prosper because it is based on the type of quality service Bermudians have a history of providing, a Government Minister said yesterday.

Minister for Technology & Information John Barritt told a Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation (BSBDC) workshop that the revolution is changing business operations, and the way Bermudians think and deal with each other.

Mr. Barritt, who self-deprecatingly described himself as a "technological dinosaur'', said: "This is a revolution in which service, the delivery of service and the quality of that service will be paramount. Electronic commerce is one which will have scant or no regard to colour, race, gender, creed or even to nationality.

"We in Bermuda will have to adapt to what is occurring throughout the world.

We will have to adapt, not just to prosper, but to survive.'' The afternoon long workshop at the Princess Hotel, entitled Using Technology in Your Business, was opened by Mr. Barritt. Also present were Premier Pamela Gordon, Finance Minister Grant Gibbons and Community Affairs Minister, Senator Yvette Swan, whose portfolio includes responsibility for the BSBDC.

Businessman Allan Marshall from Watlington Waterworks led discussion on computer information systems and how it was important to determine if a firm's computer systems provided what was needed to accomplish the goals of the business.

Other presentations were made by Peter Aldrich of Fast Forward Freight, who advocated investing in systems for future needs.

Two Island banks made a presentation on electronic commerce and its value to any business operator.

It included Sharon Daniels and Lisa Fox from the Bank of Butterfield discussing corporate advantages through the use of debit and credit cards and Automatic Teller Machines. Joanne Smith and Craig Tucker of the Bank of Bermuda discussed remote banking, processing of payroll and new business banking centres.

The BSBDC also provided information on the usefulness of technology in business and how pervasive it will be in the future. The Corporation's Naomi Lambert offered "hot tips'' in the use of technological tools.

Peter Durhager of Internet Bermuda Ltd. provided valuable insight into the understanding of the Internet and how its use can lead to more profits and other benefits for business people.

Mr. Barritt told seminar participants that to the uninitiated, the use of technology for business purposes may at first seem daunting, it is not that difficult.

"Attitude will be critical,'' he said, "and I would invite you, during the most difficult times when the task is most daunting, to look on the positive side. You are here in a technological revolution and you have the opportunity to be on the cutting edge and move forward not only for your own individual self, but for your business and for Bermuda.'' GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS -- Bermuda Small Business Development Corporation (BSBDC) general manager, Michelle Khaldun (standing) shares a thought with Premier Pamela Gordon, Community Affairs Minister Sen. Yvette Swan (left) and Telecommunications Minister John Barritt just before the start of the BSBDC workshop on technology in business.

BUSINESS BUC GOVERNMENT GVT