The latest headlines and articles from Web Applications(c) 2009, Web Applications UK Ltd. All rights reserved.5Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:46:00 GMT<p>All the travel industry greats got together on 25th January for the Globe Travel Awards 2012. Gordon, Nick, Kerry, Jeff and Craig Kennedy represented the Web Applications UK team and went down to Grosvenor House hotel in London’s Park Lane to join the celebrations.</p><p>The Globe Travel Awards are widely regarded as the pinnacle of the travel industry calendar. Their success is largely attributed to the fact that it remains one of the few awards ceremonies where the winners are voted solely by the industry.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="225" height="300" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/293/20120125_180845.jpg " />&#160;&#160;&#160; <img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/293/20120125_181703.jpg " /></p> <p>The event consists of around 30 industry awards including honours such as Best Hotel Chain and Best Cruise Company. There are also 7 consumer awards which focus on areas of travel such as Favourite Rail Operator and Favourite Online Booking Website. Thomson Holidays was a big winner this year, scooping three awards while Superbreak, <a href="https://www.attractionworld.com/login.aspx">Attraction World</a> and Royal Caribbean all received double honours. Our table showed strong Northern solidarity, getting overly excited when awards were given to Manchester for Best UK Airport and to Alton Towers for Best UK Theme Park.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="400" height="225" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/293/P1000636.JPG " /></p> <p>A whole host of celebrities featured in the ceremony; Heather Small from the M-People opened the show, X Factor star Misha B and beatboxing champion Faith SFX performed and comedian Jack Whitehall presented the awards. The celebrity sightings didn’t stop there either. With the National TV Awards being held in London on the same night, TV presenter Richard Bacon and Alison King (Carla from Coronation Street) were spotted on the train journey home.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="400" height="225" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/293/P1000637.JPG " /></p> <p>The team joined an audience of more than 1,000 and appreciated the champagne reception (some more than others). The celebrations continued long into the night with the sounds of Radio 1 DJ Trevor Nelson. It was a night to be remembered and the stories on their return have entertained us all. We’re looking forward to next year already!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/293/20120125_190005.jpg " />&#160;&#160;&#160;&#160; <img alt="" width="350" height="197" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/293/P1000630.JPG " /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="400" height="225" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/293/P1000620.JPG " /></p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/293.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/293.aspxNatalie BaileyTue, 31 Jan 2012 11:01:00 GMT<p>Look who popped in to our offices!</p><p>Our Chief Executive Craig Dean was interviewed for the BBC’s Sunday Politics show recently. Here are some stills from the program. Craig was asked about Web Apps views regarding the TA. As a company we are proud to support the armed forces and employ a reservist. However we do have some concerns, as would any small business if there was an increased reliance upon them.<br /> &#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="281" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/BBC1.jpg" /></p> <p>Here’s a summary of what Craig said:</p> <p style="text-align: left">“A lot of the changes that are coming in place now do look like the government are trying to get businesses to foot the bill for the army. People can be called up for national emergencies very quickly. For us, that means he [the reservist] could phone up one day, and say 'I’m not coming to work today.' As we employ such talented people at Web Apps it would be difficult to find the same calibre of replacement so easily."</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="absMiddle" width="500" height="281" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/bbc2.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">It was very exciting having the BBC come to our offices for the day. I’m sure our upstairs office were jealous that some of the team were given their 15 minutes (or seconds) of fame!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/291.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/291.aspxNatalie SneddonMon, 30 Jan 2012 08:48:00 GMT<p>An update on the fast-paced progress of phase 2.</p><p>Ignoring the irritated looks on the workmen’s faces, we took another peak at how the expansion is coming along. <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/288/beyond-the-door-phase-2-progress.aspx">When we last checked</a> on the progress of phase 2, the huge room was but an empty shell while the workmen began laying the pedestals in preparation for the floor to be put in place. A raised access floor has now been fitted and it’s really starting to feel like an actual room.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" style="width: 480px; height: 331px" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/290/27_Jan_B (2).jpg " /></p> <p>As you can see, there is a toilet randomly placed in the middle of the room. Hopefully that won’t be a permanent feature in the middle of the office or it will be more enclosed if it is.</p> <p>The computer flooring is being put in place to create an elevated structural floor above the concrete ground to act as a hidden passage for cables to pass underneath. It is designed to be easily accessible in case any work needs doing with any of the cables. The flooring is not quite complete but we’re almost there.</p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;<img alt="" style="width: 486px; height: 344px" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/290/27_Jan_A.jpg " /></p> <p>Judging from the banging and drilling noises we can hear from this side, the workmen are working tirelessly to get it finished. We are hoping to have the room habitable by the end of February. With more new starters at Web Apps next week, the space will be more than useful.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/290.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/290.aspxNatalie BaileyWed, 25 Jan 2012 10:43:00 GMT<p>&#160;Web Applications UK is on the look-out for software engineers to join our team; we’re always searching for new talent.</p><p>A Software Engineer is the link between the Project Manager’s specifications and&#160;our end product for the client.</p> <p>The successful candidate will be responsible for working on our systems and developing them using a variety of different technologies. The right person for the role will be able to work well within a team; working&#160;closely with colleagues in&#160;order to achieve set goals,&#160;but also independently; being able to analyse their work and address any issues effectively. You’ll be given specific tasks by the Project Manager depending on your skillset and find that&#160;there’s no typical day when it comes to the life of a Software Engineer.<img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="right" width="225" height="150" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Comp.jpg" /></p> <p>Having only worked at Web Apps for a couple of days myself, I can honestly say everyone has been so welcoming and helpful. It’s always daunting starting a new job but the people here have made me feel part of the Web Apps family straight away. So what are you waiting for?</p> <p>To apply for the role of Software Engineer please refer to our recruitment page by clicking <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/about_us/recruitment/jobs.aspx">here</a></p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/289.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/289.aspxNatalie SneddonTue, 24 Jan 2012 12:26:00 GMT<p>Progress update on the expansion refurbishment.</p><p>The mysterious door revealed in Helen’s blog back in December is becoming less of a mystery as the renovation begins to take shape. The workmen are busily working away to produce an expansion of our downstairs area into the office space next door. It is still unknown when it will be complete, as you can see it is a little way off yet.</p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;<img alt="" style="width: 508px; height: 341px" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/288/Phase2_24Jan12_A.jpg " /></p> <p>We do now have an idea of the shape it is starting to take. There&#160;will be&#160;29 desks and a kitchen area; a continuation of how downstairs looks on this side of ‘the door’. Who will be sitting at these desks remains to be seen but we can be sure that this will mean more recruitment and more talent to be added to the ever-expanding Web Apps team.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" style="width: 509px; height: 315px" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Files/9/288/Phase2_24Jan12_B.jpg " /></p> <p>Exciting times are ahead as we expand to occupy the entire commercial space of Windsor Works. Be sure to check back for updates on the refurbishment as we move towards an even more impressive Web Applications office.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/288.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/288.aspxNatalie BaileyTue, 20 Dec 2011 15:40:00 GMT<p>Massive congratulations to Paul Thomas, who is the new reining champion of the Web Apps gaming competition!</p><p>One of the many marvellous benefits of working at Web Applications is that the Webbies are a social bunch, so we hold the occasional event or tournament that we can all get involved in. Many are also interested in computer gaming. The Mario and Sonic Winter Olympic Games Wii Tournament was therefore an ideal fit (and most appropriate for the season) and we can now announce the winner of the event!</p> <p>Past console tournaments at Web Applications have spanned months, so we decided that this season’s tournament would be a speedy one and it took place over just 10 working days. 20 Webbies signed up (those willing to sacrifice their lunch hours to a greater cause), and each of them would play 5 times in a series of rounds. The scoring systems meant that the people finishing with the highest points would then take part in one final round to determine who our Winter Olympics Champion would be!</p> <p>After much cajoling, bickering and hysteria, not to mention attempted bribery, our rounds got under way and three exceptional competitors soon emerged as the crème de la crème of the Wii Winter Olympics – Mark, Shui and Paul.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog 2/ScreenFinal.jpg" /></p> <p>And so, the final showdown between the competitive trio, which took place on the final Friday, consisted of the ‘Skeleton Bobsleigh’ game – and as you can see, heart surgeons in theatre demonstrate less concentration:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog 2/FianlistsConcentrate.jpg" /></p> <p>After three minutes of gliding and sliding, our champion finally barrelled his way past the finishing line: Paul Thomas! Congratulations Paul (pictured below, far right)!&#160; As well as obtaining immense glory, Paul has also won a prize, which he is due to receive very soon!