What does your organisation do?
DTS was built around an interactive video based approach to learning. We call it ‘Near-Life™’. The idea is to bring immersive, role play style training into the digital space, making it more affordable and flexible for learners. The system and approach we’ve developed also provides greater insight and feedback for organisations, as well as improving learner retention.
What do you think is currently the biggest issue facing the digital and tech industry?
I think we’ve seen recently that privacy is high on the agenda. Clearly, given the fast pace of change, legislation and politicians are playing catch up. GDPR is aiming to clamp down to a degree but there is deeper issue around trust. Greater transparency should be good for everyone. The rights of individuals need to be protected, whilst at the same time, ensuring innovation in the sector isn’t stifled.
What is your organisation's biggest achievement?
Our pilot project, www.missionready.org.uk was funded through USAID and the UK’s Department for International Development. The positive reaction to the platform saw us receive an invite to present at the United Nations’ World Humanitarian Summit in Istanbul. That was quite an honour. We’re also very proud of the work we did with the Norwegian Refugee Council to support Syrian Aid workers and are very pleased to have been nominated for two awards for that project at this year’s Big Chip.
What would you consider to be your organisation's biggest challenge?
What we do is still relatively new so it is about getting people to understand its potential. We know from the research we’ve done and the feedback we’ve had that what we do really works. As we continue to roll our system and approach out internationally over the coming 12 months, we need to further educate potential users as to the value of our offer and ensure the capacity is there to maximise the impact this type of learning can bring.
What do you think the future looks like for Manchester's digital and tech sector?
Things are going well. We are seeing steady growth and a lot of new, interesting companies emerging. I think access to finance and investment is still an issue and many in the sector were sorry to see Tech North lose its regional focus. I think localised initiatives and policies do make a difference – and its why organisations like Manchester Digital are so important.
Tell us something we might not know about your company?
We pride ourselves on being a Manchester based company with an international outlook and ambition. Since we began, we have been lucky enough to work with people from every continent on Earth.
