Digital developments in the city
JUNE/JULY 2013
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Digital Connections
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Representing your interests
Colin Loveday, MD of 4GEE Scotland
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16|18 Inspiring connections
In this fast-paced modern business world, it has never been more important that business is well-connected. As Edinburgh Chamber continues to focus on the key strategic opportunities for businesses in this great city of ours, one of the key themes is the importance that today’s leaders place on digital connections. More than ever, innovation in digital connectivity will become paramount and, in this edition, we have enlisted our members’ opinions and insight on the importance and opportunity which it offers. In our Inspiring Leaders feature, Brendan Dick, BT Scotland, takes a look at the challenges and opportunities presented by the thirst for ever-faster communications. And in our cover feature, Colin Loveday, 4GEE Scotland, highlights how connectivity is consistently improving Edinburgh, and charts the city‘s key role in the development of technology. Digital Connectivity is now a critical success factor for all our members, both internally and externally they rely on the efficient and rapid transmission of information to keep them one step ahead of the opposition.
Introduction / contents New technology to revolutionise Edinburgh Airport Fighting back against the cyber criminals Edinburgh Chamber strengthens links with UK Government Developing digital capability to compete? John Lewis reaches the milestone of £1bn annual online sales Ask the expert Going international
19 60 seconds
24|25 Inspiring leaders 26|27 Digital Technology feature
37 In the spotlight
41 Get with IT/ Be the best
44 Getting started
47 New members
49 Partners in enterprise
50 Movers & shakers
Business Comment is an Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce publication. All editorial an d g en eral en qu iries: Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Tel: 0131 221 2999 email mayan.grace@edinburghchamber.co.uk Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Capital House, 2 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SU www.edinburghchamber.co.uk President: Alex Mcleod Chief Executive: Dave Birrell
David Birrell
chief executive
David.birrell@edinburghchamber.co.uk
EDITOR Mayan Grace, Tel: 0131 221 2971 Email: mayan.grace@edinburghchamber.co.uk P RODUCTION & DESIGN Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2385 www.distinctivepublishing.co.uk ADVERTISING Distinctive Publishing, 8th Floor, Aidan House, Sunderland Road, Gateshead NE8 3HU Tel: 0845 884 2343 john.neilson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk FEATURE EDITORS John Dean & Francis Griss deangriss@btinternet.com FRONT COVER IM AGE Studio montage DISCLAIM ER
Distinctive Publishing or Business Comment cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may occur, individual products or services advertised or late entries. No part of this publication may be reproduced or scanned without prior written permission of the publishers and Business Comment.
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Chambernews Edinburgh Chamber Golf Club going strong The Edinburgh Chamber Golf Club has been running now for well over 40 years.
New technology to revolutionise Edinburgh Airport Edinburgh Airport is seeking to revolutionise its passenger experience through the better use of technology. In a Scottish first, Scotland’s busiest airport met local technology companies and asked them to examine the passengers’ journey from car to plane and how technology could improve it. The event, organised in partnership with ScotlandIS, the trade body for the information and communications technologies industry was held at TechCube, a new space for technology start-ups in Edinburgh. John Watson, Edinburgh Airport’s Chief Commercial Officer, said: “One of our top priorities is to ensure our passengers have the best journey possible when they travel with us. This is from the minute they book their trip to boarding their flight.
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“We don’t have all the answers, so we’ve asked the experts to help us. We are always looking at efficient technology solutions and reviewing our current practices. This event allowed us to engage with local resources and gather new ideas.” * The Airport launched a free Wi-Fi service in April.The service is available in partnership with Virgin Atlantic Little Red and will allow passengers to benefit from internet access anywhere in the terminal and offer users two free hours of internet access per day and per device, whether on a mobile phone, laptop or tablet. The launch of free W-Fi came just days after the airport was named the best in Britain for passenger satisfaction, and one of the three best airports in Europe, at the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards for 2012. No other British airport appears in the European shortlist and this is the second year in a row that Edinburgh Airport has featured in the top three.
The club continues to have popular outings played on quality courses from springtime until the autumn with prizes awarded. It is a very friendly club where new members are made to feel very welcome and is an ideal networking opportunity. This year we have just concluded our first outing to the magnificent Kingsbarns golf course on a fantastic sunny day. We still have 4 fabulous outings to North Berwick West on 20th of June which will be set up for The Open Championship final qualifying, Muirfield on 6th of August, Dunbar on the 3rd of September and Carnoustie on the 16th of October - surely the greatest challenge of all the Open Rota Courses! Members can join for a £20 joining fee and we have negotiated discounted rates at these amazing courses. We are also running our 3rd Annual Golf Tournament on 18th of July the Marriott Dalmahoy Country Club. For further information contact the membership and events team on 0131 221 2999 or e-mail events@ edinburghchamber.co.uk or visit www.edinburghchamber.co.uk
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Multi-million pound scheme will transform Haymarket
Fighting back against the cyber criminals A voucher scheme which allows companies to apply for up to £5000 funding to improve their cyber security is to be extended. The news came as new research revealed that four out of five Scottish businesses are hit by cyber crime. The PwC and Infosecurity Europe poll said 80% of firms experienced a significant cyber security breach last year. The UK government said its Innovation Vouchers could help companies protect things such as financial information, websites and intellectual property. The survey, carried out on behalf of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills
EMS
(BIS), revealed that more businesses than ever face the threat of losing confidential information through cyber attacks, with breaches generally costing up to 6% of their turnover. It found the average cost of the worst security breach for small organisations was £35,000 to £65,000 and for large organisations was between £450,000 and £850,000. The research revealed 79% of Scottish businesses had experienced attacks by unauthorised outsiders (such as hacking), with 74% impacted by viruses or malicious software. Almost 60% experienced theft or fraud using computers. The Innovation Vouchers scheme, which is run by UK government agency the Technology Strategy Board, gives businesses the chance to bid for up to £5,000 from a £500,000 pot to improve their cyber security by bringing in outside expertise.
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A £200 million landmark development including hotels, offices and shops is coming to Edinburgh’s Haymarket. The company behind the scheme is construction firm Interserve which has formed a joint venture company with landowner, Tiger Developments, to progress the development next to Haymarket Railway Station in Edinburgh. Staycity has signed up for a 165-bed aparthotel, and the developers are looking to have further high quality hotels. Tesco has also signed up, as have food chains Prezzo and Pret A Manger. Work will start in the summer. The project has the potential to create up to 3,500 jobs in construction and within the development itself.
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AdVertoriAl
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Nicky Gold 07768 084844 / nicky.gold@brandaddition.com
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Representingyourinterests
Edinburgh Chamber strengthens links with UK Government Downing Street roundtable discussion Kinloch Anderson an Edinburgh of Chamber Commerce member accompanied fourteen British Chamber of Commerce members to Downing Street on the 2nd of May, to engage in an honest and open conversation with the Prime Minister about issues facing UK businesses. The meeting was an opportunity for Chambers of Commerce and their members to educate senior officials within government about the vital work being carried out by businesses every day. Themes for discussion centred on international trade and exports, and what else the government can do to support existing and potential exporting businesses. Deirdre Kinloch Anderson said: "It was an exceptional experience being at Number 10 itself. This was a great opportunity to be part of an active process towards a partnership between the Chambers of Commerce and the Government and thereby representing the interests of small and medium sized businesses.
It was the first time that such a Breakfast Meeting has taken place and I'm now looking forward to see how the outcome can actually support the small UK business community in the global market of today."
Business meeting with Doctor Vince Cable MP and Scottish Secretary Michael Moore MP Representative businesses across various sectors and sizes from the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce met with the UK Business Secretary Dr Vince Cable MP and Scottish Secretary Michael Moore MP on the 9th of May to discuss the specific challenges and opportunities of doing business in the capital. This initiative is another example of the Chamber's commitment to strengthening links with the UK Government. Dr Cable said: "It was good to attend such a productive event hosted by the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce to hear first hand the Chamber member's opportunities and challenges."Â
David Birrell, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive said: "We are delighted that the Business Secretary and the Scottish Secretary took the chance to gain a clearer understanding of the crucial factors affecting businesses in Edinburgh. There is no doubt that the last few years have been challenging across the UK but there are distinct regional differences and it was good to hear his responses to our members' concerns."
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Businessnews
Developing digital capability to compete? Every business needs to understand the transformational trends in IT Technology, which Gartner, a leading forecast group predicts will reshape the business landscape.
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These trends will prove a key source of competitive advantage for early movers and those who execute well. Examples are:
Personal Cloud - As services gain precedence over devices, the Cloud will emerge as the favoured hub for apps.
2014. Organisations may deliver mobile apps to employees via application stores in the same time frame.
Mobile device battles - As mobile devices devour the desktop market, consumerisation will drive tablets into firms.
Actionable Analytics - Cloud packaged with analytics and big data will be key to businesses.
Amidst this blizzard of change even the most experienced IT professionals are being superseded.
Internet - Mobile devices and computers will not be the only ones connected anymore, as we slowly see the rise of smart homes, wearable IT and the internet will be a big part of our future.
Strategic Big Data - the corporate data warehouse in a digital era shifts to a more open data model.
This enormous change has given rise to a challenge for Scottish business – where to find the digital IT talent?