</p> <p>&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog 2/Finalists.jpg" /></p> <p>Thank you to all 20 competitors, who's involvement made the tournament as fun and enjoyable as it was!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/287.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/287.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 15 Dec 2011 14:58:00 GMT<div><p>The Webbie Awards, hosted in style this year at the Imperial War Museum, have become a traditio<img alt="" align="right" width="150" height="150" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbie Logo.jpg" />nal feature of the Web Apps Christmas Party. This annual event&#160;gives us the opportunity to pay due deference to the people who make Web Applications the fantastic organisation that it is today&#160;– the hard workers, the characters and the personalities!</p> <p>The Awards, hosted by Craig Dean&#160;with a host of willing assistants, was conducted with all the excitement and glamour of the Oscars. All winners were awarded an original glass Webbie Award trophy, formulated especially for the 2011 ceremony by our designers, as well as a token gift to reflect the sentiment of their award!</p> <p>The categories, the valiant nominees and the heroic winners (in red)&#160;are as follows:</p> <p><b>The Pride of Web Apps Award </b><i>(The Employee of the Year)</i></p> <p>Cheryl Diskin <br /> Jeffrey Ng <br /> <font color="#ff0000">Peter Bettison&#160;</font></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="235" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Pete2.jpg" /><br /> &#160;</p> <p><b>The Directors’ Choice </b><i>(The employee selected by the Directors for their outstanding contribution)</i></p> <p><font color="#ff0000">Jeffrey Ng</font></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Jeff2.jpg" /><br /> &#160;</p> <p><b>The Stephen Fry Award </b><i>(The fountain of knowledge)</i></p> <p><font color="#ff0000">John Sampson</font><br /> Peter Bettison <br /> Vivienne Dean&#160;<br /> &#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - John2.jpg" /></p> <p><b>The 007 Award </b><i>(The smoothest operator)</i></p> <p>Fahim Mukhtar <br /> Herman Ho <br /> <font color="#ff0000">Shaun Austin</font><br /> &#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Shaun2.jpg" /></p> <p><b>The Apple Award </b><i>(The person at the forefront of technology)</i></p> <p style="text-align: left"><font color="#ff0000">Andrew Stanley</font><br /> Robert Lindley <br /> Chris Sweeney&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Andrew2.jpg" /><br /> &#160;</p> <p><b>The Walking Dustbin Award </b><i>(The person who can and will eat anything)</i></p> <p><font color="#ff0000">Allan Lowe </font><br /> Herman Ho <br /> Shui Ip&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><br /> &#160;<img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Allan.jpg" /></p> <p><b>The Julie Andrews Award </b><i>(The person most likely to spontaneously burst into a song)</i></p> <p>Naomi McKenna <br /> Sophia Argyropoulos <br /> <font color="#ff0000">Sara Barlow&#160;</font></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Sara2.jpg" /><br /> &#160;</p> <p><b>The Huggable Teddy Award </b><i>(The loveliest person in the office)</i></p> <p><font color="#ff0000">Helen Burnett </font><br /> Sara Barlow <br /> Vivienne Dean&#160;<br /> &#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Helen2.jpg" /></p> <p><b>The Gordon Burns Award </b><i>(The person who did a great job in the UGS video interview)</i></p> <p>John Sampson <br /> Joseph Taylor <br /> <font color="#ff0000">Mark Walker&#160;</font><br /> &#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="300" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Mark2.jpg" /></p> <p><b>The Nike Award </b><i>(The person who “just does it”)</i></p> <p>Jeffrey Ng <br /> <font color="#ff0000">Naomi McKenna</font> <br /> Peter Bettison&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><br /> &#160;<img alt="" width="300" height="384" src="/Portals/0/Christmas 2011/Webbies - Naomi 2 2.jpg" /></p> <p>Huge congratulations to all our Webbies who, nominated for an award or not, certainly deserve recognition for working as tirelessly as they do!</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/147.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/147.aspxHelen BurnettWed, 14 Dec 2011 14:24:00 GMT<p>2011 saw the Royal Wedding... the end of Libyan dictatorship... and the Web Applications Christmas Party!! What a year!</p><p>The Web Applications festive shindig, held at the prestigious Imperial War Museum in Manchester on Friday evening, was a sensational setting for a sensational occasion!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="500" height="322" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Emma - The Quays.jpg" />&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="500" height="334" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Emma - Plane.jpg" /></p> <p>Complete with Craig’s epic annual speech, the Webbie Awards Ceremony, Secret Santa, a surprise seating plan, a three-course meal and an open bar, all of the Webbies were feeling in the party spirit – and with such a glorious line-up, who could blame them?</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Speech.jpg" /></p> <p>It served as a&#160;most social&#160;occasion for us all to catch up with the colleagues we may not see on a daily basis, as well as hob-nob with our batch of handsome Directors:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Directors.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">It was an evening of polite madness and sensible mayhem, of delightful surprises, revealed truths and common misconceptions. Speaking of which,&#160;prior to&#160;the great event, Craig Dean was a firm believer of the “Four Ds” rule:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><i>Developers Don’t Do Disco.</i></p> <p>While it isn’t every day our Chief Executive is proven incorrect, the photographic evidence of the Christmas Party 2011 would suggest that some developers, in fact, DO do disco!</p> <p>Dark horse Joe Taylor (initials matching both Justin Timberlake and John Travolta, which has turned out to be no coincidence at all), is a true uninhibited dance floor hero, joining the likes of Patrick Swayze and Michael Flatley in the ‘Dancing Legends’ Hall of Fame. Just look at him go:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="600" height="150" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/JT.jpg" />&#160;</p> <p>A huge thanks to Web Applications, who pulled out all the stops to ensure its staff had a really fantastic evening. How they will be able to top this for 2012 is anyone’s guess…</p> <p>Keep checking the news feed and blog for details about more Christmas Party information, such as who won which Webbie Awards and how our designers went to great lengths to maintain the flawless war theme…</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/286.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/286.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 13 Dec 2011 08:37:00 GMT<p>The winner of November’s Manager of the Month is Dale, whose team CTID obtained a total of 187 points!</p><p>With Simon and Chris S in near pursuit (second and third respectively), Dale sails first past the finishing line this month to snatch the prize on offer. The riddle of Dale’s ‘CTID’ team name is easily established once you learn of Dale’s unwavering allegiance to Manchester City... Congratulations to Dale, who gets much more than a prize: he gets the glory too!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="250" height="318" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Dale.jpg" /></p> <p>The overall result of the Webbies league is very much like last month’s, with Mark W steaming ahead in first position and this month’s winner Dale in second place, yet a whole 27 points behind. Will anyone catch up to Walker’s Warriors? With more than half of the season left to play for, now’s the time for the Webbies to step up their strategy and initiate their game plans.</p> <p>Having said this, perhaps it is time to practice what I preach! I miraculously have clawed my way back from an embarrassingly lower-table position to obtain a perfectly respectable (by my standards at least) mid-table perch, but Alex Ferguson I am not:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="1" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="38" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Me-Nov.PNG" /></p> <p>And so the battle rages on and, with over half the season left to navigate our way through, it's all left to play for!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/285.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/285.aspxHelen BurnettMon, 12 Dec 2011 16:04:00 GMT<p>Now, I do not wish to cause alarm. I do not even wish to cause undue concern. But I thought it important to flag up the fact that, seemingly overnight, A Door has appeared in a wall of the Web Applications office.</p><p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="400" height="533" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/DOOR2.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Where has it come from? Where does it lead? What have we done to deserve this?</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="450" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/DOOR3.JPG" /></p> <p>Oh, I know what this could be. This mysterious portal is the next step in the Web Applications expansion plan! Now occupying the entire commercial space of Windsor Works, we are busily re-furbishing and equipping the remaining downstairs space, which we acquired from our recently-departed neighbours Domus Healthcare, making our large offices even more impressive.</p> <p>The Door, from the other side:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="400" height="533" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/P1020923.JPG" /></p> <p>See below to take a peep at the current state of affairs occurring on the other side of The Door, as workmen beaver away to get it ready for the ultimate ‘Webbification’:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="600" height="450" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/P1020926.JPG" /></p> <p>We are thoroughly looking forward to expanding our home and occupying the whole of the two bottom floors of Windsor Works. Keep checking back for building update reports as we work towards an even more magnificent Web Applications.</p> <p>&#160;</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/284.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/284.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 09 Dec 2011 16:01:00 GMT<p>Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful… yes, it is definitely time to anticipate Christmas with huge enthusiasm!</p><p>Gone are the awkward “Is it too early or can we play festive music yet?” hesitations of late November. Firmly wedged in December, and with the Christmas party planned for this very evening, the staff members of Web Applications are fully experiencing the emotion of ‘Christmassy’!</p> <p>See below, for Lauren’s Decorative Desk:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/P1020712.JPG" /></p> <p>And here, but a portion of our stash of Secret Santa presents:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/PRESSIES.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/PRESSIES2.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Welcome to Christmas 2011 everyone!