Background

The SME sector was identified by the UK government as key to the nation’s economic growth and prosperity. They needed a programme of best practice to spearhead their change and improvement campaign. How can you harness the experience of the leaders and spread that knowledge effectively within the SME community? 

Challenge

 “I want to see our country develop the fastest growing SME sector in the world. This means more SMEs will think and operate internationally, they will be fully engaged in e-Business, and they will become learning organisations capable of adapting quickly to continuing, constant and pervasive change in their markets”.

Margaret Beckett, Trade Minister

Solution

Based on extensive market research, we recommended an approach which turned this strategic initiative into a nationwide change programme. The solution was a blended learning framework of (1) management led workshops (2) Interactive learning/motivational materials (4) database of cross regional and cross industry best practice video case studies and video clips (3) self-assessment tools (4) links to other government services.

“By far the greatest asset of CONNECT is the quality of the video case studies combined with the opportunity for interaction; it is enormously helpful to initiate change”.

Andy Barton, Business Link Advisor

Impact

“78% of the audience reported that the programme had a positive, measurable impact on their business in terms of cost savings or increased revenue.”

Source: Independent Impact Assessment, Department for Trade and Industry.

The project’s digital solution won a British Interactive Multimedia award (BIMA) for innovation in pioneering the use of video in new media (CD-ROM technology) and TRiBECA’s video productions won 3 US International Film and Video Awards. [Streamlining an online guiding system for ease of use case study]