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Chris Sargisson, CEO Norfolk Chambers of Commerce 

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This year’s Talking Tech for Team Chambers was a much-needed and long-awaited flagship event! As our first face-to-face event since 2020, the pre-planning was centred on a cautious and considered approach working alongside government guidelines, but key for us was an event that visitors would feel welcomed and comfortable.Over the past eighteen months the Norfolk business community have had to embark on, and experience many different tech journeys and this year’s theme for Talking Tech focussed on future-proofing and growing businesses.With over 90 delegates attending, and nine speakers covering sales and growth, HR, innovation and change and customer experience - our interactive panel co.nversations got to the heart of how tech could impact and improve their businesses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our Co-Hosts for the event were Nathan Lomax, Co-Founder of <a href="https://www.quickfiredigital.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Quickfire Digital </a>and Tim Robinson, Chief Operating Officer at <a href="https://techeast.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tech East</a>&nbsp;Ben Taylor, Chief Technical Officer at <a href="https://rainbird.ai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rainbird Technologies</a>, was our first guest speaker talking on Sales and Growth. Ben’s talk focussed on Analysis vs Automation – the data science is there, so use it, but always be explainable.To launch our first interactive panel discussion we had C-J Green, Founder of <a href="https://bravegoose.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Brave Goose</a>.&nbsp;C-J was the first of three speakers talking about business-led innovation and change, and posed the question, ‘what’s the real need, the real purpose?’ Start with who needs it, and don’t make decisions in a vacuum – find your hidden influencers and use them to embrace tech, and most importantly, train them.Second on our panel was Matthew Martin, Founder of <a href="https://weareimmersive.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Immersive Studios</a>. Matthew said, ‘Don’t be afraid of tech, and crucially, take your time, you don’t have to make quick decisions, but when you do decide, don’t procrastinate because you’ll need to take action. ‘Look at other businesses, other sectors – what are they doing?’&nbsp;Kurt Frary, Deputy Director of Information Management and Technology at <a href="https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Norfolk County Council </a> was our third panellist. Kurt talked of the importance of the way a team adopts tech. ‘How do your people react to your tech? Your staff will be happy if the tech is working for them – rubbish tech makes life rubbish’.‘Find your advocates for change within your business, find them and set them free’.Following the break, Mark Donaldson, of <a href="https://roveel.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Roveel</a> took to the stage and spoke on the importance of insights, and how by incorporating more data into your business you will make better decisions. The use of analytics must take a fundamental role, valuable data is all around you.&nbsp;During the break The Space was full of buzz and chatter as the morning topics were discussed, and smiles all round as people finally got to enjoy a face-to-face event.Our next speaker Hannah Keyes, Head of Client Services at <a href="https://www.footprintdigital.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Footprint Digital</a> had the audience on their feet as a lively, loud and interactive session followed! Hannah showed a series of examples of the most effective website design and digital marketing. With guests on a timed, well-known countdown to make their decisions, she artfully explained how innovations in tech help increase sales, growth and reach. ‘Measure it, test it’ – with an agenda of aesthetic vs engagement it was an insightful and interesting session.Our next two speakers Judy Randon, Customer Experience Specialist at <a href="https://www.insight6.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">insight </a> and Phil Budd, <a href="https://philipbudd.actioncoach.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Business Growth Specialist</a> formed our interactive customer experience and sustainable business growth panel. Key points from the discussion were ‘Customer experience is a science, and yes, bring tech - but don’t lose sight of the fundamentals. It’s about real people, and in training the right people you empower them to use the tech. All feedback is data, you have to personalise any experience your customer has, and don’t wait for problems – if you use chatbots, you must treat your customers like human beings.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Our final and Keynote Speaker Alistair Murphy, Engineer with <a href="https://www.lotuscars.com/en-GB/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Group Lotus</a> brought with him the most photographed guest on stage – the Team GB bike.Alistair spoke of the seventy years Lotus has been transforming design and tech from within Lotus’ Norfolk headquarters at Hethel, and their presence within the UK. He shared the incredible co.llaborations, their strategic direction and the advances they are achieving with revolutionising their product range, transforming their business and how they are delivering results every year with Vision 80. From the Emira launch to the Olympic Gold winning Team GB bike – sharing the success that tech has brought to Norfolk it was a fitting close to our long awaited Talking Tech event.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We would like to give a big thank you to our sponsor, <a href="https://breakwaterit.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Breakwater IT</a>, without their support events like Talking Tech would not be possible. Also, a big thank you goes to our exhibitors; <a href="https://bravegoose.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">BraveGoose</a>,<a href="https://smartmessenger.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">101 Website Apps &amp; Email Marketing</a>, <a href="https://www.norfolk.gov.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Norfolk County Council</a>, <a href="https://www.techcorridor.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cambridge Norwich Tech Corridor</a>, <a href="https://clarkstjames.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Clark St James</a> and <a href="https://easternvoicedata.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eastern Voice &amp; Data</a>.Thanks to everyone who attended too, we look forward to 2022 Talking Tech!

Talking Tech focussed on future-proofing and growing businesses.

Talking Tech 2021 Review

In order to help facilitate sales and growth, focus on one area of the business initially – where there is perhaps the most ‘pain’ and get going with researching tech solutions from there, says Judy Randon of insight6&nbsp;who will be joining the panel discussions at Talking Tech in September 2021. We grabbed 5 minutes with her to start the co.nversation on how changing your mindset and culture can help you embrace green growth.Tell us who you are, what you do and something people may not know about you! My name is Judy Randon from insight6. We specialize in customer experience transformation programmes and employee experience is a fundamental part of that.&nbsp;I once met Richard Branson to discuss a business idea.You will be talking about how tech can be used to facilitate sales and growth as part of our panel discussions at Talking Tech – can you give us a quick summary of why it is important for businesses to embrace green growth? Green growth is necessary for sustainability and resource efficiencies are part of this to achieve long-term growth. However, there needs to be a mindset for it to truly become embedded in business culture and planning so green growth can be fully adoptedWhen it comes to tech to help facilitate sales and growth, what is one way that businesses can implement this in their business right now? I would focus on one area of the business initially – where there is perhaps the most ‘pain’ and get going with researching tech solutions from there.Can you give us some hints as to what other takeaways businesses will get from your talk at the event (without giving too much away!)? Appreciation is the deepest principle of human nature. Are we truly understanding how to use this knowledge in our businesses and how can we use tech to help utilize achieving this principle.Are there any other comments/insights you would like to make ahead of the event in September?Looking forward to hearing about latest tech developments.Judy Randon will be part of the Interactive Speaker Co.nversation Panel at Talking Tech 2021, on Thursday 16 September, 9am-2pm at The Space in Norwich. For more information and tickets visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--color-text-primary);">www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21</a>

In order to help facilitate sales and growth, focus on one area of the business initially – where there is perhaps the most ‘pain’ and get going with researching tech solutions from there.

