Peter Bourne Blog

Office move - closer.. but not close enough

2012-02-22 16:55:11

I thought I'd give you a quick update on the office move - whilst sat down here watching the carpet fitters do their thing.

I spent a busy Sunday afternoon here with my dad clearing out the old blue carpet. That was the easy part.... Scraping the old foam backing and adhesive off the wooden floor was back-breaking work. But as soon as the old carpet was out - the place looked lighter and brighter. Even the old fireplace has had a touch of marble cleaner and varnish. Here are the results:

And now the new carpet is going down. Last major milestones are alarm system and furniture. Alarm is tomorrow, and furniture soon (hopefully!).

Then it will be time to move.

Throughout all this of course work continues as normal, with an excellent Pre-year end meeting with our accountants yesterday. Some excellent advice as ever from Sence Accounting. Two new potential client meetings today, and an evening of writing proposals I suspect. Anyway, must run the adhesive fumes are starting to get to me....

UPDATE: Friday 24th

Well - dissappointing news - we won't be in before 8th March, due to being let down by our furniture suppliers. Shame - but it will be worth the wait - and means I can move the other stuff in slower time.

So don't use the new number until the 8th March, please! But in the meantime - here's what its looking like, with the new carpet in place... and a funny looking beaver:

On the move

2012-02-14 12:01:35

Hopefully you will have received our e-shot this morning about our imminent move to new offices in the centre of Ashby de la Zouch.

When I set the business up in August 2010 - this was always the aim, and its nice to have achieved this milestone a few months earlier than originally anticipated.

This is quite a big project in an already busy month so Justine is taking the lead on the move - and doing an excellent job at organising everything that needs sorting.

Here's a picture of the new space before work started:

And here's another - starting to look corporate!

And we're not there yet.... more images soon....

Groundhog Day

2012-02-02 23:08:38

If anyone remembers when I set the business up around 18 months ago, I had lots of fun and games with suppliers - and trying to get things sorted out.

Well - it seemed like Groundhog Day (Feb 2nd) had arrived early just before Christmas as I was neck-deep in work I had an email from the data centre who host and manage my web server….

For a website designer and developer, the choice of where you host your websites is of paramount importance to the success of your business - and that of your clients. However, when faced with a nearly 50% increase in costs (or a dramatic drop in the level of support provided) you have to review what you are doing. I can't absorb that sort of increase in costs - and I certainly don't want to pass it on to my clients. At any time this increase in costs would be difficult to pass on - but in these economic times it is daft to even contemplate it. However, nor am I willing to compromise on quality of support - or quality of data centre infrastructure.

So amidst all the work I was undertaking before Christmas (and planning for the New Year), I decided I needed to find a new web hosting supplier. It wasn't a decision taken lightly. But, after a lot of research, review-reading and telephone calls I settled on a new supplier and arranged to visit their data centre. They asked if I'd also like to meet the support staff and visit their head office. "Well, that seems quite open" I thought.... so duly accepted. The reason I found this revealing was that - I've been to data centres before - and whilst the DC itself has money spent on it, the same isn't always true of the offices and environment that the staff work in.

Well - the visit to this supplier's offices was a pleasant surprise... fantastic views, great environment - altogether a professional atmosphere. This was also true down the road at their data centre - where everything was exactly as it should be.

So I commissioned a server with them. Infact by now all clients have been migrated across to the new server. I ran the server for a few weeks with only a few websites on it as a test - and it performed fantastically. So I then put a massive project plan in place for migrating all client websites across. This was an enormous amount of work - at a time when I was already busy - but as I've said - you can't compromise on the quality of your hosting provision.

I've had cause to use the Technical Support provided a few times since the server has been online - and they have performed exceptionally well - giving me confidence that if I need them in the future - they are there 24/7 at the end of a UK phone line.

Its probably worth pointing out that my clients are now hosted on a MUCH fast server (at least 4 times faster in terms of paper specs) - meaning that all things being equal - their websites will load fast and be more responsive to their web visitors - and the search engines. (Google places an emphasis on the speed of the site now when ranking a site).

So - great news all round. There remains one question… my new server is "Carbon Neutral" - as is the company I host with, along with their entire operation. I have the option of placing a Carbon Neutral logo on my website… what do you think? Use the comment form below, please….!

In other news...

We're sending out an email next week with some exciting news. I will blog about that later this month - and give you the much promised list of recent website launches (which gets longer and longer, as I forget to do it each blog!)

In the meantime, have a great weekend!

Peter

Feast or famine

2011-10-13 17:58:58

If you'd have bumped into me a week ago and asked me how business was going (and several readers did), I'd have said "Fine, thanks... I've been very busy... But I can see a few gaps coming up in the next few weeks." Nothing to worry about - infact a good time to get the other jobs done that I'm always putting off. But when you're a small business you always worry how long the 'quiet times' will last.

