Partnership approach to technology

Apr 30 2008 By The Journal

WHILST ITC Technology is regarded by many as a science, its implementation into any business is most definitely an art.

Charles Sellers, managing director of Customer FOCUS Software, has over 35 years of experience in ITC technology change management, business process review and supply chain management. His company works with its clients to provide ITC technology services and solutions that focus on addressing their technology and business performance needs. Mr Sellers says that to successfully do this for a business, there must be an understanding of the business, its process and supply chain.

He says: “ITC technologies impact every facet of a business model and with technologies changing at a tremendous pace it is vital that in order to provide affordable and effective ITC technology through successful CRM business productivity application software, first and foremost you understand the client’s business, its market and achievable goals. Far too many software providers understand the theory but are unable to deliver the reality; after all, what the customer wants is not always what they need!

“At Customer FOCUS Software, our first stage with any client is to engage in a complete business review. From this, we are then able to ‘bespoke’ standard and SQL versions of the software that is required to meet the business’ specific needs. The approach is based on the premise that ‘If you don’t have any customers, you don’t have a business’’ and therefore the business application software is CRM-led.

“With technology comes change, both economic and social. The virtual office has become more commonplace and the current DTI WorkWise initiative encourages employees to work from home. In order to ensure this change in working habits doesn’t affect business productivity, broadband connectivity and online access to the company’s business systems is paramount.

“Development in IT now affects day-to-day business almost on every level. Most companies now require software accountancy support, online banking and financial support from the bank and a software provider. All of these integrate into one total business productivity solution – the business process. To meet these needs, an IT provider can provide part of the solution or a total business delivery solution via a partnership. At Customer FOCUS Software, we work closely with our bankers, The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and NatWest, who understand our business objectives and have structured a financial package to support this partnership approach. In addition we are supported by a number of accountancy firms. Collectively, we understand business and provide affordable and effective business solutions. ITC Technology is not just about growth but also removing and reducing unnecessary overheads, something that is essential in today’s business climate. No single provider can achieve this but working in effective partnership can.

“We work closely with Shaun Fooy, manager of commercial banking at RBS based in Newcastle.”

Mr Fooy said: “Organisations faced with the prospect of capital investments in new technology need to be sure that their investments will impact the bottom line and that the investment will bring benefits to workflow and cost of operations to ensure a competitive edge. We work closely with Customer FOCUS Software and its customers to meet these requirements.”

For further information contact Charles Sellers, Customer FOCUS Software, on 08458 337 545 or Shaun Fooy, RBS, on (0191) 269-8753