Unique approach enables charitable IT company to survive the financial crisis

04/08/2009

Leicester Samaritans says thanks for FREE website

The name isn't well-known, yet Maple Systems is earning itself a reputation of Biblical proportion as a David among the Goliaths of the IT world - and a true Samaritan for good causes.

A 'one-stop-shop' specialising in computer networks and a range of support and internet services for small to medium-sized businesses, Maple Systems has just completed its latest charitable gesture - designing and hosting a free website for Leicester Samaritans.

Branch publicist, Lawrence Warnock, said: "We approached Maple Systems seeking help only for production of a promotional DVD - in time for National Samaritans Day on 24th July - yet the company insisted on setting us up with our own website!

A rarity

"Very few Samaritan branches have their own sites, so it's quite something for us in Leicester - and it's made such a difference to the charity since the website went live in March.

"Featuring the straight-speaking DVD that we originally approached Maple about, the website paints a clear and detailed picture of what we do - resulting in more donations and volunteers," added Lawrence.

Founding Maple Systems in 1986, Reza Ghadim explained: "I wanted to help the Samaritans in this way because I know people who have been supported by the charity - I'm well aware of the excellent job it does.

"With the recession so badly affecting good causes, Maple is more keen than ever to support them whenever possible. If the Samaritans' website saves just one life, our hard work will have been well worthwhile."

Lawrence concluded: "We are so grateful to Maple Systems for its support - it makes you feel so good to know that there are still people out there prepared to help worthy causes at this difficult financial time."

Survival

In all his years since establishing Maple Systems, Reza has never experienced a recession quite like the current one - yet his unique approach is enabling the company to survive.

Aware that expensive set up costs prevent many businesses from displaying their wares/services via an on-line shop, Maple has created a bespoke e-commerce solution priced to compete with the usual template model, an approach that's a killer to the search engines. Offering the same standard, but often undercutting its London-based competitors' rates by two thirds. It's the LAW!

"In addition to offering a full 'make-over' for old websites, Maple's specialist design and copywriting team also ensure that legal requirements are met. Few people realise that since 1995 websites must be made accessible to disabled people - by law," added Reza.

Charity support

Reza concluded: "Maple will donate £100 to the Samaritans or their chosen charity of any future clients who have an e-Commerce shop designed and hosted by us."