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Enterprise App Stores - over 70 billion downloads a year may become the norm by
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In Edinburgh, several new tech companies are approaching this in a similar way. They are constantly stimulating small groups of their newer / younger staff by giving them the chance to deliver challenging IT projects, with more experienced but less technically able colleagues providing advice and support. The atmosphere is one where learning and sharing is actively fostered not just through the occasional IT course – though they are provided. Work is made play through a less formal atmosphere - games machines, table top football, beers after 5pm in the office, regular reasons to celebrate. Week long hackathons give staff the chance to create something they feel is important, a refreshing change to the day job – again nurturing creativity, giving people responsibility to try, and trusting they will deliver real value. With Friday all team lunches thrown in as free, firms are building tribes of IT professionals fiercely proud of the work they are doing and hungry to learn and do more. Those of you who need Digital talent, or want to innovate using new technologies one answer is to use University IT departments to help address the skills gap. Here at Napier University we can design scalable IT strategies, build prototypes, and/or operational digital capability to help grow your business. Help is also on hand to access public funds to significantly ease the costs of any initial IT project. Roger Ashworth, Edinburgh Napier University Email r.ashworth@napier.ac.uk Tel 0131 455 2946
ICT (Information and communication technology) employs more than 100,000 or 1 in 25 workers in the Scottish economy. The sector is forecast by Experian and e-skills to be one of the very fastest growing. Over the next five years, 40,000 new entrants will be sought into mainstream Scottish IT. There is also a big skills shortage in the Scottish computer games industry. At Edinburgh Napier University there has been strong growth in students studying computing with more than 300 graduating annually. Despite the difficult jobs outlook for young people, 88% of our IT graduates are employed within 6 months of completing their studies. In no small part this is down to the use of work based learning to ensure courses are aligned to the employment market. This has seen an emphasis on softer skills – like team work, project management, and more recently on commercial skills like understanding business models and entrepreneurship.
Nurturing talent has become key. At Outplay, the Dundee based computer games company, they have developed a ‘night shift’ of young IT students – who during busy periods are called upon to help under supervision – “sweating” in-house kit – giving students valuable work experience.
More companies are putting effort into student internships, as a way to promote their business, give students work experience and get an opportunity to assess possible recruits.
The battle for talent is fierce and if you are wishing to win business on the basis of superior technology the need to nurture your own IT team has never been greater.
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Chambernews John Lewis reached the milestone of £1bn annual online sales Twelve years ago, John Lewis was a ‘bricks’ only retailer. This month, they announced that they had reached the milestone £1bn of online sales in a one year period. We spoke to Barry Blamire, head of branch at the Edinburgh shop to find out about the rise and importance of multichannel shopping to John Lewis. “First I should point out that our customers don’t shop a “channel”, they shop with John Lewis.We’re an omnichannel retailer, but the success of our online operation is not separate from our physical presence. Nearly two thirds of all transactions involve customers visiting both our shops and online channels. We have reached the £1bn mark on a rolling 52 week basis one year ahead of forecast which is an achievement of which we are rightly very proud.We have also just launched a new multi million pound web platform and have redesigned our mobile site to better mimic our main platform. Acknowledging that customers shop using multiple channels has been key to achieving this growth.We know that some of our customers research their purchase online and then come into the shop to make the purchase, while others prefer to come in, in the first instance, talk to our Partners and then order at a later date online. Convenience is a real driver in the online market and customers appreciate different delivery options. A third of our online customers choose to Click and Collect their purchase. By ordering before 7pm, they can collect their item the following day at 2pm either from the shop in the city centre, or from either of the local Waitrose branches.
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We have also recently partnered with Collect + to trial a returns option across the UK, with collection points to follow later this year.This will offer a further convenience for customers who are not directly in the Edinburgh catchment.
John Lewis has a reputation for delivering excellent customer service and we have kept this at the heart of our online operations. The 700 Partners at John Lewis Edinburgh increasingly recognise that their role is not simply to meet the customer’s needs in-store, but to support their total purchase journey across all channels.”
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Asktheexpert How can I use the media to promote my business? A frequent question amongst small and medium sized businesses is how best to use media channels to promote products and services, generate new business opportunities and improve the profile of their company. We always aim to link our clients’ communications plans to their commercial objectives. Warren Buffett famously said, “Lose money for the firm, and I will be understanding; lose a shred of reputation for the firm, and I will be ruthless.” The commercial value of your reputation is not to be underestimated. Messages read in newspapers or heard on radio or social media should therefore support a strategy that ultimately makes commercial sense. Anyone can secure coverage in the media for the sake of it – but PR should work hard for you at all times, and the best way is to support your commercial aims. The first stage of this process is to define those aims. What do you hope to achieve this year? A higher volume of sales? Attracting higher value customers? Changing Government policy? Shifting consumer behaviour? Driving awareness of a new service? Establishing a clear direction to your campaign is an important first step.
Many media outlets’ advertising teams publish media packs that include demographic profiles of their readership – not a bad place to start. c. Define your approach: let’s say you know that you want to target public sector procurement managers using online forums and have identified The Guardian Public Leaders Network as your number one target (it covers policy, delivery and leadership across all public services).Yes, you could just pick up the phone – but a bit of research would help you to demonstrate you understand the media’s needs. In this case, the website openly welcomes contributions and holds open, live online discussions – so your best approach might be to target these first.
a. Understand the media: PR agencies know this instinctively, but if you’re going it alone, the best starting point is to consume media fervently: what sort of stories work? Where are the set piece opportunities? How does online differ from offline?
d. Develop some topical content: there is little point approaching the media unless you have a story to tell, and one with relevance to today’s world. That means writing a story down, or creating a video, or developing an infographic – whatever makes the point you wish to make. A press release is still the method of choice for most communicators wishing to tell a story, but it doesn’t need to start and end there. This is the creative bit, after all. However, the one prerequisite is relevance – if you can’t clearly identify why your story will resonate with your target media’s readers/listeners/viewers, don’t bother. Second to this is a simple set of who, what, why, where and when – get these in early, or a journalist will switch off.
b. Understand your audiences: knowing what motivates your target audience and what media they consume is a vital ingredient – you want your messages to be read by the right people in the right way.
e. Evaluate risk: before you approach the media, ask yourself what the risks associated with your approach are. Particularly with social media, where the route to open, unfiltered debate is quick and difficult to
Having established this, here are some steps to follow in order to use media channels to promote your business:
Billy Partridge
Director, Grayling Scotland control. If you feel there is a chance the story you want to tell could open an old wound, or expose your business in some way, you still have a chance to stop and think. f. Monitor, review, evaluate and adapt: in order to learn for next time, always review performance and ensure you can measure success against your original objectives. Adopting the above process will, if nothing else, ensure your efforts at convincing the media to tell your story will be a) linked to your commercial objectives, and b) relevant enough to your target audience to be worthwhile. It is nearly always advantageous to take a step back from the assumption that ‘all news is good news’ and ask yourself what would genuinely make a difference to your business. If you can get that right, you’ll never ask yourself why you bother. For more help and advice on reputation management, strategic PR and media relations, call Billy Partridge, on 0131 560 2943 or email billy.partridge@grayling.com www.grayling.co.uk/scotland
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Chambernews Members celebrate success at our Annual Business Awards Several Edinburgh businesses celebrated success at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards held at the Sheraton Hotel. Our winners were: Member of the Year Edinburgh Airport Limited High Growth Company of the Year Location Scotland Green Company of the Year Forth Ports Limited
in 2012) and Dominik Grewe, Edinburgh University, School of Informatics. The awards were supported by the City of Edinburgh Council, Skanska and FWB, Executive Search Specialists.
and one of the three best airports in Europe, at the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards for 2012. This is the second year in a row that Edinburgh Airport has featured in the top three.
Member of the Year
Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “We are delighted to have been named Member of the Year at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards. Edinburgh Airport has a strong track record of working hard to maximise its contribution to the local economy and we pride ourselves on giving our passengers the best experience and choice possible.
Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest and the sixth largest in the UK, employing more than 5,000 people. A total of 9.2 million passengers passed through Edinburgh Airport in 2012.
Most Promising New Business of the Year Residence Inn by Marriott
“We are looking forward to a bright and wellconnected future and this award highlights the great relationship we have with our city partners.”
Employer of the Year Spire Edinburgh Hospitals Liz McAreavey, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Commercial Director, said: “These awards celebrate and reward success and promote ambition and growth. We were extremely impressed by the calibre of entries and the winners truly shone as fantastic businesses doing great things. “They are all businesses of real value, contributing to employment and the economic prosperity of Scotland.” Our speakers on the night included Sir John Elvidge, Chairman at Edinburgh Airport, Councillor Frank Ross, Convenor Economic Development Committee at the City of Edinburgh Council, Lucy Frankel,Vegware (Winner of the Green Company of the Year
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High Growth Company of the Year Since taking ownership of Edinburgh Airport in June 2012, the new airport management team, with the support of owners Global Infrastructure Partners, has prioritised the development of Edinburgh’s route network. New agreements have been reached with easyJet, Ryanair, Brussels Airlines, Air Canada and Virgin Atlantic and a new Turkish Airlines route to Istanbul now increased to daily, contributing millions of pounds to Scotland’s economy. In March, Edinburgh Airport was named as the best airport in Britain for passenger satisfaction,
Founded in 2006, Location Scotland provides location scouting and production co-ordination for stills and film shoots throughout Scotland.
Edinburgh-based Location Scotland is the only full service production and location company dedicated to stills photography in the country and is a one-stop-shop for UK wide and international
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clients contemplating a shoot in Scotland. As well as an in-house production team, Location Scotland has its own studio, a wealth of skilled freelancers and access to photographers, stylists and caterers. In the past two years, it has played a significant role in establishing Scotland as an ideal country for fashion shoots and has demonstrated impressive growth. Managing director Marie Owen said: “Many of our clients have never been to Scotland before. Our unique database and the knowledge we’ve built up of a vast number of locations can give someone who doesn’t know the country a clear idea of how they might be able to use a location, and just how brilliantly it could work for their shoot.” “We’re thrilled to be included in a list of such well-known and respected brands.We’re a small business but I like to think we punch above our weight with our unique, bespoke service and our totally committed team.We’ve had a great year, delivering impressive year-on-year growth and significantly expanding our international client list, and winning this award is such a boost to the business.”
Celebrating the award, Stuart Wallace, Divisional Director, Forth Ports said:
“The result is more loyalty, we are retaining more quality staff and attracting good quality people.
“We are delighted to be named Green Company of the Year at the Edinburgh Chamber Business Awards. Supported by all levels of management and employees, our commitment to sustainability and the environment is embedded in our business strategy and plans.This award also reflects the environmental benefits we generate through working with our customers to deliver logistics solutions that remove carbon from supply chains throughout the UK.We are very proud of our achievements and look forward to building on this success.”
“We have made significant strides forward in our efforts to make Spire Edinburgh Hospitals a great place to work and this recognition from the Chamber gives us a lot of confidence to continue with these changes which will help to improve our competitiveness and ensure we continue to deliver great care to our patients.”