Let’s start the Co.nversation: Talking Tech 2021

When it comes to innovation and change small habits executed well will have more power than the biggest digital innovation project, says C-J Green, who will be joining the panel discussions at Talking Tech in September 2021. We grabbed 5 minutes with her to start the co.nversation on how tech can help businesses innovate and change. &nbsp;Tell us who you are, what you do and something people may not know about you!C-J Green, Co-Founder of BraveGoose and Co-Creator of CleverGoose, self-drive HR guidance software. I am also Chair of New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership a keen runner and beer drinker.You will be talking about business led innovation and change at the Talking Tech event – can you give us a quick summary of why it is important for businesses to embrace innovation and change? As businesses we talk about innovation a great deal, for many of us it conjures up thoughts of new ideas, discoveries, and achievements, but it is more than that. It is the process of uncovering new ways to do things, innovation is key to adapt and grow with the market and ultimately remain successful. When it comes to tech innovation, what is one way that businesses can implement this in their business right now? Small habits executed well will have more power that the biggest digital innovation project.Can you give us some hints as to what other takeaways businesses will get from your talk at the event (without giving too much away!)? Practical, deliverable insight that focuses on harnessing the power of human innovation and change. C-J Green will be part of the Interactive Speaker Co.nversation Panel at Talking Tech 2021, on Thursday 16 September, 9am-2pm at The Space in Norwich. For more information and tickets visit: <a href="http://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21</a> &nbsp;

When it comes to innovation and change small habits executed well will have more power than the biggest digital innovation project

How can data in finance be best used to facilitate growth? This is just one of the co.nversations taking place at Talking Tech in September. Mark Donaldson, CEO of Roveel will be giving finance tech advice at the event, so we grabbed 5 minutes with him to find out more. Tell us who you are, what you do and something people may not know about you!I’m Mark Donaldson, a qualified accountant but a bit different. My love of all thing’s tech has been evident from an early stage in my career. Training at Larking Gowen I led our systems technology and was responsible for an online internal forum for sharing of ideas and processes. Using tech throughout my work life and personal life (I’m sometime called Mr Gadget!) has led me to using both my accounting skills and tech by founding a software company; Roveel. We provide SMEs with valuable financial analysis of their business. As the CEO it is my responsibility to explore new opportunities, grow the business and strategic partnerships and lead the team. I am an avid Spurs fan and have been since a very young age and can remember my grandfather (he was an Arsenal fan) making me watch Arsenal vs Tottenham when we visited him in London (we generally lost!). I love F1 and motorsports owning both a Focus RS as my main car and a Caterham Seven – which is used on the track mainly. I have a young family and enjoy going away in our VW campervan. The beauty of the business is I can work from anywhere with a phone signal, be that besides the beach or even a different country…although I’m now excited to be getting back into the office in Norwich after 18 months!You will be talking about how data in finance can be best used to facilitate growth and the benefits new data and links to new finance systems can bring to business at the Talking Tech event – can you give us a quick summary of why it is important for businesses to embrace technology when it comes to finance? Embracing technology across the whole business is important not only from a finance perspective but in every aspect as it often provides those in the business with the tools they need to better perform in their roles. In Finance that may be a simple system of processing and scanning receipts automatically into the accounts system or in the case of Roveel, providing detailed analytics to help improve decision making and giving instant access to insights to help them. Tech is there to assist people in their roles and not replace them. Tech should be used to take away those laborious tasks and enhance the value that employees can bring to their businesses.When it comes to finance tech, what is one way that businesses can implement this in their business right now? My advice would be to look at the existing processes which finance staff are performing. There are often lots of manual tasks which can easily be automated. I would recommend looking at the integrations available for your accounting software, be that Sage, Xero, Quickbooks or any others. There is a wealth of partner integrations which can automate existing business processes for a cost effective monthly fee. Evaluate the time spent by finance staff processing manually or creating reports etc and compare the cost saving! Make a plan for the implementation, take a free trial to evaluate and introduce the final solution to the team with training. Don’t try and change too much in one go either!Can you give us some hints as to what other takeaways businesses will get from your talk at the event (without giving too much away!)? An insight as to how easy it is to implement change within a business, the impact it can have and how it can revolutionise business performance and growth. Growth opportunities are all around – it is being able to identify and quickly respond to them which is the key. I will show you how.Mark Donaldson will be a flash mob speaker at Talking Tech 2021, on Thursday 16 September, 9am-2pm at The Space in Norwich. For more information and tickets visit: <a href="http://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;

How can data in finance be best used to facilitate growth? 

How can you implement marketing tech innovation into your business right now?&nbsp;&nbsp; We grabbed 5 minutes with Hannah Keyes, Head of Client Services on ways you can make a big impact to the way you develop marketing strategies moving forward whilst navigating new technology.Tell us who you are, what you do and something people may not know about you!Following completing a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management, and a Master’s Degree in Marketing and Brand Management at the University of Essex, I joined the Footprint Digital team in 2016 as a Relationship Manager. Driven from my passion to lead and strategically support the growth of the Agency, I became Head of Client Services in 2018.&nbsp;I am an experienced Account Manager with a history of working in the marketing industry, both in-house and on agency side. I have a strong enthusiasm for marketing, specialising in digital, particularly SEO and PPC. Away from the office, I enjoy challenging myself in different outdoor activities, including running, kayaking and hiking. &nbsp;You will be talking about marketing technology at the Talking Tech event – can you give us a quick summary of why it is important for businesses to embrace innovation and change? &nbsp;It is fundamental that brands are aware of the continuously growing needs of customers and that there is a necessity to lean on technological advancements to continue to meet and, where possible, exceed these demands. Technology also offers more data insights, which can lead to better informed strategic decisions to support growth, or even just maintain market share in a highly competitive landscape.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;When it comes to marketing tech innovation, what is one way that businesses can implement this in their business right now? Get tracking! Visibility is key and without leaning on data to inform business decisions, you could be missing some big opportunities. Implement Google Analytics for free on your website to gain a better understanding of how users interact with your website. &nbsp;Can you give us some hints as to what other takeaways businesses will get from your talk at the event (without giving too much away!)? Digital Marketing and technology can sometimes feel like a minefield, so this talk aims to deliver clear, actionable takeaways that can make a big impact to the way you develop marketing strategies moving forward. &nbsp;Are there any other comments/insights you would like to make ahead of the event in September? As always, I would encourage attendees to come with an open mind and gain as many actionable takeaways as possible from the array of fantastic speakers available– I know I will be making lots of notes!&nbsp;Hannah Keyes will be part of the Interactive Speaker Co.nversation Panel at Talking Tech 2021, on Thursday 16 September, 9am-2pm at The Space in Norwich. For more information and tickets visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--color-text-primary);">www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21</a>

How can you implement marketing tech innovation into your business right now?   

