Category: Tech News

All Aboard! Evolve IP On The Right Track As Webex Collaboration Demand Surges

Collaboration platform Webex is growing 10 times faster than Microsoft Teams across Evolve IP’s partner base – fuelled by powerful new features, designed to enhance the customer experience and boost reseller revenue.

The white-label UCaaS provider expects to see Webex adoption further accelerate thanks to a new ‘Vidcast’ video presentation tool as well as enhanced AI meeting functionality including a ‘Be-right-back’ innovation.

Olly Harrison Evolve IP (EMEA) Solution Consultant says successful collaboration is based on three key pillars – efficiency, analytics and security.

“Customer experience and revenue growth are intrinsically linked,” he explained. “Webex shines in all main areas and offers security by design. It is very cost-effective, delivers high-value functionality, low cost of ownership, and high-level integrations, including Office 365 and offers great margin potential.

“Webex by Cisco is growing 10 times faster than Teams across our partner base in terms of licensing. It’s very exciting that more organisations are starting to get aboard the Webex train in much greater numbers. So far, we’ve attracted hundreds of new customers this year as month-on-month demand intensifies.”

Outstanding Technologies 

Harrison pointed out how according to the latest industry research, around 85% of companies that work to improve their customer experience report an increase in revenue. Organisations with outstanding service generate around six times more revenue than competitors who fall behind, he said.

“Technology should not slow businesses down but improve the fast pace of the world we live in. It’s not just a tool but the foundation of modern customer experience,” he emphasised. “Evolve IP, Webex and our partners can help end users build greater customer satisfaction and retain more business for longer.”

Evolve IP boasts an international carrier-grade network to deliver integrated remote workforce technologies, that enable employees to perform anywhere. Evolve IP generated unprecedented growth and attracted record numbers of new partners last year.

Empowering Customers

Harrison pointed out how the latest Webex developments include Webex Assistant which provides transcripts, translations and message summaries. Powerful software can analyse writing styles and re-write messages before sending them.

AI Assistant in Webex meetings helps people catch up with quick summaries for late arrivals. Smart Chapters and a ‘Be-Right-Back’ option for those who need to step away from a meeting, such as if the doorbell rings, ensure smooth running collaboration for all participants – enabling fewer distractions and no missed information.

Webex also offers strong analytics about how hybrid teams are interacting, even down to what devices they are using and their file-sharing information. Vidcast is another valuable enhancement which enables the creation of quick demo videos or how-to guides for example, in minutes. This eliminates the need for unnecessary calling and enhances overall productivity. 

Harrison concluded: “More and more companies are joining us on the customer journey with Webex as a major driving force leading to lots of additional business opportunities. The latest platform developments will only add to its growing appeal.”

Learn more about Evolve IP’s Webex success here.

Lenbrook Media Group Unveils Plans for MQA Labs

Lenbrook Media Group (LMG), specialists in high resolution audio, has announced a suite of products from the newly formed MQA Labs that bring audio processing enhancements across the music supply chain. AIRIA by MQA Labs™ (also known by its technical name, SCL6) delivers high resolution audio while seamlessly scaling from full lossless to very lossy rates. FOQUS by MQA Labs™ represents an innovative approach for analogue to digital conversion. QRONO by MQA Labs™ brings a variety of audio processing enhancements within playback devices. These technologies are expected to debut in a variety of licensee products before the end of calendar 2025.

Gordon Simmonds, CEO of The Lenbrook Group, LMG’s parent corporation, reflected on the initial decision to acquire the assets of MQA. “These developments confirm our instincts around this team and the value of the IP. While the choice and accessibility of MQA content remains a priority  for us, this was never about a single codec,” he says.

The creation of MQA Labs and its newest product families reflect Lenbrook’s passion to improve the whole audio chain and bring the highest quality recording, distribution and playback technologies to benefit the entire specialty audio industry and its fans.

“The digitization of an analogue signal introduces a range of imperfections to the resulting audio file. One of the most common and critical is something often referred to as time smearing – when the resolution of two sounds is reduced because their timing is incorrectly reproduced within the digital file,” explains Greg Stidsen, Chief Technology Officer at Lenbrook. “MQA Labs’ team are experts in time-domain audio improvements, having invented many of the techniques to avoid or eliminate such audio defects.”

Two of the new product families will address the issue head on: FOQUS, which tackles the analogue to digital processes, and QRONO, which will address converting digital back to analogue.