Employer of the Year
Residence Inn by Marriott Hotel is the global leader in extended stay business, has grown to more than 620 properties and is one of 19 hotel brands within the Marriott portfolio.
Award-winner Spire Edinburgh Hospitals, which works with the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, was recognised for its work in improving staff job satisfaction.
The concept gives guests a greater choice for short and long stays in Edinburgh and is a unique product where guests are made to feel at home away from home.
Green Company of the Year Forth Ports was awarded the Green Company of the Year award for a range of initiatives to reduce their energy and fuel consumption across all their UK operations.
At its Scottish ports, the company has installed LED lighting throughout its engineering workshop at The Port of Leith and on a key approach to the port.The company has also reduced energy and water consumption across its entire UK operations and worked with customers to cut the amount of road traffic they generate, including shipping by water rather than road. Shipping large volumes is the most efficient form of transportation for carbon consumption and Forth Ports annually saves ten times more CO2 than it consumes across its Ports. At its largest Port in Tilbury on the Thames, a new 4-turbine wind farm has been constructed providing the port with 50% of its electricity needs.
Most Promising New Business of the Year
The concept was developed in North America more than 35 years ago and is set to grow further with the successful launch of international properties including Edinburgh, Munich and Bahrain.
Director Andrew Eadsforth said: “We identified a series of issues with staff engagement and motivation so have worked hard to improve communication. “We have put in place a more robust performance management programme, rewarding staff who do well and dealing with those are aren’t, we have improved lines of communication and we have introduced more extensive training, particularly for team leaders. “We have also reduced by 80 per cent our reliance on agency staff in favour of more permanent staff giving the team more stability and opportunity to improve teamwork.
Colin Richards, General Manager, said: “Residence Inn is something new for the Edinburgh market and has already been very well received.We are the first Residence Inn in the UK and form part of a very successful growth strategy to take the brand on the road from North America and deliver it to the world with other sites located in Munich, Bahrain and Costa Rica so far. “Since opening we have seen a great blend of business and leisure travellers from all over the world enjoy their stays with us and the feedback has been strong and positive which is great for us to hear and we’d like to thank our guests for choosing to stay with us.Winning the ‘Most Promising New Business of the Year’ award with the Chamber of Commerce is a great achievement so early in the life of the Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh and is a great testament to the team who have delivered such outstanding customer service.”
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Chamber Business Awards A host of Edinburgh businesses celebrated success at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Business Awards held 21st of March at the Sheraton Hotel
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David Wray from Grease Monkey with Kirsty Blanche from Aqualife Services Ltd
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Petra Biberbach from Planning Aid for Scotland with Charlotte Weatherall and Frances Maurer at The Balmoral Edinburgh
Andre Brose from The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa with Raj Athwal from The Rangers Football Club and Webster Ingils at The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
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Referendum Series dinner On the 15th of April over 60 delegates attended our dinner and listened to Ben Thomson, Chairman of Reform Scotland as part of our referendum consultation series.
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Olly Cassidy from Voice AV Ltd and Sarah McLean from Anderson Strathern
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The guests listening to Ben Thompson’s speech
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Brian Scouler with Monica Camino Moreno from Angelia Translations Ltd
Bruce Lees and Stephen Brown from Aon Risk Solutions with Diane McIntyre and Stuart Wallace from Forth Ports Ltd
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On the 1st of May over 60 delegates attending our business breakfast to hear from Sandy Begbie at Standard Life 08 The delegates listening to Sandy Begbie’s speech
Photos by Graham Carnie, Tuskite Photography
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Attendees networking and making connections
Visits
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On the 26th of April his Excellency Mr Enrique A Manalo, Philippine visited us and met with our Chief Executive David Birrell
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Inspiringconnections Upcoming events and training courses Referendum Series Dinner
Social Media Series
Tuesday 18 June 2013 | 5:30pm- 9:00pm The Balmoral Hotel
7th, 14th, 21st & 28th of June | 9.30am – 12.30pm
£68.50 (Chamber members and member guests)
Buy the 4 training sessions and only pay for 3!
As part of our Referendum Consultation Series we will be joined by MSP Fergus Ewing, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism. Fergus Ewing was elected to the Scottish Parliament in 1999 for the constituency of Inverness East, Nairn and Lochaber, he has been re-elected on each of the three subsequent elections, moving from a majority of a nerve wracking four hundred and forty one to a more substantial total of nearly ten thousand for the new seat of Inverness and Nairn.
We have developed a series of social media training courses which look at all of the sites and tools required to maximise your sales. If you are a business owner, or an employee with any responsibility for attracting and retaining clients, you should be using social media. Whether you are experienced, a novice or an absolute beginner at using Blogs, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, our Social Media Series is for you.
Speed Networking Wednesday 19 June 2013 | 8:00am- 11:00am The Hub on the Royal Mile £30.00 (Chamber members and member guests) Starting at 8am with breakfast, the new and updated format of the event will now finish at 11am allowing plenty of time for you to return to your business, and hopefully follow on with new connections made. There will be two slots of 40 minutes for speed networking with a break in the middle plus a chance to freely network after the event. Speed networking is a brilliant and innovative method of pitching your business and making vital contacts. As the event is typically very well attended, there will be a limit to one representative per company and two per industry.
Annual Golf Tournament Thursday 18 July 2013 | 9:45am- 6:00pm Marriott Dalmahoy Country Club £99.00 (Chamber members) We are holding our annual golf tournament at the prestigious Marriott Dalmahoy Country Club. This tournament offers you the unique chance to network with like-minded business professionals, making business connections whilst enjoying a competitive round of golf. Whether you are a budding champion or just picking up the clubs, join us for this exclusive opportunity to escape the confines of your office and truly benefit your business. Package offers; breakfast prior to the tournament, 18-hole round of golf, full use of the driving range and post-play golfers afternoon tea along with a prize giving presentation.
£97.00 & VAt per course (Chamber members)
Successful Selling Thursday 13 June 2013 | 9.30am-4.30pm £187.00 & VAt (Chamber members) At the end of the course, you will know the difference between an average salesperson and an outstanding one.You will learn, develop and apply the skills and techniques that mean you get to hear YES more often and close the deal.You will learn there is no magic formula; people will still say NO to you, but far more people will say YES!
Google Analytics Tuesday 25 June | 10.30am-13.30pm £97.00 & VAt (Chamber members) Google Analytics is a free, state of the art web analytics suite that can be used by any website owner to measure how well their website is performing. Easy to set up, it provides reports on a huge range of areas of a website, such as which pages visitors enjoy most and what brought them to the site. This course give you the confidence to approach your online marketing knowing that you can measure exactly what is working, and what is not. For more details on our training courses or to book please visit www.chamberbusinesssolutions.co.uk/open_training_Courses or contact Carrie Wilson, on 0131 221 3191, or by email: carrie.wilson@edinburghchamber.co.uk Venue for all our courses
is the Edinburgh Chamber office on 2 Festival Square (next to the Sheraton Hotel).
For further information or to book onto an event call the events team on 0131 221 2972 / e-mail events@edinburghchamber.co.uk or visit www.edinburghchamber.co.uk
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60seconds Name: Ross Cameron Company Name: Towry Limited Website: www.towry.com q In five words or less, what do you do? A Manager of Towry’s Edinburgh office. q How long have you been a Chamber member? A Since the start of this year.
q Why did you join?
q What’s the best business/ benefit you have won through Chamber?
A It’s early days, but we are discovering that proper, professional and unbiased financial advice is really important to many members.
q Are there any additional services or
A Develop business to business relationships and build up our profile as a leading wealth advice firm within the Edinburgh business community.
q What service do you use? A As new members we rely heavily on our dedicated account manager and we feel that this support is really important. Networking events are really important and allows us to have a real understanding of what’s going on in Edinburgh; we want to continue to support the Chamber and develop long-lasting and profitable business relationships.
information you’d be particularly interested in?
A We are very happy with the support we receive although an ‘opportunities’ page on the website would be very useful. For example, in addition to growing organically we are also looking to acquire financial services businesses to further expand our local business presence, an ‘opportunities’ page would perhaps be a useful gateway to advertising this fact.
q If you were telling another business person about the Chamber, what’s the first thing you would say?
A The Chamber provides a real opportunity to meet with like minded people and develop business relationships.
q Where do you read your copy of Business Comment?
A In the office.
www.sir-robert-mcalpine.com
Sir Robert McAlpine is proud to be helping shape a new future for Scotland through projects including the delivery of a new stadium for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Scott House, Mid New Cultins West One Business Park Edinburgh EH11 4DH
Tel: 0131 458 4255 Fax: 0131 458 4254 Email: edinburgh@sir-robert-mcalpine.com
Military Tattoo Stadium
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AdVertoriAl
Back on Track After experiencing one of the railway’s most tumultuous periods since privatisation last year, Virgin Trains is back on track and focused on growth. Chief Operating Officer Chris Gibb explains his vision for the future. WHEN I started working on the railways 32 years ago, the industry was in a state of decline, driven by years of under-investment. Jobs in Scotland were being lost and services withdrawn.You could be forgiven for thinking I was facing a bleak career ahead of me. The contrast with today couldn’t be more stark: walk through Glasgow Central or Edinburgh Waverley and you see stations abuzz with passengers, with more services departing to more destinations, including those on newly-opened lines. It’s a remarkable achievement, which we should recognise and celebrate. But let’s not be complacent. There is work to be done now to build on this legacy of growth and ensure that the railways live up to the demands of future generations. The extension of Virgin Trains’ West Coast passenger franchise to April 2017, gives us an opportunity to re-engage with this task. The first major benefit to Scotland will materialise in December, when planned timetable changes will see us add more than 3,300 seats per weekday on our services connecting Birmingham to Glasgow and Edinburgh, as our 5-car Super Voyager trains are largely replaced with double Voyagers (10 cars) or Pendolinos (nine cars or 11) on the route. Another benefit of the timetable overhaul is that our Birmingham trains will now carry on through to London, taking the total
number of Virgin Trains services connecting Scotland with the UK capital from 33 to 54 a day. Importantly, this will offer Scotland’s two major cities a direct rail service to Birmingham Airport for the first time in more than five years. Major urban conurbations around Milton Keynes and Coventry will similarly benefit from direct train services to Scotland, allowing rail to compete far more aggressively with airlines on the route. This is an early opportunity to build on the spectacular growth Virgin Trains has achieved on its Anglo-Scottish routes. Between 2008, when our Virgin High Frequency timetable was introduced, and 2013, BirminghamScotland has seen a 261% increase in passenger numbers while growth on our GlasgowLondon route has been 144%. More capacity will allow us to continue this progress. It is this scale of growth that has pushed discussion of high speed rail to the top of the political agenda. But while HS2, the UK Government s £32bn plan for a Y-shaped network of new lines, clearly has the potential to transform our intercity rail network, we must be wary of stalling other developments while this takes place. The target for implementing the first phase of HS2 between London Euston and Birmingham is 2026, with a second phase linking in Manchester and Leeds scheduled for 2032/3.
