Ballards Device White

IT & Digital Transformation

Our IT & Digital Transformation department is brimming with highly skilled IT and Digital consultants with real-life, industry based experience of developing IT & Digital Strategies, conducting detailed technology reviews, selecting and procuring IT systems and experts at implementing new IT systems.

We provide independent and impartial IT & Digital advisory services, aimed at supporting clients wherever they may be in their transformation journey.

g2936

IT Current State Review

The IT Current State Review is designed to deliver an independent and impartial review of the IT function. The review maps out the IT system landscape, 3rd party IT supplier relationships, underlying IT infrastructure and key data flows. Our expert consultants analyse the information gathered, comparing to best practice and similar businesses, to identify gaps, key risks and opportunities. The output is clear score card report along with a set of prioritised, real-life, actionable recommendations.

Benefit – The independent review ensures the business is better equipped to understand how their IT function aligns to the business needs and where the focus should be to reduce cost and risk or to gain efficiencies from IT improvements.

CHECK OUT A CASE STUDY (RISILIENCE)

Project Reviews

A common concern among business owners is how effective internal projects are being managed and if they are going to achieve the original business case aims. We can provide an independent review that analyses the practices and methods being used on key projects, while also providing a health check on any in-flight projects along with any remedial actions if required.

Benefit – A project review provides a clarity of understanding on the current status of a project and if it is on track to deliver against success. It enables businesses to make informed decisions to help ensure projects deliver the anticipated benefits, while reducing the risk of over run and unexpected additional costs.

Due Diligence

Click here to learn more about our Due Diligence offering

Part-time CIO / IT Director

A commercially focussed Chief Information Officer (CIO) or IT Director ensures alignment between the IT function / capability and the wider business strategy / vision. Ensuring the correct IT systems and providers are selected and correctly managed to drive efficiencies and business improvements. They represent IT at a board level and are fundamental in defining IT governance, whilst managing and mitigating IT risk. This type of resource is costly to employ, with many businesses not having the budget or need for a full-time CIO / IT Director. We can provide part-time CIO / IT Director expertise on a scheduled or adhoc tactical basis.

Benefit – Access to an experienced CIO / IT Director who can reduce your organisational risk, ensuring your IT capabilities can support your business without the cost and commitment of a full time position.

CHECK OUT A CASE STUDY (RISILIENCE)

CHECK OUT A CASE STUDY (NEWTON WATERPROOFING SYSTEMS LTD)

CHECK OUT A CASE STUDY (UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL)

IT & Digital Strategy

An IT & Digital strategy focuses on using technology to improve business performance. It specifies the direction a business should take to create new competitive advantages with technology, as well as the tactics it will use to achieve these changes. We work with our clients to understand their business strategy and ensure that an IT & Digital strategy is developed to support it.

Benefit – Development of an IT & Digital strategy will ensure your technology plans and investments are aligned to delivering the needs of your current and future business.

IT Solution Design

Businesses often have a specific requirement to achieve i.e “We want to start selling our products online”, “We wish to expand into a new territory”, “A new disrupter has entered the marketplace and we need to compete”, but are unsure of the best and most cost effective IT solution to support the ambition. We work with our clients to ensure the business’s requirements are investigated, agreed, and documented. Our expert consultants will provide insight into the various solution options, with the pros and cons clearly described. The final output being an independent recommended solution design.

Benefit – Businesses benefit from the in-depth knowledge of our consultants to ensure the various solutions are fully explored, with the resulting independent solution design meeting the business requirements in the most practical and cost effective way.

System Specification & Selection

When it comes to selecting new systems there are a vast array of options in the marketplace, each with differing functionality and price points. Selecting the wrong systems can be a costly and time consuming mistake, though this is easily avoided. Our expert team have in-depth knowledge of the IT system marketplace, and following our structured methods we guide our clients through the software selection process to ensure the perfect fit for their business.

Benefit – Save time and effort researching the IT system marketplace, and avoid the costly mistake of selecting the wrong systems. We provide independent impartial advice from experts who have real life experience of selecting and implementing new IT systems.

Procurement Assistance

Negotiating and procuring a new IT system is not a simple process. There are many factors that need to be considered, negotiated and agreed during the procurement process. Our consultants have real-life experience of negotiating and procuring IT systems, with detailed knowledge of typical market prices. We can help our clients through the procurement process to provide assistance on understanding the areas of negotiation and what a solid and fair agreement should cover.

