Issue link: http://georgiancollege.uberflip.com/i/419610
USING DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES When small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) want to grow their operations, Georgian's Centre for Applied Research and Innovation (CARI) has a team of co-op students, faculty and technicians to help them with enterprise resource planning. CARI's new Digital Technology Adoption Pilot Program (DTAPP) has piqued the interest of more than 30 local businesses looking for assistance with computer-aided design and manufacturing, rapid prototyping, robotics and other business efficiencies. "These businesses did not have the resources to hire outside service providers, so Georgian stepped in with a mix of services and financial assistance to help them move forward," said Chris Berni, Manager of CARI. One client was RM Products. Owner Randy Chotowetz wanted to expand into the military market but realized he would need access to specific technology to test his modular fibreglass structures so they could be certified. With only 20 employees, the Orillia-based company did not have the resources to conduct the testing itself, which can be a long, risky process. The college provided Randy with student researchers and specialized equipment to test the product for strength, durability, resistance to wind and snow and other critical elements. "With Georgian's assistance, we've been able to change our manufacturing processes, take the product to market more quickly and expand our operation to become a global player," said Randy. Is your company interested in applied research? If so, contact Chris Berni at appliedresearch@georgiancollege.ca or phone 705.728.1968, ext. 1345. Student researcher Alexander Bond prepares a prototype using a 3D printer in the Innovation Lab. Build on your Georgian diploma or degree with a graduate certificate. Choose from a variety of exciting one-year programs starting in January, May or September. • Addictions: Treatment and Prevention • Advanced Care Paramedic • Communicative Disorders Assistant • Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management • Event Management • Food and Nutrition Management • Fundraising and Resource Development • Goldsmithing and Silversmithing • Human Resources Management • Information Systems Security • Interior Design Degree Bridge (co-op) • International Business Management • Kitchen and Bath Design • Medical Skin Care Therapies • Mobile Application Development • Museum and Gallery Studies • Occupational Health and Safety Management • Research Analyst • Therapeutic Recreation Learn more at GeorgianCollege.ca HOW CAN I TAKE MY CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL? 29 GEORGIANVIEW 2014 COLLEGE NEWS