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/283.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/283.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 09 Dec 2011 08:26:00 GMT<div><p>With the finishing line in sight, Web Applications is delighted to announce our unwavering suppo<img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="right" width="200" height="150" src="/Portals/0/Newsfeeds/BuildingSiteMahdlo.jpg" />rt for Mahdlo, a project especially designed for the youth of Oldham, which is due to open on 12th March 2012!</p> <p>The Mahdlo Youth Zone is certainly obtaining local attention - the recent unveiling of a striking custom-made sculpture (which will be the first thing visitors see) brought a host of the region’s local dignitaries to Oldham, as well as coverage from local press. With a £5 million investment from central government and substantial local support <img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="left" width="200" height="150" src="/Portals/0/Newsfeeds/CraigMahdlo.jpg" />from Oldham Council, MAHDLO is set to cause a stir.</p> <p>Having had a look around the Mahdlo site on Egerton Street, we can confirm that even in its unfinished state, the facility is incredibly impressive. Web Applications Chief Executive Craig Dean thoroughly enjoyed the tour with Mahdlo Development Manager, Claire Crossfield (left).</p> <p>The Mahdlo facilities are open to all young people in Oldham, in exchange for an annual fee of £5 and a per-entry fee of just 50p. The project aims to provide individuals between the ages of 16 and 21 an outlet designed to meet their needs, providing somewhere to go, something to do and someone to talk to. 25 activity sessions will be scheduled to take place every evening, getting the children of Oldham off the streets and into a ‘safe haven’, where they can make new friends and enjoy new hobbies.<img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="right" width="200" height="150" src="/Portals/0/Newsfeeds/ClimbingWall.jpg" /></p> <p>We looked around the impressive building site, which will soon house a cinema, a media room, basketball courts, a dance studio and many more facilities that will truly serve the youth of Oldham in a positive way. As of March 2012, this wall (right) will serve Oldham’s youth as a climbing wall!</p> <p>We are very much looking forward to seeing how the Mahdlo Youth Zone projects benefits Oldham’s young people. With volunteering opportunities also available to all local businesses, Web Applications also looks forward to contributing IT expertise in the future.</p> <p>&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="375" src="/Portals/0/Newsfeeds/MahdloSign.jpg" /></p> <p>&#160;</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/146.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/146.aspxHelen BurnettWed, 07 Dec 2011 10:47:00 GMT<p>On Friday 18th November 2011, the Webbies of the Web Applications office joined the rest of the UK in a bid to raise money for the Children In Need campaign. The sum raised by Web Application employees was doubled by Web Applications Ltd, for a donation grand total of £540.</p><p>The theme of the event was spots (which we also extended to stripes, to accommodate those Webbies with a more limited wardrobe) and Webbies each paid £2 to wear their imaginative non-uniform. We also held challenges in and around the office and Project Manager Cheryl nominated herself for a sponsored silence – the quietest she has ever been in known history!</p> <p>Lauren also baked and sold these delicious Pudsey cookies for the cause:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Cookies.jpg" /></p> <p><b>The Doughnut-eating Challenge</b></p> <p>This challenge seemed oh-so-appealing on paper, but it takes a hardcore competitor to succeed at this one! The challenge was to eat a doughnut without licking your lips. To establish a winner, participants would have to keep eating doughnuts until the onslaught of fatigue and failure forced untimely lip-licking. The initial (but short-lived) enthusiasm was caught on film:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Doughnut1.jpg" /></p> <p>Chris, although a trooper, did not quite make it to the end (a photo of Chris or a subliminal BBC advertisement?&#160; You decide.):</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="350" height="467" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Doughnut2.jpg" /></p> <p>The finalists, Ian and Shui, eventually ran out of doughnuts. Although technically my fault for lacking supplies, I never predicted they’d make it to 9 doughnuts each (especially straight after lunch). It would only be fair to declare them joint winners:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Doughnut4.jpg" /></p> <p><b>The Taste Test</b></p> <p>Four very brave Webbies nominated themselves for the taste test, for which they’d have to be blind-folded as they identified 10 different food stuffs, including explosive chillies and rancid (personal opinion) anchovies.</p> <p>Project Manager Mark, apparently the most suspicious of the four, attempting to suss out a sweet chilli (the least offensive of all the chillies on offer):</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/TT2.jpg" /></p> <p>Winner of the challenge Paul Thomas, downing some coffee while trying to tackle a cinnamon stick. Yummy!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/TT3.jpg" /></p> <p>Congratulations to all of the Webbies for embracing the day, getting involved and really contributing to the cause.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/282.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/282.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 02 Dec 2011 15:50:00 GMT<div><p>The ‘Mo Bros’ of Web Applications, after a month long battle with hair-ridden faces in aid of the Movember campaign, have all successfully passed the finishing line…</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/145.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/145.aspxHelen BurnettWed, 30 Nov 2011 16:34:00 GMT<p>The Centre of Excellence is now in its third week of operation and even we have been astounded at the rapid rate at which the centre is flourishing!</p><p>Exploding onto the Greater Manchester test centre scene, eager examinees have been flooding into the state of the art training centre, enjoying the modern furnishings and the smooth facilitation of their examinations. Luckily, capable of seating 12 visitors at a time, we are well equipped to welcome the onslaught through our doors!</p> <p>The Centre of Excellence is one of just two Prometric&#160;test centres in the&#160;region and, located minutes from both the M60 and the heart of Manchester city centre, it is in an ideal location for easy access.</p> <p>Located in a newly renovated three Victorian terrace houses, the facility not only offers fully-equipped examination suites, but also spacious training and conference rooms. The Centre of Excellence also boasts a state of the art security system, fully secure premises and a private car park, so visitors can rest assured that their stay with us is as safe as it is enjoyable.</p> <p>Should you require more information about the WA:UK Centre of Excellence, please visit our <a href="http://www.waukce.com/">website</a>. If you’d like to book a Prometric exam at the Centre of Excellence, please visit the <a href="http://www.prometric.com/default.htm">Prometric website</a>.</p> <p>See below for some pictures of the fantastic new training facility!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Centre of Excellence/P1020582.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Centre of Excellence/P1020587.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="667" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Centre of Excellence/P1020598.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Centre of Excellence/P1020589.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Centre of Excellence/P1020595.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="375" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Centre of Excellence/P1020591.JPG" /></p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/281.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/281.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 25 Nov 2011 11:04:00 GMT<p>And so the fourth and final full week of Movember draws to an end! How are those Webby Mos coming along?</p><p>With five short days until the end of Movember, the Mo Bros at Web Apps are eager for some generous donations to make their month of facial carpet worthwhile! If you would like to donate to the Movember campaign, which hopes to raise funds and promote awareness of men’s cancers, please visit their <a href="http://uk.movember.com/mospace/744180/">Mo Space webpage</a> to make a donation.</p> <p>See below for the photographic evidence of the Mo growing of our handsome Mo Bros. (Don’t be alarmed if this week’s Mos look a little less substantial than last week – trimming is allowed!)</p> <p>Mr Movember himself, Mo&#160;Bro Rob Illing:</p> <p><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="650" height="269" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Rob-wk1234.png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Jeff Ng:</p> <p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="194" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Jeff-wk1234.png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Shui Ip:</p> <p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="203" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Shui-wk1234.png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Paul Thomas:</p> <p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="252" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Paul-wk1234.png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Kris Cartwright:</p> <p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="236" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Kris-wk1234.png" /></p> <p>Wishing the Mo Bros of Web Apps the very best (and lots of generous contributions) for the last few days of Movember!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/280.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/280.aspxHelen BurnettWed, 23 Nov 2011 15:56:00 GMT<p>Web Applications has been revelling in a flurry of graduate fairs over the past week, exhibiting in fairs at Bolton University, the University of Salford and the University of Central Lancashire.</p><p>The graduate fairs we attended were a blizzard of high-calibre students, including those having recently completed their masters and wanting to join the on-going Web Applications Graduate Scheme, as well as numerous well-prepared second year students looking for a third year industrial placement in our offices.</p> <p>If you missed us at any of the recruitment fairs, visit our <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/about_us/recruitment.aspx">Recruitment webpage</a> for some more information about our employment opportunities.</p> <p>Web Apps Network Engineer Lauren Miller, ready to dish out the scoop on our vacancies at the University of Bolton graduate fair:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="500" height="299" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/lauren.jpg" /></p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/279.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/279.