Well I'm happy to report that in just a matter of 3 days those 'gaps ahead' have turned into an absolutely stuffed schedule of website development - some new clients, some new sites for existing clients and some general maintenance work. Absolutely fantastic - and that's without hearing of the outcomes of the proposals I'm writing following this week's numerous meetings.

But it does highlight one of the (many) challenges we face running small businesses. Marketing yourself and your business is essential to generating new work. But it takes time... And when you are busy doing the mountain of work, it's the last thing on your mind, or in your schedule. And yet, this is exactly the time you should be doing it because with any business there is a lead-in time between the promotional activity and the new client signing up. That's true whether your promotion is traditional advertising or work on your social media campaigns and online presence. Face to face networking can also have long lead times... So you need to be doing this activity when you are at your busiest... To ensure you stay that way.

For the past few months, Justine has been working in the business - doing exactly that... Marketing, promoting and networking - whilst I spend more of my time delivering the work. It's a combination that works incredibly well - and seems to be paying off.

To finish off though - let me assure all current and potential clients of two things:

I won't be tied to my desk - you'll still be seeing me out about meeting with you to discuss your needs and projects, and
No matter how busy we are, when we say we're going to deliver a cracking new website for you.... We will.

There are some great ones in the pipeline.. And a few have launched recently. Next blog I'll perhaps do a review of the last few projects. Thanks for reading.

Do as I say - not as I do

2011-10-03 11:20:53

Mid September

OK. So anyone who hears me do a 60 second networking 'pitch' (horrible term by the way), or hears me present will know that I always say 2 things regarding website content...

Write content for your audience (rather than worrying about search engines etc).
Keep it up to date.

Well after a month - I'm now updating the blog! Terrible I know. I also have plans to update the website.. Both graphically and content-wise. But finding the time to make these changes alongside doing the routine business admin and of course completing the client projects is a challenge.

But now the summer-season is over (although late September has put in a good show) I should be able to knuckle down and complete a few of these items on the to-do list. I'm currently sat in Starbucks in Leicester (couldn't find a Costa!) waiting for some photos to print out at Jessops... and utilising the iPad for some work. Already done some emails... reviewed a couple of websites... nearly drowned in a Venti coffee.

But it does demonstrate to me how important the iPad, and mobile computing in general has transformed how I work. I have a laptop that is permanently docked at home... Destroying its battery and wasting valuable desk space. It never goes anywhere...no need - when I have the iPad with me virtually all the time. It was purchased originally purely to showcase images and website designs to existing and potential clients. But its turned into so much more...

I use it for Mind Mapping (Simple Mind+), note taking during meetings and planning activities (Evernote), calendar, project and task management (Pocket Informant), database and web server management (various Apps), reading various website RSS feeds and of course Social Media (Hootsuite and the native apps).

I am hoping that with the release of iOS5 soon - it will become even more useful.

October update

My coffee at Starbucks finished - I left to complete my tasks that day... and promptly forgot about the blog!

So now, I'm finishing it and publishing it.

But before I go - some other news from September:

A new ecommerce website launched for a great new client of mine - www.fishpetsreptiles.co.uk - a one stop shop for all your aquarium spares.
Three new websites are with the clients for final stage testing and content population - one is a great membership-management tool.
A new prospectus for Ashby School has been designed and printed. An electronic version is available on their website here.
A new prospectus for Saint Martin's Catholic School in Stoke Golding has been produced and will be on their website soon.
Both Justine and I gave 10 minute presentations this month to our networking groups - and answered a lot of questions about website design, search engine optimisation and generally how to get the best from your website. If you have similar questions - please get in touch.

The conclusion of these musings?

Don't put things off - if you spend time writing it, publish it - pronto.
If you find yourself out and about a lot - think about tablet computing (other makes besides Apple are available!) - its not a replacement for a laptop for everyone - but you may be surprised at how the investment pays off.
Don't order a coffee that's larger than a child's head.

Back at the helm

2011-08-01 11:17:47

As you know, I've just had 10 days off - pretty much for the first time in two years (and the longest break in 5 or more years). Now I don't want to state the obvious, but it never occurred to me what an effect it could have.

This blog was started a year ago to document setting up the business - and whilst the updates to the blog may have slowed down, the reason is because the business has taken off. To the extent where I work long hours - usually at least one day of the weekend. Nothing special when you are running your own business - so I'm certainly not complaining. As I've mentioned before there are a great many benefits as well - going to the school play, without frequent looks at the watch or phone because you know the boss could be calling you at any minute (even though you have permission to be there!), etc.

Infact, my old boss used to encourage us to take leave that was owed to us - and really take a proper break with it. I never paid enough heed to it - and never really switched off when I did get away from work. Only now, after 10 days of more or less switching off from work do I realise how much I needed it.