The third product family is among the most anticipated of LMG’s future products. Previously known by its technical name, SCL6, it is a new codec seamlessly ensuring the best resolution possible regardless of bandwidth availability. Now named AIRIA by MQA Labs, the codec was developed to transform audio across wireless connections. Most recently, LMG successfully completed pilots for use as a distribution codec – perfect for streaming services.  As a transmission codec, it shines as a high-resolution codec with dramatic operational savings and reliability.

Early response from the industry around these new products has been positive.

“We are inspired by the reactions of our partners who are incorporating these technologies into their products,” explains Mike Jbara, Vice President & GM of LMG. “This is a milestone moment for us. We are committed to receiving and applying feedback from the market in how we apply our technologies and ensuring they are more flexible and accessible throughout the music supply chain.”

Mixx launches the upgraded StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 Wireless Earbuds to celebrate Global Running Day

Mixx, known for its premium, yet affordable, audio solutions, is pleased to announce the launch of the upgraded StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 wireless earbuds. With a 7-hour play time and a handheld charge case for an additional 25 hours, a choice of 3 EQ sound modes, touch sensor control and many more premium features, it is the perfect companion for an active lifestyle. Added features in this new model include Apple and Google compatibility, hands-free calling and USB Type C charging and the Sports Charge 2 earbuds have also had a complete physical makeover to make them more aesthetically pleasing and compact for increased portability. The StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 are available from MIXX in a choice of black, blue or burgundy all for an incredibly affordable £40. Check out our Mixx Streambuds Ultra and Solo review.
Preset EQ sounds and ease of control:
The touch buttons on the earbuds make controlling music an absolute breeze and users can play and pause, adjust the volume, answer or decline calls on the go and activate Google Assistant or Siri with a single touch. No need to pause the workout to look for a phone now! With the EQ presets, users can also choose between music, bass boost or voice dependent upon preference and the listening environment.
Quick charging:
The Sports Charge 2 earbuds offer 7 hours of playtime on a single charge with the handheld charge case adding another 25 hours of charge totalling an impressive 32 hours. In the unlikely event, a wearer runs out of juice, the quick charge feature gives 2 hours of additional playtime in only 15 minutes, so the music never needs to stop during a long workout or even a marathon! The digital display on the charging case shows the battery status of each individual earbud and the case itself so users can see clearly at a glance when a recharge is needed. Built in Qi Wireless charging is also available with the Sports Charge 2 for added ease.
Over ear hooks:
 
The over-ear hooks on the StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 are flexible loops that wrap around the ear to provide a secure and comfortable fit during physical activities. This offers stability and prevents the earbuds from falling out during hardcore workouts, making them an ideal choice for working out at the gym, for the daily run or a long cycle ride. For added comfort the earbuds come with 3 silicone ear cushions (small, medium and large) to ensure users get the best possible fit.
Eco friendly packaging:
 
MIXX makes a huge effort to keep packaging eco-friendly. Made with paper from sustainable sources, it is FSC certified. Any plastic used on the box is made from 30% recycled plastic and the whole package is 100% recyclable.
The MIXX StreamBuds Sports Charge 2 wireless earbuds are the ultimate partner for an active lifestyle and at only £50 offer true value for money too.
Main Features:
  • 7 hours play time on a single charge
  • *32 hours in total if you include the charge case
  • Touch sensor controls to play, pause, skip tracks and talk hands free
  • 3 EQ sound mode presets to choose from, Music, Bass or Boost
  • Handheld charge case
  • In-ear fit
  • Silicone ear cushions (small, medium, large)
  • Digital display screen
  • Siri and Google compatible
  • Over ear hooks for a secure fit

xMEMS Labs Debuts Cutting-Edge Reference Designs for True Wireless Stereo Earbuds and In-Ear-Monitors

Accelerating the adoption of solid-state micro speakers in consumer audio products, MEMS audio and semiconductor pioneer xMEMS Labs today announced the availability of two innovative reference designs for purchase at the xMEMS web store. 

The first unit, known as Harding, serves as xMEMS’ reference design for 2-way True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds, while the other is for audiophile-level full-range in-ear-monitors (IEMs). Both are available for a limited time and in extremely limited quantities, with the goal of providing interested audio brands and manufacturers with accelerated time-to-market leveraging xMEMS’ patented designs. 

