Press Release

Vantage Technologies Acquires Software Assets of ACT Consultants


Acquisition of CPD and e-learning solutions expands information technology business

Vantage Technologies Limited announces that it has acquired the software assets of ACT Consultants Limited (ACT). Sheffield-based ACT was a developer of CPD software and e-learning materials, primarily for the corporate, education, government and professional sectors. The acquisition expands Vantage's current product portfolio of innovative software solutions, allowing Vantage to enter into the rapidly growing e-learning market. Terms of the transaction are not disclosed.

ACT, a privately owned company established in 1989, was one of the UK's largest independent providers of bespoke e-learning materials, offering a broad range of services including consultancy, design and development, induction, Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and managed services. With proven success in creating and implementing learning and development programmes, ACT was the leading supplier to the National Learning Network Materials Development Programme.

The software applications purchased deliver organisational staff development and e-learning requirements. The Adaptable Learning Framework (ALF) application is a flexible suite of software tools to allow the construction, management and publication of learning material. Modules and templates can be shared across user-communities, allowing materials to be developed by individuals and within collaborative environments. CPD is an adaptable performance management tool, complete with diagnostic capability, evidence storage and multi-level access. It enables organisations to improve communication, process, promotion and management of staff development as well as increasing perception of training and development.

Martyn Goodhand, Vantage Technologies Chairman, explained the rationale of the purchase. “The purchase of ACT software assets represents a key part of the Vantage acquisition strategy as well as an important addition to Vantage's product offering. The well established ALF and CPD products offer extensive functionality and are supported by talented, high-level technical personnel who have joined Vantage. ACT's reputation in training and e-learning was second to none and we are very excited with the opportunities the acquisition presents.

“Vantage's expertise and knowledge within the healthcare market will allow us to launch ALF and CPD into that sector, supporting the requirements of the Knowledge and Skill Framework within the NHS. We are also keen to introduce the e-learning solutions into the other core markets supported by Vantage. We are looking forward to the future, as the acquisition expands our ability to deliver new high quality solutions to our existing markets, as well as e-learning across all sectors.”

Speaking for ACT, Tim Ray, an original founder and director of the company stated, “On behalf of ACT, I would like to say how delighted we are to be joining Vantage Technologies. We are most excited by the prospect of entering into new market sectors with the ALF and CPD products and them to become a part of the Vantage's range of solutions.”


Notes to Editors

Vantage Technologies

Vantage Technologies, founded in 1988, delivers innovative software solutions for the improvement of working practice and has clients throughout the UK. Based in Sheffield, the organisation is active in a variety of market sectors including corporate, public sector, healthcare and environmental. The Vantage product portfolio includes e-learning, incentive & communication applications, risk management and corporate governance and a range of web-based solutions.

For further information please visit our website www.vantage-technologies.co.uk or contact:

Tracey Amer
Vantage Technologies Ltd
Tel: 0114 247 9500
Email: tracey.amer@vantage-technologies.co.uk