I drank less coffee, I slept well, I spent quality time (proper quality time) with the family, I relaxed.

And now I'm back and raring to go with the projects I've got lined up. I don't think I'd have the energy for them now, or some of the ideas I'm kicking around, without that break.

So my best advice to anyone finding themselves too busy to consider taking a holiday... schedule the time and take one. As soon as possible. You'll find your mind and body benefit - and as a result - so will your work... and you won't get as behind as you fear... especially if you give your clients notice that you're going! Even if its just a long weekend... take the time.

Anyway, what of these new projects? Well - there's an ecommerce project for a local retailer who currently has a number of ecommerce websites (including an eBay shop), but they want to consolidate them - and ensure that the ecommerce solution fits around their business - not the other way round. There's a website for a local voluntary group and I'm also working on a number of other small business websites and design projects - as and when they launch I'll keep you posted.

Finally, later in the Autumn I want to overhaul the current Peter Bourne Communications website - its served me well in the first 12 months of business - but now its time to add some new features and revised design. And of course - show off all the excellent client work that's been done. So, what would you like to see on the new website? Have your say below. Also - if you want me to write about something specific, then let me know.

Future blogs that I'm musing with include my conversion to all (well, some) things Apple - including the iPad, and now ditching my trusty Blackberry for an iPhone... There's nothing worse than an evangelical Apple convert......

Another browser update.. what woes await?

2011-06-25 23:37:40

Earlier today I downloaded that latest thing to potentially ruin my day.... Internet Explorer 9 (IE9). Internet Explorer 8 doesn't seem to have been out that long (actually March 2009!).. and already a new version comes along.

As any website developer/designer will tell you - Internet Explorer is a nightmare. Every single version creates some sort of problem for "standards compliant" website coding. If you try and do anything remotely fancy with your layout - you will end up having to write work-arounds and hacks to get it to display correctly on all browsers.... Internet Explorer requiring more than its fair share.

To be fair, recent releases of the browser (well, 8) seem to have done a pretty reasonable job of behaving themselves in line with FireFox and Chrome (and Safari for the Mac users, over there on the bean bags).

But still downloading, installing and then visiting your existing websites with a new browser is always traumatic... with the potnetial to really screw up your day's plans. Although as you probably know, I recently invested in an iPad partly for this purpose - and was pleasantly surprised with how well the websites rendered on it... that's a testament to how well written my websites are. Anyway, I digress - more on the iPad in future Blogs....

However, I must say - so far I'm impressed... the websites are all loading as expected... and what's more its fast. Not as fast as Google's Chrome... but still a LOT fast than IE8 used to be in terms of initial opening of the browser, and starting new tabs. Very impressed. Its also got a raft of useful developer tools (the F12 tools).

Mindyou, we've had those for some years on FrieFox with plugins... and natively in Chrome... but well done Microsoft for catching up.

Will I be switching back from Chrome? No. But will I no longer grit my teeth when I have to open up Internet Explorer to check a website - no... it will almost be pleasurable.....

A quick update on the Blog

2011-06-13 22:26:22

This is a really quick update on the Blog. A few new features have been introduced:

The RSS feed was introduced recently - give it a whirl - its especially good if you read your news on an iPad or other mobile device.
You can now comment on any blog item.
Each blog story now appears on its own page - this should help readability. The three previous blog entries also appear at the bottom.
A few other behind the scenes changes.

I promise a more complete update in the next week or so, but in the meantime, please let me know what you think of the blog so far. By the comment area below, if you like!!

The year is racing by

2011-06-01 22:11:58

Well, first my apologies for not having written anything before now. My joke in the last blog about wishing you all Happy Easter was fairly accurate. I should have also wished you a Happy May Day, and Spring Bank Holiday.

Oh well. I'm hear now. So what pearls of wisdom shall I impart? What's been happening that's taken me away from this blog. Well - I would say for the most part work, work and more WORK. Which given the business was set up from a standing start in August last year is not bad really. I'm really happy with progress so far. I'm almost managing to strike the right balance between family and work and other commitments.

I'm just about striking the right balance between carrying out work for clients, meeting with prospective and current clients and other business admin tasks (accounts, payroll, etc). To this end I've just this last week spent time getting to grips with a new CRM (customer relationship management) system. Its taken some setting up - and to be honest, I've always been a little sceptical about their benefit to small businesses like mine. However, it was getting dangerously close to the stage where a crucial customer deadline may be overlooked, or just as importantly - a 3 or six month follow-up call.