Benefit – Businesses benefit from our experience and marketplace knowledge to help ensure they get a fair deal when procuring new IT systems, resulting in an agreement aligning to the business needs.

Process Improvement / Optimisation

Following Lean Six sigma methodologies, we work with clients to scour through their processes; ferreting out any inefficiencies and implementing improvements. We find and focus on change that drives the largest benefits the quickest and producing measurable results. The methodology can be applied to both manufacturing and office/paper based processes with equal success.

Benefit – This is a benefits led approach, clients can expect: reduced costs, increased efficiencies, decreased WIP and better data and reporting.

CHECK OUT A CASE STUDY (HARROW COUNCIL)

Project Management

Any business planning to implement a new IT system, perform an upgrade or carry out a major change can benefit from effective project management. Managing projects following a proven and structured methodology reduces risks, while increasing the likelihood they are delivered on time and to budget. Our certified project management consultants all have real-life experience of delivering complicated IT projects across multiple sectors, following a project management approach using tried and tested methods that reduce risk, while successfully delivering projects in a consistent manner

Benefit – We help ensure projects are delivered on time, to scope and on budget. Businesses gain access to highly experienced project managers, who have real-life experience of successfully delivering complicated projects.

CHECK OUT A CASE STUDY (PROCOMM SITE SERVICES LTD)

CHECK OUT A CASE STUDY (CREATIVE FOLKS LTD)

For more information about our Digital Transformation services
please get in touch.
Quote Icon

Kind words

Insight

Unlocking Success – Essential KPIs for Owner-Managed Businesses

As an owner-manager of a business, staying on top of your company’s performance is paramount. In this article, I’ll unveil four essential KPIs that every owner-managed business should embrace for a prosperous future.

Read More

Transforming Retail: Overcoming Challenges with Digital Innovation

In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by the retail industry and how digital transformation is helping to address and overcome these challenges.

Read More

Introducing our NEW Cybersecurity Analysis Service

At Ballards LLP, we understand the significance of cybersecurity in today’s environment, which is why we’re thrilled to introduce our latest offering – Cybersecurity Analysis Service. A service designed to help businesses, especially Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), in improving their cybersecurity, even when resources are limited.  

Read More

Higher Interest Rates – Interesting for Savers?

As the Bank of England raises interest rates, there’s a growing debate about how to ensure our money works best for us in higher interest, inflation economy. Here’s 4 tips from Ben Powell about maximising your interest rates.

Read More

Property Watch – July 2023 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for UK housing market for the year to 31 July 2023 with comparatives for the same period to July 2022.

Read More

Submitting an R&D Claim in the Current Climate

Research and Development (R&D) activities play a crucial role in fostering innovation, and governments worldwide recognise this by offering tax incentives to companies engaging in R&D initiatives. However, as a Corporate Tax Manager specialising in this field, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges that companies now face when submitting R&D claims in the current climate. This article delves into some of the major obstacles and offers insights on how to overcome them.

Read More

Are there tax consequences if I sell the house I live in?

Are there tax consequences of selling the house I live in? In the world of taxation, it’s often said that the answer to many questions is “It depends.” When it comes to Principal Private Residence (PPR) Relief, this statement rings particularly true.

Let’s delve into the essential conditions that influence the applicability of PPR Relief, shedding light on both objective and subjective factors.

Read More

Safe as Houses? – The Post-Covid Property Boom

The post-Covid property boom has had a profound impact on the UK housing market, resulting in a substantial increase in property values across the country. As a consequence, homeowners are now facing a new challenge: a record-high average mortgage that stands at 3.5 times their annual income.

Offering valuable insight on this situation, Ben Powell, a seasoned expert in the industry, sheds light on the implications of these rising mortgage costs and shares practical advice for homeowners.

Read More

Property Watch – June 2023 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for UK housing market transactions for the year to 30 June 2023 with comparatives for the same period to June 2022.

Read More

R&D – The Summarised Update

Any company looking to claim R&D at the moment may understandably be bombarded and overwhelmed by the information being released. What’s new and when do I have to do what?

The following article gives a condensed summary of recent and upcoming changes.

Read More

Exploring the Benefits and Considerations of Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs)

Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) have gained attention and popularity as a means of promoting employee ownership, fostering a positive work environment, and offering a tax-efficient exit option for existing shareholders.

