Best Use of Technology – Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2022

SEC Group’s ‘revolutionary’ use of technology leads to success at Chamber of Commerce ceremony

Stevenage-based SEC Group’s “revolutionary” use of technology, commitment to its customers, and data management have been recognised at the Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce’s annual business awards ceremony.

The SEC Group was presented with the Best Use of Technology award at this year’s Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards, which took place at the home of Harry Potter – the Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden.

Established in 1998, SEC Group designs and installs innovative, high-quality warehouse solutions, provides commercial interior fit-outs and refurbishments as well as temperature controlled and cleanroom design and installation. All aspects of the business are driven by technology innovation. Throughout the past four years, the business has carried out an extensive rebuild of its technology practices, data usage and outcomes brining true innovation to its customers.

When designing and delivering bespoke spaces, the business goes beyond the conventional use of technology in data usage. SEC incorporates Artificial Intelligence (AI), virtual twinning, simulation techniques and advanced statistical analysis into its bespoke analytics tools.  This enables us to leverage customer data to drive operational efficiencies and increased returns on investment.

Another aspect of its revolutionary technology and data excellence strategy is ELSA (Everything Lives Somewhere Appropriate), an industry-leading data analytics tool, and Artificially Intelligent Design-Bot that works with the design team to deliver optimal warehouse storage solutions. Since introducing ELSA, SEC Group’s customer retention rate has increased from 84 per cent to 96 per cent.

Harry Watts, Managing Director at SEC Group, said: “We are truly honoured to be recognised by Herts Chamber of Commerce as a company that delivers on the Best Use of Technology. We continue to develop new technologies and innovations across the business to further enhance our customers’ operations which provide efficiencies for current requirements as well as offering the necessary agility for future growth.”

Briege Leahy, CEO of Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “SEC Group has an impressive use of the latest tech, ranging from AI and AR to data analytics. Combining this with a real focus on customer benefit and outstanding management of data.”

She added: “The awards ceremony is always a highlight in the Chamber’s calendar and this year was no different. It was wonderful to celebrate the achievements and contribution of the county’s businesses and charitable organisations.
These awards are also a fantastic opportunity for Hertfordshire businesses to showcase their performance and achievements to the Hertfordshire business community and beyond.”

Now in its 11th year, the Inspiring Herts awards took place on June 9 and included categories such as Excellence in People Development, Excellence in International Trade, The Green Award, Workplace Wellbeing Award and Best Use of Technology.

Around 400 delegates attended the awards ceremony, which was sponsored by Viatris and SA Law, along with a number of local dignitaries, including; Kate Holland Hibbert, Deputy Lieutenant of Hertfordshire; and Professor Damian Ward, Dean, Hertfordshire Business School.