Tag Archives: digital

Business Advice, Business Software, Data, News, Technology

Redefining Compliance with V6 Cisco Director and V6 Cisco 360 Advisory

Helping businesses realize the full potential of their Cisco Partnership

Ensuring strong alignment with Cisco’s market direction and programs in today’s fast evolving commercial environment makes a material difference to the bottom line for Cisco partners.

That is why Vortex 6 is pleased to announce the launch of V6 Cisco Director and V6 Cisco 360 Advisory, a comprehensive suite of tools and services designed to maximize the value of Cisco partnerships. Together, this suite delivers greater management awareness, improved competitiveness, business continuity and better alignment with Cisco programs.

Commenting on the launch Peter Olive, CEO says: “We are driven by a passion for helping our customers fully realize the value of their relationship with Cisco. V6 Cisco Director and V6 Cisco 360 Advisory provide Cisco partners with new opportunities, better alignment, and more control and visibility for all stakeholders. Most importantly it delivers the opportunity to maximize profitability and make a significant difference to the bottom line.”

The Cisco Director suite comprises:

V6 BOM Analyzer

BOM Analyzer is a powerful sales tool for Cisco partners. It provides true deal margin visibility which can typically be up to three times the visible margin. V6 BOM Analyzer lets partners know the margin on the product, applicable VIP, CSPP, Life Cycle Incentive opportunities and Professional Services margin. This is good for partners and good for Cisco.

V6 Cisco Compliance

V6 Cisco Compliance fully automates management of compliance with the Cisco Partner Program in a single dashboard. Delivering full visibility of the current position and providing advanced notice of upcoming changes that will affect program status. It’s a powerful planning tool enabling partners to consider different strategies and includes all the training and costs required for each Certification to make budgeting simple. Partners no longer need to build and maintain custom spreadsheets or find people with deep knowledge of the Cisco Programs. V6 Cisco Compliance reduces cost and risk.

V6 Cisco Incentives

Cisco offers generous incentives and rebates to encourage partners’ business direction and market focus. The V6 Cisco Incentives management solution enables them to take advantage of these by providing a comprehensive view of incentives and rebates including accrued VIP rebate, status of minimum bookings, rebates accrued by client, financial forecasting and upcoming renewals.

V6 Cisco 360 Advisory

We have pulled together all of our expert advisory services into V6 Cisco 360 Advisory. It covers advice on every aspect of a partner’s relationship with Cisco from strategic alignment through to operational efficiency, specialization advice, incentive forecasting, and audit preparation.

V6 LCI Advisory (Life Cycle Incentives)

V6 LCI Advisory offers detailed guidance to unlock rebates across all LCI opportunities, ensuring compliance with Cisco’s criteria for Customer Success Plans and Business Outcomes. This strategic support assists in navigating Cisco program changes, optimizing lifecycle processes for efficiency, and securing maximum rebate potential through expert advisory services.

Vortex 6 is attending Cisco live in Las Vegas from 2-6 June, if you would like to talk to any of the team about V6 Cisco Director and V6 Cisco 360 Advisory please email Andy.Macleod@Vortex6.com

To find out more about V6 Cisco Director and V6 Cisco 360 Advisory, please visit www.vortex6.com.

 

Food & Drink, News

Proofworks launches to unlock a new era of digital transformation in the spirits industry

Proofworks launches today with a proprietary SaaS solution to digitalise the entire spirits supply chain, from production, maturation and bottling, to customer engagement and digital ownership.

Combining user-friendly solutions with the latest in powerful Web3 technologies, the Proofworks platform surfaces previously unseen data and insights, allowing for optimisation and transparency at every stage of the product journey.

This is a key time for the spirits industry, as visibility of channel inventory becomes critical with category growth changes, and as increasing costs and supply chain disruption drive the need for greater efficiency. We’re also seeing changing consumer behaviours with an increased desire to connect in new, authentic and more meaningful ways.

Proofworks is enabling the connectivity of distilleries and warehouses through technologies such as NFC, RFID, QR codes and smart sensors. All this data is stored securely on blockchain and made accessible via the Proofworks platform.

