Somerset CC has turned hi-tech in a bid to support local firms, by improving their use of IT. The council has set up a series of half-day workshops after teaming up with local Microsoft Gold Certified partners to provide practical information and advice on a number of topics. It hopes the provision of support will give firms the edge, and break down the digital divide. These include search engine optimisation, business success through IT planning, and practical tips for successful online trading. Training and IT are usually among the first budget areas to face cutbacks by small firms when trading gets tough. Search engine optimisation, which improves the ranking of websites, is a useful way of driving new business. The cost of web development restricts its use by less IT-savvy small firms. Alvin Horsfall, portfolio holder for economic development, said: ‘Somerset CC is dedicated to providing excellent services which are on the doorstep of local people. The workshops provide the ideal opportunity for Somerset businesses to develop new skills, which could help them during the current economic situation.'
