Craig Cockburn

Scotland is an attractive location for those who want to do business in technology according to computer consultant and internet specialist Craig Cockburn.

Thanks to his work for companies such as Tesco.com and the Scottish Tourist Board, Craig has witnessed many bright ideas and a lot of talented people in Scotland's technology sector.

"Scotland has a ready-made talent pool coming out of its universities and deciding to stay here.

"Scotland is an enjoyable place to live: on average, living costs are lower than London and Dublin and it has been said that there is a better work/life balance in Scotland."

The Entrepreneurial Scene

Craig cites the decision by online retailer Amazon to come to Scotland as a recent success story for the country's technology industry.

"The Amazon Development Centre is based in South Queensferry, just outside of Edinburgh. It has around 40 staff, made up of computer scientists and software engineers."

Amazon had a Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) offer of up to £250, 000 to support its development. An RSA is a grant that helps projects which create or safeguards employment for its staff.

Craig believes the current economic climate shouldn't prevent people from starting a business in Scotland or coming here to work. In addition, thanks to the rise in foreign nationals settling in Scotland, there are more multi-cultural communities than ever before.

Craig is also positive about those looking to buy Scottish property.

"This is a great time to invest in property as house prices are lower at the moment. If you buy in Scotland now, you could get a good return in the next couple of years."

Quality of life

Craig lives in Linlithgow in West Lothian and it's his favourite place in Scotland. Craig says: "Linlithgow is a nice, small, modern commuter town with an excellent quality of life. I also enjoy the peace and quiet as well as its history, open space and good quality schools."

Linlithgow also has an efficient public transport system to take residents quickly into the city centre of both Edinburgh and Glasgow.

"Scotland is great for bringing up a family and staying long-term. You have opportunities for fishing, ski and golf," says Craig. "I have an interest in Scottish culture: I love the music and the (Scottish) Gaelic language so it's good to be in Scotland to experience this first hand.

"The best thing about Scotland is the people. It's something to be proud of. We Scots have a reputation of being hard working. Scotland really is the place to live."

Related links

• Amazon Development Centre Scotland
• Regional Selective Assistance
• Find out more about doing Business in Scotland
• Business Start-Up Schemes in Scotland
• Recruitment Stories