Le 22 March 2005 Fredericton, New Brunswick A local IT company has developed a software program for architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) firms wanting to improve the flow and sharing of information critical for effective project management. Fredericton-based AEC Innovations developed the software specifically to address the communication and coordination challenges that exist in AEC industries today. The software, which can be accessed over the Internet, provides centralized information management so that project participants have access to the most current version of documents and communications in a secure and controlled environment. This lessens the chance of costly errors occurring due to lack of information sharing. "This IT firm is in touch with the needs of their clients to help improve efficiencies in project management," stated the Honourable Andy Scott, MP for the riding of Fredericton. "A software system like the one developed by AEC Innovations that improves information sharing, especially during critical stages of project development, will mean substantial savings in time and money for these firms. The Government of Canada is proud to see such exciting research and development happening right here in New Brunswick." Minister Scott, on behalf of the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, announced a repayable financial contribution of $86,477 under the Business Development Program to support the company's software development. AEC Innovations has also received support from the National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP), a federal program that delivers services to innovative Canadian businesses. The new software, dubbed FocalTRACK, is being marketed to engineering, architectural and construction firms to help keep "track" of documentation and communications on projects. All documentation and correspondence is located in one online location so that all those involved are automatically notified of any additions or revisions to information. "We are very pleased with the industry reception to our FocalTRACK product and look forward to continued growth and success," said Randy Morehouse, co-founder and VP Operations, AEC Innovations. "We are very grateful for the support provided by both ACOA and NRC-IRAP at the critical stages of our product development. They were instrumental in helping us get to where we are today." NRC-IRAP is a program of the Federal Government of Canada, established over 50 years ago to help innovative Canadian businesses. NRC-IRAP works closely with businesses to provide value-added and relevant technological, scientific, and business advisory services, networking opportunities, and the possibility of financial assistance. ACOA's Business Development Program was created to provide repayable financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises to establish, expand and modernize operations. For more information on the National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program or ACOA's Business Development Program, visit their respective web sites at http://irap-pari.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca and www.acoa-apeca.gc.ca and visit AEC Innovations Inc. web site at www.aecinnovations.com . - 30 - Information: Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (613) 941-7241 Randy Morehouse VP Operations AEC Innovations Inc. (506) 454-2266 Carolyn Grey, Communications Officer Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency New Brunswick (506) 444-6144 Suzie Keténé Communications Atlantic & Nunavut NRC-Industrial Research Assistance Program (902) 426-8961
