HMR Circle behind-the-scenes-tour at Zen Internet

HMR Circle behind-the-scenes-tour at Zen Internet

Questions around online security, switching provider and internet ownership dominated discussions last Thursday when Zen hosted a visit by the Heywood, Middleton & Rochdale Circle (HMR Circle).

The behind-the-scenes-tour was part of a busy schedule of day trips organised by HMR Circle, a not-for-profit organisation helping local residents enjoy a flourishing, independent later life.

A visit to Zen provided an opportunity to brush up IT skills, gain an insight into the workings of a local high tech company, and ask some basic (and not so basic) questions about the state of the internet.

In a lively opening session, learning and development consultant Jill Matley talked about the way the internet works, and how companies like Zen transport data from homes and businesses to the World Wide Web.

The ensuing discussions ranged widely, from the ease (or otherwise) of switching internet provider and the differences between satellite and cable internet, to the online security implications of alleged Russian interference in the US presidential election. One attendee revealed that she had sent birthday wishes to her son only that morning. He was half way up Mount Everest at the time.

The group was then given a guided tour of Zen HQ, meeting the diverse teams that keep a modern Internet Service Provider running, before enjoying lunch in the Zen canteen.

The afternoon had a more practical focus, with quality coach Tom Graham guiding the group through his top ten most useful websites. The last hour was spent honing internet skills in an open technology surgery. The group fired up a suite of Zen computers and, in some cases, their own portable devices, and quizzed members of Zen’s technical team on how to get more from their technology and widen their online experiences.

Mark Wynn, director of HMR Circle, said: “Part of being a member of the Circle is doing things you wouldn’t normally do, and we organise a lot of trips and visits on that basis. I’d have to say that this is one of the absolute best things we’ve ever done. We’ve been made incredibly welcome at Zen and the visit has been both fascinating and useful.”

Andrew Fryatt, Zen’s managing director for residential and small business, said: “We were delighted to host the Circle and we’re very pleased that everyone seemed to get something from the day. Zen as a company has a national reach but we’re also very conscious of our Rochdale roots and want to play a full part in our local community. We look forward to further visits from groups like HMR Circle in the future.”