Case Studies

Oxford Brookes University is committed to providing consultancy services that deliver tangible benefits to various sectors. Our expertise supports organisations in overcoming challenges and achieving strategic goals through applied research and and training.

Creating a Smart Visitor Management System at Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the UK's most iconic landmarks, continually strives to innovate and improve the visitor experience. To achieve this, the estate embarked on a transformative project to develop a Smart Visitor Management System (VMS). This initiative aimed to modernise the way visitors navigate the estate, creating a seamless and enhanced experience while ensuring operational efficiency.

The challenge

Blenheim Palace sought to modernise its visitor management approach by developing a Smart Visitor Management System (VMS). The goal was to create an integrated digital platform that could utilise diverse data sources across the estate to enhance visitor experiences and streamline operations. The challenge lay in designing an innovative system that could effectively harness and integrate these data streams while aligning with the palace’s broader strategic goals.

The solution

In collaboration with Oxford Brookes University, a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) was established to bring the vision of a Smart VMS to life. The project was spearheaded by David Green, Head of Innovation at Blenheim Palace, and involved a dedicated team from both the palace and Oxford Brookes.

Key contributors included AI developers Dr Yayoi Teramoto and Tawhid Shahrior, alongside Dr Matthias Rolf, Dr Paul Jackson, and Dr Diana Limburg from Oxford Brookes. The project also extended to a creative dimension, with Oxford Brookes Graphic Design graduates designing a detailed project brochure, supported through Brookes Creative.

The Smart VMS initiative highlights the power of academic and industry collaboration, paving the way for Blenheim Palace to enhance visitor engagement through cutting-edge technology.

Water terrace at Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace Economic Impact Study

Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oxfordshire, is a crucial historical and cultural landmark drawing numerous visitors annually. The estate aimed to understand and maximise its economic impact on the local and regional economy, using this information to drive strategic development and community engagement efforts.

The challenge

The main challenge was to comprehensively quantify Blenheim Palace’s diverse economic contributions, including its influence on tourism, local employment, and sectors like construction and renewable energy. Achieving this required precise data collection and detailed analysis.

The solution

Oxford Brookes Business School has initiated a thorough economic impact analysis. The team collected and analysed extensive data on Blenheim Palace’s contributions across various sectors. This on-going consultancy work provides valuable insights into the estate’s economic role, enabling Blenheim Palace to optimise strategies for enhancing its positive impact on the local economy.

Blenheim Palace

Oxford Brookes Centre for Nutrition and Health

The Oxford Brookes Centre for Nutrition and Health (OxBCNH) is dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research focused on glycaemic control, weight management, and reducing inflammation. The centre collaborates with various stakeholders in the food and health industries, including SMEs and multinational corporations.

The challenge

Many organisations in the health and food sectors lack the specialised knowledge and facilities to conduct rigorous nutritional research. This gap hinders their ability to develop and validate health claims for their products.

The solution

OxBCNH offers a comprehensive range of services including metabolic testing, glycaemic index testing, and analysis of food components and activities. Leveraging their expertise, the centre supports clients in conducting robust scientific studies, enabling them to substantiate health claims and improve their products’ market positioning. Their research helps companies create healthier food options and provides valuable insights into diet and nutrition.

Healthy vegetables in bowls on a table top

Taming the Carbon Monster Programme

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Oxfordshire face increasing pressure to reduce their carbon emissions and align with Net Zero targets. These businesses play a crucial role in the region's economic landscape and environmental impact.

The challenge

SMEs often lack the expertise and resources necessary to measure and reduce their carbon footprint. They require structured, accessible support to implement effective sustainability practices.

The solution

Oxford Brookes University, in collaboration with Oxfordshire Business First and Oxfordshire Greentech, offers the "Taming the Carbon Monster" programme. This initiative is designed to assist SMEs in understanding their carbon emissions and developing actionable reduction plans. The programme includes six comprehensive sessions, covering topics such as carbon footprint calculation, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability communication. Supported by Oxford City Council, the programme provides subsidised fees and practical, localised solutions to help SMEs achieve Net Zero goals.

two ladies in a small business' office