Adept IT Solutions is a Newcastle-based provider of integrated communications and IT solutions, known for its professional and approachable service. The company delivers end-to-end support, from expert consultation to installation, maintenance, and ongoing technical support.
Their Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with the University was rated "Very Good" by Innovate UK, and delivered significant benefits to everyone involved.
Adept partnered with the KTP programme to develop a market-disruptive mobile-to-voice bridging product, leveraging the latest synchronised technologies. This innovative solution was designed to enhance Adept’s market reputation and attract a broader range of clients, particularly within the small to medium-sized business sector both in the UK and internationally. Expanding into these markets was a core objective of the KTP collaboration, with significant growth opportunities anticipated for the company as a result.
The KTP project has delivered multiple tangible outcomes for Adept Ltd, including the development of new applications, technologies, and products that have contributed to increased sales turnover. The partnership also enhanced the company’s strategic and commercial awareness, alongside improvements in staff training, management, and coordination of new service offerings.
Ongoing research and development efforts have been supported, with knowledge-sharing extending to in-house technical teams. The Associate secured permanent employment with the company, and the project has sponsored related MSc research.
Additionally, the collaboration is set to produce four peer-reviewed academic articles, demonstrating the effective integration of advanced technologies and methodologies within a commercial environment. Looking ahead, Adept Ltd and its partners continue to explore further development opportunities stemming from this successful collaboration.
The benefits
The partnership provides Adept Ltd with direct access to cutting-edge telecommunications and advanced cloud-based networking research, alongside expertise in software development and cybersecurity techniques.
Through intensive knowledge transfer, Adept will develop a mobile-to-voice bridging product featuring sophisticated technologies and software, enabling cost-effective telecommunications solutions for its clients
Adding this innovative product to its portfolio is expected to drive sales growth, support business expansion, and strengthen the company’s market reputation
The collaboration will also embed new skills and capabilities within Adept in advanced telecommunications, cloud networking, and software security – creating a foundation for ongoing product innovation and responsiveness to emerging opportunities, threats, and market challenges.
"There is, in our opinion, no better way to achieve a positive outcome in the world of growing competitiveness than for an SME to reach out and utilise the benefits offered through the KTP programme." Philip Pugh, Managing Director of Adept IT Solutions.
On a personal level, the Associate has gained valuable experience and training throughout the KTP project. They developed significant technical expertise, notably creating an innovative system that integrates a Wi-Fi roaming solution with the newly developed mobile platform.
The Associate also acquired extensive knowledge of evolving EU regulatory requirements related to software coding challenges, enhancing their understanding of compliance in a complex environment.
Their personal and professional development was broad and impactful, culminating in the production of academic papers that contributed to the wider knowledge base.
In recognition of their valuable contribution to the project, the Associate has been offered – and has accepted – a full-time position with the company.
"It was a fantastic opportunity for me to undertake a massive project and learn how to become agile in today’s high demanding market." Chris Ellsaesser, KTP Associate.
The academic partner contributed significant expertise, transforming the voice bridging product into valuable by-products and broadening its potential applications.
The project provided the academic team with practical, real-world exposure to key areas including mobile telephony, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, and an enhanced understanding of the “air side” of mobile telecom infrastructure.
Knowledge transfer from Adept Ltd deepened the academics’ insight into the practical challenges of implementing cost-effective mobile telephony and commercial VoIP systems.
Additionally, intellectual property protection measures are already underway, with a patent application submitted to safeguard the innovation.
"The KTP with Adept Ltd has helped us develop new module materials, including case studies, as well as develop numerous student projects with the company." Phil Irving, Senior Lecturer.