TEES TECH AWARDS 2021
DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
SPONSORED BY AZETS
FINALIST
JACKSONS LAW FIRM
WINNER
SAPERE
Stockton-based software design and development company Sapere came into its own during lockdown when creating a revolutionary video streaming service for the TMA ( Tees Music Alliance ).
With the music industry effectively shut down to the public , Sapere created a unique , cost-effective , mobile digital service that allowed customers to access live music from home by purchasing an online ticket .
It meant music fans could enjoy brilliant bands at home , while TMA kept much-needed revenue . And with the future of gigs still uncertain , TMA now intends to offer this service to the wider music community to boost streaming views and the turnover of the not-for-profit organisation .
Sapere – its name is from the Latin sapere aude , meaning “ dare to know ” – was launched in 2007 by software designers Paul Drake and Shaun Merryfield .
Since then , the firm – which has a six-strong team at its base in Stockton ’ s Fusion Hive – has developed into digital transformation experts who deliver software consultancy , bespoke software design , development builds and software support to help businesses improve efficiency , increase profitability and innovate .
Delighted commercial director Paul Drake said of the award : “ I am overwhelmed we have won , to be honest – I didn ’ t think we would win it . I thought we would be runners-up again .
“ The last 18 months have been quite difficult , especially at the start of the pandemic , but we have still had our best year .
“ Businesses have needed to change the way they work and operate and we are able to facilitate that . Overall , it ’ s been challenging but incredible .”
SPONSOR ’ S MESSAGE
Winner – Sapere has had its best year despite the pandemic .
Andrew Rowe , office managing partner of Azets in Wynyard , said : “ Azets ’ sponsorship of the Digital Transformation award reflects our commitment to shine a light on the Tees region ’ s thriving digital and tech sector . In a closely contested category , we ’ d like to congratulate the worthy winners , Sapere Software , and the commendable finalists . As advisors , digital is our sweet spot and we can see how crucial it is , not only to us as a company , but to our clients . We want our clients to do well and are looking to help young entrepreneurs lead the way forward . Please get in touch to find out how we can support your growth ambitions .”
Stockton-based Jacksons Law Firm has offered legal advice to business owners and private clients for 140 years .
Following the launch of its digital marketing strategy in April 2020 , the company has transformed the way it promotes its people , services and products .
Partner and head of business development and marketing , Karen Robinson , learned the relevant skills at the start of lockdown to enable the firm to continue to engage with the business community , charity sector , clients , prospects and contacts via digital platforms .
From podcasts to fundraising events , webinars , training and recruitment campaigns , it has been a seamless transition that has seen Jacksons thrive – increasing its client base , enhancing brand awareness and recruiting 11 new staff since January 2021 .
FINALIST
MY MARKETING BUTTON
My Marketing Button has transformed a marketing methodology based on real-life experience and a training workshop into an online platform that helps a business plan , implement and track an effective marketing strategy .
The concept allows business owners to stay focused on the 12 key threads that keep their “ button ” ( their marketing ) fixed firmly in place and at the forefront of their business .
Gaining CPD and Institute of Leadership and Management accreditations , My Marketing Button continues to see amazing results with both training and tech , taking on staff to cope with growth and being secured by funded organisations to deliver its accredited training programme .
36 | Tees Business