Should Scotland have to wait a further 13 years for further enhancements to rail journey times to London? Clearly not. There is more that can done now to improve journey times. While our tilting electric Pendolino trains are currently restricted to a maximum 125mph,Virgin Trains is working positively with Network Rail in Scotland to overcome these infrastructure constraints and deliver the UK’s first 135mph running. This would help us to deliver a non-stop London to Glasgow train service of less than four hours by 2018. And what of HS2? Its proposed remedy would see only marginal benefit to Scotland in 2026 as the non-tilting trains currently favoured would have to slow down to less than 100mph to negotiate the bends of the West Coast mainline north of Birmingham. Indeed, some existing services may have to slow down to accommodate these slower “high speed” trains, damaging important connections between Scotland and the north of England. A far better solution exists, one that utilises off-the-shelf European tilting high speed trains which would not have to slow down on our existing railways when they come off the new, dedicated track. This could deliver a 3hr, 30 min journey from London to Glasgow and Edinburgh from day one of HS2, wiping an hour from today’s average journey times and not disrupting other intercity services. Work on converting the West Coast mainline between Wigan and Glasgow to accommodate European tilting passenger trains and larger freight trains from 2032/3 could also start now. It might appear a long time away, but the work on converting these aspirations into reality should not wait. If Scotland is to really benefit from this major investment in our railways, we must take a more determined approach to cutting cross-border journey times and maximising growth in the interim period ahead of the completion of HS2.This is vital important if we are continue persuading passengers to switch from air to rail and ensure our railways have a bright future.
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Chris Gibbs Chief Operating Officer, Virgin Trains
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Inspiringleaders The super-fast revolution that challenges businesses to grasp opportunity These are exciting times for BT in Scotland as it constantly increases both the availability and speed of broadband. However, with investment in ever-better services, there comes a direct challenge to business. Brendan Dick, Director, BT Scotland, and Managing Director, BT Regions, is one of those in the communications industry who believes that business and the public sector still have not done enough to take advantage of the opportunities on offer. A graduate of the University of Edinburgh, much of Brendan’s early career was spent in information technology, designing, developing and deploying large systems across the UK. Today he heads up BT Scotland, which was created in 1998 in response to Scottish devolution and whose strategy is to meet the country’s demand for IT infrastructure and expand broadband, while continuing to deliver more traditional services. More than a million connections run over its Scottish broadband network, covering 99 per cent of the population, and BT is upgrading Scottish exchanges to offer faster speeds. The plan is to bring such services to about 1.45 million Scottish homes and businesses as part of BT’s UK-wide £2.5 billion investment programme.The company uses a mix of Fibreto-the-Cabinet technology, with download speeds of up to 80Mbps and upload speeds of up to 20Mbps, and Fibre to the Premises technologies, where fibre runs all the way to homes and businesses and download speeds can reach 330Mbps. Internet users with a fibre broadband connection can do much more online, including downloading movies, watching TV replay services, surf the net and play games online simultaneously. In addition, many forms of communication are going wireless. Scotland now has nearly 465,000 WiFi hotspots and two BT Wireless Cities, where the city centres of Glasgow and Edinburgh have been enabled for extensive wireless coverage, enabling people to log on where they want using the device of their choice. Brendan said: “I think we are on the cusp of something.We are seeing a world which is being transformed into a digital world, may already be
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so, and, for me, the question for business and the public sector is ‘are we making the best use of the technology available?’ “We are already seeing the consumer taking advantage of these technologies. People increasingly obtain their entertainment online. BT has responded to that, with our recentlylaunched channel BT Sport an example. “People also increasingly obtain their information on the move with their tablets and other mobile devices. “I think there is a challenge for business in places like Edinburgh.The availability is there, as is the speed, but are we taking advantage of it? Availability of high-speed broadband will increase across Scotland and businesses need to realise that they can be more creative, that we live in a world where a SME can compete globally, wherever it is based. “The increase in super-fast broadband presents huge opportunities and can transform our economy. I am not advocating that people spend all their time in front of a computer screen, you still need that human interaction, but I do think there is more that can be done. “We can provide the networks but business has to play its part.We also look to Government, with other sectors, to drive exploitation and creativity on the back of this revolution. ” He points to research done for BT, which said that super-fast broadband can transform economies because it can: • Allow existing businesses to operate more efficiently and to develop new products and services • Help greater numbers of new businesses emerge by reducing barriers to entry in certain sectors. Although there are many ways in which this can occur, cloud computing is seen as perhaps the most significant as it dramatically reduces the upfront capital and ongoing support costs of setting up in business * Allow an area to increase its GVA (Gross Value Added based on products and services) by between 0.3% and 0.5% a year * Allow more flexible working patterns, open up new employment opportunities and enhance the productivity of existing staff.
BT says that what it calls more ‘agile working’ offers is the potential to make savings of £3.2 billion in the public sector in Scotland, if adopted by 40 per cent of the workforce. Other benefits, according to BT, include increased productivity and motivation, reduced sick leave, better worklife balance and enhanced recruitment and retention. Brendan said: “Super-fast broadband can change the way we work. A lot of people travel into Edinburgh to work every day. Do they need to be there every single day? I am not suggesting they spend every day at home with a computer but they do not always need to be the office. They can work from home some of the time or get out and about more and access information wherever they are. “With the likes of conferencing technology, we can also do our bit to tackle climate change because it reduces travel. “We also need to think about what is known as big data.There is a lot of information out there and we need to think how we use it. “Take tourism as an example. Edinburgh has a lot of tourists and there is a lot of information available - are we making the best of use of it so they can access it on the move? These are the kind of questions we should be asking.” There are some signs that the message is getting through.The City of Edinburgh Council has extended its contract with BT to 2016 and, as an example, has worked with the company to introduce an integrated mobile working platform for Edinburgh Building Services, to provide better service at lower cost.The council operation employs 210 tradespeople and is responsible for a property portfolio of 23,000 homes. Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce is also supporting the initiative by championing the need to take advantage of the opportunities. Brendan sees such support as crucial. He said: “Fast, sophisticated communications are the cornerstone of a successful community, helping local people to build their skills and knowledge and encouraging the creation of new businesses and jobs.This exciting technology will transform on-line education, training and leisure for households and enhance the competitiveness of local firms.”
6/6/13 10:14:51
“The increase in super-fast broadband presents huge opportunities and can transform our economy. I am not advocating that people spend all their time in front of a computer screen, you still need that human interaction, but I do think there is more that can be done. � Brendan Dick Director, BT Scotland, and Managing Director, BT Regions
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Coverfeature
Digital developments in the city The rapid development of mobile phone technology is transforming the way that Edinburgh people buy their products and obtain their information. For Colin Loveday, Managing Director of Corporate Mobile and Employee Benefits company 4GEE Scotland, that connectivity is improving all the time in Edinburgh, the city that played such an important role in the technology‘s development.
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He said:“Edinburgh has never been better connected from a mobile phone and mobile broadband perspective. Not only is it well served by all the major UK networks on 3G networks, it was also one of four UK launch cities to first get 4G mobile speeds delivered on the EE network. “Edinburgh has a history at being at the forefront of mobile technology. It is not widely known that the world’s first ever publically demonstrated and commercially available mobile phone app was demonstrated on the streets of Edinburgh with the “putting the fringe in your pocket” app. “This was in 1999, many years before the joining of the liberal arts and technology were championed by Apple from a mobile perspective.
“At that time, I worked closely with the Edinburgh Fringe, Nokia and Orange, now part of the EE network, to originate and deliver this breakthrough and award winning mobile experience.” The success of that project gave those behind the technology the confidence to experiment and a number of firsts followed as part of the Nokia / Orange Edinburgh Festivals sponsorship. That included an app that allowed customers to buy their tickets for Fringe shows though their mobile phone with a scooter ticket delivery service to wherever they were in Edinburgh. Colin said:“This “queue busting” app will be seen as unnecessary today with e-tickets, but in 2000 it was way ahead of the technology.
6/6/13 10:14:56
© 2000. Nokia Mobile Phones. All rights reserved. Nokia is a registered trademark of Nokia Corporation. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks or trade names of their respective owners. www.nokia.com Copyright
Putting the Fringe in your Pocket
“Today this is not an issue, especially with 4G data speeds to your mobile phone matching and often beating your home broadband speeds. Edinburgh is at the forefront of 4G with the EE network. It has just been announced that 4G speeds in Edinburgh will double and capacity to increase during this summer.” However, staggering as the advances are, there remain challenges, not least of which is persuading business people that the technology is reliable. Orange and Nokia have joined forces to bring you the Edinburgh Festival covering Fringe, International, Film and Book. Using your Nokia 7110e phone you can access Orange’s Multi Media services via WAP to find out what’s on, where and when at any point during the Festival. The service also has all the details of how to get to Edinburgh, where to stay, what to eat, where to drink. In fact everything you need to get the most out of the Festival.
CG9389 – Week 447 – 1st Proof 26.7.00. (370x256mm) – Grey – Nokia 7110 – ORANGE – Version 1
The following year we were able to sell the “Best of the Fest” Fringe show at the Assembly Rooms with e-tickets on your mobile again way ahead of any “commercially” available solutions. “Importantly, these examples of mobile technology moving consumers from “ears to eyes” mobile usage, first demonstrated and used in Edinburgh at the world’s biggest arts festivals, were always limited by the mobile technology of the day needing to catch up with the ideas.
