THE IT team at Systemagic have worked their charm on an historic joinery firm by bringing them into the modern era of technology.
Hawker Joinery, based in Batheaston is 98 years old and has provided bespoke joinery products to customers nationwide for almost a century.
However its IT ‘system’ was definitely stuck in the past – complete with typewriter.
James Eades, managing director of Systemagic, said: “Visiting the premises for the first time was like stepping back in time. It’s amazing to see the skill and craftsmanship of a company with such a rich history.
“However their IT system consisted of one old-fashioned computer, a chair and an old typewriter. In this modern era, the company needed to embrace technology or it would soon become invisible to new customers and they realised that.”
The joinery has a team of 15 and they make bespoke products including windows, doors and staircases. This is particularly important in listed buildings with strict regulations around modernising and updating important fixtures and fittings.
Mitchell Thomas is the commercial director of Hawker Joinery. He said: “We did need to modernise and we needed expert help to do it. For example we were still writing out quotations on paper and sometimes hand-delivering those quotations. While some people might think that’s quaint and old-fashioned, others find it time consuming and frustrating. There is an expectation now that people can get the answers they need in a timely manner.”
James and his team at Systemagic have installed a modern IT system including fibre broadband, VoIP telephones, new PCs, printers and an accounts and quoting system which supercharges the quotation and invoicing process.
Mitchell said: “This new technology has given us a new lease of life. Processes which were time-consuming have become quick and easy which is allowing us to get on with the profession we love – making excellent bespoke joinery products to the highest standards.”
Systemagic is an IT specialist company offering a range of services including full IT support, hosted services including backup and email, broadband and superfast internet, telephone systems and hardware leasing. The company won the Micro Employer of the Year in the Bristol and Bath Apprentice Awards and last year managing director James Eades was featured in this year’s 42 Under 42 list for the South West. The company’s headquarters is at Waterhouse, Monkton Combe, Bath.
Pictured above from left to right: Mitchell Thomas of Hawker Joinery with James Eades, managing director of Systemagic.
