Keying Into an Internet First
March 16 2006
Companies across the North West have logged on to the idea of using a unique online employee handbook developed in Lancaster.
Malcolm Martin had worked on the often onerous task of preparing and maintaining company handbooks in the nineties and decided there had to be a better way of getting over vital information.
In the emerging IT revolution, the Chartered Personnel professional hit on an internet inspiration and got Lancaster University student Jon Powell to spend a summer researching his brainchild.“
Jon’s task was to look at this new approach to writing employee handbooks for businesses,� explained Malcolm. “He had to find out if the idea was new and whether or not companies would want – and pay – for this innovative online service.
�So positive was the feed-back Malcolm launched the company Employer Solutions Ltd to deliver customised handbooks on internet sites which his Lancaster-based firm would maintain.
Starting out in a back bedroom office, Employer Solutions soon found itself having to find a base suitable for a winning business and can now be found in prestigious Alston House at Lancaster’s White Cross.
Jon’s hard work wasn’t forgotten – he’s now a director and shareholder of the company.“We are now looking after around 20 employee handbooks for firms from Barrow to Manchester, with a focus on North Lancashire, and continue to attract new clients,� added Malcolm.
“It’s interesting how many widely differing businesses have taken this onboard,� said Malcolm. “Accountants to plumbers, care homes to service industries, estate agents to used-car dealers are all using our online innovation.
“What connects these companies is that they are successful, expanding and very keen to take control of their staff relations with this easy but highly effective system.
�Maria Bradley, of the Clover Care Group in Morecambe, was one of the first to go for the online option.“We provide support services and residential homes for people with learning disabilities,� explained Maria. “We want our staff to be the best in the field and sound employment policies and procedures are part of the process. “Having all the relevant information at the touch of a keyboard is invaluable.
�Another expanding operation, cleaning company LaraNichols, from Lancaster, is so enthusiastic about the internet handbook it has set up a link from its web page so both potential clients and staff can see at a glance its policies and procedures.
Employer Solutions tackles a whole range of work related issues, including employment contacts, through to health and safety, redundancy consultation and safe dismissals.