Now don't get me wrong - I'm not at the stage where I've got hundreds of customers so I can't keep track of them (although after 10 months I'm very happy with the position).... but as any of my clients will know - I like to react promptly to requests and changes. This can result in a lot of switching between projects and tasks... and some of the projects are getting quite complex now - so would benefit from sort of management tool as well. The CRM system I've selected helps with this as well. It will invoice as well - if I'm really brave - but I think I'll leave that with Sage, and not give the accountants kittens.

So what's taken the rest of time - well - I've launched some websites for clients:

Sence Accounting (also on Twitter - @senceaccounting)
The European Association for Cancer Research (also on Twitter - @eacrnews)
Tony Evans Consultants (not yet on Twitter - but give me time!)
St Botolph's Primary School
Ashby Show (I've worked on the development side of this project for the excellent Context Products)

There are several sites nearing completion at the moment as well. Watch out for the next update.

Which brings me neatly to another new feature I've promised for sometime - in advance of a more thorough overhaul of the website - I've added an RSS Feed of these Blog posts. You can use the following link in your chosen RSS Feed reading program (Outlook, Thunderbird, Feed-Burner etc): http://www.peterbourne.co.uk/LatestBlog.rss or you can use the icon at the top of the page. This will ensure that the latest blog entry is always sent to you.

Finally for this time - you may remember I was taking part in a pantomime back in February for @basepanto. Well it went off without a hitch, I remembered my lines, hit the right marks (usually), and was very nearly a sell-out for its 6-night, 8 performance run! If you look around www.base-panto.com you may find some photos... and information on the next performance (a Summer Show later in June, and next year's pantomime - Beauty and the Beast).

Don't forget to sign up for the RSS feed. Right, do you think that CRM system will make a cup of coffee as well....?

Happy Easter

2011-01-28 17:26:08

Well its too late to wish you a Happy New Year isn't it?! So I thought I'd get in early with another holiday wish. Although I suppose the first holiday we have coming our way (for those with children anyway) is February half term.

Well January has been incredibly busy with new business coming in - and work that was won late last year being completed. I sometimes feel that I didn't work enough over the Christmas period - but also feel that I didn't spend enough time with my family over the Christmas break! Do we ever get the balance right?!

January is coming to a close as are a couple of nice jobs. The first - I got signed off last week is for a Physiotherapist based in East Leake and Ashby: www.prophysiomidlands.co.uk

Lots of design tweaks and functionality amendments to the Ripon Grammar School website as well (www.ripongrammar.co.uk).

Late last year I also added some functionality to the Ashby School website in the form of a lovely page-turning prospectus. If you've got a prospectus, company brochure or other document that you think would benefit from this treatment on your website - then get in touch.

After two weeks of trying to keep the diary clear, so I can complete some jobs - next week has a diary chock-full of meetings and appointments. There'll be time in between them all to complete some of the work scheduled in - which includes finishing another school website, some great updates to an existing client website, planning for the final stages of a new client website and a major design and functionality revamp to a big current client website and database system.

Am I being optimistic...?!

Don't forget, in between these blogs - you can keep track of what I'm up to by following me on Twitter - @ashbypeter. And if you want a quick 10 minute chat on what Twitter could do for your business - give me a call.

Network network network

2010-12-15 10:29:22

Back in late-July/August when I was setting the business up, it became apparent that whilst I was well known amongst my current clients (as you'd hope to be!), I needed to raise my profile, and the business profile - and do it quickly. So work was put into the usual - website, some advertising, etc. When I first set up a business (over 10 years ago), networking wasn't as prevalent as it is now. By that, I mean the structured networking groups that exist everywhere now. Obviously - networking in the wider-sense has always been at the core of building a solid and sustainable business.

Now, you may (or may not) find this hard to believe - but I am not at my best when dropped into a room of relative strangers and told to mingle and make small talk. (Yes I know some of you think I can talk for Britain).

But the best way of resolving that sort of issue (in my opinion) is to confront it head-on. So my great accountants (Sence) took me along to an event. I made some great contacts at that very first one. Justine also attends a local group run by the great local-business connector @richardbeldon - and that's a great group. Some great local businesses attend that - just look at my Twitter profile for an idea.

Recently I've joined the Networking for Local Business group - based at the excellent George and Dragon in Thingstone. NLB consists of a group of local business people in North West Leicestershire who meet regularly to help each other develop their businesses and find new clients. Its also non-profit making. We meet every week for breakfast and whilst the early start can be tough (especially at minus 8 degrees!) - I'm back at my desk in time for a full day of work.

Its already working for me - I've made some valuable new contacts - and have certainly helped members of the group, with the prospect of helping many others.

If you're interested in attending as a visitor to the group, then get in touch with me. Besides attending any meeting, there are also specific visitor days - and early in the new year we are hoping to have the local MP come along.

