Network event highlights differences in opinion

A Sparc product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Sep 22, 2006

Technology-led businesses, academics and business angels from across the South East gathered at the Open University in Milton Keynes for the first Sparc networking event since its launch in June.

Technology-led businesses, academics and business angels from across the South East gathered at the Open University in Milton Keynes for the first Sparc networking event since its launch in June.

As part of the session, entrepreneur Graham Sadd, founder of PAOGA, a company that provides software management tools for storing an individual's personal information gave a controversial keynote address about the increasing problems of the misuse of identity.

Following the presentation Sparc members took part in a facilitated question and answer session about the subject, which sparked a debate about the sale and purchase of information.

"This was an interesting subject for our members, with many using data storage systems themselves", commented Chris Dunkley, Network Director.

"PAOGA believes it has identified a problem where one in four people have had their identity stolen or know someone who has".

"One of the key reasons is that some companies who hold your data, can and will sell your information on, making the misuse of personal identities a relatively simple procedure".

The different ways personal information is misused in the UK can be alarming.

Sadd explained that a person could note down a car registration number at a ferry terminal, then purchase that person's address from the DVLA for just GBP 2.50, leading to the increased risk of burglary.

It can also be used to earn money through fraudulent means.

One example he gave is that recruitment agencies could change a customer's CV details to fit a job profile so commission is awarded.

This example was heavily refuted at the network and highlighted many differences in opinion.

Concluding the debate, the question "Who do you trust to store information?" remained unanswered.

Members also voted in the "Pitch Battle", a competition where two companies pitched their business to the networking group.

This is an opportunity for businesses to pitch to the group in order to seek investment, acquire new customers, request for sponsors or just to build their profile.

With just one vote in it, Andy Wollard from Apple MK narrowly beat Tony Priest from TD Group.

Guy Barnett at Invest Milton Keynes commented: "There is a great deal of support available for SMEs, which is why a network like Sparc is vital as it provides an environment for effective interaction between technology-related companies and industry".

"As well as Sparc, we are also involved in implementing the Milton Keynes Technopole, which will provide accommodation and support to start up companies and technology-led businesses".

"A number of key partners including the Open University, Cranfield University, Milton Keynes Economy and Learning Partnership (MKELP), Bletchley Park Science and Innovation centre, and the Milton Keynes Enterprise Hub have now reached an agreement on the brief which will lead to a tender for a full feasibility study".