On June 28th Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation, Robert Troy, launched the first of a series of Grow Digital workshops for the Midlands businesses in the Technological University of the Shannon, Athlone in conjunction with Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing (ATIM) cluster.
Minister Robert Troy, highlighting the latest €85m #DigitalTransitionFund from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and the expertise and value of the Enterprise Agencies working together to support business in the region. Seán Tobin of Enterprise Ireland highlighted the opportunities for regional business in embracing all stages of the digital journey, with studies showing digitalisation leads to:
– Increased productivity
– Jobs growth
– Improved profitability
– Higher exports
Illustrating just what digital can do for business, a fascinating #Panel Discussion saw 5 leading regional businesses outlining their own journeys, and how digital has had significant impacts on their business. A central theme was how digital transformation is primarily about people & culture – look first to your people as it’s vital that everyone is part of the journey.
In recent times, the focus has been on productivity, but increasingly in today’s world it’s about flexibility and agility, and this is where data and tech can increase competitive advantage.
However, tech must not be taken in isolation, it must be about your business and what you do, so start with a check list of what you want to achieve, and see how tech can assist in reaching these goals.
In the end, strategy beats technology every day of the week, know your ‘why?’ and know your problems, and you’ll always find the solutions.
The results speak for themselves, with all showing rapidly accelerated growth thanks to their digital journey. Thanks to Gary Hanniffy PwC, Yvonne Sheehan MSc BSc CMILT ADTA, Barry O’Donovan Mergon Group, Gerard Magee Allwood Architectural Joinery & Annett Murphy Critical Healthcare Ltd for sharing such useful experience & learnings.
Businesses attending had the opportunity to progress their digital journeys in a #MeetTheDigitalServiceProviders exhibit featuring many leading digital partners in the region, including Sidero, Mersus Technologies, Jigsaw, skillsvista (registered as Future Employment Ireland), ReaDI-Watch, Irish Manufacturing Research, APT, Comand Gateway, Kyzentree & Crows Nest – all showing digital tech in the Midlands going from strength to strength.
In addition, #Digital Transition Clinics were open, with Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland & Local Enterprise Offices on hand with advice and guidance on supports and initiatives available to businesses progressing their digital journey were offered.
100% of attendees said this workshop met the objective of informing, inspiring and supporting their digital transition.
- 95% of attendees said they were more informed about the Government supports and grant aids related to Digital Transition
- 100% of attendees said they were satisfied or very satisfied with the level of opportunity to network during the workshop while 78% said they made connections that will directly support them progress their digital transition
- [CM1] to podcast on ATIM site
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Go Digital Working Group
Many cluster members have taken up the opportunity to apply for the Enterprise Ireland Digitalisation Voucher, which is fantastic.
The cluster is taking an active role in supporting companies take the next step to implement your Digitalisation Roadmaps.
Chaired by Paul Deering, Managing Director, DEM Services this group brings together business leaders to review software applications, use-cases and identify tools relevant to accelerate your digital journey.
The next session will take place on July 19th on Teams from 13:30-14:15. Click the link to join