THE NEW Open Device Lab (ODL) embodies the spirit of the Longbridge development, says Northfield MP Richard Burden.
Richard Burden went along to investigate the centre to see how it was attracting web developers and designers from across the region wanting to test their websites and online applications on a library of smartphones and tablets, for free.
Mr Burden said ODL, which is the first of its kind in the West Midlands, not only showcased the growing community of tech businesses based at the innovation centre but also reached out into the community.
He added it was helping local start-ups and young people who were training to become web developers and designers to test how their websites and apps perform across platforms.
Anthony Chaffey, managing director of Ballyhoo – the web design agency which established the centre, said: “We decided to set up the Longbridge Device Lab when we realised other web businesses in the West Midlands must also have been struggling to test their products on a range of different devices.
“We’re really pleased that Richard Burden took the time out to come and see what we’re doing here.
“He even tested out his own personal website on a few smartphones and tablets.”