That means working with organisations such as Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce to spread the word. Colin said:“As a business owner, what still needs to be done in Edinburgh is the total confidence that no matter where you are, in a basement meeting room or out and about in the city you are always connected to your data regardless of who is delivering the facility and whether its by mobile, fixed line/fibre broadband or public wifi networks. “Delivery of superfast, high capacity data to your chosen device or devices when you want it and how you want it must be the aim for the infrastructure providers.
“The issue was not the ability to code using the wireless application protocol (WAP) mobile phone language but the data speeds that enabled the fluid use of the apps thus delivering a great customer experience.
“Edinburgh is very well served by 4G and 3G mobile data. However, the final barrier to overcome is wider adoption of the service. EE was the first company to launch 4G in the UK and has the fastest data speeds and won the largest share of the UK’s government 4G data spectrum so EE are the network for the future. EE are also the biggest mobile company in the UK. “However, with the rest of the mobile networks soon to launch 4G this will widen the message to business and consumers so that 4G will become the defacto standard for mobile.
Colin Loveday Managing Director, 4GEE Scotland
“Edinburgh has a history at being at the forefront of mobile technology. It is not widely known that the world’s first ever publically demonstrated and commercially available mobile phone app was demonstrated on the streets of Edinburgh with the ‘putting the fringe in your pocket’ app.”
“This will generate an even bigger adoption of the service across Edinburgh and, therefore, provide an edge for Edinburgh businesses against less well connected business elsewhere.”
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AdVertoriAl
Getting Young People Ready for Work Leading businesses from across the capital are backing a new employer-assessed workbased qualification to help young people prove they are ready for work.
our success in the future will depend on the quality of the young people we attract now, and therefore recruiting some of the best and brightest young people is a key part of our strategy. We are committed to supporting our young people and giving them the opportunity to grow and flourish within our business. This new initiative is very welcome as it will help young people to gain experience and confidence which will make them ready to enter the world of work.”
The Certificate of Work Readiness has been developed in partnership with the business community and aims to give unemployed young people the chance to demonstrate the value they bring to the workplace.
Certifi cate sets ricky on the right path
Ricky said: “It can be difficult when you’ve been out of work and nothing seems to be coming your way. The Certificate for Work Readiness really opened my eyes to what work is like and it’s been a great opportunity working with ISS. I was really pleased to be offered the job, and I’m still enjoying it.”
The Certificate for Work Readiness has already helped 18 year old Ricky McCunnie overcome his lack of confidence and secure a new job.
For more information on delivering the Certificate for Work Readiness, visit www.sqa.org.uk/workready
Piloted by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) and approved by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), the certificate has received support from the Federation of Small Businesses and employers including Diageo.
Lynn Walker, Operations Manager for cleaning and support services company ISS in Livingston, said: “Ricky had no confidence at
all when he joined us but thanks to the work experience we have given him during his placement, he has completely changed. He did so well, we were keen to keep him on – so we created a role for him.”
Launching the certificate, Angela Constance, Minister for Youth Employment, said: “The Certificate of Work Readiness seeks to change the cycle of young people unable to find work for a lack of having necessary experience of the work place.The certificate includes a unique employer-assessed 190 hour work experience placement, providing a meaningful qualification and a credible standard that employers can recognise and trust. Even if that employer does not have a permanent job available, the young person can leave with concrete evidence of their employability which they can use when applying for jobs.” Dr Janet Brown, SQA Chief Executive, said: “The certificate is a significant milestone in the journey towards creating a broad range of qualifications which prepare young people in an effective way for the modern world of work. The work experience available through the course is assessed by employers and gives young people the opportunity to receive constructive feedback on their performance, enabling them to take what they’ve learned forward into future job applications.” Pamela Scott, HR Director of Diageo in Scotland, said: “At Diageo we recognise that
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Certificate of Work Readiness candidate Ricky McCunnie
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L-R Karina Smillie, Rhona Bain, both SQA and Shirley Howitt from Workers’ Educational Association
SQA Supports Employability in Edinburgh SQA is supporting voluntary, third sector and training organisations in Edinburgh to help them deliver employability qualifications that get young people and those who have become disengaged back into learning, training and eventually employment. Working with centres such as the Grassmarket Community Project in the city’s Candlemaker Row, who support people going through difficult transitions in their lives, SQA’s regional team provide practical advice on how training providers and voluntary organisations can offer SQA qualifications. Our team gives overviews of the employability qualifications available to support service users and offer advice and guidance on a number of topics including how to effectively deliver qualifications, pool resources and support learners.
Shirley Howitt from Workers’ Educational Association, said: “WEA values the support given by SQA and the help and advice available from their team in Edinburgh clarifies the qualification delivery process and supports centres like ours who offer employability qualifications.” SQA’s Business Development Consultant, Karina Smillie, said: “Working with local training providers gives us the opportunity to meet a number of our existing customers and other organisations who are considering becoming approved SQA centres.While it is important for our customers to know that they have dedicated SQA support on hand, gaining an insight from other organisations who have either already gone through the process or are currently doing so can be equally valuable.
providers and we want our customers to know that we’re here to support them with every aspect of delivering our qualifications.” James Gilfillan from Edinburgh based homeless charity Four Square, said: “It was really useful to hear first-hand from SQA and other voluntary sector organisations and training providers about how we can support one-another which ultimately will enable us help our service users reach their own individual goals.” For more information on SQA’s employability qualifications, visit www.sqa.org.uk/ personalachievement
Karina continued: “We facilitate sessions that encourage networking between training
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AdVertoriAl
Getting the best from your training investment
Now, I just love a good training course. The thought of it fills me with childlike glee! I enjoy the time out of the office, the lack of interruptions, networking, having my perspective challenged and thinking about practical applications for my business. For others, it’s a day of slow torture! I am aware of delegates who end up on a training course wondering why they are there and as a facilitator I am often left wondering how I can possibly meet their expectations if they don’t know what they are! In a continually challenging economic environment, spending money on training is under greater scrutiny.The course fee is just a fraction of the investment.There’s the time out of work and the cost of staff cover for a start… I’m not going to argue the case for undertaking training; I sincerely believe employers are committed to training provision. Where I do see frustration is in the full benefits of the training not being realised back in the work place. Townsend (2007) first coined the phrase ‘the great training robbery’ in reference to the investment companies make in training, without maximising the
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potential gain. So where does it all go wrong? Why aren’t we being canny with the training kitty? How can you get the best out of your training investment?
credibility and integrity of the organisational policies and practices, and it restrict the training impact. Training is never a substitute for authentic management.
Here are 8 questions anyone attending a training course should be able to answer…
2) What is gained from being on the training?
Before the training event 1) is the lack of skills the real issue? Training is frequently used to address issues that haven’t been appropriately discussed. Got a poor performer? Send them on a time management course. Rubs people up the wrong way? Send them for team building. Low morale? Motivation course. High sickness absence? Stress management. Training is neither a panacea nor a substitute for the difficult conversation managers need to have with staff who are failing to deliver. Misusing training damages trust, relationships, the
Meaningful dialogue before the event nails down the aim of the training and how it contributes to the individual’s purpose and performance. The value of leaders visioning - linking the aims of the organisation back to the work - gives what staff do in their day to day role meaning and purpose, and is the basis of a desire to get better at it (Bennis, (90), Beer (2000)). Without a manager taking time to do this there is little reason or motivation to improve performance or develop. Set goals with staff so they can answer questions such as: What competence is gained by the training? What targets do I need to meet? How will I know my behaviour is different?
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Selecting training or alternatives 3) Are technical or soft skills needed? In assessment centres I see intelligent, technically skilled, driven and experienced staff. However promotion or progress is evading them. They continue to undertake technical skills training (which can be both necessary and essential for continuous professional development) but it does not enable them to continue to succeed at senior levels of management. Developing soft skills through training is more complex and yet increasingly important. Research indicates that after a certain point in the organisation (usually around middle to senior manager) the skills that support future success dramatically change, moving from technical professional skills to those supporting the development of emotional intelligence (Goleman, 97).
Elaine Furnivall is a chartered occupational psychologist at Aviour Ltd. Aviour is a consultancy service providing bespoke solutions using psychology and management practices. We provide leadership and management programmes in house to private corporates, local authority, academia, and government organisations. Our next open course is on “Successful Introverts in Leadership and Business – The Power of Quiet”, 10th September 2013, Edinburgh City Centre. www.aviour.co.uk
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4) What alternatives to training might be better? Training is one possible intervention. There may be more effective interventions that can help staff change behaviour for effective performance. Learning can come through researching a topic, attending conferences, networking, job shadowing, mentoring, project involvement, temporary role cover, placements or coaching. These all provide experiences to learn from and opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in different contexts and situations. 5) Can you Mind the Gap? Training can fail to give a return on investment when staff are unaware of their own level of competence or the impact their behaviour has. I hear people on courses saying things like, “this is just a refresher for me” and “I know this already”. That’s the difficulty - sometime they do ‘know it’ already, it’s just they lack the self-awareness to see the gap between ‘knowing it’ and ‘doing it’ in practice. If someone starts the training day believing they already ‘do it’ then I have to ask how motivated are they to learn? Training might help fill in some of the theoretical gaps but it’s easier to increase self-awareness using 360 degree feedback, performance conversations, coaching, reflection exercises and psychometric or ability tests. Some can be combined into the training design. For example our Leadership course offers delegates the option to complete an ability test that measures their leadership judgment. They understand more about their own leadership and it makes the theory more meaningful. It can increase their selfconfidence and provides a framework to allow
coaching and support when they apply their leadership learning back in the workplace. On return to work 6) How will learning be supported back in the workplace? Establishing the value of technical skills training when staff return to the workplace is often straightforward. Interpersonal or ‘soft’ skills training is more complex. First, it’s harder to quantify behavioural and attitudinal changes. Second, soft skills are contextual. Often I’m asked by leaders what’s the right thing to do in a given situation. My answer is “It depends…” The most effective behaviour will depend on a number of situational factors. Therefore on their return from training, the delegate needs to be supported and given the opportunity to put theory into practice in the context of their work. A line manager becomes vital in bridging this return and coaching the individual to help apply and trial the new behaviours. 7) What immediate benefits can be gained from the learning? Managers can ask staff to share their learning. For example asking them to do a presentation on what they learned, can help them embed their learning and disperse the training inhouse to other staff in a low cost way. 8) How long will training take to make a difference? Managers evaluate training at the time but few conduct a further review at a much later date. Not all training benefits are realised immediately after the event. It can take several months. An MD of an artisan company approached me 12 months after I had worked with him. He had only really started to make sense of the learning when he had a number of iterations dealing with similar situations. His personal feelings, self-awareness and leadership, were so new and raw, it was only after time and reflection had given him perspective, that he looked back and learned fully from his experience. Not all training has an instant ‘Aha!’ moment. Spending time clarifying the purpose of the training, and how to support it, can help give a better return on your investment and staff a little glee!
