As 2024 comes to a close, businesses in Scotland are evaluating a year marked by numerous challenges and notable growth. In preparation for the upcoming year, Peer Works is offering a structured opportunity for companies to innovate and learn from industry peers and experts through its annual programme of regional learning sessions. These sessions are designed to equip businesses with the strategies necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving market landscape.
Peer Works, delivered by Prosper (Scottish Council for Development and Industry) and funded by the Scottish Government, boasts a membership of over 2,700 individuals from various sectors across Scotland. The programme is unique in its provision of free peer learning sessions paired with expert-led talks aimed at enhancing efficiency, fostering innovation, and ensuring businesses can remain competitive. This initiative is accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), social enterprises, charities, and public sector organisations.
In an interview with Insider.co.uk, Eleonora Vanello, Programme Manager at Peer Works, shared key insights drawn from this year's events, shedding light on how businesses can position themselves for success in 2025.
A prominent trend highlighted was the increased embrace of artificial intelligence (AI) within the business sector during 2024. Vanello noted that AI can significantly streamline tasks, stimulate creativity, and boost overall productivity. She encourages businesses to actively experiment with various AI tools to determine their compatibility with specific organisational needs, all while maintaining compliance with copyright regulations and data privacy considerations.
Collaboration emerged as another vital theme throughout the year. The success of businesses relies heavily on building partnerships, emphasising the power of collaborative efforts to support local economies and spur innovation. Peer Works places considerable importance on learning from peers, as these relationships can yield new opportunities and enhance performance.
Vanello also stressed the need for businesses to manage a balanced approach between efficient processes and the wellbeing of their employees. Prioritising both productivity and employee engagement is increasingly viewed as essential for long-term sustainability and growth.
Moreover, the concept of peer learning was reinforced as a fundamental driver of innovation within companies. By exchanging insights and learning from one another’s experiences, businesses can discover effective solutions, implement new practices, and foster a culture of continuous improvement, setting themselves apart from competitors.
Looking ahead to 2025, Peer Works has strengthened its commitment to supporting Scottish businesses. Recently formalising a partnership with The Productivity Institute at the University of Manchester and its Scotland Forum at the University of Glasgow, the programme aims to expand the resources available for businesses to learn and grow through peer engagement.
Peer Works remains open to all businesses, social enterprises, charities, and public sector organisations in Scotland, providing a valuable platform for those seeking to improve their operational performance and explore emerging trends in AI and collaboration. Companies interested in participating can find additional information about upcoming events and how to get involved at peerworks.scot.
Source: Noah Wire Services