Physical Digital – the ups and downs

Physical Digital provides mobile industrial 3D scanning services for high-end clients. SME caught up with founder Tim Rapley to find out more…

What have been your biggest challenges? How did you overcome them?

Tim Rapley, MD says: “Trying to maintain a work-life balance is a challenge that all SME owners will recognise. When I established the UK’s first automated measurement cell at the end of 2015 I was simultaneously juggling the demands of running a thriving small business and supporting a family with two teenagers: now that was interesting! As with any challenge, I take each day at a time and ensure I consider all the information available before making any decision. The way to approach every project is to plan, plan, plan but be flexible enough to adjust at a moment’s notice.”

What have been your greatest successes?

Due to the highly confidential nature of many of our clients’ businesses, it is unusual for us to be able to share our many innovative and technical successes. One project we are able to share and of which we are particularly proud, was the 3D scanning and digital archiving of the last remaining airworthy Battle of Britain Spitfire MkIIa. This was a challenging, extremely interesting project and one of national importance.

What are your top tips for SMEs?

Invest in your staff, ensure you continually update so that you have the latest technology and build excellent relationships with your clients. Make sure you do what you enjoy and enjoy what you do, so that it doesn’t become a chore. If you treat your staff well, they will treat your clients in the same way.

SME Publications/ SME XPO 2024
SME Publications/ SME XPO 2024