6/6/13 10:15:13
AdVertoriAl
Making the right decisions when it comes to making the big move Selecting a new property is a major decision for any business. There are so many things to consider, so many things that can go wrong, so many details to be closely examined before the paperwork is signed. The challenges presented by the property market are why many business owners and managers turn to specialist companies who are experienced in the field.
Location is also a key consideration for companies moving into new properties - can customers find them? Can their staff link in to the transport network?
That is particularly important in Edinburgh, which has an exciting and expanding commercial market in the heart of the city and beyond.
The role of the property consultant when a company has decided to invest is to take as much of the hassle away from the process as possible and that starts with locating the kind of sites that would appeal to a client. Their knowledge can save a lot of time.
All over Edinburgh, new development areas are being opened up and old sites are being transformed as the city continues to develop its commercial offer. The range is extensive, from newly-constructed modern office blocks in the outer fringes of the city to those in the centre and plenty of refurbishments of historic buildings being converted for new uses. Whatever you choose, moving into somewhere bigger and better is a show of confidence that speaks volumes for clients and prospective clients and some property industry exponents say that they are seeing a slow return in confidence when it comes to investing. Recent research suggests that the commercial property market may be about to experience an upturn as construction recovers. The suggestion comes after a survey of quarter one this year by industry body the RICS, which showed that more surveyors in the construction sector saw workloads rise than at any time since the end of 2007. Ten per cent more surveyors across the country reported rising workloads during the quarter. One of the main drivers behind the rise was the boost in private housing construction which, in turn, has a beneficial knock-on effect on the commercial market as confidence builds. Regional differences were highlighted; Scotland was lagging behind the likes of London, the South East and the Midlands but surveyors generally expect the current more positive trend to continue; 27% more respondents expect workloads to rise over the coming twelve months. Recent surveys of businesses seeking to expand or relocate have suggested that the main considerations when it comes to investing in new property has been the need to keep costs under control and the impact a purchase or lease may have on company cash flow. That is true of all companies but particularly so for small businesses taking their first tentative steps towards expansion. To address those concerns, the number of companies seeking lease arrangements rather than buying outright does seem to be increasing, although there are still companies that prefer the idea of owning their own premises, seeing it as an investment for the future.
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Sales, Lettings & Rent Reviews of all types of Commercial & Industrial Property throughout City of Edinburgh, Lothians and Scottish Borders David M Bell 7 Beanston Cottage, Beanston, Haddington EH41 3SB T: 01620 880568 M: 07804 042379 E: dmbproperty@btconnect.com
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C531
Finance missing? Solution found.
For over thirty years we have developed a strong reputation for consistency and service. Even through tough times, when other lenders restrict or even withdraw funding, we continue to offer bespoke packages. All supported with a quick application process and the understanding and knowledge of an experienced team. If you have a residential or commercial development project requiring funding please call Stuart Anthony on 0131 220 9331 or stuart.anthony@closebrothers.com
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AdVertoriAl Irvine Bay strengthens its property portfolio in the Enterprise Area
Businesses given opportunity to grow Life sciences and other businesses in Edinburgh looking to grow and develop should look to take advantage of Enterprise Areas, established with the help of the Scottish Government. The largest Enterprise Area in Scotland has been created at Irvine, North Ayrshire, taking in some of the giant GlaxoSmithKline plant and neighbouring development sites. As well as life sciences, key target markets for the Enterprise Area include data centres and associated IT industries, capital intensive manufacturing and engineering. In particular, the Enterprise Area has been identified by Scottish Enterprise as one of Scotland’s best suited sites to attract data centre investment. Access to significant and cost-effective data and power solutions are vital in attracting investment from the sector. Irvine Enterprise Area contains sites well-suited to the sector in meeting the criteria, and the site is being showcased by Scottish Development International at international data industry events and conferences. A range of incentives designed to help attract businesses to the area, and then help them
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grow and develop, is on offer. Patrick Wiggins, Chief Executive of Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, said:“Life sciences companies, data centre operators, engineering and manufacturing companies – and indeed other businesses – considering any need to grow or find new premises should give serious consideration to looking at the Enterprise Area. It offers a range of incentives designed to help businesses, and in addition they could find superb facilities in a fantastic, central, accessible location.”
Irvine Enterprise Area is a key strategic focus for Irvine Bay Regeneration Company, working closely with its partner North Ayrshire Council. The project has been boosted by the securing by the regeneration company of additional Scottish Government funding of more than £5 million.This will be used to help deliver plans for the Enterprise Area - and will also be used to progress other key projects. Irvine Bay Regeneration Company works closely with North Ayrshire Council in the five towns of Irvine, Saltcoats, Stevenston, Ardrossan and Kilwinning.The company’s efforts to attract jobs and investment were greatly helped by the Scottish Government’s decision last year to create the Enterprise Area with a focus on life sciences in Irvine. Key incentives for businesses looking to locate are on offer, including: n Accelerated capital allowances for plant and machinery, for which all businesses are eligible
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n Business rates relief of up to £55,000 per annum for five years for qualifying companies – life sciences businesses are eligible
£25m works continue in Irvine town centre
n Accelerated Planning Zone – simplified planning policies and procedures n Access to superfast broadband The Enterprise Area focuses on land around the GlaxoSmithKline plant, parts of Irvine Industry and Innovation (i3) business park and Annickbank Innovation Campus. The Enterprise Area is well served with infrastructure and utilities, including physical and digital connectivity, and can accommodate very large and small space users. Irvine is Scotland’s largest designated Enterprise Area with 132 ha of allocated land.The site is unique with both business rates relief and accelerated capital allowances available on different parts of the Enterprise Area. Irvine Enterprise Area has large, flat, serviced sites available for development, together with a range of premises. Working with Scottish Enterprise, the extensive i3 business park has been split into a number of campuses for innovation, industry and investment. Over the next five years, work will progress to create:
n A strategic investment campus: a specialist inward investment opportunity offering a site extending to some 200 acres with capacity for 500,000m2 All offering: n Development ready sites
n Industry and logistics campuses: aimed at specialist industrial, manufacturing and distribution companies
n 100 MVA electricity potentially available, with 35 MVA currently connected
n Innovation campuses: to provide superfast broadband accommodation for SMEs, R&D companies or other firms needing specialist space
n Optic fibre from three suppliers
i3 Irvine Enterprise Area is open for business!
n Superfast broadband connectivity n Substantial gas, water and drainage connections Already Irvine Bay has acquired a number of development plots and properties and has embarked on a series of physical improvement works. A number of serviced development plots and buildings are available throughout the Enterprise Area, including Annickbank Innovation Campus. Gaining the extra £5 million of financial support has been a major boost to the regeneration company and its partners, demonstrating Government backing for their plans. Already, work carried out by the company has helped create 320 new jobs for local people, some 200 jobs during construction work, and plans in the pipeline will create a further estimated 4,000 jobs.
Announcing the awards to Irvine Bay and one other regeneration company, Scotland’s Deputy First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said:“These projects will make a substantial difference, supporting jobs and growth in the short term, as well as providing a lasting legacy for the communities involved.” Cllr Willie Gibson, Leader of North Ayrshire Council said:“This is great news for North Ayrshire.The funding will allow these important projects to move forward quickly providing a very welcome boost to the local economy.” Away from the Enterprise Area, work also continues. In partnership with North Ayrshire Council, Irvine Bay is carrying out a £25 million transformation of Irvine town centre. In addition, steady progress continues on three large transformational schemes being driven in partnership with major UK developers and investors, proof that the private sector has confidence in North Ayrshire and Irvine Bay’s strategy. www.irvinebay.co.uk
Within the Enterprise Area, some £1.5 million of funding has been announced by the Scottish Government to kick-start the first phase of Annickbank Innovation Campus, with a 1,500 sq m development meeting the highest build and energy efficiency standards. Additional funding has also been secured from the Scottish Government to purchase a further property within the Enterprise Area, strengthening the property portfolio.
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Are you looking for business property in Fife? Fife Council provides a variety of business space throughout Fife and we currently have the following Business properties for lease;
OFFICES
Unit No
Sqft
Sqm
Rent
Service Charge
RV
Availability
Unit 1
560
52
£7,084
£2,352
5,100
Intertest Lodged
DUNFERMLINE Dunfermline Business Centre
Pitreavie Business Park
Unit 5
593
55
£7,205
£2,491
5,500
To Let
Unit 13
811
75
£9,045
£3,406
7,400
To Let
Unit 14
1,053
98
£11,741
£4,422
8,400
To Let
Unit 23
1,001
93
£11,165
£4,204
9,600
To Let
Office 3(FF)
2,745
255
£27,450
TBC
28,100
Under Offer
INVERKEITHING Forth House
Suite 1
2,745
259
£20,750
TBC
20,300
To Let
Suite 4
1,595
148
£11,862
TBC
11,100
To Let
KIRKCALDY Business Incubator
Various Office Space Available between 169-342 sqft. This Business Space is for start up businesses only. Please contact the Property Team on 0845 600 1359 for information.
LEVEN Fife Renewable Innovation Centre
Various Office Space Available between 205-2,217 sqft. This Centre is aimed for the Renewable Industry market. Please contact the Property Team on 0845 600 1359 for information.