As well as this powerful data being used to inform and optimise production, meet emerging compliance requirements and achieve sustainability goals, it is also empowering the end consumer experience.

A fundamental principle is that users don’t need to be familiar with blockchain concepts or Web3 technologies to engage with the tools and services. As broader adoption continues and valuable use-cases emerge, Proofworks believe these technologies provide spirits companies with a unique competitive advantage.

With successful live deployments in Scottish, Irish and American distilleries and warehouses, Proofworks is already seeing significant demand and has an ambitious roadmap of new features and services which will be released over the coming months. This includes CaskPassportTM and BottlePassportTM which aim to directly address the challenges of investment fraud and counterfeits, through digital deeds.

 

Proofworks began as Metacask in 2021, a Web3 marketplace reimagining the way consumers buy, collect and trade authentic real world assets (RWA) such as casks. After achieving immediate success with the auction of an ultra-rare 1991 Macallan cask for $2.3 million, Metacask has evolved to support the industry in translating new technology into meaningful experiences, now under the brand Proofworks, and will continue as a product in the Proofworks’ stable.

 

Supporting Proofworks’ ambitions, the company has strengthened its board with two key Non-Executive Director hires: Jane Grier, a regulatory compliance and financial crime expert for over 30 years holding senior roles at Bank of America, Deutsche Bank, Credit Suisse and Barclays and Duncan McFadzean, Managing Director at advisory firm Noble & Co where he has led whisky transactions over the past decade. Prior to this, Duncan worked for the Bank of Scotland as a Director of its £25bn Joint Ventures arm, Merrill Lynch and BlueCrest, a $10bn UK hedge fund.

 Jane and Duncan will work closely with Proofworks’ CEO, Rob Hollands, who joined in September 2023, and the wider leadership team, to drive the company’s rapid growth strategy and continued expansion in the UK, Europe, Asia and the United States.

 

Rob Hollands, CEO of Proofworks, says “We approach this from a position of respect, knowledge and passion for the spirits industry, and with a proven track record in creating innovations that deliver. Proofworks’ launch signifies an important milestone in the digitalisation of the sector. We’re on a mission to help the industry discover and implement future technologies to solve genuine business and consumer challenges.

“The digital landscape as we know it is at a point of significant change and we’re laying the foundations for brands to unlock future opportunities: from digital product passports and connected products, to the digitalisation of the supply-chain, as well as new incentive models to reward creators and communities.

 “With our new board members, we have a team of world class experts who together will launch and scale solutions that will help shape the future of the sector.”

 

Further information can be found at www.proofworks.com 

Appointments, Marketing, PR and SEO, News

Creative agency Fluid Ideas makes key hire to lead new team

Full-service creative agency Fluid Ideas has made a key strategic addition to its senior team with the appointment of Olivia Elliott as its head of performance and innovation.

Fluid has created the new P&I team to place greater focus on delivering impact for campaigns and projects undertaken for clients beyond traditional performance marketing tactics.

It is also focused on supporting continued innovation across Fluid’s 55-strong team to provide clients with forward-thinking solutions to their business and brand challenges.

Olivia, formerly head of digital marketing at BiGDUG and Davpack, has extensive experience in performance marketing and fast-paced e-commerce businesses, with a strong track record of expanding customer bases through an array of digital programmes and initiatives.

Her expertise spans SEO, PPC and paid media, email marketing, conversion rate optimisation, marketing automation, affiliate marketing and marketplace management on Amazon and eBay, as well as steering acquisition strategies.

Ed Bowler, joint managing director of Fluid, said: “Olivia is a strategically important addition to the senior team as we increase our focus on performance and innovation both internally and for our growing client base.

“The fact that we are investing in a team that’s dedicated to driving performance is rare for an independent regional agency, and it’s been extremely well-received by our clients. We’re passionate about helping to drive success for them as well as ourselves.”

He added: “Whenever we recruit, we assess whether the person can be a long-term addition to Fluid who wants to build something meaningful with us, brings something different yet complementary to their 50-plus colleagues, and will be a good fit in our long-standing client relationships. Olivia ticks all of these boxes and more.

