Hear From Professor David Hall – a businessman who’s done it all, sold it all and done it all over again. David will argue that entrepreneurs don’t have a choice – business expansion is in their blood. But what are the issues and obstacles to growth – are they real or imaginary? David will outline his unique 7 step approach for achieving growth based on what the best entrepreneurs actually do and what any business can follow. Issues abound around people, finance, company structure and the increasing importance of IT in enabling smooth scalable business expansion. We’ll look at real companies and how they have overcome obstacles to achieve lasting success. Supplier, customer acquisition and retention issues all need to be addressed. David will focus on companies he has personally helped to address these, and the other ‘pain points’ of business growth. Infusing our IT and Business Infrastructure - A Success Story from Oracle Can modern day companies grow successfully without a solid IT strategy which is integrated into their business strategy? Hear from an Oracle partner who will argue its becoming increasingly difficult. He will focus on a real live business example where IT formed the backbone to business expansion. All areas of a modern business are impacted by IT and the key is to integrate these areas in a seamless way. How this company did this, the hurdles they faced along the way, the costs, issues and business benefits will all be laid bare. You will leave this event with the inspiration and a little more know how of how to tackle your own business expansion issues.

2. Chris White – CEO, merit Welcome to today’s event

3. House Keeping

4. Professor David Hall To grow or consolidate – do we have a choice? David Murray – Managing Director of Kirona Successful integration of IT and business strategy Today’s Presenters

5. TO GROW OR CONSOLIDATE - Do we have a choice? David Hall December 2006 In Association with

27. To grow or consolidate – do we have a choice….