An architectural glass company in the north-east of England has been able to boost its performance with help from Durham University“s Institute for Agility and Digital Enterprise Technology.
As a re…
An architectural glass company in the north-east of England has been able to boost its performance with help from Durham University“s Institute for Agility and Digital Enterprise Technology. As a result, Hartlepool-based Big Studio Glass Design has been able to invest GBP 25,000 in new equipment and has improved its ability to meet demand, maintain competitivity and manage the business. Co-director Suzi Dear said: “We are a young company and when you“re heavily involved in the day-to-day aspects of running a business it is difficult to take a step back and identify ways to improve how you work”. The company called Durham University“s Institute for Agility and Digital Enterprise Technology (IADET), which helps the region“s manufacturing and engineering companies improve their all-round performance, respond quickly to market conditions, cut costs and increase profitability. In three years the team has helped more than 140 firms in north-east England to safeguard 991 jobs, create 116 new ones, secure GBP 4.5 million in investment and increase combined turnover of GBP 73.5 million by GBP 10.6 million. Agility manager Keith Ternent said: “The competitive nature of modern manufacturing puts pressure on businesses to continually operate more efficiently. We aim to provide a complete solution for clients which meets their specific requirements.” Big Studio Glass Design makes bespoke architectural glass features and furnishings. Products include feature windows, glass staircases, wall art and sculptures. With help from Agility, the firm has standardised operating procedures in the workshop to optimise the use of space and begun a programme to improve efficiency by streamlining the production process. The team has also created a bespoke computer package, all of which has helped the firm to maintain a turnover of GBP 190,000, an increased IT capability and a process for continuous improvement.