Our Approach

Effective decision making requires an understanding of both the capabilities of the organisation and the external market and context in which it operates – IBP’s combination of strategic insight and robust research is exactly what is needed to help organisations successfully deliver projects such as:

• Sector development studies and strategies
• Feasibility studies and business plans
• Forward-looking evaluations

Examples of Our Work

• Sector development studies. Over the years we have delivered sector-wide analysis and plans in areas such as food and drink, tourism and advanced engineering. Such projects draw on our strengths in consumer research and business engagement alongside an intense strategic focus.
• Feasibility studies and options appraisals. We frequently undertake feasibility studies for new ventures, particularly in relation to community activities and facilities, where our marketing research skills are allied to strong operational and financial analysis. Recent projects have included, for example, the establishment of a new Postgraduate Social Space at Glasgow University and the establishment of a new community facility, through Community Asset Transfer, in east Ayrshire.
• Business and organisational reviews. Our work in this area includes overall business reviews, HR and organisational reviews and marketing audits and strategies. Our team has many years’ experience in business and allies strong business acumen to robust research and analysis of markets.
• Our evaluation work is a key element of our wider strategy development activities. We have delivered evaluations of various projects and initiatives including, for example, events & festivals, business support programmes and community and social enterprise activity. We balance the need for robust historical analysis of the outputs and outcomes delivered by such projects and initiatives with a forward looking approach to how they can continue to provide value to their service users and funders.
• We have particular experience and expertise in working with social enterprises involved in areas of activity such as: youth work; upcycling and recycling; community facilities; and, employability support. As well as business planning and marketing strategy work, we also support such organisations with evaluations of their project activity and in the development of future funding plans.

The above is, of course, only a small selection of the strategic development assignments that we have undertaken and we are always happy to discuss your specific requirements, without obligation.