Alexander Bell - Systems Architect

Alex is a Systems Architect within the Operations and Technical Services team and a founding member of our Practitioner Standards and Excellence Team. His early career began with Laser-Scan, a spatial technology company, followed by an MSc in Geographic Information Systems at Edinburgh University. Alex followed his MSc by working for MVM, a spatial information consulting group focussed on the local government and utilities sectors. Alex joined Informed Solutions as a Senior Technical Consultant in 1997, as he wanted a more challenging and substantial consulting role which built on his existing GIS practitioner skills but provided him with a career path that led to systems integration and technology independent consulting services.

In his 10 years with Informed, Alex has gained experience across all our consulting service groups - spanning Programme & Project Services, as well as our Service Management teams. He has been responsible for project managing and leading the technical implementation of numerous complex database systems and digital records management solutions - across a public and private sector client base. Alex is now primarily responsible for the design and technical assurance of leading edge, multi-tier enterprise systems, defining scaleable and robust solutions that integrate new technologies, specialist products and COTS components, and bespoke applications developments within clients’ existing systems.

In his own words, Alex explains why he enjoys working at Informed Solutions and why he has so much regard for his colleagues:

“A primary factor in my joining Informed Solutions was their enviable reputation within IT and Spatial Systems solutions. Informed have always had a reputation for delivering reliable, robust and workable business solutions and for a commitment to quality and professional ethics. I respected and admired the work Informed were doing and the values the Company held. I felt my own values aligned closely with those of the Company, I related to all the staff I met during my interview process, and I felt confident that my skills and experience could make an important contribution. Also, I take pride in my work and I related to this group of people who clearly benefited from strong supportive team working, enjoyed relaxed good humoured banter, shared a healthy competitive streak, and held high professional standards.”

“The Company is very much people based, underpinned by a strong coaching culture. Since joining, the Company has invested significant resources towards my professional development and my gaining world class accreditations. The Directors and other Senior Managers have also personally given me a considerable amount of their own time to support my development, providing me with personalised skills transfer, coaching and one-to-one mentoring. This has helped me to identify my strengths, address any issues or difficulties I have encountered, and shape my overall career and personal development plans.”

“Within the Company, I can honestly say we have a very strong team spirit and we share intelligent, good natured humour. Of course, assignments are challenging and can be tough and, occasionally, really tough. Client-facing consulting work can be pressured and demanding and it doesn’t suit everyone. When people apply to us for a position we are always mindful of the compliment someone pays when they want to consider taking their career forward with Informed. We are considered and respectful in providing supportive feedback but, ultimately, we feel it is in everyone’s best interests to be genuine and truthful about a person’s suitability for a career in consulting. However, if we feel someone has what it takes to be successful and satisfied as a consultant, the Company will invest in you and support, encourage and empower you so that you have the opportunity to achieve your personal best.”

“For the last 10 years I have had the privilege of working with a group of highly talented, competent, committed and motivated individuals. We have shared some amazing assignments and experiences. I feel very satisfied with my work, the direction my career is taking, and how my efforts make a real tangible difference, to both our clients and our Company.”