Member Article

Software firm targets 90% growth

A growing Sunderland software company is targeting growth of 90% in the next 12 months after diversifying into the education sector.

The Test Factory specialises in creating online assessment software for clients including Microsoft, HSBC and the BBC. Last year, it moved into making packages for education, which has proved lucrative.

Managing director Kevin Beales said: “The Test Factory has experienced phenomenal growth in recent months, with half of our client base now operating in the education sector.

“As education increasingly turns to ‘online’ – with e-learning and e-assessment, we really do believe that this is a sector with massive potential and one that we are already beginning to exploit

“The 90% growth we’re anticipating is thanks to the work we have done to break into the education sector, and we are sure there are many more opportunities out there.

“We’re well placed to capitalise on the opportunities that are out there, and the fact that we are based at the heart of the North East means that we are able to draw in talented employees from as far south as Yorkshire, and right up to Northumberland.”

The Test Factory, based at the Evolve building in Sunderland, recruited education and publishing division director Nicola Johnson last year to find further market opportunities.

“Nicola’s appointment last year really did demonstrate our commitment to the education sector, and has clearly had a significant impact, underlined by the growth we have enjoyed in our education portfolio since,” said Mr Beales.

“We’ve also been able to tap into support from organisations like Sunderland City Council and Sunderland Software City, which has allowed us to enter new overseas markets, as well as breaking in to new sectors independently.”

The business, which employs 45 people, recently took part in trade missions to the US and China, organised by Sunderland City Council and Software City.

Councillor Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “The United States and China are key markets for our software technology businesses and the relationships we’ve built with government, business and education sectors is helping to open doors to new commercial opportunities for the businesses operating in the software and creative sectors from their base in Sunderland.

“It’s an encouraging sign to see companies such as The Test Factory not only explore new sectors, but enjoy real success as a result. It speaks volumes that so many credible educational establishments are choosing to work with software and technology companies based in Sunderland, and we look forward to supporting The Test Factory with its ongoing growth and development.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Karen Dent .