"Short of doing it for me, I could not have been happier. I could not have got to the end product without Black Kite; the support was invaluable. I really appreciated the weekend / late night replies, and the level of support offered when needed. I feel like I became more confident in the project, how to talk about it, and the business model. That is a direct result of doing the application, and of BK guiding me and drawing the information out. I could not have submitted the application to the standard I did without BK; defintely use them again."
"Black Kite were very effective at project management across several large projects and we would certainly consider using them again when we return to Research & Development."
"I was happy with the work Black Kite did for me, and I would hire them again. Commercial-level communication skills and market awareness combined with their high-quality background in physical science and engineering made for a productive partnership. Black Kite’s position, sitting square between the technical and commercial worlds, is uniquely strong within the knowledge transfer industry."
"Black Kite undertook a small consultancy project on a novel antenna design developed at Queen Mary University. It was unclear how this technology could fit market needs. At short notice, Black Kite prepared a professional proposal, clearly outlining the work to be done and how the project was to be conducted. They started with primary research, interviewing key potential clients and collaborators, and presented a well-argued report within our schedule, which was important in securing further internal funding for continued development. The study results informed the product development and market areas to pursue. More importantly, they introduced us to Satellite Services (now SBBV) who have since funded further development of the antenna for space flight."
"We would have no hesitation in working with Black Kite again either on an innovative and technically challenging project as a project manager or as someone to help us exploit our developments and grow our business."
"Deepak's involvement was highly beneficial; it was the first such project within our organisation that was delivered close to the original plan, including time and budget. We would be happy to use Deepak and Black Kite again, not just as a valued consultant but as a member of our project team, for future technically challenging projects and especially those that are important or crucial for our business growth."
"Clear and concise feedback delivered very flexibly to accommodate our needs. Would definitely use Black Kite again and have no hesitation in recommending them to others."
"Organised approach, got feedback times in the diary early. Really took your time to talk me through the edits, suggestions and made time when needed."
"Your insight into the mindset of Innovate UK and bid writing generally was v useful – this helped me better understand what the assessors were looking for."
In collaboration with leading archive institutions, companies and universities, BAFTA was heading up two complex, Innovate UK funded projects, Video Clarity and Revqual, at a combined value of circa £1.5m. Each project involved developing a suite of novel algorithms for the Film, TV and media industries. Both projects were under-performing due to repeated fluctuations across the project management team in more than one of the partner organisations. The projects were suffering from loss of business and organisational focus which resulted in risks to achieving the original objectives and of developing serious financial difficulties.
Black Kite was asked to take on project management for both projects. BAFTA's directors recognised that we have extensive knowledge of grant funding processes and are experts in managing technology projects.
Working directly with senior managers and the individual project teams, Black Kite successfully oversaw the completion of both projects. Our initial focus was to repair stakeholder and partner relationships and reset positive goals. We assessed and revised the finances, providing trusted spending forecasts. Liaising closely with Innovate UK, we achieved beneficial project changes. We updated and amended work plans, schedules and objectives thus enabling the project teams to deliver, and we assisted with the creation of credible Business Plans.
Black Kite were hired after a competitive tender process. On meeting representatives from the company, I was impressed with their technical ability and grasp of the scientific and engineering goals of the project. During the project they kept in regular touch, keeping me fully aware of progress.
The final report and presentation contained a detailed technical overview of similar, worldwide devices and a thorough comparison with my own instrument. The technical background of Black Kite staff allowed them to make quite specific (and consequently very helpful) recommendations to be competitive in price and performance, and which markets to focus on.
We offer a full service or one tailored to specific needs
Black Kite® Ltd. is a technology business consultancy that has been helping small and large organisations grow since it was founded in 2007. We bridge the gap between R&D and business development to provide expertise that you may not have in-house.
www.black-kite.co.uk