Let's start the Co.nversation: Talking Tech 2021

How can you use technology to facilitate sales and growth? We grabbed 5 minutes with business coach Phil Budd on how it can attract the best talent to your business and increase your productivity ahead of the panel discussions at Talking Tech.&nbsp;Tell us who you are, what you do and something people may not know about you!I’m Phil Budd a Coach, Mentor and Public Speaker specialising in gaining better business results by focusses on performance. Having worked in Corporate Sales for 15 years, I became a Business Coach three years ago, enabling me to focus on what I enjoy – helping business owners and their teams reach their full potential I coach through a range of programs from 1-2-1 Coaching through to group coaching. In 2020 to help support locally businesses more, I launched two business growth programs for micro businesses to create employment in the local area and stimulate financial growth in the region. Balancing business with personal goals underpins my philosophy towards coaching and life, carefully guiding clients towards doing what’s right for the business to succeed and achieve their personal goals. I am proud of the results my clients have achieved and for the second consecutive year, I was awarded Winner of the ActionCOACH Best Clients Ratings &amp; Best Growth Coach for East Anglia in 2021. Two things people may not know about me:1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I am distantly related to Zola Budd the runner2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I once danced on stage with Basement Jaxx&nbsp;You will be talking about how tech can be used to facilitate sales and growth as part of our panel discussions at Talking Tech – can you give us a quick summary of why it is important for businesses to embrace green growth? Firstly, it is important from an employer branding perspective. To be an employer of choice more and more candidates are looking at the values of a business and the type of business they want to work for. Salary and positions are no longer the only priority. Employees want to know they are working for ethical, responsible employers. The growth and success of a business is directly related to its employees and attracting top performers.Secondly from a client acquisition perspective, it is important that companies consider how they are perceived in the marketplace. More and more clients are considering the green credentials of a business when deciding to work/buy from a company. When it comes to tech to help facilitate sales and growth, what is one way that businesses can implement this in their business right now? Businesses should conduct a review of all SOPs and processes in their business to understand how technology can drive consistency and productivity within those processes, so that technology adds value. Secondly, successful implementation of technology requires buy in and support from the team. Consideration needs to be given to how you involve the team when it comes to selecting new technology and getting their buy in from an early stageCan you give us some hints as to what other takeaways businesses will get from your talk at the event (without giving too much away!)? I will cover how businesses can maintain, sustainable profitable growth over a period of time whilst delivering consistent and high-quality service to their customers. Phil Budd will be part of the Interactive Speaker Co.nversation Panel at Talking Tech 2021, on Thursday 16 September, 9am-2pm at The Space in Norwich. For more information and tickets visit: <a href="http://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21</a> &nbsp;

How can you use technology to facilitate sales and growth?

It is important for businesses to embrace digital connectivity to ensure they can innovate, develop new services, enhance the things they already do and most importantly, so they don’t get left behind! Wise words from Norfolk County Council's Kurt Frary, Chief Technical Officer. Kurt will be joining the panel discussions at Talking Tech in September 2021. We grabbed 5 minutes with him to start the co.nversation on how tech can help businesses innovate and change.Tell us who you are, what you do and something people may not know about you!I am Kurt Frary, Chief Technical Officer (CTO) at Norfolk County Council. I manage the operational ICT service for the county council and for the Norfolk Fire &amp; Rescue service which spans 270 locations and ensures 8000 staff can deliver our services. I am also responsible for the largest Free to use Internet of Things Network in the UK.I have two passions in my life Retro Gaming where I collect old consoles and Motorcycles both of which you always need one more of!&nbsp;You will be talking about innovation and change – and the latest digital project from Norfolk County Council – the Art of Possible - that will support digital connectivity at the Talking Tech event – can you give us a quick summary of why it is important that business embrace digital connectivity and what benefits this can bring to business? It is important for businesses to embrace digital connectivity to ensure they can innovate, develop new services, enhance the things they already do and most importantly, so they don’t get left behind!The world has accelerated its journey online due to us all working from home and this means customer expectation is greater for digital services and digital information.We are investing significant resources into making Norfolk the best place to do business by ensuring the best digital foundations Connectivity.&nbsp;When it comes to ‘The Art of Possible’, what is one way that businesses can implement this in their business right now? One way that business can develop, and grow is by learning from others, trying new things and adapting them.&nbsp;Can you give us some hints as to what other takeaways businesses will get from your talk at the event (without giving too much away!)? An opportunity to “bid” through ideas for some technology that they can use to experiment with.&nbsp;Are there any other comments/insights you would like to make ahead of the event in September? &nbsp;Sometimes to innovate you just need to try some things, some will fail but one, now and again will work.We will introduce you to some people who have done just that.Kurt Fray will be part of the Interactive Speaker Co.nversation Panel at Talking Tech 2021, on Thursday 16 September, 9am-2pm at The Space in Norwich. For more information and tickets visit:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: var(--color-text-primary);">www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/talkingtech21</a>&nbsp;

It is so important for businesses to embrace digital connectivity to ensure the continuation of innovation, development and enhancement...