INDUSTRIAL
Unit No
Sqft
Sqm
Rent
RV
Availability
Unit 3
6,409
595
£12,818
£19,200
To Let
Unit 7
8,435
784
£16,828
£21,500
Interest Lodged
Unit 9
4,148
385
£10,500
£12,600
Interest Lodged
Unit 11
1,038
96
£4,750
£4,300
Interest Lodged
Unit 29
4,106
381
£17,500
£14,850
To Let
Unit 3
300
28
£2,400
£2,000
To Let
Unit 7
500
47
£3,750
£3,500
To Let
Unit 19
1,000
93
£8,000
£5,400
To Let
AF4 Units 1/2
4,000
372
£16,000
£17,500
To Let
Block 5 Unit 8
1,757
163
£6,700
£5,500
To Let
GLENROTHES Fife Food & Business Centre
KIRKCALDY Enterprise Centre
Merchant Place LEVEN Banbeath Industrial Estate
Misrepresentation Act: Dimensions, distances and floor areas are approximate and given for guidance purposes only. Potential tenants should satisfy themselves as to the validity of the figures given. These costs are correct at this date but subject to review.
If you are looking for business premises contact the Economic Development Team on 0845 600 1359 or e-mail business.property@fife.gov.uk BC issue 23.indd 36
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lity
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0131-458 6500
www.sykes.com
6/6/13 10:15:45
Inthespotlight Company name: Capital document solutions Who? tom Flockhart, Founder and Managing director Website: www.capital-solutions.co.uk
What were you doing between 10 and 12 this morning?
Where do you stand on work/life balance?
In addition to reviewing our first quarter results, half-year forecasts and staff salaries, I dealt with one of our software developer/ supplier companies regarding sales training for our staff.
I work flat out for five days a week then cram as much sailing, walking, fishing and socialising into the other two days.
What do you see as your job’s biggest challenge? Maintaining growth as we have done for the past three years, particularly now following our recent acquisition of Highland Office Equipment which has given us complete cover of Scotland.
What do you consider your biggest business triumph? The fact we have continually grown and developed over 34 years and, throughout that time, been highly regarded and respected for the high quality of all our business activities.
do you have any money-saving business tips? Aim to get the most out of your existing people and resources before making further investment. Continually examine overheads and drive improvements in productivity.
What do you believe are the 3 key stages on your career ladder? After completing a four-year apprenticeship with Ferranti, I began a career in copier sales with 3M. In 1979, I established Capital which has now developed into a £20m-plus company.
What do you like to do on your spare time? At the weekend, I enjoy salmon fishing as well as sailing on the Clyde and around the Western Isles. I love the scenery and the abundant wildlife.
What qualities do you need to see in your employees? Commitment, passion, enthusiasm, hard work, openness, integrity and ambition
in business, is it more important to be liked or successful? To be successful. Provided this is achieved by honest, hard-working and professional means, you will ultimately be liked and respected.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to others trying to reach the top? My ‘Formula for Success.’ Have a passion for your business and marketplace. Have a clear vision of what you want to be and where you want to get to. Work tirelessly in pursuit of your vision and goals.
Who is your hero? I don’t idolise anyone in particular but I have always remembered a conversation I had with Sir Jackie Stewart where he said – “don’t try to beat anyone other than yourself.”
Any business (or other) projects you would like to plug? No – simply continuing our expansion in the private and public sectors throughout the whole of Scotland as well as further enhancing our reputation for excellence.
other than your current position, what would be your dream job? A property developer in a booming market.
Who (living or dead) would you invite to a fantasy dinner party? I would invite Muhammad Ali (who I would sit next to), Maggie Thatcher, Billy Graham, Jackie Stewart, Freddie Mercury, Warren Buffett, Princess Anne and Luciano Pavarotti.
outside of business, what is the most important thing in your life? My immediate family and grandchildren.
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© AB Wedding Photography
EuropeDirectEdinburgh
Europe Day marks the annual celebration of peace and unity in Europe and this year 2013, the year of the citizen saw celebrations being held at St Andrew Square on Thursday 9th May. Europe Day commemorates 9th May 1950, when the French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman presented his proposal on the creation of an organised Europe, to help maintain peaceful relations between European countries.This proposal, known as the ‘Schuman declaration’, is considered to be the act that created what is now the European Union. Europe Direct Information Centre Edinburgh, based at the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce joined forces with EU member states, the Scottish Government and EU information providers to showcase their countries and what the EU is doing in Scotland. The sun was shining for at least some of the day as tourists and locals mingled on the paths of St Andrew Square soaking up the atmosphere and visiting the information stands. Opening the festivities on centre stage was a group from East Ayrshire called ‘Musical Minds’.They were joined by renowned tenor singer Martin Aelred.
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Their members include and support people with dementia, their carers, relatives, professionals and groups. Sweet melodies echoed out across the square for all to enjoy. Other performances included Arrieregarden, a Danish touring music-theatre group, Mazury Dance Company of the Polish YMCA London, Steve Byrne a singer and folklorist from Arbroath with a deep affection for German folksong and poetry. Rounding up the entertainment for the day was the toe tapping Irish traditional band,The Paddy Callaghan Trio.
your rights and opportunities as an EU citizen and how to exercise them (getting a residence permit or your qualifications recognised in another EU country, how to complain about unsafe products, etc.) please contact us now. Email-europedirect@edinburghchamber.co.uk Tel – 0131 221 3178
The Europe Day Fair was organised by the office of the European Commission in Scotland and was a wonderful opportunity to mark and celebrate this special occasion. If you’re looking for advice, help or an immediate answer to general questions related to the EU, directions to the best sources of information/advice and contact details (at EU, national or local level) or information on
co-funded by European Union
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Want practical advice to help Want practical your business? advice to help your business?
Business Gateway offers free business advice, training workshops, and information to businesses in Edinburgh. Business Gateway offers free business advice, training Call us now on 0131 529 6644 to find out more about: workshops, and information to businesses in Edinburgh. Call us now ona0131 529 6644 qualified to find out more about: • Advice from professionally adviser • Workshops to help you develop your business skills • Useful market research and company information • Advice from a professionally qualified adviser • Opportunities to meet and network with other businesses • Workshops to help you develop your business skills • Links to other useful business services from City of • Useful market research and company information Edinburgh Council • Opportunities to meet and network with other businesses • Links to information other useful call business services fromEdinburgh City of For more Business Gateway on Edinburgh Council 0131 529 6644, or email bglothian@bgateway.com For more information call Business Gateway Edinburgh on 0131 529 6644, or email bglothian@bgateway.com
0845 609 6611
www.bgateway.com ! !" # 0845 609 6611 www.bgateway.com ! !" #
Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government with the support of associated partner organisations. Maximum call charge from BT landline is 3p a minute. BC issue 23.indd 42
Business Gateway services are delivered by Local Authorities, Scottish Enterprise and Scottish Government
6/6/13 10:16:01
BetheBest Is Social Media a worthwhile investment? In the current digital age most companies and some SME’s are jumping on the social media band wagon using twitter, facebook and linkedin to promote their business. Is it worth the time and effort for SME’s? The answer is Yes! The good news is the cost of promoting your business via social media is free and can add real value to product marketing. The key to social engagement like any other marketing tool is that your potential customers find out about your business and ultimately lead to an increase in sales. Here are a few pointers to help you along the way: Ensure that your social media platforms are in line with the look and feel of your website and/or brand. If you are new to twitter/facebook etc then create accounts and begin by following associations who represent your industry. Also find your current contacts/customers and invite them as friends/ followers.
If you have limited time then it is better to focus on one social platform well rather then being ‘Jack of all trades’. If you have offers then promote them via social network but remember not to sell as users will be put off! Best to engage first then sell second. If you have positive images or testimonials then post these often as possible. If your time is limited then checking your accounts every couple of days is fine. You can use a number of tools to update all your platforms at once like tweet deck which can save time. Utilise tweet search to check where and who your messages have reached. Use Google Analytics for free and valuable website and social media statistics. If you are interested in find out more on digital marketing and social media then we have a number of training courses available.
GetwithIT
Mayan Grace
Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce
Our next digital marketing course is on Thursday 11th of July. Book online via www. chamberbusinesssolutions.co.uk/open_ training_courses or call Carrie Wilson on 0131 221 3191 e-mail carrie.wilson@ edinburghchamber.co.uk
By Bill Magee Scottish Business Technology Writer of the Year
Making your social networking secure Given growing market tensions about the world of the Internet and it’s a timely warning to the world of business and commerce from the Law Society of Scotland.
Twitter has also been critisised for allowing fake accounts now estimated to be running into hundreds of millions in number to flourish.
That failure to make their online social networking security controls robust enough leaves them wide open to hefty data protection fines of up to half a million pounds, such anxieties have heightened following commercially damaging hacker attacks on more than 250,000 Twitter accounts.
Add to this the recent hacking of Facebook and the role of such globally popular internetbased Social Media sites is being questioned.
The latest action has included two big-named accounts run by fast food outlet Burger King and PayPal the e-commerce global website.
Paul Motion, the Law Society’s technology committee convenor, told me that inevitably such uncertainty has led to some businesses and individuals leaving Twitter over fears of losing sensitive information. However others have spent time developing their online networks and presence and may be unwilling to give up this valuable
marketing resource. Those wishing to continue would be advised to adopt more rigorous policies and training. He stresses the dangers of inadequate staff controls, leading to username and password disclosure and a lasting reputational risk to businesses. Use of personal data is regulated in the UK under the latest Data Protection Act (DPA), through the Information Commisioners Office. Catch my Daily TechPost (most days!) via Twitter
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Gettingstarted Name: Neal Cameron Business name: DSE Scotland Start up date: 28/01/13 Website: www.DSEscotland.com q1: tell us a bit about your business? By law, employers must carry out individual workstation assessments (Display Screen Equipment risk assessments) for staff who use computers. Our assessment and training services help businesses look after their employees, comply with the law and save money by reducing sickness absence.
q4: What do you like most about working for yourself?
q2: What gives your business ‘the x-factor’?
As a control freak, being in charge of everything is pretty fantastic.
