Most businesses now recognise that Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has become an essential requirement for a profitable and successful business. This is especially true for those organisations operating within and trying to exploit the potential and unique challenges of today’s global knowledge economy.

 

A fundamental challenge facing many SMEs, notably Micro SMEs, is the ability to make full and appropriate use of ICT systems and to understand how new and emerging ICT can further improve productivity, competitiveness and market reach.

 

The eHampshire Partnership took a leading role in the evolution of the e-enablement ladder, a tool designed to help a business identify which areas of ICT they currently use, but more importantly, which areas they need or plan to use in the futrue.

 

The e-enablement ladder provides an excellent platform upon which (Business Link) advisors and ICT support professionals can focus their efforts in terms of providing business relevant support and guidance aligned to the unique needs of each organisation.

 

Much of this initial support and advice can come free of charge and can include 1 to 1 advice sessions, specialist advice workshops and advisor visits that lead to the development of an ICT plan (or Strategy) for an organisation.

 

The above face to face support is backed up by a wealth of on-line media resources including the eHampshire website which contains a variety of news items and articles on eBusiness, surveys, reports and events plus links to useful external information sources like the Business IT Guide

 

It is anticipated that the eHampshire Partnership will be able to help at least 1000 businesses advance at least one rung on the e-enablement ladder over the course of the next three years. We invite you to be one of those businesses.