Press Release

Smaller firms in South East to get help in making the most of IT

1st November 2007

A free service to help smaller firms increase their productivity and competitiveness through technology has been launched in the South East today by e-skills UK and the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA).

The South East Business IT Guide is designed to help businesses understand what technology is relevant to their organisation and support them in taking any necessary action. It covers topics ranging from developing a website, implementing security and investing in hardware and software, to using technology to enhance sales and customer relationships and manage communications.

Peter Waller, Head of Regional ICT, SEEDA, said:

"Our research reveals that almost two thirds (64%) of businesses in the South East believe the benefits from investing in IT and communications technology can be measured in financial terms. More than two thirds (68%) of firms agree that such technologies help to make people more productive. However, a quarter (25%) of companies is unsure about how technology could support the future development of their business, and 13% of smaller firms don’t know where to go for impartial advice.

"We are committed to driving the uptake of IT across the region and are delighted to be introducing the South East Business IT Guide. Smaller firms have so much to gain from the effective introduction of technology. The Guide will be available free of charge to all small businesses in the South East and we hope many will make use of it."

Karen Price, CEO, e-skills UK, the Sector Skills Council for IT and Telecoms, said:

"Technology can transform a small business. It has the power to improve efficiency, open up new markets and enhance customer service. But for many smaller firms it can be difficult to know where to start. Our research has found that many small businesses don’t know where to go for trusted and objective information about introducing and managing new technology. They can get lost in all the jargon; and they worry about resource and skills implications and what the business will do if the technology doesn’t work properly. In addition, they are unsure about how to plan for growth and changing needs.

"The Business IT Guide was developed by e-skills UK with employers for employers. It addresses these concerns and provides small companies with a user-friendly, accessible tool that enables them to make the most of technology for business success. We are delighted to be launching the Guide in partnership with SEEDA.

To access the South East Business IT Guide, go www.seeda.businessitguide.com