Think Digital Scotland 2012 welcomed Scotland’s
digital industries

On Tuesday 20 March we welcomed some of the digital industry's biggest names to the Think Digital Scotland 2012 event.

Held in the comfortable surroundings of the Lighthouse Gallery, the event was a tremendous success, attended by a near sell-out crowd of delegates from Scotland's business community.

The day kicked off with a presentation by Alex Neil, Cabinet SecretaryforInfrastructure and Capital Investment, who announced Holyrood's intention to invest £864,000 in the Highlands and Islands ICT business engagement programme.

Mr Neil said: "Businesses can reap substantial benefits from getting online. They can reach new markets and customers, increase productivity and, ultimately, grow their company. 

"As part of the Digital Infrastructure Action Plan, we are keen to improve business skills and digital participation rates across Scotland. To do this we need to support our SMEs to build an online presence and drive business through the internet."

Before the first recess talks were given by Gilli Goodman, Agency Product Specialist of Google and James Akrigg, Head of Technology for Partners, Microsoft Ltd who spoke of the various IT solutions the company can offer businesses.

Following the break, the audience was treated to an insightful presentation on the importance of IT security by Edward J Chance, EMEA Director for Sales, Operations and Channels at Dell as well as a demonstration of the range of communication options which Vodafone and partners Onesteam can provide for SMEs.

Off the back of the high level of interest received from the earlier part of the day, the various breakout sessions held after lunch received even more positive feedback from many of the organisations in attendance.

Social media was a major theme due to its relevance for both commerce and communication. Tim Wright, Director and Co-founder of twintangibles and Gregor Lawson, Co-Owner and Marketing Director of Morphsuits, were on hand to direct businesses on the practical workings of social media and how to use their Facebook page for commercial advantage.

Also on hand to share their knowledge of the digital industry was Linda Steedman, Managing Director of eCom, Lennert de Jong, Director of Citizen M Hotels, Markus Lampinen, COO of GrowVC and Attacat's Managing Director, Tim Barlow.

Overall, your Chamber was extremely pleased with the outcome of the event, seeing the wealth of information on offer from some of the digital industry's biggest names. Events like these are not only great networking opportunities; they also offer so much more for every business which attends.

Stuart Patrick, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: "Scotland's digital economy is an integral component of the country's economic makeup, helping to attract investment and facilitate job creation.

"Welcoming so many high level representatives from Scotland's digital industries is a great privilege for Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and further illustrates our commitment to encourage growth in the sector."

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