According to xMEMS VP of Marketing and Business Development Mike Housholder, by making these reference designs available for purchase, the company is giving brands the best possible starting point so they and their customers can immediately begin reaping the benefits of the world’s first all-silicon, monolithic MEMS micro speakers. 

“As we continue to build momentum and awareness around our MEMS-based technologies that deliver a better sounding speaker with greater production efficiency and uniformity, we’re doing everything we can to support every customer who understands the value of making MEMS speakers part of their future product story,” Housholder said. “That’s why we’re making available for purchase a limited number of our TWS earbud and IEM designs to any forward-looking brand or manufacturer seeking a roadmap for the fastest possible adoption of xMEMS technology.” 

In addition to the design itself, those who make a purchase will be able to request the complete xMEMS design files for each solution, including their acoustic, mechanical and electrical components. 

The Harding 2-way TWS earbud design delivers superior high-frequency response and clarity featuring Cowell, the world’s smallest solid-state micro speaker. Cowell serves as the tweeter for highly realistic mids and highs and is paired with a custom-designed 9-mm dynamic driver woofer that delivers thumping bass. This ANC-ready (Active Noise Canceling) design embeds a Qualcomm Bluetooth Audio SoC and three microphones per earbud for noise canceling.

All told, Harding is a turn-key ODM design that’s fully integrated with all the needed components and expertly tuned acoustics to enable a seamless transition from legacy coil speakers to all-silicon micro speakers in TWS earbuds. 

Montara Plus, the world’s highest output MEMS micro speaker, is the ideal full-bandwidth transducer for an IEM reference design that delivers sound pressure levels up to 120 dB @ 200 Hz. This USB-C IEM design embeds a hi-res audio DAC from Synaptics and a voice microphone for phone call and web support.

Furthermore, Montara Plus’ lightning-fast transient response and wide bandwidth (20Hz to >40kHz) achieve the highest fidelity and clarity in a simplified, single speaker IEM, creating a path to smaller, lighter, simpler IEM designs without the phase alignment and design complexities of multi-driver IEM implementations.

“We’re seeing demand for xMEMS speakers grow exponentially as brands all over the globe try to stand out in the market and streamline their production efforts. By selling these reference designs, we’re doing our part to ensure the switch to MEMS speakers is as smooth and efficient as possible so more brands, manufacturers and their customers can soon benefit from xMEMS’ industry-changing innovations,” Housholder concluded.

TRIBIT launches the upgraded StormBox 2 portable Bluetooth speaker.

TRIBIT, a global brand which aims to make high-quality audio accessible to all, today announces the launch of the upgraded StormBox 2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker. Following on from the success of its predecessor StormBox, the StormBox 2 now has upgraded features including a more stable and faster Bluetooth 5.3 allowing for a range of 30m, TRIBIT App compatibility for full customisation, TWS and 24 hour playtime. With 360°sound, 2 embedded full-range speakers and a 2*17W power output, the StormBox 2 truly packs a punch. The TRIBIT StormBox 2 is available from TRIBIT  for £63 and Amazon for £62.99.
360° surround sound:
It delivers the ultimate enjoyment and allows users to be fully immersed in the powerful 360° audio with this Bluetooth wireless speaker, delivering 34W peak power. Equipped with two 48mm full-range drivers, crystal-clear sound quality is guaranteed.
Music streaming day and night:
 
The StormBox 2 looks compact and light, but it’s a powerhouse when it comes to playtime. Armed with RunStretch technology, it can deliver an impressive 24 hours of playtime (tested at 60% volume without the XBass feature) perfect for long car rides or travel. Weighing only 580g and measuring 180mm x 69mm x 69mm, it’s easy to pack in a rucksack and take on hikes, camping trips, or holidays. The Bluetooth 5.3 and 30-meter wireless range mean there are no concerns about signal loss or dropouts, and it only takes around 4 hours to fully recharge. Better yet, the sleek yet robust design and waterproof rating of IPX7 make it the perfect companion for outdoor adventures, pool parties and trips to the beach.
Customisable:
A common complaint can often be based on personal preferences, some like more bass, some less. Some more treble, some less. The StormBox 2 has been upgraded to meet this need for personalisation. Via the TRIBIT App, the sound can be fully customised to match individual preferences and listening environments. Users can choose to switch between Audiobook, Classic, Jazz, Rock, and XBass (the default) or disable these pre-sets entirely as preferred. A customised EQ curve with nine bands that range from 80Hz to 13kHz can also be created. This includes different EQs, custom EQ, OTA upgrade and other functions.
One-click pairing: 
For users who enjoy a truly big immersive sound, TRIBIT has got it covered with the upgraded StormBox 2 which now allows for cross-model pairing! Double up the audio experience by pairing two StormBox 2 speakers or seamlessly pair with the StormBox Flow or XSound Plus 2 wireless speakers for a booming sound. Party mode can also be activated to elevate any gathering, boost the mood at parties, and enjoy the music brought by double the volume. It’s party time!

