MarketingNet - A New e-Intelligence

A new generation of e-intelligence has emerged in the West Midlands. E-productivity represents a more strategic and dynamic use of the internet as a communications tool and Leamington-based MarketingNet is leading the way forward for businesses that want to add value to their business via the internet.

MarketingNet works alongside major organisations such as 3M, Imperial Tobacco, Compass Group and Dunlop Aerospace to develop internet sites, extranets and intranets. It employs change management consultants to help companies adapt to new on-line systems and has developed database systems that enable organisations with multiple sites to manage a diversity of different websites from one central location. The company was the brains behind the Internet Marketing Advisory Board, an influential think-tank of multinationals and leading public sector bodies, which holds regular round-table discussions concerning key issues relating to the internet, such as usability and accessibility.

Founded in Leamington Spa in 1995, MarketingNet was acquired five years later by Swiss company, Day Software Holdings AG for a six figure sum. Location is an important factor in its success, as Client Relationship Director, Louise Kennedy explains:

"The West Midlands is a focus for successful businesses, so we have a ready supply of potential clients right on our doorstep. Operationally, our overheads are considerably lower than London and the South East and we are well positioned for visiting clients all over the UK. Leamington Spa is a thriving town, with a dynamic mix of Regency history and cosmopolitan lifestyle. The quality of life is fantastic - most of the people who work here live in the town and can walk to work. It is close to The University of Warwick, which produces some of the brightest and best young graduates in the UK, and we have no problem encouraging them to remain in the area."

The move from e-business to e-productivity means demonstrating to clients how to use the internet to cut costs, improve productivity and increase sales. Intranets, for example, can be used to automate systems and reduce the administrative burden. Extranets are the ideal vehicle for launching new products or notifying clients of pricing changes. Internet sites can act as a shop window to encourage customers to contact the sales team or as an on-line purchasing site.

As business has wised up to the web, MarketingNet is one of a new generation of strategic agencies helping companies to embrace e-technology and using it to achieve their business objectives. Some of Britain's brightest and best young brains are building a template for the future of e-commerce right here in the West Midlands. With clients as far afield as Kazakhstan and the US, the impact of this new e-intelligence will be felt right across the world.

Interview given by Louise Kennedy, Client Relationship Director.

For more information about MarketingNet visit www.marketingnet.co.uk