When the pandemic hit, the first thought Richard Ross had was of the time he found himself running a struggling business. He remembered how lonely it felt; how difficult it was to get good advice … or even just an understanding ear. He realised that the COVID-19 crisis would mean many entrepreneurs would be faced with daunting decisions – and he also realised that, after 25 years as a director of wealth managers and business advisers Chadwicks, he knew the people who could help them make better decisions. He called ten hugely experienced business leaders he had worked with and respected. These were people who had built businesses employing tens, hundreds even thousands of people; businesses that anyone would be proud to own and to work with. He asked if they were interested in putting something together. They were, and the Sounding Board was born. From the outset, all involved were adamant that there should be no barriers to businesses accessing advice and it was agreed that the advice should be given at no cost. Richard feels this is an important aspect ‘if your business is under stress the last thing you feel can afford is external advice, even if that is possibly the most important thing you could buy. Offering our services free of charge really emphasises that our focus is on helping you build a better business; our motivation is seeing you succeed.’&nbsp;Discussions with the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership led to The Sounding Board being adopted as a growth pathway for Scale Up New Anglia. Morgan Potter and his team have been very helpful in signposting high-growth businesses to the Sounding Board. These businesses had typically been very successful but were unsure of their next step. Having two Sounding Board members to bounce ideas off, to hone a raft of ideas into a focussed coherent plan has proved invaluable to the businesses who have engaged. Although the programme is free of charge, businesses involved are encouraged to make a meaningful charitable donation if they feel the process has added value. We are aiming to raise £50,000 to help the Norfolk Community Foundation tackle food insecurity in Norfolk. So what now?&nbsp;The Sounding Board are now looking for the next group of businesses to work with. They are looking for businesses facing big decisions and, most importantly, the commitment to invest the time required to see the programme through.If you think you would like to work with The Sounding Board, this is a good guide for becoming a candidate; 👉 All businesses great and small who aspire to improve. 👉 Businesses that are struggling with:👉 Growth (too much as well as not enough) 👉 Strategic direction and planning 👉 Shareholder planning (planning for exit, succession planning, …) 👉 Stress or a specific crisis 👉…… or any business issue/problem/thinking you want the share.&nbsp;These are driven by you.&nbsp;Find out more; <a href="https://www.thesoundingboard.org.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Home | voices of experience (thesoundingboard.org.uk)</a> where you will discover more about the Sounding Board programme, the members, the people they have helped, and an application form to register your interest. &nbsp;

Business Leaders join together to help Entrepreneurs confront big decisions.

The selection of suitable sites for offshore wind development is an extremely complex issue that takes into account many factors including water depth limitations, environmental restrictions and the potential maximum distance from onshore assets. However, one of the critical elements in site selection for these installations are geological restrictions, and this is an area where the expertise of applied acoustic engineering (aae) is helping to shape the landscape of the industry.Prior to the construction of an offshore wind facility, site characterisation surveys are required to evaluate the impact of seafloor and sub-seafloor (sub-bottom) conditions on the construction, operation and structural integrity of the proposed area.Surveys requiring the acquisition of geophysical information are typically carried out using surface towed sensors, with aae’s range of sub-bottom profiling systems leading the way in terms of data quality and adaptability.&nbsp;aae’s boomer and sparker systems are being utilised to collect site-specific data such as stratigraphy, sediment variability and structure, buried boulders and rocky outcrops.&nbsp;Geomorphological features such as faults and folds can also be detected as well as the presence of shallow gas pockets and other potential geo-hazards.&nbsp;The method used to achieve this is a seismic reflection technique that relies on the interpretation of reflections from acoustic impedance changes at geologic formation boundaries.Each aae system consists of a vessel based seismic energy source (a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aaetechnologiesgroup.com/applied-acoustics/products/sub-bottom-profiling/energy-sources-csp-units/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(26, 28, 110);">CSP power supply</a>); a seismic sound source towed on the sea surface (boomer or sparker); single or multi-channel hydrophone streamers that receive the reflected signals, and data acquisition and processing software.&nbsp;Offering a modular range of sub-bottom profiling products, aae is able to configure systems that can be used aboard any size of survey vessel and for varying conditions of geological states and water depths.Whilst aae produces an extensive range of geological survey systems, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aaetechnologiesgroup.com/applied-acoustics/products/sub-bottom-profiling/s-boom-system/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(26, 28, 110);">S-Boom triple boomer</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aaetechnologiesgroup.com/applied-acoustics/products/sub-bottom-profiling/sound-source-sparkers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(26, 28, 110);">Dura-Spark sparkers</a>&nbsp;are particularly adept in shallow waters in which these site surveys and cable route surveys are generally carried out.&nbsp;Four seismic sound source sparkers are available for these applications, ranging from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aaetechnologiesgroup.com/applied-acoustics/products/sub-bottom-profiling/sound-source-sparkers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(26, 28, 110);">L80</a>, a lightweight 80 tip sparker used extensively in very shallow areas, coastal or estuarine surveys,&nbsp;up to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aaetechnologiesgroup.com/applied-acoustics/products/sub-bottom-profiling/sound-source-sparkers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(26, 28, 110);">twin-deck UHD 400 + 400</a>,&nbsp;which features ‘tuneable’ twin banks of electrode tips that can provide the highest resolution data for windfarm site survey applications.In addition to the geological information acquired with the towed sub-bottom profiler, aae also provides positional information of the hydrophones through the use of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aaetechnologiesgroup.com/applied-acoustics/products/minipod/101g-gps-pod/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(26, 28, 110);">101G MiniPod</a>&nbsp;submersible GNSS receivers.&nbsp;The MiniPods can be installed on the head and tail buoys of the hydrophone streamers to confirm their precise position enabling geo-referencing of the geological data.When integrated with geo-technical results from core samples, borings and data from bathymetric and other surface condition surveys, the data collected using aae sub-bottom systems provides a key insight that ultimately helps to determine the suitability of proposed offshore installations, helping to create and sustain the future of renewable offshore energy.