Final point on networking... don't limit to the local area - last night I was at a networking/dinner club down in Slough. It was a great evening (if a long drive there and back in the fog). Great company, and great food - and an added twist of each table having to pitch a business investment idea to Scrooge. Appropriately the Scrooge in question worked for a bank.

I won't divulge what our table came up with - but it certainly got the popular vote in the room.... if not investment from Scrooge himself.

I hope to have one more of these up before Christmas, but if I don't manage that - have peaceful and restful Christmas and New Year.

Fireworks

2010-11-06 10:58:35

The end of a difficult seven days.

As anyone who's read this blog over the past few months will know - its been busy. Back in late July, I had to hit the ground running - and set up a business from almost nothing, overnight. I'm pleased to say that I managed that - with fantastic support from family and friends.

Its taken a lot of hard work, long days, and missed weekends - and that doesn't look like changing anytime soon.

Besides work I have other commitments - not least my family, and they are the ones that have suffered over this time. I've always made sure I "give enough" to the business. Likewise, my commitment as a school governor was always 100% (and its a particularly busy time at the school at the moment). However, because of this - my family were feeling the squeeze - and not getting the best part of me. The part they deserved.

So I've had to give up my commitment as a school governor - it was just proving too much. I have a firm belief that if you can't do a job properly, or fulfil a commitment, then you shouldn't take the job on. So it was with a heavy heart that last week I resigned as a governor. I have been a governor for 10 years, and enjoyed every minute of it. I know I've developed a lot through that time - and learnt an enormous amount. So it was not a decision taken lightly, however - for my family I know it was the right decision.

12th November

So busy infact - that from starting the blog entry as a draft - its taken me another week to get to the stage where I'm happy to publish it.

Normal service will be resumed next week - when hopefully I can update you on some new websites and clients. Plenty bubbling away at the moment... including the last day of the family photoshoots tomorrow. Busy week next week as well - meetings in exotic locations including Trowell services, Coalville, Burton and Ripon. Then rounding the week off with photographs at East Midlands Airport for Children in Need - and then Burton Town Centre for their Christmas Lights switch-on.

Weekend.... what weekend?

2010-10-24 22:42:48

I love lists. Well - I like ticking things off lists. Even though I'm a gadget freak, and am never more than a room away from my Blackberry (and only then when sleeping), I have a fantastic desk diary. It displays a week to a view - with nice narrow columns for each day - just wide enough for a daily task list.

When an item is complete, it gets ticked off. If it doesn't get ticked off - it gets moved to the next day - or the next sensible time for it to be completed. Simple. I recommend it.

However, this last two weeks, I've had to start blocking out significant chunks of time to various tasks/jobs/meetings. All very important, and worthwhile, but these blocks have not left a lot of room for my lists. So much so, that this weekend I've had to cancel a trip away to visit friends - and work on various projects. The family went - so I had a massive amount of time to dedicate to my customers and their needs.

Whilst I was really sorry not to go away with them all - I made very sure I made use of the time. Working a weekend is one thing - but then to squander it would be a shameful waste. So I'm pleased to report that I've completed work on a logo project this weekend - and implemented it into a new website for my client (who were also working - and approved the website, with amendments at some point on Saturday afternoon!).

I've also created a website design for one of the new schools clients I mentioned in my earlier blogs. When the site launches, I'll post the link.

Oh - and last week I launched another school client website - this time for Manor House School Ashby.

I even found time at night to unwind with some classic old TV: Blackadder. Well I had to have some treat didn't I? It was as funny as I remember it - and hardly felt dated. (20+ years now?) The script, performances and production values have stood the test of time very well.

Hopefully the next week or two will be more forgiving time-wise. There's still time to book your family portrait photography session - couple of spaces left for next Saturday - and a few more for Sat Nov 13th. So if you want an image of you and/your children like the one to the right - get in touch soon!

Issy wizzy - let's get busy...

2010-10-01 19:50:44

Well some form of magic spell would be nice.. I just need a couple more hours in the day... or perhaps just an extra day in the week.

Its been a busy week - and the next couple are probably going to be as good. Now - you see, I could have said "as bad" then - but I think being busy is preferable to the alternative.

This week has seen lots of new client interest in our schools package (websites and printed materials) - along with more bookings for the photography sessions.

Its also been a busy week at Ashby School (where I'm a governor) - and there'll be plenty more visits there over the course of the next two months.

One of my existing clients supplied me with a reference quote today, for use in future marketing material. I was very touched by what I received back. In one of my less-modest moments I may reproduce the entire quote on here. (And when I do - you'll know its been a bad week!). But thank you Ripon Grammar School!

Next week sees me visiting new clients in Bicester, potential new clients in Leicester, and a long-term client in Moira. Also more governor meetings and preparation and a planning meeting for the annual "Skills for Management" Conference that I help organise at Ashby School for Sixth formers. Oh - and a family party photo session next weekend.

