LAUNCESTON businesses got some fresh ideas about online trading from students at the town's college.

Pat's Greetings Cards and The Madhatters tearoom and restaurant approached the college for help in the summer and the year 13 applied business students combined the challenge with work on e-commerce.

They researched e-commerce and the underlying principles behind e-business and website design. They then conducted strategic primary and secondary research – including a competitor analysis – to gather ideas about the target market of these websites before producing some designs.

Trevor Brittain, head of business, said: "The project combines the whole ethos of Launceston College – community and learning. This was yet another perfect opportunity for students to contextualise their learning in both a practical and mutually-beneficial task."

Julie Allen from Pat's Greetings Cards told the college and students she wanted a presence on the internet as this was essential for any 21st century business, especially since she had opened a fancy dress and craft department.

But, as she was running a busy shop, she found it hard to find the time necessary to design an interesting and effective website.

She said: "Working with the students from Launceston College has been an ideal opportunity to exchange ideas with talented young people, who have produced a wide range of ideas which we hope to incorporate into a website very soon."

Student Christy Bate, one of the designers for Pat's Greetings Cards, added: "By using local examples of businesses, it has increased our understanding by applying it to real life situations.

"We hope that we can help other local businesses by combining both our studies and the needs of these businesses."

The designs are now being considered by both businesses, as Pat's Greetings Cards begins creating its website while The Madhatters looks to extend and upgrade its online presence which offers gluten-free products.