“In terms of values and character she is an ideal fit, and her depth of expertise in performance marketing will take Fluid to a new level, as we focus on delivering creative strategies and impactful results across the board.”

Olivia said: “I’ve joined Fluid at an exciting time and I am thrilled to lead a dynamic team dedicated to pushing the boundaries and driving results in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

“I really like the ethos and culture at Fluid and being alongside like-minded people who are committed to making a positive impact through their work.”

Fluid is an award-winning agency based at Darley Abbey Mills, a World Heritage Site on the outskirts of Derby. It recently added to its operations with a six-figure investment to create a drive-in studio for filming, photography, recording and events.

Its global client base is focused on four sector specialisms – care and wellness, property and developments, manufacturing and distribution and education and training.

News

CTI Digital appointed by Mind, the mental health charity, to enhance its digital strategy and provide web design and development services

CTI Digital, a leading UK technology, experience and digital marketing agency, has been appointed by the mental health charity, Mind. The agency will work alongside Mind’s digital team to drive the charity’s website initiatives, through a comprehensive digital strategy involving user research, user experience design and the development of Mind’s website.

Mind, a charity supporting people experiencing a mental health problem in England and Wales, has tasked CTI Digital with strengthening its website capabilities. This will be achieved by providing digital expertise, employing extensive user research, website design, and proficient website development to support Mind’s digital team.

CTI Digital will provide web design and development services for Mind’s existing website, which will, in due course, be upgraded to Umbraco 13 and the Azure hosting environments. Key to CTI’s appointment was the ability to guarantee 99.9% uptime, a key feature given the important service Mind provides for those seeking support.

The partnership extends beyond maintenance, with CTI Digital actively collaborating on Mind’s development roadmap, involving technical SEO, data analytics, development, and DevOps, showcasing the agency’s multifaceted capabilities.

Dominic Wilkinson, Digital Platforms Manager at Mind said: “CTI helped us onboard our Umbraco website onto their hosting and support service, which has enabled us to firmly maintain a business-as-usual pace of work. We also have access to a wide range of CTI services that allows us to design, develop, test and deploy new features at pace.”

Chris Woodward, CEO at CTI Digital said: “We are thrilled to be working with Mind in their mission to make a meaningful impact on mental health challenges through its website. Our ongoing collaboration reflects our dedication to supporting Mind’s vision and ensuring that no one faces mental health alone.”

News

PinPoint Media sets in motion bold growth plans for 2024, announcing a hard-hitting advisory board

PinPoint Media has appointed former Oliver UK Group Chief Operating Officer, Chris Woodward, to its newly formed advisory board. The advisory board has been formed to help PinPoint Media CEO and Founder, Oliver Bruce, sustain double-digit growth in the UK and accelerate international expansion.

Chris Woodward is the first member of the advisory board and will be shortly be joined by a senior executive from The&Partnership and a former senior executive from We Are Social.

2023 saw PinPoint Media achieve year-on-year topline growth of 68%. 2024 is set to be another fast-growth year with growth of +25%.

Former Oliver UK Group Chief Operating Officer, and current CEO, CTI Digital, Chris Woodward, said: “Having worked with Oliver and his team at PinPoint Media for over 24 months it has been impressive to see their speed of growth. The opportunity to be a shareholder and member of the advisory board as we take PinPoint Media forward through its next phase of growth is something I am very much looking forward to playing an active role in.

“2024 is another key milestone for the business where we have already completed the acquisition of NOVA+, opened a larger London office and also an offshore specialist delivery centre in Cape Town, South Africa.”

Oliver Bruce, CEO, PinPoint Media, said, “Having such an experienced and strong mix of advisors on the board will allow us to drive our ambitious growth strategy forward with confidence. We’ve some hugely exciting plans ahead of us in 2024 and into 2025 and I am thankful to the advisory board for believing in me and the team!”

News

STADA renews global contract with CTI Digital to drive digital transformation

STADA Arzneimittel AG, the Germany based global pharmaceutical giant, has extended its relationship with CTI Digital, a leading UK technology, experience and digital marketing agency, in a multi-year global deal.