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 18 Nov 2011 10:35:00 GMT<p>It is now the third week of Movember and I am delighted to report that not one of our Mo Bros have fallen by the Mo wayside – they are all still proudly sporting rather handsome facial hair.</p><p>The Mos on Show are growing on all of us like... like a moustache growing on someone's face. This could well go on to become a Mecember and Manuary look!</p> <p>If you would like to sponsor Web Tashplications in their bid to raise awareness of men’s cancer and also in their bid for partial facial warmth, please follow this link and contribute to a most worthwhile cause. To find out more about the Movember Campaign, please click here.</p> <p>And now, what you’ve all been waiting for: the photographic evidence of our Mo Bros’ Mos (form an orderly queue ladies!):</p> <p style="text-align: left">Mr Movember, Team Leader Rob Illing:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="358" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Rob-wk123 (2).png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Jeff Ng:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="259" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Jeff-wk123 (2).png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Shui Ip:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="271" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Shui-wk123 (2).png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Paul Thomas:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="337" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Paul-wk123 (2).png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Kris Cartwright:</p> <p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="650" height="314" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Kris-wk123 (2).png" /></p> <p>As they bowl past the half way mark, we wish our Mo Bros the very best for the rest of Movember. Stay tuned for Week 4's updated!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/278.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/278.aspxHelen BurnettWed, 16 Nov 2011 10:24:00 GMT<p>There were many glorious outcomes of the Gala Dinner, none more wonderous than what is about to be unveiled...</p><p>The Oldham branch of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce recently held a Gala Dinner, sponsored and attended by Web Applications. The event played host to a number of Oldham’s most established entrepreneurs, in a celebration of local business achievement. The evening offered attendees a wealth of entertainment, a banquet of delicious food, reams of fascinating conversation and above all… a caricaturist!</p> <p style="text-align: center">What I am about to reveal to you will baffle and enrapture, alarm and horrify, enchant and delight. It will rock your socks, consume your thoughts and make you fear and make your year. And so I present to you… the caricature of Craig and Vivienne Dean!<img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="600" height="437" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Craig and Viv Car1.PNG" /></p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/277.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/277.aspxHelen BurnettWed, 09 Nov 2011 10:59:00 GMT<p>The second week of Movember has now commenced and we have the facial hair on show to prove just this!</p><p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="right" width="300" height="126" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember-2011-Logo.png" />The ‘Web Tashplications UK’ team of Mo Bros in the Web Apps office remain firmly on the Mo Wagon – Rob, Shui, Paul, Jeff and Kris&#160;as well as a few camera shy Mo Bros, have diligently grown their moustache’s to, at this stage, visible proportions.</p> <p>Technical Director Lee Tudor hasn’t stopped at the Mo, he’s proceeded to grow an entire chorus of facial hair. Some call it rule-bending, I call it enthusiasm!</p> <p>If you would like to sponsor any of our Mo Bros, or make a donation to the Web Tashplications UK Team, then you can do so online through their official <a href="https://www.movember.com/uk/donate/your-details/team_id/218186">Web Tashplications UK team web page</a>.</p> <p>See below for the slow but steady growth of the Web Apps Mos on show:</p> <p>Mo Bro Team Leader Rob:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="408" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/Rob-wk12.png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Jeff:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="299" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/Jeff-wk12 (2).png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Shui:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="313" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/Shui-wk12.png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Paul:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="20" width="500" height="390" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/Paul-wk12 (2).png" /></p> <p>Mo Bro Kris:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="500" height="360" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/Kris-wk12 (2).png" /></p> <p>&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/276.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/276.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 08 Nov 2011 16:25:00 GMT<p>As ever, the winds of change are whistling through Web Applications!</p><p>As our brand new <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/144/jump_aboard_the_centre_of_excellence.aspx">Centre of Excellence</a> readies itself for its official opening next week, Web Applications is already embarking on our next project – the outfitting of the remainder of our home, <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/239/windsor-works-our-home-is-our-castle.aspx">Windsor Works</a>.</p> <p>We have occupied the whole of the second floor and half of the first floor of this beautiful building for some time now… but we don’t do things by halves at Web Apps! As we bid farewell to our previous neighbours Domus Healthcare, who are moving on to pastures new, we are now stretching our legs into the remaining space of Windsor Works.</p> <p>With the builders currently gutting and then re-fitting the space in order to best accommodate the needs of Web Applications, the project is moving at lightning speed, but we’ve been able to grab a photo here and there for your perusal. See below for the DIY storyboard so far:</p> <p>The below scene shows the same view over three different stages: with carpet, without carpet and finally, without floorboards! (Also note the disappearance of the doors and walls between 1 and 2!)</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="921" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Domus Storyboard 1.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">The next mini storyboard is again the same scene, photographed&#160;on three occassions over the last couple of weeks:</p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;<img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="800" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Domus Storyboard 2.PNG" /></p> <p>Keep checking for further Windsor Works updates, as we work towards creating an even larger space to accommodate our growing team.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/275.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/275.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 08 Nov 2011 14:24:00 GMT<div><p>Opening for business on 14th November, the highly-anticipated Centre of Excellence is a new state-of-the-art training facility, which has a great deal to offer both individuals and businesses who are hoping to invest in their future.</p> <p>The world of IT is constantly evolving, so it is particularly important not to get left behind. Training and education are the keys to success and the Centre of Excellence is here to ensure you stay at the cutting edge of software development and technology trends.</p> <p>Spanning all three floors of a newly-renovated Victorian mill, the modern and fully-equipped IT training centre provides an ideal learning environment for individuals, whether they hope to move into a new career or achieve mastery in their chosen field. As a certified Prometric training centre, we are able to offer learners a range of professional qualifications, including:<img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="right" width="200" height="114" alt="" src="/Portals/0/Blog/WAUKCE-logo-for-facebook.png" /></p> <p><br /> • Microsoft certifications<br /> <br /> • CompTIA <br /> <br /> • Linux Professional Institute<br /> &#160;</p> <p>and many, many more.</p> <p>Bookings are now being taken through the Prometric website, so if you’d like to gain recognised IT qualifications, click here to book today. Don’t get left behind – follow the Centre of Excellence on Twitter for regular updates:</p> <p>http://twitter.com/#!/waukce</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/144.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/144.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 03 Nov 2011 15:44:00 GMT<p>To the Web Apps Football Fanatic, the commencement of November can only mean one thing: results of October’s Manager of the Month of course!</p><p>The Web Applications Fantasy Football League (or the ‘Webbies’ to those in the know) is delighted to award October’s Manager of the Month crown to our newest Project Manager, Mark Walker. Mark was most enthusiastic about joining our Webbies league in September on his arrival at Web Apps, which could only spell one thing: absolute disaster for the rest of us. If only we’d have known of his aptitude for excellent team selection, we’d have never let him within the confines of the Webbies league. Nevertheless, congratulations to Mark!</p> <p>October has seen an array of interesting FF action, including the plummeting of Fantasy Football enthusiasts, Shui Ip and Shaun Austin to 19th and 21st place respectively in this month’s table. Shaun will explain away his disastrous month with complaints of the league not being as good as The Sun’s Fantasy Football league (because we all know of the excellent quality emanating from The Sun on a daily basis), while Shui claims he’s simply “having a blip”. We’re hoping for less embarrassing scores from both of them throughout November, for the sake of their street cred.</p> <p>Mark Walker is also the reigning champion of the Webbies league so far this season overall, with Dale Roberts and Shui Ip snapping at his heels. Can Mark really maintain his vulnerable position come the end of November? (I suspect so, but embedded in 20th position, all I can do is hope he gets cruelly knocked from his pedestal.)</p> <p style="text-align: center">See below for October’s results table!<img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="577" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/OCTOBER MOM.PNG" /></p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/274.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/274.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 03 Nov 2011 15:06:00 GMT<div><p>The Oldham Chronicle has reported this week on the Chamber of Commerce’s prestigious Gala Dinner 2011 event, which took place in October.</p> <p>The event, hosted by Oldham President of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Craig Dean, was held in celebration of local business achievement. The Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Richard Knowles and Mayoress Valerie Knowles attended in support of the event, as well as a wealth of local established members of the community.