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eChange Program To Help Small Business With eCommerce

An exciting, innovative eCommerce program for small to medium business operators, will be hosted by Latrobe City Council’s economic development unit in March.

By Latrobe City Council - 27th February 2007 - Back to News

The state government approved program, known as the ‘eChange Program’, will enable small business operators to make better informed decisions about implementing eCommerce in their business.

According to Latrobe City’s economic development officer, Gwen Hickman, the eChange program aims to develop participants’ understanding of eCommerce and eBusiness technology and solutions.

"Using multimedia, business and online tools, participants learn how to successfully promote their products and services to achieve business growth," Ms Hickman said.

"Participants in the program will develop an understanding of the importance of eBusiness and eCommerce in the context of business improvement.

"The benefits and costs of various eBusiness solutions and a framework for choosing the most appropriate option for their business will be discussed, together with techniques for maximising the effectiveness of technology in business to achieve operational efficiency; cost reduction; and improved marketing and business development.

"The program will also develop an understanding of the criteria and cost parameters for working effectively with ICT suppliers and consultants; and deliver an understanding of how to integrate technology to improve business processes," Ms Hickman said.

Ms Hickman said that businesses involved in the eChange program will participate in four three-hour workshops, supported by a comprehensive workbook and CD. "Additionally participants receive three one-on-one three-hour onsite business mentoring sessions."

The program will run over four evening sessions from the 6, 13 and 22 March and conclude on 16 April 2007. The workshops can be also be tailored to specific industries as a means of encouraging collaboration between participating businesses.

Steve Asmussen, who together with his wife Bec has owned and managed the long established Traralgon business Aussie Disposals for the past two and half years, a business which has demonstrated growth and stability, commended the workshop

"The eChange program is an extensive and valuable workshop definitely worth doing. As a small business, your management and business skills can, and may often, be challenged in a world of IT and telecommunications in business today," Mr Asmussen said.

"The program provides an opportunity to be taken outside your boundaries by making you more savvy in doing business and becoming a smarter business person. Nothing is worse, flying blind or getting left behind. It’s not about businesses keeping their heads above water anymore, it’s about identifying and developing the needs of your business. There are potential avenues in the way you grow your business in IT, in today’s business world," Mr Asmussen said.

Ms Hickman said that the active support of council in hosting the program enables the eChange program to be locally available at a low cost to businesses.

"To cover workshop costs the charge will be $200 per business for the 21 hour long eChange program, which is fantastic value for money Ms Hickman said.

For further information regarding the eChange program contact Gwen Hickman on 5128 5525 or mobile 0448 804 764.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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