IT training firm switches on to growth strategy

A successful training business is redesigning and expanding its service offer after taking part in the Lancashire Forum programme.

Bamber Bridge-based Inspire Business Training is also planning to develop new training techniques and review its customer base to focus on the most profitable sectors.

The company delivers tailored staff training that enables SMEs to use spreadsheets more effectively for strategic planning, financial management and other key commercial processes.

Founder and owner David Kevill decided to take part in of the Lancashire Forum programme, delivered by Lancaster University Management School as part of the Boost Business Lancashire service, to develop fresh ideas for business growth.

“The programme was an excellent opportunity to step back and really look at your business from a strategic viewpoint,” says David. “I was particularly impressed by how well everyone gelled. We were from diverse backgrounds but found a common purpose in supporting one another’s ideas.”

David continued: “The programme was friendly, relaxed, informative and, above all, thought-provoking. I came away with the confidence of knowing that there’s a bright future if you believe in it, plan for it, and put in the necessary effort.”

The Lancashire Forum programme enables senior SME managers to develop their skills and knowledge by sharing experiences in an environment of trust and mutual support. A number of masterclasses featuring inspirational speakers complemented the networking sessions.

David added: “The sessions enabled me to get a productive overview of our service offer, which is that good spreadsheet skillsets are of enormous benefit to SMEs, enabling owner-managers to utilise the full functionality of spreadsheets to save time and improve the accuracy and efficiency of the organisation.”

David is also looking to access support from Growth Skills Assist, another Boost programme which is aimed at giving business owners new leadership and management skills to help them achieve their growth plans.

Boost Business Lancashire is the £7.2m Lancashire Business Growth Hub, offering free and part-funded business support to ambitious and growing businesses. Delivered by Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, and supported by £3.6m from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), it aims to grow Lancashire’s economy by £20m and create at least 1,200 new jobs and safeguard 700 more by 2015.

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