</p> <p>The article features a photograph of Craig Dean and others meeting the Mayor, as well as Craig’s reminder to local business to “remain positive and stick together”. As Chief Executive of Web Applications UK Ltd, Craig recognises the importance for businesses to support each other through the challenging times they may be facing.</p> <p>For the more information contained in the full article, please see below:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="600" height="386" alt="" src="/Portals/0/Newsfeeds/GalaDinnerChronicle.PNG" /></p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/143.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/143.aspxHelen BurnettWed, 02 Nov 2011 16:01:00 GMT<p>As Movember kicks off, I have done my rounds of the office to record the handsome hairless faces of the Web Apps Mo Bros in their bid to grow their Movember taches, in order to raise money and awareness for ‘male’ cancers.</p><p>I will be updating the blog on a weekly basis to report on their progress (and ensure no one is having a cheeky trim of their tache), so stay tuned.</p> <p>See below for the first official recordings of our temporarily hairless wonders (A couple of our Mo Bros have shied away from either having their picture taken or having their picture included in the blog, but I’ll be diligently monitoring their progress nonetheless):</p> <p>Mr Movember himself, Rob Illing:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="150" height="256" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/WEEK1 Rob.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Mo Bro Super Jeff Ng:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="150" height="180" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/WEEK 1 Jeff.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Mo Bro Kris Cartwright:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" width="150" height="216" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/WEEK1 Kris.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Mo Bro Shui Ip:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="150" height="188" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/WEEK1 Shui.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Mo Bro Paul Thomas:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="150" height="232" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/WEEK1 Paul.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Good luck to all of our Mo Bros!&#160; For more information or to donate to the cause, please visit the <a href="http://uk.movember.com/">official Movember website</a>.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/273.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/273.aspxHelen BurnettMon, 31 Oct 2011 15:33:00 GMT<p>Movember is here tomorrow, the time of year in the Web Apps office&#160;that sees our clean-cut city types transformed into rugged, hairy beasts&#160;over 30 days, in support of prostate cancer and testicular cancer initiatives.</p><p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="170" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/Poster.PNG" /></p> <p>Following ‘Wear It Pink’ Day last week, a day dedicated to women’s health and specifically the Breast Cancer Campaign, we now find ourselves in the throes of Movember! Throughout the month of Movember, the ‘Mo Bros’ will cast aside their razors and shun their daily de-hairing routine in favour of a greater cause: to raise funds for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and other cancers that affect men. The distinctive moustaches (or 'Mos') will also raise essential awareness of men’s health. All funds raised will be donated to research institutions, such as the Prostate Cancer Charity, the Institute of Cancer Research and the Movember Foundation.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="124" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Movember/Poster 2.PNG" /></p> <p>The band of Web Apps Mo Bros who are braving the realms of facial fluff will make sure to be clean-shaven tomorrow (the 1st of Movember) and will then be monitored throughout the month, so we can track their progress (and make sure no one is having a sneaky trim). And as if any more incentive were required, the ‘Mos’ will serve as a handy facial warmers on those chilly English mornings.</p> <p>Take a leaf out of the Web Apps Mo Bros book and grow yourself a Mo for the cause or simply donate by visiting the <a href="http://uk.movember.com/?home">Movember official website</a>.</p> <p>Nb: It wounds me to report that neither of the men pictured above actually work for Web Applications, but stay tuned for pictures of the clean-shaven faces of the far superior Mo Bros in this office, as we kick start Movember.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/272.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/272.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 28 Oct 2011 09:35:00 GMT<p>In support of the Breast Cancer campaign, members of the Web Apps office have today been donning a variety of pink items… some rather more inventive than we’d predicted!</p><p>Today is national Wear It Pink day, in which employees of organisations up and down the country have each given £2 in order to wear a pink item of clothing to work, and my word do we have a range of get-ups on show today! This terrific occasion not only donates much needed funds to scientific breast cancer research, but also raises breast cancer awareness.</p> <p>If you would like more information about the cause or find out how you can make donations, please visit the official Wear It Pink website by clicking <a href="http://www.wearitpink.co.uk/">here</a>, where you can access further information about the Breast Cancer Campaign.</p> <p>The photographic evidence of the Web App employees ‘Wearing It Pink’ is below – and you won’t believe it until you’ve seen it!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="550" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Louise Mathieson.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="527" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Ian Munro.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="304" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Rob Illing.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" width="400" height="533" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Mark2.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="400" height="306" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Paul Thomas.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/271.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/271.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 27 Oct 2011 14:53:00 GMT<p>I am delighted to present to you further pictures from the Web Apps User Group Seminar. This selection of atmospheric photographs beautifully capture the fantastic occasion.</p><p>Web Apps designer John Palowski is a bit of a photographic wizard and this latest batch of sensational pictures from the UGS, which are nothing short of art, only confirms our suspicion that he is, in fact, David Bailey in disguise.</p> <p>So if you missed the UGS or&#160;simply wish you'd have been there, then fret no more: these shots are the next best thing. Enjoy!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="398" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/UGS/8.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="398" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/UGS/7.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="398" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/UGS/1.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="398" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/UGS/3.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="398" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/UGS/4.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="398" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/UGS/6.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" width="600" height="398" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/UGS/5.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/270.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/270.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 25 Oct 2011 10:47:00 GMT<p>The long-awaited UGS video has finally arrived on the Web Apps YouTube channel!</p><p>The video, which was showcased at the Web Apps User Group Seminar 2011, was created from the interview footage of our employees, who did a fantastic job of conveying their roles and the company itself in a genuine and absorbing way.</p> <p>The excellent response we’ve had to the 14-minute video tells us that it was much appreciated by those clients who attended the UGS, who were pleased to put faces on the names of those people they interact with (via phone or email) every day. It also offered a fair insight into the day to day operations of Web Applications and, more importantly, into the people who make the company what it is.</p> <p>To view the video for yourself, you can do so by clicking <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTMDbaEPySs">here</a> or by following the full link below:</p> <p><a www.youtube.com="" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTMDbaEPySs">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTMDbaEPySs</a></p> <p>A huge thanks to everyone who offered their time to the creation of the video – it was an all-round effort that has certainly paid off.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/269.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/269.aspxHelen BurnettMon, 24 Oct 2011 12:02:00 GMT<div><p>In light of Web Applications’ recent sponsorship agreement with Oldham Athletic (more information and a screenshot of our stadium banner in action can be found in <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/267/latics-shine-under-web-apps-banner.aspx">this blog</a>), the Oldham Chronicle have featured a piece about the sponsorship deal with the Latics, complete with a quote from Chief Executive of Web Applications, Craig Dean.</p> <p>Web Applications is delighted to support the community and, armed with a particularly competitive Web Apps&#160;Fantasy Football league, football holds a rather special place in our hearts.</p> <p>The article includes a photograph of Craig, along with Web Applications Training Manager (and die-hard Athletic supporter) Shaun Austin, Athletic Commercial Manager Jenny Warburton and Athletic Chief Executive Alan Hardy.</p> <p>To read the article in full (followed by a less grainy version of the picture) see below!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="389" alt="" src="/Portals/0/Blog/AthleticSponsorship.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="331" alt="" src="/Portals/0/Blog/OldhamAthleticPic.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;</p> <p style="text-align: center">&#160;</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/142.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/142.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 20 Oct 2011 15:03:00 GMT<p>The WebApps annual User Group Seminar (UGS) went off with a bang yesterday, as guests were treated to a range of riveting presentations and demonstrations.</p><p>We treat this event as our opportunity to keep in touch with our clients – not just to keep them updated and informed about Web Apps, but also for us to receive valuable feedback as the company moves forward.