Applied Acoustics' Key Role in Wind Farm Site Selection

<a href="https://norfolkbloodbikes.org.uk/our-stories/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Norfolk Blood Bikes</a>, a group of volunteers have been honoured with The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a voluntary group can receive in the UK.From humble beginnings in a Scout hut in Horsford 10 years ago to the current countywide service transporting blood, blood products, and donated breast milk between the acute NHS hospitals in Norfolk, the Blood Bikes provide a lifeline service. Carried out 100% by unpaid volunteers, the charity’s aims are to provide a free of charge, out of hours, rapid response service to the NHS, Air Ambulance, and donated breast milk banks every night of the year, weekends, and Bank Holidays.When the Coronavirus pandemic struck and the country went into lockdown like all charities we were affected in the same way. All fundraising and events stopped. Some of our volunteers stayed at home shielding. Local community hospitals were struggling to get their Covid samples to the microbiology lab for testing. So, as we were already transporting Covid samples from the 3 main NHS Hospitals to microbiology, we agreed to help. The number of hospitals suddenly increased from 3 to 9 and we found that over the year our task rate had risen by 75%.The commitment and dedication of our volunteers has never faltered. Neither Covid nor the “Beast from the East” Arctic weather could stop us. We have never refused any call, ever! We lived up to our motto “We’ll go no matter what”.Norfolk Blood Bikes is one of 241 charities, social enterprises, and voluntary groups to receive the prestigious award this year. The number of nominations remains high year on year, showing that the voluntary sector is thriving and full of innovative ideas to make life better for those around them.The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service aims to recognise outstanding work by volunteer groups to benefit their local communities. It was created in 2002 to celebrate The Queen’s Golden Jubilee. Recipients are announced each year on 2nd June, the anniversary of The Queen’s Coronation. Award winners this year are wonderfully diverse. They include volunteer groups from across the UK, including an inclusive tennis club in Lincolnshire; a children’s bereavement charity in London; a support group those living with dementia and their carers in North Yorkshire; a volunteer minibus service in Cumbria; a group supporting young people in Belfast; a community radio station in Inverness and a mountain rescue team in Powys.Representatives of Norfolk Blood Bikes will receive the award crystal and certificate from Lady Dannatt MBE, Lord-Lieutenant of Norfolk later this summer. Furthermore, two volunteers from Norfolk Blood Bikes will attend a garden party at Buckingham Palace in May 2022 (depending on restrictions at the time), along with other recipients of this year’s Award.Sean Moore, Chairman of Norfolk Blood Bikes said, “I couldn’t hold back my delight when I found out we were to receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. I felt so proud and honoured that our volunteers’ work and dedication, not only during normal times but for our Covid Testing assistance during the pandemic, has been recognised with the Queen’s Award which is the highest accolade and the equivalent of the MBE for voluntary service.”<a href="https://norfolkbloodbikes.org.uk/about-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Find out more about us</a>

Norfolk Blood Bikes receives The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

Ingleton Wood is raising concerns over fire safety issues being increasingly excluded from professional indemnity insurance policies following the Grenfell Tower inquiry – leaving building owners such as schools, hospitals, and businesses at risk of being uninsured.We have launched a campaign to tackle the “shameful” so-called ‘fire carve-outs’ or policy exemptions which we believe are becoming increasingly common in the professional indemnity (PI) market.The Practice is calling on the Government to take urgent action such as underwriting the policies to ensure all consultancies are comprehensively insured, including fire-related inspections and designs.Consultants and professionals in the construction industry take out PI insurance to cover the cost of negligence claims that clients could make against them if an incident – such as a building fire – was caused by an error in design or a failure in the specificationThe pressure of the Grenfell Tower tragedy inquiry has caused many underwriters to leave the PI insurance market due to higher risks, such as cladding. As a result, insurers are hiking up premiums or reducing the amount of cover provided.‘Fire carve-outs’ are a growing example of reduced cover. According to reports, PI policy proposals are increasingly stating the underwriter will not pay out for any negligence claims connected to the fire safety or fire performance of a building – retrospectively or in the future.Partner David Cresswell said: “We are very concerned about the rising prevalence of fire safety exclusions in professional indemnity policies.“Fire carve-outs are shameful documents and essentially mean consultants would be uninsured for any passive or active fire issues, retrospectively as well as in the future.“As we understand it, many other consultants are taking reduced cover as they simply cannot afford the full cover. This is a hugely damaging position for the industry and will no doubt have wider ramifications for building owners and occupiers.“The built environment relies on competent consultants to apply the regulations in order to safeguard us all. It is therefore time for the Government to step in with greater regulation or, even better, to underwrite the insurance itself. We are also lobbying local MPs, industry regulators, and other stakeholders to help tackle this very serious issue.”The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has acknowledged PI cover is “becoming more and more challenging” and has pledged to help the industry tackle the issue.

‘Shameful’ removal of fire safety from professional indemnity insurance leaves building owners uninsured in Grenfell aftermath, Ingleton Wood warns

We are delighted to have been named the UK’s leading adult education provider taking home the Adult and Community Learning Provider of the Year award at the Tes (Times Educational Supplement) Further Education awards, often referred to as the ‘Oscars of education’.Denise Saadvandi, Head of Service said, “I have never felt so proud of this fantastic service, the total commitment and dedication of our staff and tutors to our service and learners has led us to achieve great things for our community in Norfolk.”The award recognises providers ‘whose imagination and passion’ have shown ‘excellence in providing a high-quality curriculum with excellent student outcomes’.On the evening, the judges said about the service that: “Norfolk County Council has an amazing ability to do what’s right for its community. In life before Covid, 98% of provision was delivered in 200 venues across the region, but by April 2020 everything had changed and all provision moved online. As a result, learners remained connected with education and, crucially, with each other.”We want to say a massive thank you to all of our staff, tutors and learners for their amazing achievements over the year. We couldn’t have done it without you!If you’d like to watch the awards, the stream of the event can be found on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx_BWlPHs14" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(72, 64, 227); background-color: transparent;">Tes YouTube channel</a>. The Adult and Community Learning Provider of the Year Award is announced 32 minutes into the stream.<a href="http://www.norfolk.gov.uk/adultlearning" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.norfolk.gov.uk/adultlearning</a> .&nbsp;

Norfolk County Council

Norfolk Officially the best place in UK to learn as an adult

James joined the business in 1991 as an Electronics Technician. Back then, James and Adam built transponders in a converted goat shed after Adam saw a gap in the market.I caught up with James on his anniversary;“It really doesn’t feel like I’ve been working for aae for 30 years,&nbsp;time has flown. So much has changed over the years but it still feels like a family. We have a lot of long term staff here and it’s not often someone leaves, it’s a friendly and nice place to work.I previously worked with Adam at Ferranti ORE after I left school as a Trainee Technician, so I jumped at the opportunity to work for him when circumstances allowed this.“As the orders grew the business moved into new commercial premises, with James progressing to Electronics Engineer, Production Supervisor, and then onto Production Manager. 12 years ago, there was an opportunity for the business to have a dedicated Health and Safety Manager, seeing the link between his skills and expertise, James was the perfect candidate:“As I&nbsp;had gained a broad range of skills&nbsp;and operational experience from&nbsp;having performed most of the jobs within the company&nbsp;over the years, I was a good choice for this role with QA, Environmental and Logistics too.It’s never a dull day here especially with the current challenges the pandemic has presented us with. It’s satisfying to know that our customers are happy with our products and the services and support we offer.&nbsp;I’m glad to be part of&nbsp;the team&nbsp;and look forward to&nbsp;continuing this&nbsp;within&nbsp;our&nbsp;group of companies&nbsp;into the future.”Adam comments;“James was our first employee and has supported the business for a long time. When he first started, we sent him offshore and he had a job operating some equipment for us on Gardline’s Resolution. Unfortunately,&nbsp;he was so ill that he had to be taken off the vessel! As a result, his career changed tack and was responsible for writing the code for some early products before moving to Production and now he heads up our QHSE and Logistics departments.”Thank you for all your support and dedication to the business James.

