ICT Technology Park
The cluster is engaging in discussions with Priority One towards the establishment of a technology park in proximity to the CBD. A “think-tank” comprising a number of ICT cluster members highlighted the potential benefits to the region of a technology park, as well as identifying the necessary infrastructure to ensure its competitiveness. For further information contact Andrew Coker on andrew@priorityone.co.nz.
Export / Export Enabler Project
Following a successful funding application to NZ Trade & Enterprise, the ICT Cluster ran a series of workshops focusing on defining areas of co-operation and synergy to increase the impact of ICT as direct exports and encourage a greater degree of integration for those companies acting as enablers for other exporters.
Workshop attendees included software developers and ICT service providers, exporters, those seeking opportunities to expand their potential through technology and businesses that rely heavily on ICT.
A model for collaboration has been developed in partnership with the export and food manufacturing sectors. The action plan focuses on the follow areas:
- Recruitment and retention solutions.
- Collaboration between ICT and export sectors on trade delegations and trade shows.
- Collaboration within the ICT sector on large projects.
- Joint networking events between ICT and export/ manufacturing sectors.
- Utilise export clients as a reference site for promoting ICT products and services to their clients
- Improve communications between the ICT and export sectors to better understand exporter needs.
Linking with Tertiary Providers
Strengthening the links and communication between education/training establishments and the ICT sector is a key strategy for the cluster, including fostering the entry of students into the local employment market.
When the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic hosted the National Advisory Committee on Computing Qualifications (NACCQ) conference in Tauranga, the cluster worked to create a unique experience for delegates.
A number of site visits were arranged focusing on businesses unique to this region on both a national and international scale, providing a great opportunity to highlight the specialist IT requirements supporting some of New Zealand’s major export earners. A number of the delegates have since expressed interest in further dialogue for potential research projects, which will be beneficial to all involved.
A panel discussion involving representatives from a variety of IT environments provided an invaluable forum for delegates to find out the industry view of employing graduates and obtain feedback that could benefit future learning initiatives. This was followed by a question and answer session, with the participation rate demonstrating the importance of communication between industry and education/training providers.
This is the first time NACCQ conference organisers have engaged with an IT cluster in this manner and the success of the conference is likely to see this model used in the future. The conference executive committee is aware of how crucial it is that NACCQ are kept up to date with what is happening in the rapidly evolving world of IT and its application in business to ensure the delivery of marketable qualifications that are industry focused. In addition, it is essential to the sustainable growth of the region’s IT sector that education/training establishments deliver graduates with the skills required by industry.
Employment Survey
The cluster undertook a survey of members to find out more about issues around the attraction and retention of skilled staff. Information has also been collated on remuneration packages for various positions, including software developers, project managers, business analysts, tertiary tutors and other key IT positions. If you would like more information on the survey, contact annie@priorityone.co.nz.