Coventry’s window to the world during its time as UK City of Culture is being brought to life with a new dedicated website thanks to a tech company based in the city.
Exasoft Group, a software and digital solutions company which has been based in the city since 1993, has been awarded the contract to create the new Coventry UK City of Culture website.
The website will be the first stop for all Coventry residents and visitors as the city enjoys its year in the cultural spotlight.
The website will tell the story of 2021, giving people a taste of what to expect for the city’s year as UK City of Culture.
In due course the website will also include all the information for upcoming events, ticketing and ways to get involved with the citywide celebration.
Coventry’s year as the UK City of Culture will now start five months later, due to the coronavirus outbreak.
The Coventry City of Culture Trust recently announced the shift in date to May 2021, saying it will allow more time for communities and businesses to prepare for what will be one of Coventry’s busiest years.
Coventry was due to be City of Culture starting from January 2021, but due to Covid-19, many preparations came to a halt.
Exasoft Group, which is one of the largest web and app developers in the region, has been working to put the city on a global platform through the new City of Culture website, allowing people across the world to get involved and make the most of the events and opportunities on offer.
The firm, which won the Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2006 and specialises in user experience, also provides digital solutions for clients in the tourism, retail and education sectors.
Alan Malik, chief executive, Exasoft Group said: “We are all looking forward to 2021, which will see the eyes of the world on Coventry.
“We will be celebrating the city’s commitment to culture and creativity and, as a business, the Exasoft Group is delighted to be part of this in providing a website that will capture visitor and resident attention, creates efficiency and provides a pleasurable experience.
“As a Coventry company we will play our part as we did during the bid to show how innovative Coventry is and how by utilising technology, we can capture this momentous occasion and it’s legacy for generations to come.”
The new site will also feature Coventry’s new UK City of Culture branding, which is soon to be revealed, as well as up to date information on plans to deliver the year from May 2021 – May 2022.
Laura McMillan, director of operations and legacy at Coventry City of Culture Trust, said: “We were pleased to invest locally, after a very competitive process, and award this important contract to Exasoft.
“The website is an integral part of the 2021 campaign and, with Coventry having an impressive offering in the technology sector, we are proud to be showcasing the talent and expertise in the city.
“The website will not only be where our audiences can book tickets for events in 2021 but also find out more about the people and stories behind the year along with registering for opportunities to take part.
“We have been working to ensure that the message of City of Culture reaches the world and the website will be a crucial aspect of this – it will be the door to people looking to get involved and those looking to explore the programme to make the most out of an exciting year ahead.”