CTI has worked with STADA since 2018 and in that time has launched and now maintains over 184 websites in numerous markets. This new multi-year contract sees a continuation of the core website build and maintenance remit and also opens the door for other services from CTI to be deployed – including data analytics, SEO, PPC, digital and branding design and social comms.

Commenting on the extended global partnership, Frank Staud, Executive Vice President of Global Communications, Branding, and Sponsorships at STADA, said, “Establishing a clear brand architecture with “One Design” for all websites has been instrumental in strengthening the STADA brand and enhancing our digital global presence. Our collaboration with CTI Digital has been the foundation for global brand consistency while maintaining strong local hero brands. With their expertise and support, we are well-positioned to drive a meaningful impact and deliver exceptional digital experiences for our customers.”

Chris Woodward, CEO at CTI Digital, commented, “We are proud to partner with STADA in their digital transformation journey. Working with ambitious, high growth organisations like STADA is exactly the type of opportunity we excel at. The fact we are able to do this for a brand like STADA across multiple markets is a testament to the quality of our people and strength of the work they produce.”

News, Technology

Merchr signs up ClickASnap as its latest strategic partner

Print-on-demand technology company Merchr has signed up picture-sharing platform ClickASnap as its latest strategic partner, offering photographers a new way to monetise their images.

The agreement sees Merchr enable photographers to sell prints and canvases of their images across the UK, North America and Europe by setting up merchandise stores hosted on its fast-growing platform.

ClickASnap, which was founded in 2014 and is based in Dorset, is a digital platform which hosts over 16 million images, enabling users to showcase and sell their pictures.

More than 1,800 photographers have set up stores in the first month of the venture.

Items are being shipped from Merchr’s integrated facilities in Middleton, Greater Manchester, and Scottsdale, Arizona, as well as through other production partners.

Peter Hallett, co-founder of Merchr, said: “This exclusive partnership gives ClickASnap photographers access to the Merchr technology, enabling them to monetise images through their own free webstore that features canvas prints and merch showcasing their content.

“It’s an exciting strategic move for both parties, as it enables ClickASnap users to further monetise their photographs by leveraging Merchr’s software combined with their own creativity.

“Initially, the partnership is being rolled out to ClickASnap’s premium members, with a focus on supplying canvas and framed canvas and prints across Europe and North America.

“ClickASnap members can create their webstores in sterling, US and Canadian dollars and euros, depending on where they wish to sell their images.”

Jason Hill, chief executive of ClickASnap, said: “Our partnership has got off to a superb start, with over 1,800 photographers signing up in the first month.

“We look forward to seeing the number of stores grow on our platform to give more people the opportunity to sell their pictures.”

Merchr helps individuals and groups to build their brand and reach new global audiences by creating their own, personalised bespoke merchandise collection to sell in an eco-friendly, risk-free way without the need to hold stock or worry about the logistics of production, printing and shipping.

Its wider portfolio of products includes clothing, hats, towels, blankets, mugs, placemats, phone cases, coasters, hot water bottles, tote and make-up bags, pouches and highlighter pens, water bottles and tumblers.

The company uses water-based inks and BPA-free plastic bottles, and organic cotton in its garments.

Merchr also manages the supply chain and print-on-demand for a host of online retailers.

News

Virtual business card Zappify breaks records in milestone year

The entrepreneurs behind the Zappify virtual business card are celebrating a record-breaking year as they embark on their next phase of expansion.

Keith Robinson and Paul Smith launched Zappify during the first Covid lockdown in the spring of 2020 as a fully digital and green alternative to traditional printed business cards.

During 2023 they achieved several milestones, as businesses continue to seek ways to strengthen their environmental credentials.

Zappify is now being used in more than 40 countries across six continents, and over 250 companies employing 75,000 staff worldwide have adopted the technology.

The final quarter of 2023 saw Zappify actively used more than 30,000 times by businesspeople across the globe, representing a year-on-year increase of 273 per cent and up 149 per cent compared with the previous three months.

