Harnessing the power of data and automation

SDG, a leading supplier of specialist products to the construction industry across Ireland and the UK, faced a noticeable skills gap in terms of data-driven decision-making processes, lacking the internal expertise to develop and implement advanced analytics solutions. Additionally, the existing business structure created bottlenecks, preventing senior staff from dedicating time to strategic initiatives.

Operational inefficiencies were another pressing issue, with manual processes consuming valuable time and resources, limiting productivity and overall performance. Overcoming these challenges was further complicated by a cultural resistance to change, as embedding innovation required breaking away from traditional working methods.

External economic pressures, including the impact of COVID-19 and rising inflation, intensified the need for agile and responsive business systems. SDG recognised that addressing these challenges was key to driving sustainable growth, improving customer relationships, and future-proofing its operations.

With the support of Queen’s University of Belfast’s School of Management and Innovate UK, SDG undertook a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to address these challenges. Together the aim was to improve operational efficiency, foster innovation, and strengthen its competitive edge.

Creating a meaningful evaluation framework

A robust evaluation framework was implemented to measure the success and impact of the KTP. By establishing clear performance indicators and tracking key milestones, SDG ensured its progress aligned with strategic goals.

One of the most significant areas of focus was data and analytics. The creation of a secure, centralised data warehouse enabled SDG to consolidate its business intelligence. Real-time analytics tools, such as Power BI, provided advanced reporting capabilities and predictive insights, streamlining decision-making and improving forecasting accuracy. By automating manual processes, SDG freed up valuable time and resources, creating space for strategic innovation.

Improving customer relationship management was another critical element of the framework. The introduction of the Customer Engagement Framework enabled SDG to prioritise key accounts, improve customer interactions, and identify opportunities for growth. This was further supported by tools like the Product Recommendation Engine, which enhanced stock forecasting and account management.

To facilitate strategic decision-making, the framework included the development of dynamic KPI dashboards. These tools provided enhanced visibility of performance metrics across the business, ensuring decision-makers had the insights they needed to act swiftly and effectively.

Cultural transformation was also a key focus. The KTP delivered tailored training workshops and mentoring sessions to embed new skills across SDG’s teams. By promoting a data-driven culture, employees were empowered to leverage insights in their day-to-day work, driving continuous improvement and fostering innovation.

Finally, the framework included clear business growth metrics. This meaningful and holistic evaluation framework ensured that SDG’s progress was tracked, measured, and aligned with its overarching strategic priorities.

The outcomes of the KTP highlighted significant achievements across SDG’s operations. The project successfully delivered on its core objectives, driving meaningful change and measurable growth.

One of the standout outcomes was the improvement in operational efficiency. By automating time-consuming manual processes, SDG streamlined workflows, reduced resource wastage, and improved productivity. The creation of a centralised data warehouse and advanced reporting tools provided the foundation for faster, data-driven decision-making.

The introduction of customer-focused strategies further strengthened SDG’s market position. The Customer Engagement Framework allowed the business to prioritise key relationships and deliver a more tailored customer experience. Predictive tools, like the Product Recommendation Engine, enhanced stock management and supported better planning, enabling SDG to identify and act on growth opportunities.

A key achievement of the KTP was its contribution to cultural transformation within SDG. Through training and mentoring, staff were empowered with the skills and confidence to adopt data-driven practices. This shift towards a culture of continuous improvement fostered accountability, collaboration, and innovation across the organisation.

The outcomes also delivered measurable financial benefits. During the project, annual sales turnover increased by £100,000, with a three-year forecast projecting growth to £1.5 million. Export revenue grew by £250,000, with a long-term projection of an additional £15 million. Annual profit before tax also saw measurable increases, with a three-year target of £500,000.

By embedding strategic tools and frameworks, SDG positioned itself for sustained growth and success in a competitive market.

The impact of the KTP has been transformative for SDG, delivering value across multiple areas of the business.

Strategically, the project equipped SDG with a clear roadmap for future growth. The adoption of strategic pillars ensured the business had a framework to guide operational improvements and measure performance. Tools like dynamic KPI dashboards and predictive analytics enabled SDG to plan more effectively, respond to challenges, and seize new opportunities with confidence.

Culturally, the KTP fostered a significant shift towards data-led decision-making. Staff embraced new ways of working, empowered by training and access to actionable insights. This cultural change has promoted continuous improvement, creating a workforce that is adaptable, collaborative, and forward-thinking.

Operationally, the automation of manual processes and adoption of advanced analytics tools have created a more efficient, agile organisation. Real-time reporting and predictive capabilities have streamlined decision-making, enabling SDG to operate more effectively and deliver better outcomes for customers.

The commercial impact of the KTP has been equally impressive. The measurable financial growth, including increases in sales turnover, exports, and profit margins, highlights the project’s success in driving sustainable business improvements. SDG has also strengthened its competitive position, delivering enhanced value to its customers and building long-term resilience.

Ultimately, the KTP has transformed SDG into a more innovative, customer-focused, and data-driven organisation. By embedding strategic processes, fostering a culture of improvement, and achieving tangible business outcomes, SDG is now better equipped to thrive in an evolving and challenging market landscape.