MacDirectory Magazine

COMPANY PROFILE BYTES OF LEARNING > EDUCATIONAL SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS WORDS BY LARISA REDINS Looking for all things educational? Consider the Canadian-based company Bytes of Learning. The company was founded in 1984 by Art Willer, a consultant who at the time was directing software development for a large school district in Ontario. The purpose of the company has always been to develop informed and effective educational software solutions primarily for schools, but these software solutions can also be utilized by individuals and other training and learning organizations. Bytes of Learning is a unique educational software development company in that the organization creates products from the ground up. “We are constantly researching and developing new software technologies to meet the changing technology environment and to meet customer needs,” said Willer, the president of Bytes of Learning Inc. “Consequently, the company is completely in charge of how its products work and how quickly the products are updated whenever customer needs arise.” In fact, Bytes of Learning strives to keep every possible channel open between its customers and the company. For instance, North American users of its products can call a toll-free number or e-mail the company at any time they choose to. “The company finds this close communication extremely valuable because, in addition to better serving customer needs, our staff can learn about any recurring issues and suggestions for improvement,” says Willer. “Moreover, many of the consumer suggestions are implemented in the products.” are assisted in correcting technique problems when they arise,” says Willer. “Many teachers and parents tell us UltraKey is a student favorite even though this particular program contains no games.” With respect to creating new products, the company never ceases to research and develop new technologies and new solutions for its customers. “We are currently examining the many platforms and technologies now available to customers – desktop, online, and mobile (example: iPad) – to determine how we could create a totally connected learning environment - regardless of how the user wants to or is able to learn,” says Willer. “The fact is that learning can take place anywhere and in many different ways depending on the environment, technology and connectivity; thus, we are looking for ways to make the learning seamless.” With respect to its choice of platforms, Bytes of Learning is completely cross- platform. The company is well versed in both Macintosh and Windows development and the organization has even supported other platforms at various times. That said, the most popular Bytes of Learning product is UltraKey -- a comprehensive keyboarding instruction program that is fully compliant with Mac OS X Snow Leopard. UltraKey is a leading solution for schools and training centers – with many individuals taking advantage of this program as well. “UltraKey is unique because the program is goal-based, not game-based. The program helps even young users set personal goals for keyboarding and uses animation, video, and voice to help them develop keyboarding technique. Users are praised regularly as they improve and they While the past decade has made it very difficult for software publishers to supply top products and top-level support for schools, especially in the United States, the company is aiming to overcome such challenges in the future. As a matter of fact, Bytes of Learning expects to expand its product offerings and to continue to strive to be a caring, supporting company that will not let its customers down. “That is what we have been doing for 26 years and we have no plans of changing,” adds Willer. For more information, Bytes of Learning invites everyone to visit their website, , email the company at custservice@bytesoflearning.com or call them at 1-800-465-6428 (International ++905-947-4646). 108 MacDirectory

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