This week, we celebrated the 30th anniversary of James Eman joining applied acoustics. What a journey we have been on in those 30 years!

Celebrating James' 30th AAE Anniversary

What is organic gardening?Organic gardening is using nature’s products to feed and protect your garden. It’s all about learning ways to use nature, as intended, to get results you may not think are even possible.&nbsp;How does it help the environment?Using all-natural products helps reduce the number of chemicals released into the atmosphere. When you use a chemical pesticide, it can harm more than just bugs. When it rains, chemicals are washed off the soil and drip into a nearby drain. They then make their way into local rivers and creeks, polluting the water. Organic gardening can also reduce the amount of waste you produce. Create compost by recycling your food waste. It’s also beneficial to source natural products that are sustainably produced. We use anaerobic digestion to make all our products. It breaks down natural ingredients – crops grown on our own farms – and we feed the excess energy back into the electricity grid to make green electricity.&nbsp;How can organic gardening improve the health of my soil?Only recently, have we recognised the damage that decades of using chemicals has done to our soil – it’s destroyed its natural structure and depleted vital nutrients. Fortunately, the damage can be reversed by replenishing the soil’s essential microbiome – a complex network of micro-organisms including bacteria and fungi that your soil needs. You can use the no-dig method to add a layer of green manure, decomposed plant matter, or our soil conditioning fertiliser to the top of your soil. Worms and other beneficial creatures will break down the matter, releasing the natural goodness, enriching your soil, and replenishing its lost nutrients. Maintaining your soil’s health is essential for better plant growth and helping your garden to look it’s best for longer.&nbsp;What can I change about my gardening routine to be more eco-friendly?Start by using an organic plant-based liquid feed to replace any chemical fertilisers or feeds. Build a compost heap. Collect leaf mould and food waste in a bin or medium-sized container. Over time this will decompose, leaving you with an organic compost that you can use to feed your soil. Pull your weeds out by hand, instead of using pesticides or other harsh chemicals. Use plants as a natural pest control, instead of a spray. Plants like marigolds and garlic can deter practically any pest. Plant them liberally around the garden. Or encourage more predator or pollinator insects to visit your garden and keep other pests in control. Herbs like dill, chamomile and rosemary are great for attracting an array of predator insects such as beetles, dragonflies and praying mantis. You can also use our natural, non-toxic slug and snail barrier.&nbsp;Should I use organic gardening if I want to create a wildlife garden?Definitely. Work with nature to encourage more visitors to your garden. Avoid using any harsh or toxic chemicals – these are dangerous for wildlife and will discourage bees, birds, and butterflies. Using natural, organic products can reduce your worry, help maintain a healthy eco-system and is much safer for wildlife, pets, and children.&nbsp;&nbsp;Do you have any advice for beginning organic gardeners?Whenever you buy products, always check the label. Read ingredients carefully to fully understand what chemicals you’re using on your plants. Try growing some of your own fruit and vegetables – this helps lower the emissions created when transporting food. Tomatoes and strawberries are an excellent choice for beginners. They’re hardy and can be grown in plant beds, pots or hanging baskets. If everyone makes even just a few of these changes, we can we help transform the future of gardening and farming and do our part to help the environment and make the planet a better place for future generations.&nbsp;Follow us on Facebook or Instagram @plantgrowuk for more organic gardening tips. Call 01953 525001 or email&nbsp;<a href="mailto:info@plantgrow.co.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">info@plantgrow.co.uk</a>&nbsp;to chat with a member of the team. We’re always more than happy to answer any questions you may have

Why using organic gardening | top tips to have a better garden

For some time, we’ve been hearing about the decline of physical retail, spurred on by the digital age and our growing preference for the online marketplace. In the 10 years between January 2010 and January 2020, for example,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-51094109" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">the UK lost over 50,000 shops</a>.Despite that, physical retailers still hold much of the market share. And there remains plenty of opportunity for physical retailers to set themselves up for renewed success. One such opportunity lies in the very thing that’s blamed for their decline – digital technology.It’s almost impossible for online shopping to replicate the most experiential elements of buying something in-person. For this reason, physical retailers should play to their strengths while also exploring how digital technology can give customers the best of both worlds in-store.Take Amazon as a case in point. Its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/markfaithfull/2021/03/01/amazon-bets-on-britain-as-amazon-go-set-to-launch-in-london-this-week/?sh=2db549e170d3" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Amazon Fresh</a>&nbsp;brand has launched its first till-less grocery store in London, which sees shoppers simply scan their phone on entry and receive a bill automatically on departure – without a need to scan products individually. This ‘effort-free’ mode of shopping, however,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-56266494" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">relies extensively</a>&nbsp;on technology and connectivity, with hundreds of cameras and sensors working seamlessly.Other retailers have focused on transforming their fitting rooms through the use of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/retailers-like-macys-adidas-are-turning-to-virtual-fitting-rooms-2020-8?r=US&amp;IR=T" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">augmented and virtual reality</a>. Imagine being in a fitting room, putting on a jacket you like the look of and being able to change the colour or size in the blink of an eye. That makes life easier for the customers, but it also saves time, allowing more people to make use of the changing room and thus generating more sales.Technology can also be used to encourage passers-by to step inside through interactive window displays, as&nbsp;<a href="https://econsultancy.com/examples-digital-technology-in-retail-stores/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">Ted Baker</a>&nbsp;has shown to great effect.Perhaps most importantly, retailers can use digital tech to better understand consumer behaviour. By harnessing data, they can make informed decisions such as what merchandise to prioritise and how to lay out the store to encourage sales or make them more profitable. Stock levels can even be tracked, helping keep unneeded stock to a minimum and saving money on warehouse space.These are just a few of the opportunities presented by digital technology for the high street. And while the cost of some of these technologies may be prohibitive for now, that will change as the tech becomes more ubiquitous – meaning it won’t just be major retailers who can reap the rewards.However, data hungry technologies need connectivity they can rely on – without that, any positive customer benefits could easily be undone by a glitchy experience. They need the best possible digital foundation which is why CityFibre is building a new full fibre network in Norwich.Designed for the digital age, full fibre networks use 100% fibre optic technology to carry data at light speed all the way from the home to the point of connection – a pristine open highway with no bumps in sight. This gives users consistently faster speeds, near limitless bandwidth and connectivity you can depend on.Most importantly for retailers, full fibre underpins 5G connectivity, which will be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.insider.co.uk/news/retail-bosses-pin-hopes-5g-21367311" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent;">crucial</a>&nbsp;to their ability to adopt cutting-edge technology and encourage shoppers to flock to the high street. Think of it as a high-capacity public wifi, connecting consumers with digital tech in shops, restaurants and on the streets themselves, and creating an experience that just can’t be matched in an online-only world.So whether it’s friction-free shopping, interactive displays or smart fitting rooms, full fibre and 5G helps to power all of these advances. Now, who’s for some retail therapy?