So all together - "Issy wizzy - let's get busy". (And when I enable comments on this blog - you can all tell me which TV character(s) used that magic phrase!). In the meantime - you'll have to tweet me at @ashbypeter

Growing pains (and just pains)

2010-09-19 20:20:36

Well its been nearly 2 months since I decided to set back up on my own. So its as good a time as any to take stock of progress.

I can honestly say that there hasn't been a day in the past 2 months where I've been sitting around wondering what work there is to do... there's always been something.... whether it be business admin (setting up systems with HMRC, internal accounting systems, bank, customer contracts, supplier contracts or even staff contracts) or actual billable work - everyday has been incredibly busy. And for that I am very grateful!

This last week saw the start of our family portrait photography offer. Two dates coming up - where you can book an hour slot - and have family portrait photos taken. I'll then provide you with the CD of the images to do with what you please. I can help you have them transferred to canvases, etc - or you can just take them to your favourite photo-printer and print them out. Its a great offer in time for Christmas - and I hope to make the days a regular feature in the calendar. There will be adverts appearing in Ashby Life in October.

But I've been able to balance all the work nicely with time for the family and friends. This weekend being my first full weekend off in some time - although probably harder work than if I'd spent it at my desk. It was the 4th Ashby Family camp at the local camp site. All the leaders made a massive effort to keep 15+ family of cubs, beavers and scouts entertained for two nights and two days.

Now, we are not seasoned campers (this being our first proper family camping experience outside of the back garden!) - so to be confronted with the sub-arctic temperatures of Friday night was a shock. I may have exaggerated the temperature - but it was very cold. The cloudless sky we saw whilst playing the 'wide game' in the darkness of the wood served as a warning to what was to come... but by then it was too late to get in the car and drive home! The Saturday night was more forgiving (and cloudy). But the combination of a soft air-bed mattress and the exertions of the Saturday afternoon Its a Knockout competition have resulted in more aches and pains than I can remember for a long time.

Thanks to all the volunteer scout, cub and beaver leaders who gave up their time this weekend (and in planning it) to make it such an enjoyable camp. If you get a chance to help out your local scout/cub/beaver group (and the guides/brownies/rainbows of course!) - then please do. They are run by volunteers and really give kids the chance to experience things they may not ordinarily get to do.

As for growing pains in the business - I welcome those - they just show you that you're growing - and things are heading in the right direction. A busy week ahead, pantomime rehearsals start properly this week... so next time you speak to me - ask me how my lines are going...!

No more Bank Holidays.... booo

2010-09-02 06:47:28

So - that's it then. No more "free" days off until Christmas. Back to school today. Sun looks like putting in another good show today.

Actually - running your own business, you rarely get any "free" days off anyway - barely getting a full weekend.. but still there are benefits to be had. I shall hopefully collect my oldest from school later, and I was able to take him to football training last night - guilt-free for once!

This morning (Thursday) sees me up at 5:30 (yes - that's am) to put the finishing touches to a client's website... and launch it. The reason for the early start is because the launch involves switching features from an existing website off, and the features on the new website on - so this was the best time to get the job done, without impacting on users.

The website is the CPD Online section of (www.entopd.co.uk) - if you're interested... but you need to be a member to see the work just completed - sorry!

Rest of the day will be a mixture of video editing, creating marketing material for myself, and working on a new client's website.

Final point today - look out for changes to Twitter soon... especially if you connect to it via methods other than the website (Blackberry/iPhone apps, TweetDeck etc)... there are changes afoot to the way it handles your username and password information. You should get an email about it.

Also - the way it handles "shortened URLs" - of the form http://bit.ly/asasd etc - you never know what you're clicking do you.. well they hope to combat that over the next few months, by displaying at least the domain name part in the link.

Not sure this is the best plan - as some domain names are quite long - and can quickly eat into those 140 allowed characters... we shall have to see....

Try some dust...

2010-08-24 22:04:25

Isn't it nice when you speak to a client on the phone and they say "You haven't kept your blog up to date - I wondered what you'd been up to"! That at least means someone is reading this, and that social media does leave an impression (if done correctly - the one you intended!).

Right - apologies for not writing anything last week - very busy on the project that I mentioned in my last posting. I'm very pleased to say that the client was very happy with it - and it should be launching in the next week or so. I will post a link as and when its live. I've also managed to get another nice website project completed in the last couple of days - so another satisfied client. Client of a client actually as I frequently work with other designers - providing the technical website know-how that they need to take their already great-looking websites to the next level.

Not so impressed with the bank that I was setting up with though. After over 2 weeks following the application form being handed over, still no account details, and very little communication. As this didn't seem the best start to a long-term relationship - I've voted with my feet. If you don't get the service you require as a customer - its your prerogative. Something always at the forefront of my mind when dealing with clients!