In this insight, we will examine key aspects and significant considerations related to EOT ownership structures.

Read More

Ballards LLP and Four Squared Recruitment Unite to Support Worcester Foodbank with Triathlon Fundraiser

Worcestershire-based accountancy firm Ballards LLP, along with their partner company Four Squared Recruitment, is once again joining forces to raise funds for the Worcester Foodbank.
Members from both Ballards LLP and Four Squared Recruitment will be participating in the Droitwich Sprint Triathlon, scheduled to take place on Sunday, July 16th.

Read More

What is the Right Business Structure for Your Startup?

Choosing the right business model is crucial for the long-term success of a new business. The decisions you make early on can have a significant impact later on. In this article, we will discuss two common options for a startup business: setting up as a Sole Trader or incorporating as a Limited Company.

Read More

Property Watch – May 2023 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for UK housing market transactions for the year to 31 May 2023 with comparatives for the same period to May 2022.

Read More

Introducing the R&D Additional Information Form

Effective from 1 August 2023, a new requirement has been introduced to further streamline the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit claim process. Businesses seeking to claim R&D tax credits will need to complete the R&D Additional Information Form (AIF), an essential component aimed at enhancing transparency, improving claim accuracy, and facilitating efficient processing. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of the R&D additional form and its significance in optimizing R&D tax credit claims.

Read More

The Importance of a Wealth Review

A periodic wealth review is an essential step in achieving financial optimisation, ensuring tax efficiency, and aligning your financial strategy with your long-term goals. In this article, we look at what a wealth review will help you to identify.

Read More

Ballards Run for Foodbank

Ballards LLP has collaborated with Four Squared Recruitment to embark on a series of fundraising initiatives in support of their chosen charity of the year, the Worcester Foodbank. One of the standout events in their fundraising campaign was the recent Worcester half marathon, which took place on Sunday, 21 May.

Read More

Property Watch – April 2023 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for UK housing market transactions for the year to 30 April 2023 with comparatives for the same period to April 2022.

Read More

Top 10 tips to minimise Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

Capital Gains Tax (“CGT”) is a complex tax with different rates of tax being paid on the same transaction, depending on reliefs claimed, levels of income, and other gains in the year. So here are our ten top tips on how to minimise the tax you pay.

Read More

The potential downsides of an EOT

While Employee ownership trusts (EOTs) may seem like an attractive option on the surface, there are several downsides that business owners should consider before deciding to pursue this route.

Read More

The Benefits of Fractional IT Directors for Business Success

In this article, we will explore the advantages of engaging a fractional IT Director and how they can drive business success.

Read More

Holding Companies – Why use them?

This video delves into the concept of holding companies and highlights three benefits of using them.

Read More

Property Watch – March 2023 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for UK housing market transactions for the year to 31 March 2023 with comparatives for the same period to March 2022

Read More

Are there tax implications on crypto assets for individuals?

HMRC recognizes crypto assets as intangible assets, which can potentially give rise to tax liabilities. To gain an understanding of the intricacies involved, please read this latest insight.

Read More

6 ways to utilise liquid assets

When a company has excess cash not being utilised in a bank account, it may choose to invest that money in ways that can potentially earn a higher return than by simply earning a small amount of annual interest.

In this article we share 6 ways a company may better utilise its assets to become less liquid.

Read More

Capital Allowances: Full Expensing Available to Limited Companies

From 1 April 2023, the previously introduced Super Deduction capital allowances at 130% are being withdrawn. In an effort to continue encouraging capital investment, read this article to find out what new measures have come into place.

Read More

EOT – What does it mean for employees?

An employee ownership trust (EOT) is a unique type of trust that enables employees to own a stake in their company, providing them with a sense of ownership and control over the business. In this article we delve deeper into what an EOT means for employees.

Read More

Property Watch – February 2023 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for UK housing market transactions for the year to 28 February 2023 with comparatives for the same period to February 2022.

Read More

Changes to the Pension Annual Allowance

Recently, the Spring Budget announced a change in Pension Annual Allowance that may impact small business owners or sole traders. we have created a short video that provides clarity on what the change means and what steps you should take next.

Read More

Ballards Acquire Creative Design Agency

Ballards LLP has made the move to purchase CreativeFolks in an effort to expand its service offerings as clients look for a more “holistic approach” to their business needs.

