the Company on a pro rata basis to all stockholders, with such participation right based upon the maximum number of shares that may be purchased under the Warrant.

 

At Closing, the Company and Elutions entered into a Registration Rights Agreement (the "Registration Rights Agreement"), pursuant to which the Company has obligations to register for resale the shares of common stock issued under the Investment Agreement and the Warrants. Under the Registration Rights Agreement, the Company granted certain piggyback registration rights to Elutions and agreed to file and maintain a resale shelf registration statement for the benefit of Elutions.

 

The Investment Agreement and the agreements and instruments described above are part of a strategic relationship between the parties, pursuant to which the parties intend to work together to market, sell and implement certain products, solutions and services developed by Elutions. As part of the strategic relationship, the parties entered into certain commercial framework documents, including a Market Development Agreement and related Inventory Agreement, on February 25, 2014 and intend to enter into client agreements and bilateral agreements from time to time in the ordinary course of business outlining the terms of the parties' commercial relationship with respect to business development and providing products, solutions and services to clients. The parties have agreed to a term of five years, with automatic two-year renewals unless notice is given, and subject to termination rights in certain events. In the strategic relationship, the Company will work with Elutions with respect to the marketing, sale, installation and implementation of Elutions' "Maestro" products, solutions and services currently developed or developed in the future, including, smart building, data center infrastructure management, maestro asset management and other products, solutions or services which enable the monitoring, analysis and control automation of assets and systems with the purpose of reducing energy consumption and other operational expenses. The Company has agreed to restrictions during the term and for two years thereafter in regard to solutions or services that are substantially similar to or competitive with certain solutions or services of Elutions, and each party has agreed not to hire the other party's employees during the same period.

 

The parties have agreed on a general framework for pursuing, entering into and implementing customer contracts, which includes providing for joint and separate client pursuits and marketing on an initial and ongoing basis, procedures for contracting with clients, procedures for interface between the parties, limited exclusivity requirements of Elutions relating to identified prospects and clients of the Company, intellectual property rights of Elutions to its products and related restrictions, restrictions regarding use of confidential information, limitations on liability of the parties, independent contractor status of the parties, limitations on publicity by the parties, and dispute resolution, including arbitration. The parties have also agreed to a framework for certain initial inventory orders and reorders by the Company from Elutions, and related commitments, timing and pricing procedures, when the Company is the prime contracting party under certain client statements of work. The parties intend that specific pricing and allocation provisions and other specific commercial terms will be included in individual client statements of work, subject to certain gross margin requirements for the benefit of the Company.

 

32
 

 

ITEM 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

 

None.

 

ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedure

 

The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms; and (ii) accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its principal executive and financial officer to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. We have established a Disclosure Committee, consisting of certain members of management, to assist in this evaluation. The Disclosure Committee meets regularly on a quarterly basis, and as needed.

 

A review and evaluation was performed by our management, including the person serving as our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer (the "CEO and CFO"), of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon this evaluation, the Company's CEO and CFO has concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 28, 2013.

 

Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

The management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company. With the participation of our CEO and CFO, our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the framework and criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued in 1992 by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, our management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 28, 2013.

 

This annual report does not include an attestation report of the Company's independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Our internal control over financial reporting was not subject to attestation by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm pursuant to applicable statutes and SEC rules that require the Company to provide only management's report in this annual report.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the fourth fiscal quarter ended December 28, 2013 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

ITEM 9B.OTHER INFORMATION

 

The Company has entered into indemnification agreements in the form set forth in Exhibit 10.2 to this Form 10-K with its directors and officers and intends to enter into indemnification agreements with future directors and officers of the Company. The indemnification agreements provide for indemnification to the fullest extent permitted by law and for advancement of expenses. The Company has entered into indemnification agreements with the following current directors and officers of the Company: Peter H. Woodward, Chairman of the Board of Directors; Robert J. Currey, Director; A. Reza Jafari, Director; Micky K. Woo, Director; Donald E. Klumb, Director, Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chief Financial Officer; Susan M. Simmons, Chief Operating Officer; James R. Baker, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Information Officer; and Thurston Cromwell, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary.

