Small companies get tips on surviving economic downturn

SMALL companies will get advice and help on finding ways through the difficult economic times ahead at aseminar being held in Limerick tomorrow.

Design Shannon Skillnet will host a free half-day seminar entitled Building Innovation.

It commences at 9.30am in the Clarion Suites Hotel.

Organiser, Mary Tyrrell of Design Shannon Network, said: “The focus of the event is to provide smaller companies with practical advice on how to use design and innovation to differentiate their products and services, especially during the current economic slowdown.

“The overall message is that innovation is for everyone who wants to survive in business.”

The speakers will give contrasting perspectives on the value of design and innovation in business.

Ms Tyrrell said: “Innovation is within every company’s grasp, if the approach is right.

“Research has shown that companies offering even moderate advantages over competitors increase their chance of success by almost 60%, so innovation, at any level, does pay long-term dividends.”

Tips on how to effectively communicate these advantages to customers and to the wider public will be provided by Martin Crotty, managing director of BFK, a Dublin-based brand communications company.

Mr Crotty said it was not enough for companies to be innovative solely in terms of products and services.

“They also have to be innovative in how they present themselves to key target audiences and stakeholders.

“It’s all about standing out for the right reasons. If everyone zigs, you zag.”

Michael Howe, whose Galway-based Creganna Medical Devices won a 2007 innovation award for medical device technology, said: “Irish companies can no longer compete on price with low-cost destinations, and will therefore have to provide products that are different or better to safeguard their future.”

For more information see www.designshannon.ie.