Read More

EMI Administration Simplification

The recent budget saw some welcomed simplification to the strict rules that need to be adhered to for Enterprise Management Incentive(EMI) options to qualify for the generous tax breaks provided by the scheme.

Read More

Setting up an Unlimited Company – The Risks and Benefits

When setting up a new business it is important to consider the legal structure that best suits your needs. There are several forms that this can take, including trading as a Sole Trader, a Partnership, a Limited company and an Unlimited company, among others.

Read More

The Fractional IT Director Service

In this short video, I will outline three key advantages that your business can gain from appointing an IT Director. 

Read More

Additional Tax Relief for R&D Intensive SME Companies

A technical note has been released, ahead of legislation due to be published later this year in relation to additional tax relief available for R&D intensive SME companies.

Read More

What Is The Patent Box Regime?

The UK government implemented the Patent Box tax structure in 2013. The regime offers a lower rate of corporation tax on earnings from patented discoveries in order to encourage businesses to invest in research and development (R&D). In this article, we will explore what the Patent Box regime is, how it works, and what kind of projects it could be used for.

Read More

Ballards Have Charity Efforts All Wrapped Up For Worcester’s Foodbank

Kind-hearted staff at Ballards LLP broke out the paper and sellotape to wrap gifts as part of the Lowesmoor lifeline’s latest bid to help those most in need.

Read More

Are you aware of the inheritance tax exposure on your business assets?

Business owners, are you aware of the inheritance tax exposure on your business assets?

If the answer is no, then you’ll want to watch this video, as I may have a great solution.

Read More

Using Digital Technology To Make Better Business Decisions

In today’s world, businesses are facing increased pressure to make informed decisions that drive growth and success. To do this, they need access to accurate and timely data, and the ability to analyse it effectively. Digital technology has revolutionised the way businesses operate, and can be a powerful tool for making better business decisions.

Read More

Property Watch – January 2023 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for the UK housing market transactions for the year to 31 January 2023 with comparatives for the same period to January 2022.

Read More

Mortgage relief restriction – Does the change in interest rate affect landlords?

You will be aware of the recent increases in the Bank of England base rates which currently stands at 4%, up from an all-time low of 0.1% only just over a year ago. What you may not have realised yet is what effect this has on a non-corporate landlord’s tax position.

With the advent of higher interest rates, the restriction to claiming higher rate tax relief on mortgage interest is becoming increasingly important.

Read More

Basis Period Reform: Everything you need to know

The Basis Period Reform, find out how this may affect you and your available options.

Read More

Property Watch – December 2022 UK residential property transactions

In this article, we look at the UK residential property transactions for the UK housing market transactions for the years 31 December 2021 and 2022 as reported by HMRC through Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) reporting.

Read More

Making R&D claims – Are you providing detailed work evidence?

It may be clear to you that you are undertaking innovative and qualifying activities for R&D purposes, however, it needs to be presented to HMRC in a clear and understandable way to evidence that it meets the criteria for relief.

Read More

Changes to VAT penalty regime

For VAT periods starting on or after 1 January 2023, HMRC has abolished the old surcharges and changed the way penalties are applied to late returns. Here is everything you need to know.

Read More

Teens to Retirees – HMRC reveals who files a tax return

Did you know 16% of those who filed tax returns for the 2020–2021 tax year were 65 years of age and older?

Read More

How long do we need to retain business records?

Having complete business records in place allows you to answer any queries HM Revenue and Customs may have. But how long do you have to retain these records? The answer depends…

Read More

How to write an accurate business case

You want to invest, but you don’t know how much to invest, what to invest in or when to invest. In times like this, we turn to a business case.

Read More

Property Watch – November 2022 UK residential property transactions

In this article we look at the UK residential property transactions for the UK housing market transactions for the years 30 November 2021 and 2022 as reported by HMRC through Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) reporting.

Read More

Selling Residential Property – Do I need to pay tax?

This is a question I’m often asked; in this video, I give my answer in relation to selling residential property and paying tax on the sale. 

Read More

The tax implications of making a loan to an employee

Businesses with spare cash are increasingly helping out their employees with short-term loans, especially due to the cost of living increases. If you are thinking of doing so, here are the things you need to know.

Read More
Scroll to Top