As independent specialists, technical safety and legal knowledge backed up my many years of practical experience.
q5: What has been your greatest business success to date?
q3: What motivated you to set up in business for yourself? The realisation that so many people work in discomfort or pain, for employers who are unable (or unsure how) to help them.
Being able to offer real, practical help to someone suffering with a serious problem is always great.
q6: What has been your lowest moment? Early dealings with the bank as they struggled to open a simple business account were souldestroying.
q7: in terms of business achievements, where do you want to be within the next 5 years? Eating peeled grapes on my mega-yacht. Failing that, still running a helpful, viable business.
q8: What would be your top tip to someone thinking of starting up their own business? I found completing a detailed business plan really useful as a way of scrutinising my ideas and financial information properly.
Twitter milestone for Edinburgh Chamber Social media has exploded over the past few years with a large corporations and SMEs using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn to promote their business. We set up the Edinburgh Chamber twitter account in 2009 as part of our social media plan, and have now reached over 6,000 Twitter followers!
If you are interested in joining our twitter and other social media accounts then please get in touch with the marketing team mayan.grace@edinburghchamber.co.uk or check out: twitter.com/edinChamber www.facebook.com/edinburghchamberofcommerce?ref=mf www.linkedin.com/company/edinburgh-chamber-of-commerce
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Employee of the year after year, after year, after year Eleanor found a placement as a pastry chef at the Corinthian in Glasgow with help from ENABLE Works. She says: “In the future I would like to do something with cookery. I think I would like to work in a hotel restaurant as a Chef. I am now at John Wheatley College studying Professional Cookery Level 5. “ENABLE Works has been helping me apply for jobs on the internet and in the newspapers. We’ve been to interviews and written my CV”.
We can help you be an inclusive employer, continually striving to employ the best candidates whilst ensuring that disability is not a barrier. We offer support for organisations to help you employ and support people who have a learning disability. We also provide training, supervision and support for individuals employed within your organisation who have a learning disability. We are currently working with 200 organisations in Scotland. We are currently supporting 300 employees who have a learning disability across Scotland. To find out more about the benefits of employing someone with a learning disability, please get in touch with ENABLE Scotland: Telephone Email
0300 0200 101 enabledirect@enable.org.uk
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EICC at the forefront of cutting edge technology connectivity the expanded EICC is designed to ‘meet or beat’ the installed technology in the first rank of global events destinations. Dedicated space for television scanners is designed into the expansion space and will be used later this year for The Guardian Edinburgh International Television Festival in August. Fibre optic infrastructure and CAT 6 cabling is available throughout the new space.
Edinburgh is defined by its events and the venue that stages more high-value conferences and exhibitions, and similar events, than any other in Scotland’s capital must surely be the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC). This spring the redevelopment of the near eight acre site is complete with a major expansion to EICC and the delivery of Atria Edinburgh, the only speculative city centre Grade A office building developed in the UK, outside London and the South East, to offer more than 100,000 sq ft in quarter one. In total, the combined EICC expansion and the associated office development represents an investment totalling £85 million and the return from EICC alone in economic impact for the city is forecast to be £2.3 billion over the next thirty years. The new £30m expansion to the centre, the Lennox Suite, is open for business and the
opening event, International Investigative Dermatology 2013, brought 2,000 delegates to the city from the medical discipline’s professional bodies in the United States, Europe and Japan. The expanded EICC can now accommodate larger events. No other venue in the world can match the hall-wide moving floor system in the new Lennox Suite that gives customers unparalleled control. In terms of digital
EICC has always used cutting-edge technology to give customers more.Twin revolving auditoria in the Pentland Auditorium have performed the trick of making space more productive and gaining precious time. Such innovation was, in the beginning, unique to EICC and has now become a familiar feature in the world’s leading conferences and events destinations.
The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce welcomes its new member companies: Ammequin Associates Baillie signs Blue Horizons (scotland) limited Blue Ptarmigan Brand Addition limited Centre For the Moving image (FilmHouse & eiFF) Clear Channel uk ltd Cloudline Consulting Colette doyle (Consulting for Archerfi eld House) Compressor spares inter ltd enable scotland/ enable Works Festival City theatres trust Fool gAlVmed global reach Partners grant Property gsi events Hertz uK ltd in-House security (scotland) ltd innovate Fs intelligent organics limited J Hughes Consultancy ltd
Mackay stewart & Brown Manpower Moneycorp nira Caledonia Phonographic Performance limited (PPl) qts recree8/Balanced strategy solutions ltd recruit With Conviction ltd red dog Music limited roger Mcdougall Photography scottish Business Advisors towry limited tsg scotland tsi (ireland) ltd t/a rainbow Communications utilitywise Plc Vanessa Brodrick Fine Art Voice AV ltd. Wideaware training & Consultancy ltd
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Tabard IT: contact us for local IT support With over 25 years experience in IT support and management, Tabard IT can really help you make the most of IT. We can provide support for existing networks as well as advise, supply and set up new ones, and maintain them for you. We are a one-stop shop for: Hardware/software advice & support
E-mail, anti-spam, web hosting
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Call or e-mail us to arrange a no-obligation visit to discuss your business IT requirements, or visit our new website.
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Because NEWS never stops
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PartnersinEnterprise Anderson Strathern awarded prestigious accreditation Scottish law firm Anderson Strathern LLP has announced that it has achieved the prestigious ISO 27001 certification across its entire business. ISO 27001 is the world’s highest accreditation for information protection and security, and is the only international benchmark for information security management verified by an independent audit. ISO 27001 is awarded to organisations whose business processes conform to strict international standards. Andy Lothian, Managing Partner, said: “The security of our clients’ information is of paramount importance to us.
“Our clients include governments, commercial organisations, and private individuals whose most sensitive information has to be strictly safeguarded in accordance with world-class standards.
part of a discrete group of firms in the UK legal sector with four globally recognised certifications, providing a key competitive differentiator.
“ISO 27001 confirms that our clients’ sensitive data is robustly secure.” “We are committed to maximising the trust and confidence our clients have in our quality of service, our security capabilities and in our sustainability.” This certification is part of a strategy of investment and development in systems, processes and people at Anderson Strathern, the only law firm in Scotland accredited as Investors in People at gold standard. As holders of ISO 27001 (information security), ISO 9001 (quality management), OHSAS 18001 (health & safety) and ISO 14001 (environmental), Anderson Strathern is
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Moversandshakers Space Solutions expands operations Space Solutions has added commercial interior design business Purpose Design to the group following a merger and appointed Kevin Galloway to oversee the operation. Previously with KM Furniture, Morris Education and ESA McIntosh, Kevin’s remit as FF&E Development Manager is to grow the division as an independent consultancy service to complement the existing services provided by Space Solutions.
Sarah Baillie
Anderson Strathern hires leading planning lawyer
He is supported by Craig McLelland, who also joins the firm from KM furniture as FF&E Consultant Assistant. Steve Judge, managing director of Space Solutions, said: “Despite the continued challenging economy, Space Solutions has thrived. This is down to our commitment to
Kevin left and Craig right
provide the right mix of services, at the right price for our clients, thus earning ourselves an enviable reputation as leaders in the market. “The employment of two of the leading lights in FF&E has ensured that our new division has the best start possible. We will use this experience to deliver within the education sector and expand into healthcare, leisure and other markets where transparency of the FF&E strategy is essential.”
Anderson Strathern has bolstered its Planning & Environment team with the appointment of Sarah Baillie as a Senior Associate in the firm’s Glasgow office. Sarah is regarded as one of Scotland’s leading planning lawyers and is one of the few solicitors in the UK to be dually qualified as a chartered town planner (MRTPI). Having worked on some of Europe’s largest infrastructure, regeneration and development projects over the last decade, she is particularly sought after by developers, promoters and public authorities. She joins from Semple Fraser. Andy Lothian, Managing Partner, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sarah to Anderson Strathern. Our Planning & Environment team, under the leadership of Alastair McKie, provides strategic planning advice to a wide range of clients including developers, landowners, public bodies and the renewable sector. Demand for our team’s expertise continues to grow due to the ever changing nature of the work undertaken.”
Sian left and Julie right
New events team joins Edinburgh Chamber Julie Webster joined the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce in April as Events Manager, following 14 years working in various marketing and event management roles within professional services firms. Her experience ranges from event management, PR, bid management, communications including websites, social media, and marketing materials all whilst managing the expectations of a number of key stakeholders. Responsible for organising, managing and promoting the comprehensive events programme for the Chamber, Julie will be supported by Sian Downes, the new Events Executive.
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Having graduated with BA (Honours) from Queen Margaret University in PR and Media, Sian also joined the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce in April. Having interned with a wealth of organisations including KD Media, Holyrood PR and Mash Marketing, Sian has undertaken the role of Events Executive. As well as helping to organise the Chamber’s extensive events calendar she also has responsibility for updating various social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
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The Royal Society of Edinburgh
THE
perfect LOCATION
Special offer for Chamber members: book a room during 2013–2014 and receive 25% discount on room hire Located in Edinburgh’s City Centre and within the home of the prestigious Royal Society of Edinburgh, we offer convenience, value and flexibility in a fabulous historic setting. Large or small, whether you are planning an international conference, educational seminar, business meeting, prestigious dinner, wedding or other celebratory event, our facilities can be tailored to meet your needs.
To organise a tour of our rooms, or for more information contact: The Conference Centre Team The Royal Society of Edinburgh 22–26 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2PQ, UK e: rooms@royalsoced.org.uk w: www.edinburghconferences.org.uk t: 44 (0) 131 240 5034
The Royal Society of Edinburgh Conference Centre is managed by The RSE Scotland Foundation, Scottish Charity No SC024636
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The Best Advice At Your Fingertips.
At SQA, we’re in touch with your business. We work with your industry to design a range of relevant qualifications to help develop the particular skills your business needs to be more productive and more competitive. And we offer a dedicated, named SQA Contact to give your company all the advice and guidance it needs to realise its full potential. Get in touch, we’re here to help.
t: 0303 333 0330 e: mycentre@sqa.org.uk w: www.sqa.org.uk/businessdevelopment
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