You might be kicking off the New Year by starting or improving your own small business — which is great. Your idea has developed, your expertise and knowledge are on point, and you understand the marketplace or service sector you’re entering. You’re probably brimming with confidence, ready for launch, and surrounded by well-wishers wishing you every success.
However, there may be aspects of running your business where you eventually need a bit of assistance. For us at Inotec Solutions Ltd, that area was our online presence. While our social media activity was fairly strong, our website needed a complete rethink.
Across the UK, there are countless organisations and initiatives designed to support small businesses in a wide range of areas. Often, all it takes is a bit of research to discover which schemes are available in your local area — a small investment of time that can make a huge difference to a growing business.
We would like to share with you our journey to improvement, have a read and good luck for 2026.
Thanks to James Miller for allowing us to share their case study.
Communication experts find their voice online with Durham Business Growth support.
When Paul Standing and Simon Land launched Inotec Solutions Ltd, their focus was clear: drawing on their wealth of experience to deliver reliable technology and communications solutions to homes and businesses across rural County Durham. From high-speed internet for farms to CCTV security systems, VoIP telephones, and event technology support, their expertise was undeniable. But when it came to showcasing that expertise online, the company faced a challenge.
“Our website was basically a single landing page,” recalls Paul. “It didn’t reflect who we are or what we do. We knew we needed to change that, but we weren’t sure where to start.”
They turned to the Durham Business Growth programme and began working with Business Adviser James Miller on transforming their digital presence.
Starting with the basics
James quickly realised that Inotec Solutions had a strong story to tell, but their online presence didn’t capture it. “They are a fantastic company doing specialist work, but like many businesses in the region, they were modest and underselling themselves,” says James.
Rather than rushing into a website redesign, James guided the directors through a strategic process. Together, they defined the company’s value proposition, created customer personas, mapped the customer journey, and developed messaging that clearly articulated their services – from rural broadband installations to network infrastructure and security solutions.
“There are plenty of companies that can build a website,” James explains. “But without strong copy and imagery, it won’t deliver results. Getting the foundations right was essential.”
Building skills, not just a website
Initially, Inotec Solutions considered applying for funding to outsource the project. But as the process unfolded, Paul and Simon decided they wanted to learn how to manage their website themselves. “As ex-military and Police, self-sufficiency is in our DNA,” says Paul. “We didn’t just want a new website. We wanted the knowledge to maintain and improve it ourselves.”
James supported that goal by mentoring the directors through every stage of building a WordPress site, including writing copy, selecting images, creating calls to action, and setting up SEO and analytics. He introduced them to tools like ChatGPT for generating blog content and FAQs, and Canva for design elements.
Over four months, James held regular calls every week or two, providing guidance and encouragement. “James went above and beyond,” says Paul. “He didn’t just give us advice; he walked beside us and taught us how to do it ourselves.”
A new digital chapter
Today, Inotec Solutions has a website that reflects its expertise and supports its growth ambitions. While the directors still want to add a final design polish, they now fully understand what their website needs to deliver and have the skills to make it happen.
“Our website would still be in the dark ages if we hadn’t accessed support through Durham Business Growth,” Paul says. “Now, we have a platform that tells our story and helps customers find us.”
James is equally proud of the company’s progress. He adds: “They’ve come a long way. After we explored their services, value proposition, customer personas and sales process, it became apparent that beyond their expertise, they also provide exceptional service. They involve their clients at every stage, from initial visit, advice and guidance to installation and after-sales support. Now that they have more clarity on their message, I hope that they will feel more confident in really promoting their work. I’m excited to see them continue to grow.
Find out how the Durham Business Growth programme can help your business thrive:
www.durhambusinessgrowth.co.uk