Quantum Group Chooses Zutec for Document Management, Quality Management, Handover Management and Health and Safety

Quantum Group, a leading developer in Ireland, has selected Zutec to manage construction project data from a single platform. Zutec leads the way in providing construction and property management software solutions to contractors, housebuilders, developers and asset owners across the UK and Ireland, and will roll out document, quality, handover and health and safety management solutions to support Quantum in delivering safer, higher standard homes and properties.

Patrick Shaughnessy, Construction Director at Quantum Group, commented: “At Quantum, we place a huge emphasis on build quality and excellence, and are proud to lead the way in bringing in specialist and innovative techniques to support our drive to be more effective, efficient, productive, and sustainable.

“In a market where quality cannot be overlooked, we required a platform to differentiate ourselves from others and create a framework for quality-driven processes. With innovation at its core, Zutec fitted the bill in terms of an easy-to-use platform that provides solutions, features and functionality that gives us more control over how we manage documents and information related to construction and quality for all our projects – all from one place. This will help us better manage site teams, site progress, suppliers, and sub-contractors, and ultimately raise the standards of the quality and innovation across our developments.”

By digitising building information and construction documents, Quantum will use Zutec’s Document Management for planning, design, tenders, procurement, and plot tracking, including the ability to approve drawings for future developments and resolve issues on site as they arise. With project information in one place, Quantum can eliminate inefficient and costly data sprawl, but also save time and costs by having clear visibility of information that enables better understanding of projects and drives more informed decisions that bring projects to completion faster.

Quantum Group, Millers Crest, Portlaoise

 

A suite of integrated Quality Assurance and Health & Safety forms, checklists and inspections will all be delivered to Quantum by Zutec to ensure data is digitised and can be easily collected in a consistent way and housing and apartments are built to the company’s high standards. This will include the ability to upload photos to evidence work done and a snagging register so data can be reviewed, and problems resolved ahead of handover. Data related to safety inspections can be captured on-site in real-time then easily shared with teams to provide safety visibility and mitigate risk.

Zutec’s Handover Management means Quantum can effectively manage projects to completion by bringing together O&M (Operations & Maintenance) Manuals, Fire Evacuation Files (FEF) and Health and Safety Files (H&S) in one place to meet asset owner and regulatory obligations.

All data can be captured in the field by site teams and subcontractors using the Zutec Field app from any device with or without a Wi-Fi connection. Information is then synced in the Zutec cloud, when a device is online, and uploaded into the Zutec dashboard for reporting and analytics, but also for easy information, site progress and compliance.

“As developers and housebuilders look to digitise more construction and quality processes, our aim is to support them with the best solutions that help drive structure and standardisation in data and documentation across their business. Before now, Quantum didn’t have a digital system in place to manage information during the construction stages and relied on manual and paper-based processes. With Zutec they can have all their information in the cloud and workflows in place to ensure the right people have the right information at the right time, empowering teams to deliver builds more efficiently and to higher-quality standards, while giving site managers complete control and confidence over works completed. One solution for everything,” said James Cannon, Chief Revenue Officer at Zutec.

To find out more about how Zutec is helping customers deliver quality work the first time around, please visit http://www.zutec.com. Alternatively, book a demo and experience solutions for yourself: https://zutec.com/book-a-demo.

 

 

Workhuman Launches New Reporting Feature in Admin Hub to Elevate Recognition Program Management

WorkhumanÒ, the company revolutionizing the way employees celebrate, connect with, and appreciate each other in the workplace, is introducing new Reporting features in its Admin Hub, enhancing a Program Manager’s control and access to insights of their organization’s Social Recognition program.  Breaking down traditionally rigid HR reporting systems, Admin Hub’s updated Reporting functionality provides the ability to adapt report details, increases the efficient process of customizing and disseminating data, and improves collaboration in the analysis and interpretation of data.