Finally for this post - some success - and a cautionary tale... Over the past few weeks I've been suffering erratic behaviour on my laptop. Strange slow-downs that effectively lock the whole system up. I put it down to a Windows Update gone wrong on my rather brimming laptop (and running the latest version of Windows 7 in 64 bit mode adds to the complications).

The problem seemed to only occur when running my laptop on its docking station powering my two big (ish) flat panels.

So after much research and testing, I'd finally given up, and decided to rebuild it from scratch. But before I did the final backup, and dug around for the installation CDs, I did one final piece of research. I wasn't very confident in its suggestion, but it was worth a try as it would take me about 15-20 minutes - much less than a complete rebuild!

And you know what? So far... it seems to have worked! So what did I do that was so magical?

Took the casing off the laptop, removed the cooling fan - and vacuumed up all the dust that was starting to clog the fan-outlet. Don't get me wrong - there wasn't a hoover bag full - I could still see through the vent - but there was definitely a build up.

Put the laptop all back together - and hey presto. No slow-down/crashes yet.

Mind you - I also downloaded the latest update for the BIOS whilst I was at it - which may have helped!

If you're interested in the temperature that your laptop/PC is running at internally - then you could do worse than download this handy application called Speed Fan. Use the Charts tab on the end for the best view - and don't touch the Clocking information unless you know what you're doing!

Friday the 13th.... I laugh in your face.....

2010-08-13 18:43:02

Now, admittedly - its not over yet - so that may be a bit premature. But today has seen some excellent progress.

Broadband finally fixed at home (and a complaint escalated so high that its got altitude sickness). The engineer that came out this afternoon, finally did the Lift & Shift in the exchange, required to resolve our problem (and I suspect several other Ashby households with the same issue).
Mobile number finally ported over, after another catalogue of issues with O2 - again an excellent support person on the phone, with her manager got it sorted - so no more carrying two Blackberries about!

These two experiences just make me want to do even better for my customers. Not just in the level of service given - but in the quality of the work undertaken. My broadband problem could have been resolved so much sooner if people had followed procedures correctly, and more importantly - taken the time to check whether what they had done had actually made things better for the customer. A quick phone call would have highlighted the fact that the issue was still there, so more work would be required. Follow-up calls - do them!

Anyway - all up and running now, and on to more positive news!

Business cards delivered by Context, and my my - they look lovely. Print samples for marketing folders also delivered. Some discussion needed on the best way forward, and how we best utilise our marketing budget. But in my experience, potential clients appreciate having some material left with them that they can browse through. Positive messages, positive brand reinforcement and if done well - very flexible.
VAT number arrived... so I can now invoice clients (sorry!)
Had a great catchup with an old colleague, and we're hopefully going to be working together again on a project soon.
Got a nice new website development authorised for another client, so that should keep me out of trouble next week.
Found a venue for a project that I have coming up in the Autumn - more news soon. But the people I've spoken to about it so far are keen and think its a great idea.
Some friends visiting this weekend with their toddler daughter who we've not seen for a few months - so really looking forward to that too!

Enjoy your weekend.

Ups and downs

2010-08-08 21:36:13

It can be a stressful time setting up a business. That's an understatement, certainly. But its been a tough week. Finally - an end in sight for the home broadband issues, and finally got the PAC code for my mobile phone - which allows me to confirm with clients that I'm retaining the mobile telephone number I've had for years, and more importantly - get some business cards printed.

Excellent local firm used for my printing: Context Products. Next time you need some stationery, folders, brochures or even pull-up banners - give them a call, and say I sent you!

Went to an excellent networking event on Friday morning with my accountant - all about the power of social media in an online marketing mix. Obviously preaching to the converted in me - but still useful to get other professionals' take on the subject. As I always say to my web design clients - to get to the top of the results pages it isn't always necessary to employ specialist SEO consultants. But sometimes it is, so it pays to know a few good ones. I can now add another good local firm to my directory of contacts.

This week sees me starting to create the all important marketing material that I need to take the business forward to current and potential clients. Also got to decide which projects I want to take forward first, and where (if anywhere) to advertise. Looking forward to a meeting with the local networking king tomorrow morning - Richard Beldon of Lets Go Local.

The first week

2010-08-03 19:42:38

Well, the first week has got off to a great start.... Company incorporated successfully, registered for VAT, registered for PAYE, more clients spoken with and lots of support.

Had some constructive and positive feedback on the website - which will result in a few changes to text here and there. Thanks to Mike at The Marketing Toolbox for that.

Realised one of the big benefits of being my own boss again tonight. I was able to stroll down to nursery at 5pm to collect my daughter - and had a great laugh walking back with her. Some things are worth it (maybe that's that elusive work-life balance I was talking about!).

