IQGeo moves into FORA Cambridge after acquisition of Deepomatic
IQGeo moved into its new premises at FORA this week as it shifts up a gear following the acquisition of AI computer vision software developer Deepomatic in March.
IQGeo is a developer of geospatial software that designs, builds, and operates better networks for telecom and utility operators.
The addition of Deepomatic’s AI capabilities will enable IQGeo to enhance its network lifecycle solutions with optimized detail capture and analysis in field operations, creating resilient and efficient broadband and utility networks.
Deepomatic’s software is already deployed globally and has processed more than 20 million jobs in the past year alone, including over half a billion transactions from more than 30,000 daily field users. Using AI-powered computer vision technology, it dynamically analyses photos taken by field engineers to identify and eliminate errors for rapid, actionable quality control. Operational use cases range from fibre network construction and service activation to meter installations, asset inspections and damage assessment.
As an existing partner within IQGeo’s ecosystem, Deepomatic and IQGeo already have software integrations in place to support joint customers, with additional projects under way.
The two companies “already have a longstanding history of successful joint customer engagements”, IQGeo CEO Richard Petti. He adds: “Our respective technologies are highly complementary. Deepomatic’s AI computer vision software enhances our network lifecycle solutions with optimised detail capture and analysis in field operations, helping our customers create resilient and efficient broadband and utility networks.
“Deepomatic’s AI expertise will also play a strategic role in realising our vision of an intelligent and proactive network model.”
The move to Fora has been prompted by growth and, in particular, the expansion of the team from 60 people in 2019 to 340 people today.
“With over 100 team members now based in the UK, we quickly outgrew our old Hills Road office,” says Richard. “In something of a full-circle moment, our new space – the FORA building – now stands on the site of IQGeo’s very first office after we split from Ubisense. Just over five years on, we’re firmly embedded in the Cambridge tech hub, sharing space with the likes of Bosch and Oracle.
“The FORA facility provides our team with state-of-the-art office amenities in an environment designed to foster innovation.”
The IQGeo office occupies half of the third floor of the FORA building, featuring a private kitchen, dining area and dedicated meeting and conference rooms. Team members also benefit from access to shared facilities, including a roof terrace, communal kitchen and seating area, larger conference rooms, a gym and a staffed reception. FORA also offer a programme of recreational activities. The space is modern and well-designed, ideally located close to Cambridge main station and a stone’s throw from a wide range of great lunch spots. Around 60 team members are expected in on a daily basis.
Meanwhile, while IQGeo - itself acquired for £333m last year by investment company KKR - has acquired all Deepomatics’ assets, the Deepomatic team will continue to work from France – for the moment.
Augustin Marty, CEO of Deepomatic, said: “By integrating our AI computer vision software with IQGeo’s geospatial expertise, we will be able to redefine what’s possible by empowering companies to create data-driven digital twins.
“AI is fast becoming integral to successful infrastructure management, and together we will expand our industry footprint, ensuring operators have real-time, end-to-end visibility of their networks.”
“We are looking forward to have Deepomatic join the IQGeo team once negotiations are completed and all the required legal and regulatory processes have been undertaken” commented Richard Petti, CEO at IQGeo. “Their AI computer vision software brings a new dimension of network intelligence to our customers, accelerating performance across the operational lifecycle.
“Deepomatic is already delivering amazing quality control and efficiency benefits to telecom and utility operators and their AI skillset will be strategic in realising our vision of a predictive and proactive network model.
“Our combined technology will unlock enormous technical and business opportunities, offering greater speed, precision and insights, so together we can deliver the future today.”