Synetrix Limited acquires i2Q
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Synetrix Limited acquires i2Q to create one-stop shop for ICT delivery to schools
Enhanced service offering will ensure focus in schools remains on Teaching and Learning rather than Technology.
Synetrix, the specialist provider of managed broadband services and bespoke solutions to the education sector in the UK, has announced its acquisition of i2Q, a leader in educational software development such as Content Management Systems, Learning Platforms and Authentication. The deal supports Synetrix’ commitment to deliver services focused on Teaching and Learning and will enable the company to offer streamlined integration and delivery of content into educational networks improving efficiencies for local education authorities, teachers and content publishers.
The use of ICT – and digital content – to support teaching in schools has become a key component of the Government's multi-billion pound education strategy in the UK. More than £5 billion was committed to LEAs and schools in 2005-06 to spend on maintaining and improving their school buildings and via the Building Schools for the Future programme, the Government is attempting to promote a step-change in the quality of provision. However, the diversity and plethora of digital content and the large number of platform providers has created new problems for schools and LEAs in terms of integration headaches, content management and ensuring approved content is available to all. Addressing these issues is one of the key drivers for Synetrix’ acquisition of i2Q.
Synetrix currently provides large-scale network integration and managed broadband services to schools and LEAs whilst i2Q works closely with schools, LEAs and Government agencies to develop new standards and services for education and the wider public sector. The acquisition will enable Synetrix to solve the current issues with end to end and services-driven delivery, where the provision of transparent technologies that allow teachers to teach is a key enabler to improving learning outputs. The i2Q acquisition will enable Synetrix to provide a one stop shop for infrastructure, content provisioning and delivery to the education sector. It will also enhance Synetrix’ in-school support and software provisioning services adding increased security features, improving ease of use, reducing time spent managing digital learning programmes and applications and introducing greater flexibility for schools and LEAs to create tailored virtual learning environments.
“i2Q’s expertise in-schools with content delivery, authentication and software development, combined with our strong networking infrastructure and LEA level support will form the basis for a range of streamlined, transparent common-sense teaching services,” said Alex Jadavji, Managing Director, Synetrix. “The specialised educational knowledge i2Q brings will add an extra dimension to Synetrix where teaching & learning, rather than technology, is now the focus.”
One of the first services to be offered following the acquisition will be a Learning Platform ‘plugin’ delivering a dedicated web gateway to provide teachers with access to digital content at school or at home. It will also provide teachers and pupils with the ability to search multiple content libraries from education publishers regardless of whether the content provided is free, subscription-based or locally installed.
“The dizzying array of content available can be a daunting prospect for teachers who are under pressure to embrace new digital technology,” said Jay Neale, Commercial Director i2Q. “The Synetrix i2Q deal means that teachers will have access to applications and content as quickly and easily as possible, helping to support Government initiatives such as Becta’s framework for learning platforms and the Building Schools for the Future programme.” In addition, LEAs and publishers will both benefit from economies of scale; Publishers have often struggled to cost-effectively sell content subscriptions, while LEAs often are not able to bring schools together in sufficient numbers to achieve any real economies.
“A common, strategic approach to application and content integration is needed to enhance the effective use and uptake of ICT in classrooms across Britain,” said Andy Hvass, Sales Director, Synetrix. “i2Q has an excellent understanding of the education market and we’re looking forward to working even more closely with schools to offer more content choice, whilst ensuring the most efficient use of schools’ educational budgets and most importantly improving learning outcomes in the UK.”
About Synetrix:
Synetrix is the premier provider of managed broadband services and bespoke solutions to public sector and academic customers in the UK. Synetrix has capability in data communications and broadband services and is experienced in the delivery of converged multi-service applications such as video conferencing, video streaming, IP telephony, content management, and broadband enabled CCTV solutions. Synetrix serves more than two million UK citizens today working with customers including London Grid for Learning, Learning Network South East, Education Bradford, Leeds Learning Network, University of Newcastle and East Midland Broadband Grid for Learning. For further information, please visit the company’s website at www.synetrix.co.uk.
About i2Q:
i2Q is a technology solutions provider for the UK schools market with a history of providing innovative, effective and efficient solutions to schools and LEAs. i2Q specialises in enterprise level authentication solutions, data architectures and end to end content delivery networks explicitly designed for the UK education market plus school back office & MIS bolt on solutions such as the groundbreaking online report cycle management solution, i2Report. i2Q serves customers including Worcestershire LEA, Birmingham LEA, Coventry LEA, Knowsley LEA and many individual schools across the country. i2Q is closely aligned with DfES policy for the future promotion & use of ICT across the curriculum and has worked with organisations including BECTA and various RBC’s to meet the challenges.
For more information visit www.i2q.co.uk.