 

PART III

 

ITEM 10.DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 

The Company's definitive Proxy Statement for its 2014 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "Proxy Statement") contains, under the captions "Election of Directors," "Corporate Governance," "Executive Officers" and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" the information required by Item 10 of this Form 10-K, which information is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

The Proxy Statement contains under the captions "Election of Directors," "Non-Employee Director Compensation” and "Executive Compensation," the information required by Item 11 of this Form 10-K, which information is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

 

The Proxy Statement contains under the captions "Security Ownership of Management and Certain Beneficial Owners" certain of the information required by Item 12 of this Form 10-K, which information is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

The following table provides information as of December 28, 2013 with respect to shares of the Company’s common stock that may be issued under the Company’s equity compensation plans:

 

33
 

 

EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION

 

   (a)
Number of
Securities to be Issued
Upon Exercise of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights
   (b)
Weighted Average
Exercise Price of
Outstanding Options,
Warrants and Rights
   (c)
Number of Securities
Remaining Available
for Future Issuance
Under Equity
Compensation
Plans (Excluding Securities
Reflected in Column (a))
 
PLANS APPROVED BY SECURITY HOLDERS               
- 1998 Equity Incentive Plan   265,093   $10.50    1,313,603 
- Employee Stock Purchase Plan             375,880(1)
PLANS NOT APPROVED BY SECURITY HOLDERS               
- 2000 Supplemental Stock Plan   82,600   $11.33    - 

 

(1)Shares that may be purchased under the 1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, including shares subject to purchase during the current purchase period

 

For an additional discussion of our equity compensation plans, see Item 8, "Consolidated Financial Statements," Note 3, "Share-Based Compensation."

 

ITEM 13.CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

 

The Proxy Statement contains under the captions "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" and "Election of Directors" the information required by Item 13 of this Form 10-K, which information is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

 

The Proxy Statement contains under the caption "Ratification of Appointment of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" the information required by Item 14 of this Form 10-K, which information is incorporated herein by this reference.

 

PART IV

 

ITEM 15.EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

 

(a) The following documents are filed or furnished as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K:

 

(1) The response to this portion of Item 15 is set forth in Item 8 of Part II hereof.

 

(2) Schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under the related instructions or are inapplicable and therefore have been omitted.

  

(3) Exhibits. See accompanying Index to Exhibits. Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company has filed, furnished or incorporated by reference the documents referenced in the accompanying Index to Exhibits as exhibits to this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The documents include agreements to which the Company is a party or has a beneficial interest. The agreements have been filed to provide investors with information regarding their respective terms. The agreements are not intended to provide any other factual information about the Company or its business or operations. In particular, the assertions embodied in any representations, warranties and covenants contained in the agreements may be subject to qualifications with respect to knowledge and materiality different from those applicable to investors and may be qualified by information in confidential disclosure schedules not included with the exhibits. These disclosure schedules may contain information that modifies, qualifies and creates exceptions to the representations, warranties and covenants set forth in the agreements. Moreover, certain representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements may have been used for the purpose of allocating risk between the parties, rather than establishing matters as facts. In addition, information concerning the subject matter of the representations, warranties and covenants may have changed after the date of the respective agreement, which subsequent information may or may not be fully reflected in the Company's public disclosures. Accordingly, investors should not rely on the representations, warranties and covenants in the agreements as characterizations of the actual state of facts about the Company or its business or operations on the date hereof. The Company will furnish to any stockholder, upon written request, any exhibit listed in the accompanying Index to Exhibits upon payment by such stockholder of the Company's reasonable expenses in furnishing any such exhibit.

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this Report on Form 10-K to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  THE MANAGEMENT NETWORK GROUP, INC.  
     
