'Tech Check' is a technology check-up for your business by an independent expert.
(Download the information brochure here)
If, having read the information below, you would like to apply for a 'Tech Check' for your business, please download the Application Form here.
Completed Application Forms can be emailed to enterprise@wicklowceb.ie or posted to Wicklow County Enterprise Board. Payment of €150 (cash/cheque) should be posted to WCEB to complete the application process.
Tech-Check is a new programme to help owner managers of small businesses to take a fresh look at how they can use technology to improve their productivity and gain a competitive advantage. Under this programme, small businesses can avail of an independent Adviser to work with the owner/manager towards producing a practical technology plan.
The Adviser will spend a total of approximately one day working with the owner/manager and will begin by carrying out an assessment of the current technology usage in the business and identifying the key issues, strengths and weaknesses relating to its current use of technology. Based on this analysis, the Adviser will outline a clear, action orientated and realistic strategy aimed at developing and deploying appropriate ICT skills, systems, hardware and software within the business with the objective of delivering real and sustainable competitive advantage. The plan will focus firstly on better usage of the technology already owned by the small business before recommending further investment in new technologies where it is necessary.
Download the Code of Conduct, which Tech Check Advisors must adhereto here.
Frequently asked questions:
What is Tech-Check?
Is this just about computers?
How does it work?
Who is it for?
What do I get out of it?
How long does it take?
How much does it cost?
I want it, what do I do next?
What is Tech-Check?
Tech-Check is a new programme where small businesses like yours can access independent expert advice on the most effective use of their existing technology as well as practical suggestions for appropriate development of technology use in their businesses.
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Is this just about computers?
No. It is primarily about your business and how it can be improved using all sorts of technology. Computers are important of course but so are other kinds of information technology. These days, the internet also represents a huge area of opportunity for business development.
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How does it work?
A TechCheck Advisor is assigned to your business and will arrange to visit you. The mentor will get to know what your business is about and what your overall plans are for its development. Together, you and your mentor will examine your existing technology using a diagnostic tool (basically a type of questionnaire) to identify opportunities for improving your business. This is used to develop a brief action plan based on the best of these opportunities.
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Who is it for?
TechCheck is for every small business no matter what sector it operates in. Whether your business is currently a ‘technology-free zone’ or is already using the best and newest technology, there is always a benefit in reviewing where you are now and planning where you want to go next. Almost every business will be able to benefit from this service.
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What do I get out of it?
The most valuable benefit is the advice of the mentor as he/she works through the process with you. The end result of the exercise is a basic written plan for the improvement of your business using technology. It will be given to you in writing and in electronic format. You can develop this plan further and even incorporate it into your main business plan. The process of reviewing every aspect of technology as it applies to your business can be very enlightening in itself.
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How long does it take?
For most businesses, the process can be completed within a day. This can be split into two half-day sessions. Breaking it down further is not a good idea because momentum is lost and costs are increased.
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How much does it cost?
The standard fee is to you, the client, is €150.
This price is very heavily subsidised (85%) by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and represents only a fraction of the actual cost of the service.
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I want it. What do I do next?
Apply to Wicklow County Enterprise Board. Places on the programme are limited and are subject to approval so make sure you apply early.
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