Smarter shopping – what Full Fibre means for the future of retail

With Coronavirus restrictions come in place, many businesses could be forgiven for taking their eyes off the ‘Brexit ball’.&nbsp;However, the number of days left to prepare for Brexit are rapidly dwindling and business needs to take action now.At present businesses have free movement of their goods into/out of Europe, however on 01 January 2021, you will need to produce international trade documentation for all your products both imported and exported to/from the EU.Whether you are an importer or an exporter, deal or no deal, you will need to do things differently from 01 January 2021 and that means you need to step up your Brexit preparations now, to ensure you are fully ready to meet the coming changes.To ensure that your business is ready to meet the new UK import/export regulations on 01 January 2021, you need to have considered the following ten key areas:<ol><li>Do you have an EORI number starting with GB?</li><li>Who is currently moving your freight and who do you currently use to process your customs declarations?</li><li>Who’s currently holding the liability for your declarations? (direct/indirect representation)</li><li>Do you have an international team?&nbsp;What is the level of expertise in that team?</li><li>&nbsp;When did you last review or check your commodity/tariff codes?</li><li>What is the likely volume of your imports/exports from the EU?</li><li>Which ports/airports do you use?</li><li>Do you have your own deferment account with HMRC?</li><li>Are your imported goods liable for excise duty?</li><li>Do your import/export goods require licences, health certificates or dangerous goods notifications?</li></ol> Norfolk Chambers has also been gearing up to meet the expected demand from these changes.&nbsp;We now have trained expert Chamber Customs staff to provide both support and advice, as well as the processing of customs declarations for both import and exports.It is expected that in early 2021, there is likely to be considerable constraints on the capacity for processing customs documentation across the whole of the UK.&nbsp;As such, we are encouraging you now to make sure you are prepared to meet the challenge of Brexit.&nbsp;Depending on your preparations, we may be able to offer you the opportunity to secure some of Norfolk Chambers’ processing capacity for your customs declarations.To secure your capacity, we will need some detailed information about your importing and exporting needs and we will need to ‘on-board’ you into the Chamber Customs system.To find out more about securing Customs Declaration capacity for your business, please contact:Julie Austin&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Julie.austin@norfolkchambers.co.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Julie.austin@norfolkchambers.co.uk</a>Ade Cockburn&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Adrian.cockburn@norfolkchambers.co.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Adrian.cockburn@norfolkchambers.co.uk</a>Andrea Wilson&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Andrea.wilson@norfolkchambers.co.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Andrea.wilson@norfolkchambers.co.uk</a>Nova Fairbank&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Nova.fairbank@norfolkchambers.co.uk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nova.fairbank@norfolkchambers.co.uk</a>Or call: 01603 625977

With just 8 Weeks to go - is your business ready for Brexit?

A scheme which will help get people into apprenticeships in small businesses in Norfolk and Suffolk has been launched by New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership.The Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Pool is being set up in partnership with Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils and will help transfer unspent apprenticeship levy payments from levy payers to small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) in the area.Levy payers with unspent levy need to be identified and encouraged to allocate some or all of their unspent levy to a virtual pot. Any preferred use of their funds – a certain apprenticeship standard, sector, location – will be identified at this stage.The LEP or an endorsed partner will then source businesses direct or through an apprenticeship provider that has potential apprentices who are looking to ‘receive’ the funds. An introduction will be made and if all parties, including the training provider, are happy with the match, funds can start to be transferred.New Anglia LEP is working with businesses, colleges and universities in the region to identify potential opportunities and a budget of £120,000 has been allocated to fund the development of the New Anglia Apprenticeship Levy Transfer Pool.Chris Starkie, chief executive of New Anglia LEP, said: “Intervention is required in order to boost the number of apprenticeship starts, particularly among SMEs which make up the vast majority of employers in the area.“This scheme is part of a wider series of actions designed to support apprenticeships across Norfolk and Suffolk and it is essential there is a coordinated approach across stakeholders. This will ensure we can maximise opportunities and prevent employers being engaged multiple times by different stakeholders.”Natasha Waller, Skills Manager for New Anglia LEP, said: “This will be a massive boost for apprenticeships and training at a time when these opportunities are dwindling. People are central to all of our ambitions and goals and this underlines our commitment to help people of all ages set their aspirations high and open them up to the careers available to them.”For the initiative to work effectively and to have a significant impact, it needs to be done at scale and with support for both the levy payers – companies with a staffing bill of more than £3 million a year – and the SMEs.An apprenticeship levy coordinator has been appointed by the LEP and this post will be funded for the two years of the programme.