</p> <p>We’ve already had plenty of positive remarks following the event, which consisted of a series of presentations and talks from a range of people on a range of topics throughout the day, finished off with a question and answer session. And as another User Group Seminar flies by, another batch of photographs await your perusal! See the event, which was expertly captured by Web Apps designer John, picture by picture below.</p> <p style="text-align: left">Chief Executive Craig Dean kicked off the proceedings, with a company overview, a report of our progress and further details about current projects such as the Centre of Excellence and our US expansion. He also showcased our video, created from the interview footage of Web Apps employees:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="601" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/DSC02907.JPG" /></p> <p>Cheryl Diskin then took to the floor, with a demonstration of the Traveller 4.0 capabilities:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="601" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Cheryl 1 edit.jpg" /></p> <p>The more technical demonstration, much appreciated by the host of IT buffs in attendance, was left to Lee Tudor, whose afternoon presentation included a detailed look into Traveller 4 technology, an overview of hardware requirements and SQL 2012:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="266" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Lee craig1 Edit.jpg" /></p> <p>We also invited two speakers from outside Web Apps to address our clients. Nahir Dutt represented Dell and discussed their solution strategy for small and medium businesses, including their latest servers and storage solutions:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="200" height="301" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Dell 1 edit.jpg" /></p> <p>David Osborne, a Sales Manager from Multicom, presented an overview of Multicom’s products and services and how Traveller customers could utilise the ‘FindAndBook’ platform:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="200" height="301" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/multicom 1 edit.jpg" /></p> <p>The day ended by opening the floor up to clients, who had the opportunity to ask Lee and Craig any questions they wanted answering:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="266" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/DSC02904.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">&#160;</p> <p>A huge thanks to everyone who made the day possible, but most of all to everyone who attended - you made it an extremely special occassion.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/268.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/268.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 18 Oct 2011 15:26:00 GMT<div><p>The University of Manchester are hosting their annual Engineering, Science and Technology Fair at Manchester Central (formerly the G-Mex) on Wednesday 19th October, from 10.30am to 4.00pm. And there aren’t many graduate fairs that go unnoticed by Web Applications UK, so we will of course be there to dish out advice, impart wisdom and signpost our current vacancies.</p> <p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="right" style="width: 150px; height: 112px" src="/Portals/0/Blog/Manchester Central.PNG" /></p> <p>While we don’t have a graduate scheme as such, Web Applications welcome graduates to apply for our full-time vacancies. This year alone we have taken on 10 graduates as well as several industrial placement students and we also offer internships, from 6 weeks to 3 months long.</p> <p>We are currently looking for Software Developers to join our growing team, as well as a Front-End Developer. Training opportunities are open to everyone at Web Applications, so we are particularly looking for individuals with a passion for IT and personal development.</p> <p>We look forward to seeing graduates (and maybe potential employees!) at the fair on Wednesday.</p> <p>For more information about Web Applications’ current vacancies, please see our recruitment page by clicking <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/about_us/recruitment.aspx">here</a>. If you’d like to know more about Manchester’s Engineering, Science and Technology Fair, you can do so by clicking <a href="http://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/students/events/engineeringscienceandtechnologyfair/">here</a>.</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/141.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/141.aspxHelen BurnettMon, 17 Oct 2011 08:48:00 GMT<p>Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it’s the new Web Applications banner flying proudly over Oldham Athletic FC at Boundary Park!</p><p>The banner was lovingly created by the masters of design in the Web Applications Design and Marketing department (more about them <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/254/web-apps-design-marketing-team-little-but-mighty.aspx">here</a>). It made appearances on both the Sky Sports 1 and the BBC coverage of the match on Monday 10th October, as Oldham Athletic took on the MK Dons! See below for the moment the Web Apps banner was showcased:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="700" height="426" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/sign in action2.jpg" /></p> <p>If you’re interested, Latics snatched a win with the final score of 2 – 1 and we like to think that the good vibes emanating from our banner in the stands played a small role in their victory!</p> <p>For more information about the Web Apps’ team of choice, Oldham Athletic, feel free to visit their website by clicking <a href="http://www.oldhamathletic.co.uk/page/Home/0,,10337,00.html">here</a>.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/267.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/267.aspxHelen BurnettSun, 16 Oct 2011 14:05:00 GMT<div><p>Web Applications is all too aware of the essential role communication plays in business. We are constantly in communication with our clients, face to face, via phone, conference call and email to name a few mediums, to best achieve effective and fruitful working relationships. The User Group Seminar serves as a unique addition to our repertoire of communication channels.</p> <p>The event is designed exclusively around our clients. Its main purpose is to serve as an interactive forum for clients to keep updated with the progress of Web Applications, the products we offer and the exciting projects that lie in store for us in the coming months. This year's UGS is set to be the best ever - attendees will be treated to live demonstrations of our Tr@veller product, by Project Manager Cheryl Diskin and Technical Director Lee Tudor as well as contributions from guest speakers.</p> <p>Clients will also have the opportunity to speak with a host of Project Managers, as well as Directors Nick Fowler, Lee Tudor and Gordon Pearce and Chief Executive Craig Dean. Web Applications welcomes this opportunity to give and receive feedback from our clients; the people who matter most to us.</p> <p>We look forward to seeing you all there – should clients need more information about the event, or require a copy of the agenda, don’t hesitate to contact our office and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/140.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/140.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 13 Oct 2011 16:56:00 GMT<div><p>Web Applications is thoroughly looking forward to this year’s Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce Gala Dinner, which will be taking place tomorrow night in celebration of local business achievement.</p> <p>Web Applications are delighted to sponsor the event, which will play host to a number of established business people from the Oldham area. The evening will be hosted by Chief Executive of Web Applications Craig Dean, who also serves as Oldham President of the GMCC and Martyn Torr, the Business Editor of the Oldham Chronicle newspaper.</p> <p>The event will take place at Clough Manor in Denshaw, where guests will be treated to a delicious four-course dinner and entertainment by established comedian John Scott. John started his comedy career in May 2000 and since then has gone on to become one of the most sought after speakers on the “after dinner circuit”. The evening certainly promises to be a very special occasion.</p> <p>If you are interested in attending the Gala Dinner tomorrow evening, Friday 14th October, there are some tickets still available, which can be purchased online through the GM Chamber website: http://bit.ly/ripCa3.</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/139.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/139.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 13 Oct 2011 10:23:00 GMT<p>The employees of Web Applications have recently been flexing their PR muscles in front of the camera, in a series of fantastic filmed interviews for the pending Web Applications’ User Group Seminar!</p><p>Attendees of the UGS, which will be taking place on Wednesday 19th October, will be treated to a feast of technological know-how, quick wit and insider perspective, in a final edit of the sensational footage.</p> <p>A host of Webbies came forward to volunteer for taking part in the interviews, which went fantastically well – I say this not to brag, nor to bolster their spirits – they were genuinely fantastic. We had an array (one for the programmers there) of expertise on display, with appearances from Director Lee Tudor, Chief Executive Craig Dean, a handful of Project Managers and some developers thrown into the mix too.</p> <p>Me and new Project Manager Stephen, preparing for his interview:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="333" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/DSC02803.JPG" /></p> <p>The camera crew moved their equipment into the building and we were ready to rock and roll:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="333" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/DSC02800.JPG" /></p> <p>As Web Applications’ employees ready themselves for a post-screening onslaught of paparazzi invasion, chat show appearance requests and a surge of followers on Twitter, we are all most excited to showcase the outlook of the talented minds employed at Web Applications on Wednesday.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/266.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/266.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 07 Oct 2011 11:40:00 GMT<div><p>Web Applications is delighted to announce that we have raised a total of £108.91 for MacMillan cancer support.</p> <p>The funds, which were raised by our willing employees through various inter-office events, will be donated to MacMillan cancer support, which provides practical, medical and financial support in a push for better cancer care.</p> <p>Partaking in the Macmillan ‘World’s Biggest Coffee Morning’ saw all Web Apps employees dig into their pockets in order enjoy a range of home-made (and Tesco-made) culinary delights:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="640" height="425" src="/Portals/0/Blog/Cake!.jpg" /></p> <p>The Web Apps Support team also raised funds through their swear-jar, an innovative and certainly fruitful fundraising apparatus.</p> <p>Web Applications is always delighted to take part in causes as worthwhile as this one and we have various charitable events lined up in the coming months, including Wear It Pink day and Movember.