Powernet Technology Sandbox Trust
Large investment in new technologies is always tinged with an element of risk, history shows us that the latest and greatest I.T. innovations do not always become ubiquitous overnight and many never see the light of day.
Apple's Newton is a prime example of a new technology that was just not ready for public consumption. Technologies developed for the Newton would later lay the foundations for Apples iOS operating system that power the iPhone and iPad.
Despite the risks involved, developing or leveraging new technologies successfully can bring great rewards. Apple's later successes have far outweighed their failure with the Newton. New technologies help to reduce costs, offer new services and increase productivity, yet fear of failure means that most businesses copy their competition. Important decisions such as "What CRM system should we use?" or "How do we manage home workers?" are answered with the "If it's good enough for them it's good enough for us" approach. There is nothing wrong with using technologies that has a proven track record but it's never going to set a business apart from its competition.
Cutting Edge not Bleeding Edge
So how does a business become cutting-edge while avoiding the bleeding-edge? To help remove much of the risk involved with developing or trialing new technologies in a business environment, Powernet have setup the Technology Sandbox Trust (TST). The TST removes the element of risk allowing IT managers to experiment, tinker and play with new ideas and systems which would benefit their employer.
How will the Powernet Technology Sandbox Trust (PTST) Work?
A company will approach the PTST with an IT (network or telco) based project that they would like to trial or develop. If the project in question seems to have real potential and offers real business application then the PTST will offer help in getting the project up and running.
What kind of help can the Powernet Technology Sandbox Trust (PTST) give?
The PTST can offer financial support by fully funding or part-funding a project. It can also offer resource in the shape of personnel (a team of experienced technical, project and management staff). PTST also has access to considerable technical infrastructure including network and hardware.
What type of Business or Organisation can the Powernet Technology Sandbox Trust (PTST) help?
Typically the PTST will help businesses that want to trial new technologies but do not have the budget necessary. Preference will be given to business that are already Powernet customers, however this is not a pre-requisite and if a project has merit it will be given serious consideration.
Will the PTST support every application made?
No, very simply the PTST only has a finite amount of resource available so any projects given support will be chosen carefully. Consideration will be given to the potential business benefits, application and commercial viability.
Do applicants need to be Powernet customers?
No, but we will give preference to Powernet's existing customer base as we already have an established relationship and commercial track record with these clients. If a non-Powernet customer approaches the PTST with an application then this will be viewed on its own merits. We will not discount any genuine good ideas.
I have a project that I think the PTST could help me with, what do I do next?
Complete the form above, give us a call on: 01908 605188 or send us an email: ptst@powergroup.co.uk and tell us about your great idea.