Apprenticeships and training to be boosted by levy transfer scheme

The £25 million state-of-the-art new operations and maintenance building for East Anglia’s largest offshore windfarm to date has officially opened its doors.The building was officially opened last week by Waveney MP, Peter Aldous and Charlie Jordan, ScottishPower Renewables Project Director for East Anglia ONE.The operations and maintenance building will be the base for up to 100 full-time employees, including skilled engineers and technicians, for the 30-plus year lifespan of the windfarm.&nbsp;The site is already a hive of activity welcoming hundreds of contractors and supply chain operators, contributing substantially to the local economy.Norwich and London based architectural practice&nbsp;<a href="http://www.lsiarchitects.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">LSI Architects</a>&nbsp;worked in collaboration with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.arup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Arup</a>&nbsp;to design the new base, located in the port of&nbsp;Lowestoft.Peter Durrant, Director at LSI Architects, commented: "The new building provides technically suitable facilities for the complex needs of the operation and maintenance phases of the client’s work. LSI Architects understanding of the technical requirements of the site has helped to inform the design, for example through the use of robust contextual materials to withstand the harsh coastal environment and a split ground floor level to manage flood risk.The building is segregated into office, technical and warehousing spaces and the management of people through these areas are key to the security and efficient operation of the building. Externally the building presents a simple form, mirroring the silhouette of the surrounding warehouse buildings whilst setting itself apart with a clean glazed gable and ground floor, providing an attractive presence to the public façades of the building and allowing views through this corner and out across the harbour."Charlie Jordan, ScottishPower Renewables Project Director for East Anglia ONE, said:&nbsp;“Lowestoft is the home of East Anglia ONE, and to see the operations and maintenance building fully up and running really demonstrates that fact. It’s not just the base of operations for the windfarm, but a symbol of our long-term commitment to the region and our drive to grow the offshore wind industry in Lowestoft and East Anglia.“In just 14 months, the construction team have turned an empty site on the Port of Lowestoft into a state-of-the-art establishment and we are grateful for all of the work which has made the base into what you see today. Most of the operations and maintenance team are based within a few miles of the site and have worked on other local windfarms, bringing with them great knowledge and expertise. This has allowed us to perfect design elements of the base, making it super-efficient and reinforcing the East of England’s leading position in the sector.“With the windfarm due to be complete next year, the building is already buzzing with local employees and contractors all helping us to create clean, green energy to meet the UK’s carbon reduction targets.”Waveney MP, Peter Aldous, said:&nbsp;“The opening of the East Anglia ONE operations and maintenance base is a big moment for Lowestoft and the wider Waveney area. It demonstrates a significant investment in our town. East Anglia ONE is providing important job opportunities for people locally and across the region, both offshore and onshore, as well as through the local supply chain.“Lowestoft has a proud maritime heritage and the substantial growth of the offshore wind industry, particularly off the coast of East Anglia, will see more generations making a career out at sea. It is great to see Lowestoft leading the way in the UK’s offshore wind revolution.”

'Home' of East Anglia One Windfarm Officially opens

Method Marketing is pleased to release the results of its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.methodmarketing.org/news/state-of-content-survey-2019-results/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">State of Content Survey 2019</a>, which show that poor spelling, punctuation and grammar have an impact on business success.The headline statistic shows that&nbsp;94% of people are less likely to spend money&nbsp;with a company that has mistakes on its website, demonstrating that poor spelling, punctuation and grammar have a direct effect on a business’s bottom line.&nbsp;This was in addition to&nbsp;93% of respondents reporting that they are less likely to trust&nbsp;a company with spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors on its site.&nbsp;In an age when brands are trying to build trust and authenticity, this statistic illustrates that something as simple as a spelling mistake could erode customer relationships.Other notable data showed that 84% of people generally notice errors, while 80% of people say that&nbsp;spelling mistakes are their ‘pet hate’.&nbsp;The research also revealed that people most frequently spot mistakes on social media (79%), in advertising content (75%) and in print media (67%).&nbsp;The statistics also showed that people are typically more bothered when they see mistakes in&nbsp;education&nbsp;(91%),&nbsp;law&nbsp;(91%) and&nbsp;financial services&nbsp;(84%).&nbsp;Says Method Marketing founder,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucymowatt/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lucy Mowatt</a>: “As a content marketer with an editorial background, I wanted to know about attitudes towards poor-quality content. Having noticed a decline in standards in recent years, I was keen to explore what effect, if any, it has on brand trust and sales.&nbsp;“Now that the results of the State of Content survey have been collated and analysed, it’s possible to show that poor spelling, punctuation and grammar do have an impact.“It demonstrates the importance of investing in professionally produced content, especially in high-trust sectors, such as education, law and financial services where attention to detail is vital to the services provided.”

State of Content Survey 2019

The Great Yarmouth Rotary Speakers Club was launched in March 2020,but like many organisiations the Pandemic meant that we had to hold our fortnightly meetings using the Zoom platform.&nbsp;&nbsp;However we can now look forward to returning to our face to face meetings in July, presenting to a live audience is very important as our member’s progress on their public speaking journeyWe are offering a Bursary Award to an individual who due to financial reasons is unable to cover the £110 annual subscription.&nbsp;An application form is available by visiting yarmouthspeakersclub.co.uk.&nbsp;All correspondence is processed in the strictest confidence and the applicant would be required to attend an interview via zoom and we would expect a level of commitment to the club for the 12 month period.We work with our members to become effective speakers, good communicators whilst at the same time helping them to improve their leadership skills.&nbsp;&nbsp;Through the Rotary connection we can help you build your social confidence and networking skills through workshops and support from outside speakers.It has been a very difficult year for all of us especially those people seeking to gain employment or promotion at work and the Speakers Club can help you deliver an effective interview performance.&nbsp;&nbsp;The prospect of giving a works presentation can be very daunting especially if you have little or no experience in planning a presentation covering all the relevant points, where timing is crucial.All our members will be offered mentoring and we will work with you to put together a programme that suits your needs. We are conscious that there is a nucleus of people who want to find their voice whether for personal or social reasons or they want to make a speech for a very special occasion which could be a wedding or a eulogia We work with the Toastmasters International training programme and you will have the opportunity to present a talk to a different audience namely a traditional Rotary Club or a Toastmasters Group.&nbsp;We have a diverse membership, encouraging personal and professional development and through your journey you will receive constructive feedback and support from other members.We create a very friendly environment that brings an element of fun to public speaking where you will grow in confidence, inspire and motivate others, who are&nbsp;embarking on the same journey but for different reasons&nbsp;&nbsp;If you would like to experience first hand how the club operates, then please pop along to one our fortnightly meetings .&nbsp;We meet on a Tuesday evening and&nbsp;the venue and future meeting dates can be located by visiting our website.If you are running your own business and you would like to sponsor an employee then please contact us so that we can discuss a package that meets your requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Great Yarmouth Rotary Speakers Club is there to help you whether it’s for personal or business reasons and we need your support to make this club thrive and grow.Robert LovickFounder Great Yarmouth Rotary Speakers Club You can download the pdf Bursary scheme form <a href="https://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/news/member/great-yarmouth-rotary-speakers-club-opens-bursary-award" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> &nbsp;

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