</p> <p>We are delighted to donate our funds to MacMillan’s total, who hope to top the £5.5 million that was raised last year. If you would like to read more information about MacMillan’s cause, please click <a href="http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Home.aspx">here</a>.</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/138.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/138.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 07 Oct 2011 09:28:00 GMT<p>Web Apps exhibited in style yesterday at the University of Manchester’s Ethnic Diversity Fair!</p><p>Training Manager Shaun Austin and I were available throughout the day, dishing out the scoop on our latest vacancies and general information about Web Apps – not to mention Frisbees, pens and Celebration chocolates!</p> <p>We were most impressed with the huge amount of high-calibre students who attended the Fair, many of whom were riddled with a wealth of coding experience, bachelor degrees, masters and even some PhDs. Many excellent CVs were submitted for our current vacancy of Software Engineer and we are confident that our visit to the fair will yield some positive recruitment results.</p> <p>Shaun Austin, imparting wisdom as ever:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="300" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Ethnic Diversity Fair 050.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">What student wouldn't be tempted?!:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="300" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Ethnic Diversity Fair 056.JPG" /></p> <p>Web Applications will next be exhibiting at the Engineering, Science and Technology Fair, again at the University of Manchester on the 19th October, more information for which can be found <a href="http://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/students/events/engineeringscienceandtechnologyfair/">here</a>.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/265.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/265.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 04 Oct 2011 11:29:00 GMT<div><p>Chief Executive Craig Dean, who also serves as the Oldham President of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, regularly features in the Oldham Chronicle.</p> <p>Craig’s most recent article, founded in the importance of businesses investing in their future capabilities can be read below. Alternatively, visit the Oldham Chronicle website by clicking <a href="http://www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/news-features/7/business/61355/fibre-is-the-future-for-a-digital-oldham">here</a> to view the article in full.</p> <p>For more information about the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, visit their <a href="http://www.gmchamber.co.uk/">website</a> for further details.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="300" src="/Portals/0/Newsfeeds/CraigSep1.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="700" height="225" src="/Portals/0/Newsfeeds/CraigSep2.PNG" /></p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/137.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/137.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 04 Oct 2011 08:43:00 GMT<p>The first month of Fantasy Football for which there are prizes available is now complete and while I’m rapidly tiring of this Fantasy Football lark, I feel duty-bound to relay the results of September’s competition, in consideration of the Alex Ferguson-alikes who hail from this office.</p><p style="text-align: center"><img style="width: 144px; height: 128px" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/FFLogo.PNG" /></p> <p>Huge congratulations to Liam O’Connor, who’s Team LJOCFC did him proud, winning him the Web Apps Coach of the Month prize for September! Liam is also doing well in the overall table and is obviously someone who knows their Evra from their Sagna. But Liam is going to have to maintain his efforts if he means to do as well in October’s competition – I don’t mean to scare you Liam, but you’re currently ranking below me in October’s table!</p> <p>Liam was closely followed by Naomi McKenna, who was most excited at (and astounded by) her fantastic score!</p> <p>Shui, I’m told, has always done fantastically in Fantasy Football over the years. To put things in perspective, if Shui is the Paul McCartney of Fantasy Football, this would make me the drummer of the band who came 9th in 1983’s ‘A Song for Europe’. However, September was not one of his crowning achievements, as he merely came in at eighth, which in his book just isn’t on. No doubt he’ll be taking himself into a corner and having a word in preparation for October’s competition, which got underway this weekend.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="179" height="43" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/FF.PNG" /></p> <p>For the likes of Shui and other hardcore contenders such as John, Mark and Dale (all of whom are in the running for the Manager of the Year award), the winning is not in the prize, but in the sheer glory! And so the battle rages on.</p> <p>See below for the Webbies October table, or click <a href="http://fantasy.premierleague.com/">here</a> to find out more about Fantasy Football.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="600" height="518" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/October.PNG" /></p> <p>&#160;</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/264.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/264.aspxHelen BurnettSat, 01 Oct 2011 12:27:00 GMT<div><p>Web Applications UK is pleased to announce that we will be attending this year’s Ethnic Diversity Fair on Wednesday 5th October, which will take place in Whitworth Hall at the University of Manchester -&#160;more&#160;information on&#160;the event&#160;can be found <a href="http://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/recruit/fairs/diversity/">here</a>.<img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="right" width="274" height="188" src="/Portals/0/Blog/Whitworth.PNG" /></p> <p>This annual event serves as an opportunity for employers who value developing a diverse workforce to make contact with a wide pool of talented students from the University of Manchester, particularly black and Asian students. Having attended the fair in previous years, we have found it to yield excellent results in the past, providing a high calibre of talent from one of the country’s finest universities.</p> <p>We hope to see as many students as possible at the fair, where we will be on the lookout for fresh new talent to apply for any of our vacancies. Training Manager Shaun Austin will also be available to answer any questions or queries you may have about our organisation.</p> <p>For further information about our current vacancies, please visit our <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/about_us/recruitment.aspx">recruitment page</a>.</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/136.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/136.aspxHelen BurnettSat, 01 Oct 2011 12:27:00 GMT<div><p>Web Applications UK is pleased to announce that we will be attending this year’s Ethnic Diversity Fair on Wednesday 5th October, which will take place in Whitworth Hall at the University of Manchester, more information on which can be found <a href="http://www.careers.manchester.ac.uk/recruit/fairs/diversity/">here</a>.<img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="right" width="274" height="188" alt="" src="/Portals/0/Blog/Whitworth.PNG" /></p> <p>This annual event serves as an opportunity for employers who value developing a diverse workforce to make contact with a wide pool of talented students from the University of Manchester, particularly black and Asian students. Having attended the fair in previous years, we have found it to yield excellent results in the past, providing a high calibre of talent from one of the country’s finest universities.</p> <p>We hope to see as many students as possible at the fair, where we will be on the lookout for fresh new talent to apply for any of our vacancies. Training Manager Shaun Austin will also be available to answer any questions or queries you may have about our organisation.</p> <p>For further information about our current vacancies, please visit our <a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/about_us/recruitment.aspx">recruitment page</a>.</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/134.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/134.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 30 Sep 2011 10:27:00 GMT<p>This morning’s coffee morning at Web Applications, in aid of Macmillan cancer support, has got off to a flying start as employees (politely) stampede into the boardroom to fill their plates.</p><p>Several employees brought in cakes, biscuits, cookies, scones, tarts and even meringues in a dazzling array of culinary delights! Those less inclined to don a pinny are readily enjoying the fruits of their colleagues’ labour by splashing out on these wonderfully indulgent treats, safe in the knowledge that all of the proceeds from today’s coffee morning will be donated to Macmillan’s extremely worthy cause, more information on which can be found <a href="http://coffee.macmillan.org.uk/Home.aspx">here</a>.</p> <p>Witness below the selection of treats on offer:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="332" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Cake!.jpg" /></p> <p>Hungry employees:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="332" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Digging In.jpg" /></p> <p>Sophia, Jeff and Sara taking their pick:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="332" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Selecting.jpg" /></p> <p>Dale “I’m more of a trifle man” Roberts wasted no time getting stuck in to those cup cakes:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="332" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Dale.jpg" /></p> <p>A troop of us arrived in the boardroom before 10am to set up the table of treats, only to find Fahim, who had got a head start on the cake consumption. “I’ve not had anything!” he professed, a spray of crumbs emitting from his suspiciously stuffed mouth. Luckily, he could probably get away with anything. Here is Fahim, caught in the act:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="332" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Blog/Fahim.jpg" /></p> <p>A huge thanks to all of those employees who have donated their time and food, and also to those simulataneously consuming and contributing! We look forward to sending all proceeds from today on to MacMillan's Cancer Support fund.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/263.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/263.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 27 Sep 2011 09:28:00 GMT<p>Web Applications will join thousands of other organisations around the country this week in aid of Macmillan fundraising event for cancer support.</p><p>‘The World’s Biggest Coffee Morning’, as it is fondly known, will take place this coming Friday, 30th September. Employees will bring in a range of baked goods, freshly rustled up in their kitchens, which can be purchased by their colleagues at rather bargainous prices. The purchases will not only provide wonderfully tasty treats to enhance the quality of one’s Friday morning, but the proceeds will also be donated to an extremely worthy cause.