  By:   /s/ DONALD E. KLUMB  
    DONALD E. KLUMB 
    CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PRESIDENT, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, AND DIRECTOR

 

Date: March 28, 2014

 

POWER OF ATTORNEY

 

KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints Donald E. Klumb as his attorney-in-fact, with full power of substitution, for him or her in any and all capacities, to sign any and all amendments to this Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming our signatures as they may be signed by our said attorney to any and all amendments to said Report.

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report on Form 10-K has been signed by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated:

 

Signature   Title   Date
         
/s/ DONALD E. KLUMB   Chief Executive Officer (Principal executive officer),   March 28, 2014
Donald E. Klumb  

President, Chief Financial Officer (Principal financial officer

and principal accounting officer), and Director

   
         
/s/ PETER H. WOODWARD   Chairman of the Board   March 28, 2014
Peter H. Woodward        
         
/s/ ROBERT J. CURREY   Director    March 28, 2014
Robert J. Currey        
         
/s/ A. REZA JAFARI   Director    March 28, 2014
A. Reza Jafari        
         
/s/ MICKY K. WOO   Director    March 28, 2014
Micky K. Woo        
         

 

35
 

 

INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

The following is a list of exhibits filed or furnished as part of this report.

 

Exhibit    
Number   Description of Document
3.1   Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 19, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 3.1.
     
3.2   Amended and Restated Bylaws, filed as Exhibit 3.3 to the Company’s Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 12, 2012, are incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 3.2.
     
4.1   Specimen Common Stock Certificate.
     
4.2   Registration Rights Agreement, dated February 12, 1998, among the Company and certain holders of the Company's common stock (the "Registration Rights Agreement"), filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-1 originally filed September 20, 1999 (Registration No. 333-87383), as amended (the "1999 S-1 Registration Statement"), is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.2.
     
4.3   Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated as of July 19, 2010, by and between the Company and Computershare Trust Company N.A., filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 19, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.3.
     
4.4   Form of Rights Certificate, filed as Exhibit B to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 19, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.4.
     
4.5   Amendment No. 1, dated February 25, 2014, to the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated as of July 19, 2010, by and between the Company and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 26, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.5.
     
4.6   Secured Loan Note Deed dated March 18, 2014, issued by Cartesian Limited to Elutions Capital Ventures S.à r.l in the principal amount of US$3,268,664, filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.6.
     
4.7   Common Stock Purchase Warrant (Commercial Incentive) dated March 18, 2014, between the Company and Elutions, Inc., filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.7.
     
4.8   Common Stock Purchase Warrant (Tracking) dated March 18, 2014, between the Company and Elutions, Inc., filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.8.
     
4.9   Registration Rights Agreement dated March 18, 2014 between the Company and Elutions, Inc., filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 4.9.
     
10.1   Registration Rights Agreement, dated February 12, 1998. (See Exhibit 4.2).
     
10.2   Form of Indemnification Agreement between the Company and each of its Directors and Officers, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the 1999 S-1 Registration Statement, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.2.(1)
     
10.3   Amended and Restated 1998 Equity Incentive Plan, filed as Appendix A to the definitive proxy statement of the Company filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 21, 2010, and the Form of Agreements thereunder, filed in Exhibit 10.3 to the 1999 S-1 Registration Statement, are incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.3.(1)
     
10.4   Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended and restated effective June 14, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 19, 2013, and the Form of Agreements thereunder, filed in Exhibit 10.4 to the 1999 S-1 Registration Statement, are incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.4.(1)
     
10.5   2000 Supplemental Stock Plan and Form of Agreements thereunder, filed as Exhibit 10.16 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2000, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.5.(1)
     
10.6   Employment Agreement between the Company and Richard Nespola, dated January 5, 2004, filed as Exhibit 10.19 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 3, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.6.(1)
     
10.7   Sublease between Best Doctors, Inc. and Cambridge Strategic Management Group Inc. (formerly TMNG Strategy, Inc.), dated December 30, 2004, filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2005, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.7.

