SME Case study 3 printed from the Technology Means Business web site
 

Turning information and communication technology into profit

     
Focus of study:
  E-commerce
Sector:
  Sales
Impact:
   Local & National
     
Understanding the technology is not so bad when you've got the right advice
 
Someone somewhere knows it all, the trick is taking advice from someone who knows what they are doing and can apply that expertise to you and your business. Adding to the bottom line without adding headaches or taking you away from your core business priorities.
 
A growing number of small to medium sized businesses have successfully implemented Information and Communication Technology (ICT) by using advisers with Technology means Business (TMB) accreditation. To become accredited, you need practical knowledge and experience of both ICT and what makes small to medium sized businesses work. The beauty of these advisers is that they can help you capitalise on your strengths and help you develop in any areas where you may not be as strong
 
Making the technology do what you and your business want
 
Understanding technology is not a problem for Chris Vick who runs a business-to-business Internet company called Local Link. The service Chris offers his clients enables them to put their entire catalogue online. Business buyers use the site to source a wide variety of services and products from local suppliers with a minimum of effort.
 
Chris needed a fresh approach to marketing his service to potential suppliers, and also needed to give something tangible to paying customers. Bob Meakes, an independent consultant with Technology Means Business accreditation, suggested a free listing service with a chargeable e-commerce version packed as an application - additional "plus-ins" being added year-on-year to improve functionality.
 
Chris is in no doubt that Bob's accreditation made all the difference. "They're not just techies," said Chris, "they have a background in business and technology: the theory is superb and what we've used so far is excellent."

Taking advice and getting online
 
 
Dean helped Steve identify the different types of visitor that would call on his website, and to develop his home page to appeal to these users in order to help them engage with Steve's website more easily. This empowered Steve to develop his business and, more importantly, this future business by regain ownership and understanding on maintenance, technical and content development
 
Dean explained, "As an experienced technical adviser and business helper, Technology Means Business has allowed me to develop my skills, and given me the badge to show potential clients that I am credible."
 
These are just two examples of how advisers with Technology Means Business accreditation have helped businesses to effectively use technology to gain competitive advantage.
 
Some of the information contained in this business and technology update, first appeared in the January 2001 issue of Professional Manager, in an article written by Brian Clegg.