Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the logistics and distribution sectors “are struggling with the burden of in-house IT management”, says a survey commissioned by JBS Computer Services. As a result, says the survey, the SMEs are being distracted from their business management and strategy.
More than two thirds (68%) of the 100 directors surveyed recognise that they need to make IT “work smarter” for them while 56% felt they would outsource the IT function. IT was also rated as “a far greater hassle than problems such as accounting, legislation and red-tape”.
The survey says that only a third of SMEs could afford the luxury of a dedicated IT manager while the remainder of respondents said IT was managed directly by either the managing director, finance director or business manager.The British Industrial Truck Association (BITA) hopes to attract students into the materials handling industry having launched a new promotions campaign to try and overturn a shortfall of new recruits. The initiative is part of an ongoing programme of activities designed to raise awareness of the wide range of career opportunities that are available for school and college leavers, and to improve links between employers and students.
BITA is also introducing a “Student
Connection Service” to help further
improve links between students and
potential employers. Under this
scheme, students can ensure their CVs
are seen by more than 50 leading
manufacturing and distribution
companies. Participating students will
receive bulletins with careers
information, job vacancies and further
advice on how to get into the industry.
