Entrepreneurs launch VISMAP® to support SME growth

Three North East entrepreneurs have joined forces to launch a strategy framework solution designed to help businesses understand how to grow through visual route mapping.

VISMAP®, a programme of workshops and visual mapping tool that distils MBA learning, enables organisations to involve the wider team in strategy creation.

Combining strategy, product, market and finance, the VISMAP®-hosted workshops use a software system to gather and analyse data to build an action plan.

Once a strategy has been implemented, the mapping software is available to the business so it can keep its approach updated and agile.

Tim Waddington, VISMAP® co-founder, said: “For businesses, particularly SMEs, to stay ahead of the competition you need a method powerful enough to create an innovative strategy but simple enough for all key stakeholders to be fully engaged in.

“Through our workshops, we aim to look at where a business wants to be and how that can be achieved.

“We’ll take the time to work with the team, so everyone understands what the strengths and challenges are, who the competitors are and what steps need to be taken to protect and penetrate the current market.”

Founded by Tim alongside Dianne Sharp and Andy Biggs, the idea of VISMAP® was a result of many years’ experience leading businesses in the region and recognising the need to support SMEs on growth planning.

The trio, who are all Durham University alumni, believe the solution will make a considerable difference in unifying teams, as well as creating clarity and autonomy.

Tim added: “VISMAP® takes you on a journey through your business.

“A bit like a sat-nav, it leads a management team along the path of understanding your products and markets, to delivering a compelling competitive edge.

“But most importantly, it allows a team to journey together. It’s not an MD’s strategy crafted in their ivory tower and dictated to all staff.

“It’s a shared experience with common ownership.

“That is essential for effective implementation.”