Since 1985
Our Origins
Revell Research Systems was established in 1985 by Alastair Revell
as a management and technology
consulting practice in Exeter in the South West of the United Kingdom, before he matriculated
at the University of Birmingham
to read Mathematics.
The 1980s were an innovative period in computing with the advent of the personal computer
during the decade. The Consultancy was established before Microsoft Windows, which was launched
on , reflecting the early origins of
both the business and the modern personal computing era. The business started on .
Although the business has changed immeasurably since 1985, its founding values remain
strong. Alastair Revell realised in 1985 that there was a need for an ethical practice, advising
and supporting smaller corporates and the professions
on the emerging opportunities presented by information technology to combat the knowledge
asymmetry between an expert and their client, in a world dominated by sales hyperbole.
Four Decades of Experience
Our longevity in a young profession is relevant to clients. It demonstrates that we are a
capable and successful business that has ridden successive waves of technological innovation.There
is no substitute for experience. With more than four decades behind us, we bring clients a
depth and richness of understanding that few IT consulting firms can offer.
Experience provides perspective. Having worked through multiple generations of technology,
we have learned to distinguish between enduring principles and short-lived trends. This
allows us to help clients evaluate new ideas, products and approaches with a balanced and
informed view, identifying genuine opportunities for improvement while avoiding unnecessary
complexity, cost and risk.
Few professions have changed as rapidly as information technology. Over four decades, we have
observed wave after wave of innovation, changing business priorities and evolving approaches
to technology governance. This experience has taught us that lasting success is rarely driven
by technology alone. Rather, it comes from combining technical capability with effective leadership,
sound decision making and a clear understanding of organisational objectives.
Competence, Independence and Ethical Practice
We work at the intersection of management and technology to create value for
our clients, who predominantly work in the knowledge economy within the United Kingdom.
As Chartered IT Professionals and Chartered Engineers,
we offer clients assured competence. Combined with our independence and impartiality, we present clients
with a clear option when they need competent, unbiased advice.
Professional advice is most valuable when it is objective. Because we do not sell
third-party products or accept incentives to recommend particular suppliers, our recommendations
are guided solely by our assessment of a client's requirements and best interests. This independence
allows us to provide advice that is evidence-based, transparent and focused on achieving the
right outcome for each organisation.
More than forty years after its foundation, Revell Research Systems remains committed to the
same principles of competence, independence and ethical practice on which the business was
established.
Why Longevity Matters to Clients
Technology changes rapidly, but organisations still need to make informed decisions about
investment, change and risk. Over four decades, we have advised clients through successive
paradigm shifts, from personal computing and networking to the internet, cloud services and
artificial intelligence. This breadth of experience helps us distinguish between enduring
principles and short-lived trends.
Longevity also provides reassurance. Having witnessed both successful and unsuccessful technology
initiatives over many years, we understand the importance of aligning technology with business
objectives, managing risk appropriately and focusing on outcomes rather than fashion. This
experience enables us to recognise recurring patterns, avoid common pitfalls and help clients
make informed decisions with confidence.
Our clients benefit from adviser continuity, professional judgement and an independent perspective
that has been developed and refined since 1985. The technologies may change, but our commitment
to competence, independence and ethical practice remains constant.