(Despite the fact I shall be working on various client projects until the late hours! Mind you - they included some rather nice handouts and training materials for a client - and several (very reasonable!) quotes for new work.)

Cutting the apron strings

2010-07-30 22:24:14

So today is the day. Today is the day that I really am on my own. Peter Bourne Communications is the business from now on. Goodbye previous employment, and wage packets! It’s a bit daunting – but incredibly exciting.

My new phone arrived today – a Blackberry Bold 9700. I didn’t think they could improve on the old one (Bold 9000) – and I was very worried about the decrease in size. I don’t exactly have sausage fingers – but they’re not dainty either. Anyway – no worries the phone is a dream to use – really fast, and a great improvement on the 9000. And Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn apps all still work perfectly.

Anyway enough techy geek stuff. The important phone-related issue still isn’t resolved. Do I get to keep my old number, or do I have to go with a new one? The one that’s been issued to me is very good actually – quite memorable… but I’ll be sad to lose my 007 one!

Right, enough client work for the day. This weekend sees me working on the new Peter Bourne Communications website. It must launch by Monday!

Tonight, I’m going to add a news story to the BASE Panto website about a Fund-raising Cricket match that I missed last weekend. Now, remind me… was one of the benefits of running your own business an improved work-life balance…..?!

Out and about

2010-07-28 22:23:04

Today has been a day of meetings – and it made a nice change from sitting in front of my screens. So met with the accountants, lots of great helpful advice. Met with two clients to explain the situation and work out a way forward – and discussed some changes to one of their websites, which I can start planning for. Its amazing what a lick of paint, or a refreshed design can do to your website’s traffic… but when you’ve got a strong membership-based website, its important to offer new features and functionality on a regular basis too. So some great ideas were discussed, that should be appearing on the EACR website soon.

Rounded the visits off, with a trip to a datacentre…. Always nice to walk into the chilled environment of a server hall out of the hot sun. Not so nice to step in, when a little bit damp from the rain.

Finally, spent a good deal of time updating Twitter, FaceBook and LinkedIn with latest information on my progress. Still plenty more time to be spent on LinkedIn to get the most out of it – although I have now discovered the Blackberry App for it! Oh dear, the family won’t be pleased…

Frustrating

2010-07-27 22:22:19

OK – Well I’ve now got to start communicating with customers what’s happening. In any situation where uncertainty exists, its always crucial to answer questions, and remain available for discussions.

This is not helped when your broadband circuit keeps disconnecting! So not a good start to the day.

…

And it just got worse. At times I was on the internet for 10 minutes, and off for 10. That coupled with mobile phone problems meant I was incommunicado for most of the day. Not a promising start for Peter Bourne Communications! However – always have a plan B… and I was able to break out a second mobile phone, and a datacard connection and carry on working..slower – but working.

Hopefully when the engineer turns up on Thursday, he’ll fix the broadband issue. I won’t notice it tomorrow as I’m out and about checking in with clients and my new accountants – the lovely people at Sence Accounting.

Looking good

2010-07-25 22:20:54

This weekend has been spent coming up with a design for the new company. I already had some strong ideas about what I wanted – but as always, putting mouse to desk resulted in some different interpretations being considered over what I thought would be firm favourites.

As with any project of this nature I think its important to come up with a number of design options, print them and put them up around the office. Then live with them for a bit – to see which your eye is repeatedly drawn to.
After showing the shortlist of designs to my 6 year old and 2 year old, I got no decisive winner. So, as I always knew – design by committee just doesn’t work. Executive Decision time.

I’m very happy with the resulting logo – and how it is being used in the stationery and new website. The start of a very solid brand identity for Peter Bourne Communications Limited. Authoritative, clean and with a very clear message on the reverse of the business cards (an often under-used area of free advertising).

I love it when a plan comes together….

2010-07-23 22:19:51

After a weird week the plan is formulated. After a lot of discussion and number crunching, I’ve decided to go back into business for myself (and my family). So Peter Bourne Communications Limited is currently being formed with all the appropriate bodies – Companies House, HMRC, banks, etc.

A little over a week ago, I was working in the company that I set up over 12 years ago. I sold this business nearly 5 years ago, but was lucky enough to be able to carry on working in it – doing what I enjoy most: Creating websites, print design work, photography and undertaking IT support for a wide range of clients. However in mid July I was told that all staff were being laid off from this company – and the sister companies in the group.

Bit of a shock all round really.

So – a few options open to me – but the most appealing was to set up in business again. I’m proud of my achievements and skills – and the relationship I have with my clients. So I’m confident that when I talk to them and explain the situation they will continue to do business with me. After all – people buy from people – not companies.

The few conversations I’ve had so far have been very promising – and reassuring!

So this Blog is the first in what will hopefully be many on the way to a successful new business.