Zappify’s client base ranges from individual freelancers and start-ups to multinational companies. Users include accountants and solicitors, architects and property developers, and companies involved in sectors such as manufacturing, consulting, leisure and hospitality, oil and gas, creative and media, fashion, jewellery and telecoms.

Clients range from chartered accountancy firm Saffery, law firm Gateley, food wholesaler Bidfood and specialist lender Leumi UK to valve manufacturer Severn Valve, Bazooka Candy Brands, the maker of the famous bubble gum, and energy and marine consultancy ABL Group.

The Zappify card is contactless and enables users to swap contact information in person or over video conferencing platforms, email and messaging apps on their smart phones via a unique QR code or personal URL.

Clients pay an annual subscription to use the Zappify platform, and all data is held securely in compliance with GDPR requirements and with endorsement from the Information Commissioner’s Office.

Keith said that with increased functionality, including the options to share promotional corporate videos and generate personal video introductions, plus links to websites and platforms such as LinkedIn, social media accounts and YouTube content, Zappify is evolving into a powerful digital marketing tool rather than being solely a business card.

Zappify’s research shows that it takes almost seven litres of water to create 10 business cards. Each year, 10 billion business cards are printed globally, and 88 per cent are thrown away within a week. Over six million adult trees are destroyed each year to produce paper cards.

The upsurge in activity for Zappify, which is based in Bury, Greater Manchester, meant more than a million litres of water were saved in 2023.

Keith said: “Last year was a record-breaker for Zappify. Awareness is growing as companies and individuals everywhere put greater emphasis on the need to implement more sustainable practices and see the benefits of adopting ways to go digital.

“We saw exponential growth in the number of active users, and our global reach now stands at 265 companies operating in 41 countries.

“Our clients understand that virtual business cards are a cheaper and greener option than printed ones, with the added advantage that digital contact information can be shared more extensively using modern technology and devices, and can easily be updated when people move locations or positions.

“We have invested to further develop the platform by fully integrating Zappify with Apple Wallet, introducing an offline mode so that contact details can be shared on smartphones even where there is no signal, and enabling contact information to be displayed in any language, which increases our global appeal.

“Recently we have introduced a Platinum product offering a fully bespoke design experience, covering the virtual business cards, administration platform and user app. This is being rolled out after a successful trial late last year with a major UK-based property development company.

“Our growth means businesses are able to save more trees and water and conduct their affairs in a more digital, convenient and cheaper fashion.

“This year we are delighted to be launching an important initiative to encourage people to recycle their old, printed cards.

“By actively promoting recycling, this will further emphasise the sustainability message in business and demonstrate that every individual can make a difference, even if only in a small way.

“The ‘Zappify Pledge for the Planet’ will highlight that every contribution is valuable and will facilitate further savings of trees and water by putting back into the production process for alternative recycled paper products.

“This year is hugely exciting for Zappify as we continue to grow rapidly and see the digital card and platform become a one-stop digital marketing tool for our users.”

News

Liniar links up with Fluid Ideas for digital transformation

Derbyshire-based PVCu systems giant Liniar has appointed creative agency Fluid Ideas to transform its web presence with a major focus on digital technology to improve the customer experience.

Fluid Ideas, which is based at Darley Abbey Mills, near Derby, has devoted a 12-strong team to deliver the new website for Liniar and all associated CGI and product visualisation tools.

Liniar, which employs more than 600 people in Denby, designs and manufactures sustainable PVCu products such as windows, doors, conservatories, soffits and fascias, decking and fencing for homes, schools, offices and other locations.

Marketing director Sue Davenport said Liniar has enlisted Fluid Ideas to upgrade and modernise the company’s website to make it more mobile-friendly, interactive and customer-focused.

The new website is due to go live by the end of 2022 and will aim to elevate Liniar’s brand and pioneering products while also showcasing its culture, promoting its sustainability mission and driving inquiries to its independent network of approved fabricators and installers.

At the heart of the new-look web platform will be interactive product visualisation tools that enable customers to compare the aesthetics, performance and environmental benefits of different products.

