Partner Article

North tech firm used in Iraq inquest

As Tony Blair faced questioning over the war in Iraq on Friday, the media frenzy surrounding the Chilcot inquiry helped one North East entrepreneur showcase his business to the world.

Newcastle-born business leader Nick Bell negotiated a deal which Telegraph Media Group (TMG) that saw his fledgling technology firm used as a mouthpiece for readers keen to air their views on the conflict.

Alongside a live video stream of Blair’s interview on the Telegraph’s website, Mr Bell’s business, Quick tv, ran a real-time on screen poll of the public’s view of the former Prime Minister.

This ‘lie detector’ voting system, designed by Quick tv, attracted interest from readers all over the world throughout the day.

In fact, hundreds of thousands of people interacted with Mr Bell’s product during the day.

Mr Bell said: “The exposure it has given us has been fantastic. It was the best online coverage of the event from any of the broadcasters. It’s been a really strong event and the and the viewing figures have been hugely impressive.”

Guy Ruddle, head of visuals at TMG, said: “We are delighted to be able to provide this with the help of other organisations, including Quick.tv who has facilitated the online voting element.”

Quick tv was set up in 2008 on the back of £60,000 of investment from NorthStar Equity Investors’ proof of concept fund and a further £850,000 from other investors.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .