Computerworld

Qrious spins off traffic management product

LoQal Traffic launched

Two former employees of Spark’s data analytics subsidiary Qrious -- head of product Micah Gabriels and software delivery lead Paul McDonnell -- have acquired Qrious’ LoQal traffic product and formed their own business, Mooven, to develop what they see as an opportunity in specialised software tools for the transport sector.

LoQal Traffic, according to Qrious, is “a subscription-based web application and SMS alert system that provides visibility of traffic flows without the need for roadside hardware to be installed.”

It “helps construction companies to manage disruption around roadworks and construction sites [and] supports engineering consultancies and infrastructure owners to monitor and optimise the road network and other points of interest.”

Gabriels, now CEO of Mooven, said he and McDonnell had seen an opportunity to take LoQal and into a global software as a service business.

“The transport sector is such an exciting area to work in, with massive disruption underway ranging from electric and autonomous vehicles, the rollout of Internet of Things, emerging datasets and the application of artificial intelligence; all of which are set against the backdrop of changing opinions about mobility and the role it plays in our lives,” he said.

“For me, this is an opportunity to double down on a particular product and really test if we can make a truly great New Zealand business.”

Qrious CEO David Leach said Qrious’ focus was now on two key areas where the company could see the most potential and value: big data and analytics consulting services and its data powered marketing offerings, based on the recent Ubiquity acquisition.

It was only in August 2017 that Qrious launched LoQol Destinations saying it would enable business that rely on tourists to optimise marketing spend, enhance operational efficiencies and anticipate visitor movements.