Cracking The Code With Leanne Benson From Key To I.T.

In an 80% male dominated industry, Leanne Benson thrives as Business Owner and Lead Software Developer of Key to I.T.

Day to day, Leanne liaises directly with clients to analyse their individual software needs, requirements and business processes to develop a custom-made design programmed from start to finish with the occasional delegation to another programmer as needed.

“We need more women in Software Development and different perspectives are always helpful,” highlighted Leanne.

“If you think development might suit you, my advice is don’t be afraid to give it a try, because if you don’t, you just might be missing out on a really fun career.”

For an entrepreneur like Leanne, the lines between work life and personal life can often blur, however when she finds time to switch off, Leanne enjoys nothing more than exploring the local entertainment on offer within the community.

“I love reading, I love all kinds of music, and I have very recently started learning to play guitar,” Leanne exclaimed.

“I take every opportunity to go to live concerts, and I think a lot of people would be surprised how much local talent is around!”

With 24 years’ experience in software development, degrees in accounting and software design, and over a decade of experience in administration and financial roles, Leanne’s professional background allows her to access a unique skillset.

“I have a unique perspective,” Leanne noted.

“I am able to see process inefficiencies, and I can offer a solution that meets their needs because I know what it is like to be in the client’s shoes.”

Leanne creates flexible, affordable software solutions for industries like farming, cleaning, retail, construction, trades, and manufacturing, with the goal of helping small businesses streamline processes, improve efficiency, and grow.

She even offers her own online induction software, which is available to access via www.inductability.com.au.

Interested users can sign up for a free trial or request a demo, allowing users to easily create their own training modules.

As a woman in business navigating through a male dominated industry, Leanne believes making her mark can be daunting at times, however she often draws inspiration from the powerful women she has seen succeed to continue blazing her trail.

“I haven’t really seen any issues, but I have found it a little daunting to walk into a room full of programmers and be the only woman – I think there is a little bit of imposter syndrome at play,” Leanne explained.

“When I worked for MEB (now ERGON), Joy Cooper was the head of the finance department and went on to become the Secretary of the MEB – she was a true professional and had worked her way up in the organisation from an entry level position.

“She always encouraged me and other female staff to reach for the stars and gave us opportunities for gaining experience in as many areas as possible.”

keytoit.com.au

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