Georgia Vicars, Fluid’s project manager for the initiative, said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Liniar to rejuvenate and reimagine its digital presence and support its ambitions in ways that include web development and CGI product selectors.

“Liniar’s team is forward-thinking and open-minded, and it’s exciting to forge this partnership with a client who is happy to push their brand positioning outside of the norm within the sector. It’s really satisfying to be working with a local company which is a recognised innovator.”

She added: “The project is a great example of a successful collaborative effort by various teams at Fluid. The new-look website will combine the use of CGI produced by the image and motion team to showcase products and technology created by the website and systems team that allow users to interact and customise products directly on the website.

We’re proud to be pushing the boundaries and to be a catalyst for future digital success for Liniar, with functionality and user experience meticulously planned to help transform the company’s online potential.”

Liniar, which is a subsidiary of the US-headquartered Quanex Group, has its head office, manufacturing, warehousing and logistics facilities on the Denby Hall Business Park.

Sue said: “Investing in new windows, doors or garden products is a big decision, so it’s important that homeowners are able to visualise our product ranges fully. We chose to work with Fluid due to the team’s expertise in both CGI and web technology and because it is a local company – we always try to support local firms wherever we can.

“Fluid has a similar culture to our own – open-minded, friendly and innovative – so our teams are working well together. We’re looking forward to the launch of the new site and to developing a longer-term relationship with the Fluid team.”

Fluid Ideas is a full-service agency whose operations cover branding and campaigns, graphic and website design, computer-generated imagery, 3D animation and video, photography, copywriting, digital marketing, content management, search and social media – all in-house.

Its client base spans sectors including healthcare, retirement living, property, professional services, education, finance, leisure and hospitality. The agency celebrated its 18th birthday in January and posted record annual revenues of £3.2m in the year to November, boosted by increased business from existing clients and a raft of new wins.

Appointments, News, North of England, Regional News

Four new arrivals strengthen ranks at creative agency Fluid Ideas

Four new starters have strengthened the ranks of creative agency Fluid Ideas as its expansion continues.

Fluid, which is based at Darley Abbey Mills, near Derby, has recruited across four of its six teams in line with further growth in demand for its range of services.

The new arrivals are Nicole Davies, Tom King, Will Davis and Matt Thompson.

Nicole, who has a master’s degree in marketing management, has joined Fluid’s websites and systems team as a project manager. Her role is to ensure digital projects are delivered efficiently, on time and to budget while also helping to support and optimise clients’ websites.

Tom has joined the brand and creative team as a multi-disciplinary designer, working on client campaigns and pitches. He has more than 10 years’ commercial experience of working with national and international brands and he adds to the team’s animation and CGI capabilities. Tom also holds a leadership and management qualification from the Institute of Leadership and Management.

Will, a digital marketing graduate from the University of Derby, has gained experience in the sport and leisure sector and has joined Fluid’s search and social team. His main focus will be search engine optimisation, content writing and social media management.

Matt has joined the design and artwork team and brings with him more than 20 years’ experience of working in local agencies. In joining Fluid, he follows in the footsteps of his brother Ben, who was the agency’s first employee and has helped drive the growth of its brand and creative team for almost two decades.

Ed Bowler, joint managing director of Fluid Ideas, said: “As always, our focus has been on growing with good people. Nicole, Matt, Will and Tom all bring new and exciting talents to the team but, most importantly, they care about the quality of work we produce and they will undoubtedly add to the spirit and culture that has helped make Fluid such a healthy and enjoyable place to be, for our clients and our colleagues.”

Fluid Ideas is a full-service agency whose operations cover branding and campaigns, graphic and website design, computer-generated imagery, 3D animation and video, photography, copywriting, digital marketing, content management, search and social media – all in-house.

Its client base spans sectors including healthcare, retirement living, property, professional services, education, finance, leisure and hospitality.

The agency celebrated its 18th birthday in January and posted record annual revenues of £3.2m in the year to November, boosted by increased business from existing clients and a raft of new wins. Staff numbers have increased to over 50 in recent months in line with Fluid’s growth.