 

36
 

 

10.8   Third Amended Lease Agreement between NewTower Trust Company Multi-Employer Property Trust and the Company, dated August 30, 2005, filed as Exhibit 10.10 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.8.
     
10.9   Third Additional Space Commencement Date Agreement between NewTower Trust Company Multi-Employer Property Trust and the Company, dated February 28, 2006, filed as Exhibit 10.9 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 30, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.9.
     
10.10   Lease Agreement between Cartesian Limited and Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (U.K.) Limited, dated November 23, 2000, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2007, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.10.
     
10.11   Fourth Amendment to Lease between NewTower Trust Company Multi-Employer Property Trust and the Company, dated July 10, 2007, filed as Exhibit 10.16 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 27, 2007, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.11.
     
10.12   Fifth Amendment to Lease between NewTower Trust Company Multi-Employer Property Trust and the Company, dated May 19, 2008, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 28, 2008, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.12.
     
10.13   Registration Rights Agreement, dated March 18, 2014. (See Exhibit 4.9).
     
10.14   Lease between Two Financial Center, LLC and the Company, dated August 16, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 2, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.14.
     
10.15   Deed of Variation of the lease between EPO (Norman) Limited, EPO (Norman 2) Limited and the Company, dated September 30, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 2, 2010, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.15.
     
10.16   The Management Network Group, Inc. 2012 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 28, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.16.(1)
     
10.17   Employment Agreement between Cambridge Strategic Management Group, Inc. and Susan Simmons dated October 20, 2006, filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.17.(1)
     
10.18   Settlement Agreement dated January 25, 2012, by and among the Company, Norman H. Pessin, Sandra F. Pessin, MHW Partners, L.P., MHW Capital, LLC, MHW Capital Management, LLC and Peter H. Woodward, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on January 26, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.18.
     
10.19   Employment Agreement between the Company and Donald E. Klumb dated February 3, 2012, filed as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.19.(1)
     
10.20   Employment Agreement between the Company and Micky K. Woo dated January 25, 2012, , filed as Exhibit 10.21 to the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.20.(1)
     
10.21   CSMG 2012 SVP/Managing Director Bonus Plan, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.21.(1)
     
10.22   Form of Restricted Stock Award Agreement, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 10, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.22.(1)
     
10.23   Employment Agreement between the Company and James R. Baker dated January 1, 2010, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 30, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.23.(1)
     
10.24   Sixth Amendment to Lease between MEPT Lighton Plaza LLC and the Company, dated February 15, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 29, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.24.
     
10.25   First Amendment to Lease between SG 2007-FL14 NJOP Holdings LLC and the Company, dated June 19, 2013, filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 28, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.25.
     
10.26   Investment Agreement, dated February 25, 2014, by and between the Company and Elutions, Inc., filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 26, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.2 6.
     
10.27   Guaranty dated March 18, 2014 issued by the Company in favor of Elutions Capital Ventures S.à r.l., filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.27.
     
10.28   Security Agreement dated March 18, 2014 between the Company and Elutions Capital Ventures S.à r.l., filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 19, 2014, is incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit 10.28.
     
10.29   Form of Restricted Stock Award.(1)

 

37
 

 

21.1   List of subsidiaries of the Company, prepared pursuant to Item 601(b)(21) of Regulation S-K, is attached to this Form 10-K as Exhibit 21.1.
     
23.1   Consent of independent registered public accounting firm is attached to this Form 10-K as Exhibit 23.1.
     
24.1   Power of attorney (see signature page).
     
31.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is attached to this Form 10-K as Exhibit 31.1.
     
32.1   Certification furnished pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is attached to this Form 10-K as Exhibit 32.1.
     
101   101.INS XBRL Instance Document
     
    101.SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
     
    101.CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
     
    101.DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
     
    101.LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
     
    101.PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

 

  (1)  Management contracts and compensatory plans and arrangements required to be filed as Exhibits pursuant to Item 15 of this report.

 

38