The data from an organization’s Social Recognition program holds a treasure trove of insights: data points like the percentage of employees who give or receive recognition, how frequently it is given, and the dollar amount associated with each award. This information can help track recognition program outcomes and impact; the latest features now allow for upgraded report management and access functions that make better use of that recognition data.

 

‘Manage Reports’ feature – Enhanced Program Reporting

Workhuman’s ‘Manage Reports’ feature equips HR and business leaders with the intelligence they need to turn recognition into business success. With ‘Manage Reports,’ program managers can create and customize reports to meet the specific needs of different department leaders, modify data measures and fields in real time to accommodate ever-evolving initiatives, and add charts and graphs to seamlessly visualize data in presentations and communications.

Manage Reports facilitates the efficient communication of data across the organization. By presenting reports in a self-service manner, the data becomes more comprehensible and actionable for different stakeholders.

‘Report Access’ function – Effortless Access Management

The new ‘Report Access’ feature eliminates the need for complex Excel files or additional Workhuman account team support – allowing managers to authorize users across the company to access and centralize their reports in one location. Program Managers can provide report access on-demand, reducing the burden of ad-hoc data requests.

With ‘My Reports,’ authorized users can easily find the data they need, viewing and downloading report data as required. They can access up to three main report types, including Award Activity Reports; Recognition Intelligence, with dashboards offering a comprehensive view of recognition program performance; and, if applicable, Conversations, which displays activity like participation rates and performance metrics across the Conversations feature.

This new feature streamlines report access and enhances the efficiency of managing recognition programs by making it easier for authorized users to access the necessary data.

“Workhuman’s platform captures those authentic human moments within an organization and turns them into actionable insights, revealing patterns in the data that can inform strategy and actively shape culture. Our latest updates empower Program Managers to uncover this valuable intelligence more efficiently and effectively,” said Zoe Peterson-Ward, Workhuman’s Chief Customer Officer. “We’re revolutionizing the reporting experience for our customers, offering program owners capabilities and visibility like never before. What was once a cumbersome process is now an on-demand, self-service one, and we’re thrilled to announce that we have even more enhancements planned for later this year, all aimed at providing our customers with the ultimate recognition program experience.”

For 25 years, Workhuman has pioneered the employee recognition market. The company’s Social Recognition solution, backed by data and science, cultivates appreciation, enhances performance, fosters social connections, and promotes inclusivity. As Workhuman and Gallup research has shown, a strategic investment in recognition can boost a company’s bottom line.”

To learn more about how Workhuman’s Social Recognition solution empowers organizations to redefine cultures that inspire connection, drive innovation, promote adaptability, and build stronger workplaces, please visit www.workhuman.com.

Xiaomi Named One of TIME’s Most Influential Companies of 2024

TIME has named Xiaomi as one of its “TIME100 Most Influential Companies” in 2024. Xiaomi received the honor — for its first time ever — because TIME determined that it is making an extraordinary impact around the world.
In placing Xiaomi on the list, TIME cited on the company’s successful launch of its first smart electric vehicle, the Xiaomi SU7 Series, in Mainland China in March 2024. TIME praised the EV’s effort to integrate people, cars, and homes into a super-smart, people-centric ecosystem. Xiaomi set new industry records for the volume of locked-in orders and deliveries of the Xiaomi SU7 Series during the first month of its debut. Its “Human x Car x Home” ecosystem connects smart devices in unprecedented and seamless ways.
Xiaomi is committed to making sustainable investments in foundational core technologies and to continuously invest in technologies that will benefit humanity. It will invest more than RMB100 billion in research and development during the five years between 2022 to 2026. Through 15 to 20 years of effort, Xiaomi aims to become one of the top five global automakers as well as a leader in the evolving realm of global cutting-edge technologies.
“Xiaomi is honored to be selected for the TIME100 Most Influential Companies list for 2024,” said Xiaomi spokesperson. “We look forward to living up to this award by continuing to produce products that let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.”
To assemble the list, TIME solicited nominations across sectors, and polled its global network of contributors and correspondents, as well as outside experts. Then TIME editors evaluated each on key factors, including impact, innovation, ambition, and success. The result is a diverse group of 100 businesses helping chart an essential path forward.
See the full list here: time.com/100companies

Digital StoryMaps bring Galway’s heritage to life

Students from the University of Galway are playing a key role in an innovative new digital project that brings County Galway’s unique heritage to life.

