Business
InfoLab21 offers support for businesses via tailored consultancy and individual project work. The Knowledge Business Centre has access to expert ICT research and development and houses the InfoLab21 Graduate Academy.
Some practical examples of how we have been able to help SMEs include:
Information Security
An ever-increasing problem for businesses that requires a certain level of expertise and one of the areas that Lancaster University specialises in. SMEs have had assistance formulating security strategies, both wired and wireless, to help them on issues like maintaining data confidentiality, internet access, complying with regulations and building a security framework for the company.
E-Commerce
E-Commerce can be used as a cost effective way to increase market share, eg e-commerce online quotation systems and e-procurement.
Wireless technology
Technology like RFID can be used as a more effective way for companies to track products and allows more information to be stored and read from a much larger distance.
ICT Appraisals
Identifying problems in company systems, highlighting ICT solutions in line with company requirements.
Business Development Contacts
Nick King and Colin McLaughlin
Nick King
tel: +44 (0)1524 510447
mob: +44 (0)7772 175777
n.king@lancaster.ac.uk
Colin McLaughlin
tel: +44 (0)1524 510443
mob: +44 (0)7810 768265
c.i.mclaughlin@lancaster.ac.uk
Graduate Academy
The InfoLab21 Graduate Academy can offer a wide range of free IT support to businesses in the region.
"At present ICT plays a huge part in the day to day running of businesses. However, without a full understanding of ICT it is not easy to see where the technology a company possesses can be used more efficiently, or what products are available or could be developed to assist a company, saving time and cutting costs.
"Our support provides SMEs with expert and objective advice and specialist support at no cost to the company. This helps companies to move forward with their IT investment and gives them the confidence to approach the IT industry for ongoing support and future IT development."
Sarah Bennett, InfoLab21 Graduate Academy Project Manager
