A DENTON firm has joined a movement to play a key role in the North West’s digital transformation.
Visual Architects, which is based on Crown Point South Industrial Park, was among the latest group to take part in Made Smarter’s flagship skills programme.
And after completing its Leading Digital Transformation (LDT) scheme, a three-month course for senior leaders to develop digital strategies, it feels better equipped for the future, while better prepared to deal with present day issues.
Delivered in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Salford, LDT combines workshops, webinars, case studies and site visits to help participants develop a bespoke digitalisation strategy for their business.
Visual Architects’ HR manager Claudia Diop said: “The LDT programme helped me identify issues that can get lost when you are heavily involved in the day-to-day running of the business.
“It has also helped us think more carefully about bottlenecks, processes and how we build capacity for growth, while keeping the business collaborative and creative.
“One of the biggest changes for us has been introducing a more structured way of working, with clearer accountability, regular meetings and better-defined responsibilities across the leadership team.”
Made Smarter has now worked with 250 companies across the North West and head of organisation and workforce development Ruth Hailwood said: “Reaching more than 250 digital leaders is a significant milestone, but what’s most encouraging is how manufacturers are embracing a people-first approach to digital transformation.
“Digital change works best when it’s embraced at every level of the organisation. By empowering strategic leaders and building a network of digital champions, we are creating vital links between leadership and the shopfloor, helping businesses overcome barriers, improve communication, and embed new technologies in ways that deliver lasting benefits.”