Spearheaded by Galway County Council in conjunction with Galway County Heritage Forum, The Heritage Council and local community and heritage groups, ‘Galway County Heritage Trails’ showcases the cultural and historical significance of almost half of County Galway’s 4,556 townlands through meticulous research and the application of cutting-edge technologies.

One of the standout features of the project is the creation of StoryMaps, a series of interactive maps combining geographical data with multimedia elements to guide users through the historical landscapes of County Galway’s townlands, towns and villages.

In recent months, University of Galway students Dylan Reilly, Joseph Ennis and Natalie Cyrkle have been working with the Heritage and GIS teams of Galway County Council to convert historical data from sources, including O’Donovan’s Ordnance Survey Letters, Griffiths Valuation, the Down Survey, and the 1901 and 1911 censuses, into digital formats.

161 townlands in the civil parishes of Kiltartan, Kinvaradooras, Kilcolgan, Kilthomas and Killinny have recently been digitised while online StoryMaps also have been created for Oranmore, Mountbellew, Monivea and Ballyglunin, bringing to 2,000 the number of townlands now digitised through the project.

Cllr Liam Carroll, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway said, “StoryMaps is a simple yet powerful way to share information and enlighten, engage, and inspire people with stories that relate to locations of interest around us.  Incorporating location and mapping into the context of a story, each StoryMaps is designed to provide an immersive experience, shedding light on the cultural and historical significance of various locations.”

“Placements such as those with the Heritage Office allow students from the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Celtic Studies to develop important skills and broaden their horizons in terms of longer-term career options open to them. The positivity shown by students in their presentations in Áras an Chontae only serves to demonstrate the value of their experience in this project,” added the Cathaoirleach.

Liam Hanrahan, Director of Services, Director of Services for Economic Development & Planning added, “By combining academic rigor with local authority and community collaboration, this project underscores the power of digital technology in preserving and sharing local history. The digitised sources and StoryMaps not only honour the past but also pave the way for dynamic, future-oriented research and learning and are an invaluable resource for researchers, educators, the diaspora and history enthusiasts.”

Marc Mellotte, Head of Engagement at the University of Galway commented, “Our engagement with organisations and businesses is a very important part of our students’ development and our own commitments as a university. Our B.Sc. (Social Sciences) graduates see their careers and futures in many different areas of work and the placements and internships offered by Galway County Council really help to broaden their perspective and allow them to see new opportunities for their future.”

Meanwhile, Galway County Council is inviting members of the public to contribute to ‘Galway County Heritage Trails’ with the objective of digitising heritage information relating to all 4,556 County Galway townlands. To date, the Heritage Office has worked with community heritage groups, active retirement groups, Forum Connemara, Galway Rural Development, schools, University of Galway students, and The Heritage Council in digitising 2,000 of the County’s townlands.

“Making heritage more accessible to everyone is one of our main goals,” explained Marie Mannion, Heritage Officer with Galway County Council.

She added, “There are over 64,000 townlands in Ireland of which there are in the region of 4,556 in County Galway, Ireland’s second largest county. The townland is a uniquely Irish division and one of the oldest in existence. The boundaries of the townland have often been redefined to match borders with other divisions. It is the smallest notable division and is often the one with which people identify themselves.”

“In addition to the academic aspect of the project, there is a strong emphasis on community engagement. Galway County Council and the students have worked closely with local heritage and community groups to collect and present local heritage information that enriches the content of the StoryMaps. This collaborative approach ensures that the digital heritage trails reflect the authentic voices and experiences of the community,” Ms. Mannion concluded.

Michael Mulkerrins, Principal of Peterswell NS, whose 5th and 6th class students collaborated with the Heritage Office of Galway County Council on mapping the townlands of the civil parish of Kilthomas, said, “The children spent time studying our school maps to decide on what townlands they could visit and then it was decided that each student would photograph a small number of townlands. Students worked hard to find suitable points of interest to photograph in each townland and were thrilled to get the opportunity to visit every corner of our homeplace. Seeing their photographs now on the completed storyboards is fantastic recognition for our students.”

Meanwhile, Eilish Kavanagh of Kinvara Heritage Group said the new digital heritage resources have opened access to the rich heritage of Galway’s townlands and places for the ordinary person.

“This project not only aids in preserving local history but also serves as a model for other communities interested in digitising their historical records,” she added.

To view the StoryMaps and Townland research, visit www.galwaycoco.maps.arcgis.com.