Prometric to Expand in Ireland to Support Multi-Million Dollar Contract with Road Safety Authority
Media Contact:
Jodi Katz
Communications Manager, Prometric
443.455.6811
Jodi.Katz@prometric.com
Baltimore, MD., April 21, 2008 – Prometric, the leading global provider of technology-enabled testing and assessment services, today announced the signing of a renewed, $75 million multi-year contract with the Road Safety Authority of Ireland (RSA) for the delivery of its Driver Theory Test Service. The renewal of this contract will support the principal aim of the RSA's road safety strategy: to reduce deaths and injuries on Irish roads through the use of innovative technology in driver theory testing. The innovation will take place in key focus areas, including an expanded infrastructure, improved security, customer service and a newly updated 'green' test centre network for driver theory test licensure candidates.
This contract was awarded to Prometric after a competitive tendering process and runs for seven years from July 2008. Prometric's ability to build an assessment program for professional drivers that complies with new EU regulations, and its ability to provide rapid international expansion of its European infrastructure to support the program, were key factors in the RSA's award.
The renewal of this contract will see the RSA's candidate experience improved through the provision of an expanded and enhanced test centre network and the introduction of innovative technology elements which will provide enhanced candidate service and comfort, as well as contributing to improved road safety, driver assessment and value for money. Prometric will achieve this through the comprehensive build-out of its European infrastructure, including expanded facilities and staff in Ireland. New areas of Prometric's international development include:
• The construction of a new European data centre to support the RSA and other European clients.
• Establishing candidate call center operations in Ireland. The new in-country facility will provide real-time program support for Irish drivers, giving them a more localized experience.
• The addition of item writing staff to support the development of a new, more stringent testing program and training process.
• The creation of a newly updated and innovative "green" test center network in Ireland. The centers, which will be built to Prometric's latest environmentally friendly standards, will incorporate cutting edge elements that enhance security through biometrics, optimized desk space, reduced environmental impact and increased candidate comfort.
Noel Brett CEO of the RSA said "We are delighted to award this contract for the delivery of the next generation of driver theory testing services in Ireland. Prometric is well placed to deliver enhanced customer service levels, introduce the next generation of driver theory testing technology and provide best value for money. We look forward with enthusiasm to working with our partner Prometric over the next seven years."
Michael Brannick, President and CEO of Prometric, stated, "The changes initiated by the RSA to reduce road deaths, improve driver competence and securely manage driver information are both inspiring and impressive. The cutting edge solutions we are implementing, and the significant investments we are making in Ireland to expand our infrastructure in support of RSA's licensing process, demonstrate Prometric's unparalleled ability to be nimble and investment oriented in taking our clients to the next generation of testing."
About Prometric
Prometric, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ETS, is the recognized global leader in technology-enabled testing and assessment services and the winner of CLO Magazine's Learning in Practice 2007 Customer Service Award. Its comprehensive suite of services, including test development, test delivery and data management capabilities, allows clients to develop and launch global testing programs as well as accurately measure program results and data. Prometric reliably delivers and administers tests on behalf of 450 clients in the academic, professional, healthcare, government, corporate and information technology markets. It delivers tests flexibly via the Web or by utilizing a robust test center network in 135 countries. For more information, please visit www.prometric.com.