Solent Way Computers discusses how they thrive amongst the 60+ businesses at Fareham Innovation Centre.

We’ve all experienced it – technical issues with the laptop or that inconvenient prompt for a mystery upgrade bang on deadline.

Thankfully, for occupiers at Fareham Innovation Centre, and the local community, jargon-free support is at hand.

For various businesses at the centre, it is a simple matter of carrying the laptop along the corridor to the on-site computer repair shop that is Solent Way Computers.

Founded by local resident Nigel Willliams in 2019, Solent Way Computers benefits from his decades-long experience in the corporate work focusing on IT, customer relationships and communication systems.

As well as the workshop – one of 20 here – Nigel and his friendly team of technicians visit customers’ homes and small offices to resolve issues, install new equipment and offer personalised training.

Previously working from a half-converted garage at home, Nigel made the decision to move into Fareham Innovation Centre in the spring of 2020, with initial move-in delays caused by pandemic lockdowns.

He said: “We chose this location, rather than a high street, because the centre offers ample free parking and customers can park right outside the self-contained access door to bring in equipment.

“They can walk in, sit down and see someone, and they love the free parking. Most of our business is residential, so it makes sense to be here.

“Having gone from a virtual office during the first wave of lockdowns to an office, then expanding into the workshop unit where we are now, the support from the centre has also been amazing.”

Nigel, who is Managing Director, added: “Another draw for us is the fact that there are so many businesses at the centre.

“We look after 36 companies here, supporting IT, security, repairs, screen replacements and, because we’re not tied to any manufacturer, recommending what’s best for the customers when it comes to sourcing the right equipment.”

Solent Way Computers has grown to five staff – they are among 1,065 jobs created to date at purpose-built Fareham Innovation Centre, which opened its doors in April 2015.

“Another pull factor here are the on-demand meeting rooms which are a key feature and are hired by the hour,” Nigel said. “They provide a level of infrastructure that helps us and other occupiers present a polished image to our partners.”

Nearly 550 businesses have so far received tailored business support through the centre’s in-house Innovation Director, with Solent Way Computers among them.

“That’s another great thing about being here,” reflected Nigel. “The complimentary strategic business advice – the centre has got the backs of occupiers.”

His business is running full pelt, with a complete disconnect–repair–return–reconnect service proving popular because customers don’t have to lift a finger.

“We could do with another workshop on site,” Nigel said. “But they are all full. That’s the measure of the centre’s success, and ours.”

Nigel Williams, founder of Solent Way Computers