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="183" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/MacMillan.PNG" /></p> <p>The event, which was founded over 20 years ago, has raised more than £60 million in total, which has been used for the medical, emotional, practical and financial support for those facing the effects of cancer.</p> <p>For more information, recipes and ideas about the coffee morning, check out Macmillan’s website by clicking <a href="http://coffee.macmillan.org.uk/Home.aspx">here</a>. .</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/262.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/262.aspxHelen BurnettFri, 23 Sep 2011 12:45:00 GMT<p>A recent competition amongst Web App employees saw them compete in a bid to produce the most awe-inspiring photographic material from their recent trip to Alton Towers. I am delighted present the fantastic material of the two winners: Mariusz and Herman.</p><p>The first is a jaw-dropping video by Mariusz, filmed and directed from two of the most hardcore rollercoasters in Europe: Oblivion and Nemesis. Mariusz, undeterred by panic or fear, somehow managed to keep hold of his camera throughout the duration of the rides, along with his fellow Web Apps developers and daredevils Tomasz and Robert, who also feature in the movie. Witness Mariusz's courageous endeavor, by following the link below to our YouTube video. Enjoy!</p> <p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysujnlkj5Ig">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysujnlkj5Ig</a></p> <p>The second winner, Herman, provided some pictures that would have made Andy Warhol green with envy. After viewing these works of art, prepare to feel most cultured:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="370" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Herman.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="350" height="462" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Herman2.PNG" /></p> <p>A huge thanks to all employees who took part in the competition!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/261.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/261.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 20 Sep 2011 14:31:00 GMT<p>Another quick photographic update from the Centre of Excellence.</p><p style="text-align: left">These photographs have been taken in the last few minutes of the glass manifestations that have recently arrived in the new building – one of the very last pieces in the jigsaw that is Web Applications’ brand new Centre of Excellence.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="333" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/DSC02759.JPG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="500" height="333" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/DSC02757.JPG" /></p> <p>What beauty! What flair! The glass walls, complete with the stunning manifestations for both safety and decorative purposes, allows the sleek interpretation of the Web Apps logo to stand out, while allowing the area a spacious feel. Who needs bog-standard brick walls when there is a strikingly modern yet practical alternative on offer?</p> <p>We have thus far only offered you snippets of this new venture, merely whetting your appetite for the grand opening of Elizabeth House. Stay tuned!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/260.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/260.aspxHelen BurnettMon, 19 Sep 2011 08:51:00 GMT<p>Having done some reading up recently on what is the best sixth-generation games console, I was curious to know what the Webbies of Web Apps’ opinions were on the matter. </p><p>We often stage inter-office tournaments on various consoles, so many of us at Web Apps know our computer gaming, and the results of the preference vote were as follows:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="300" height="179" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Console Results.PNG" /></p> <p>In accordance with various other online poles, the X-Box 360 streaked ahead with the majority of votes, with the Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii left trailing in its wake. Online review sites such as gadget-playground.com and whatconsole.com seem to rate the X-Box 360 as the Rolls Royce of gaming power, due to its excellent graphic capability, well-implemented online system and attractive additions such as ‘Kinect’.</p> <p>But let us not disregard the other 23 voters. Web Applications are largely a male staff, so there were never going to be dozens of female votes, but it initially astounded me to find that three of the four female voters voted for the Nintendo Wii. Is the Wii really that appealing to the girls? whatconsole.com suggests that the Wii is best suited for keep-fit enthusiasts, families and casual gamers, which one could argue are more likely to be female users, so the preference of the Wii by the females is perhaps the logical outcome. However, one female bucked the Wii trend and opted for ‘Other’ (more of that later).</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="600" height="172" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Consoles.PNG" /></p> <p>At the other end of the spectrum, the X-Box and PS3 is better for hardcore gamers and they tend to feature action/shooter games, which Wii owners won’t encounter, such as Gears of War, Call of Duty and Bioshock. Users can role-play as hardened criminals, who tend to be clad in metallic armour, armed with a cocktail of weaponry, on a quest to brutally murder the enemy…while Wii players diligently practice their tennis serve.</p> <p>After a bit of investigation, it became apparent that the majority of those voting ‘Other’ preferred more retro consoles, such as Sega Mega Drive II, Dreamcast and Magnavox Odyssey (I had to google that one), perceiving these past generation consoles to be of better gaming quality than, I quote, the “flashy new rubbish”. My experience of retro gaming is confined to playing ‘Wario’ on a GameCube – a crazy meddly of random games, but most enjoyable ones. The graphics, speed and size of the newer game consoles may be better than ever, but who can debate the simple and straightforward enjoyability of retro gaming? Less complex (and less intimidating?) consoles are perhaps able to draw from a wider pool of users, unlike the newer consoles, which come with specific target markets.</p> <p>To arrive at one of those irritatingly inconclusive conclusions, it’s fair to say that the ‘best console’ is entirely dependent on the needs (and maybe the demographic) of the user, so it could be argued that in a rather philosophical twist that there are no best consoles, just different ones.</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/259.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/259.aspxHelen BurnettThu, 15 Sep 2011 10:23:00 GMT<p>A fearless group of Web Apps office members took off on a coach yesterday in search of thrills, mayhem and ultimate adventure and, after a quick spin across the countryside, found themselves at Alton Towers!</p><p>The&#160;head&#160;honchos&#160;of Web Applications, who firmly believe that raising the morale of its staff is key to a content and productive working environment, sent us off for a day of adrenaline-pumping excitement and we were certainly not disappointed. The team were greeted by a wealth of formidable rollercoasters; Nemesis, Oblivion, Thirteen, Rita, Air, as well as a fair amount of irate wasps - you name it, we braved it.</p> <p style="text-align: left">Amidst the gabbling rabble, I managed to snap a few shots of our Webbies, so I’ll let the photos do the rest of the talking:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="5" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="279" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/Anticipation.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="5" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="316" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/Devs.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Ghost Train: they're smiling through the fear.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="5" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="254" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/Ghost Train.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Crowd control:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="5" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="262" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/Mob.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="5" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="287" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/Sign.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">Before the River Rapids got angry:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="5" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="266" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/Rapids.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">After the River Rapids got angry:</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img border="5" hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="middle" width="400" height="635" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Alton Towers/Soaking.PNG" /></p> <p style="text-align: left">&#160;</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/258.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/258.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 13 Sep 2011 12:47:00 GMT<p>Web Applications cares for Oldham. We have educated the young in a local primary school, spoken about employment prospects at nearby universities and provided a ‘Beat the Recession’ webinar for local businesses. But the lesser-known devotion to Oldham that we exhibit on a daily basis is our boundless dedication to being lovely and green.</p><p style="text-align: left">Rather than assign employees with company cars, Web Applications pool a single company car to be shared when it is required, so as not to encourage all those nasty fumes. A handful of office-members also cycle in to work every day, such as Mariusz, pictured below with his bicycle. Mariusz shuns the benefits of a petrol-guzzling, carbon-emitting vehicle and braves the drafty plains of Oldham, in his personal bid to save the planet – good work, Mariusz!</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="350" height="526" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/Mariuz on bike.jpg" /></p> <p>Being a player in the high-tech game means that the computerisation of almost all documents saves a lot of what would otherwise be paper waste. Any paper waste we do produce is diligently separated and recycled, along with other office materials from cans to card.</p> <p style="text-align: center"><img hspace="10" vspace="10" align="middle" width="350" height="355" alt="" src="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/Portals/0/recycling bin.jpg" /></p> <p>We are always on the lookout for new ways to lower our carbon footprint and we eagerly anticipate the building of the Oldham Metrolink, which will provide a new clean means of access. Members of the Web Apps office are rarely blue, but we certainly are green!</p><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/257.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/blog/entryid/257.aspxHelen BurnettTue, 13 Sep 2011 11:41:00 GMT<div><p><img hspace="10" alt="" vspace="10" align="right" width="150" height="213" src="/Portals/0/LeadingLights.jpg" />Web Applications has recently embarked upon a recruitment drive, in order to source new employees from talent pools of the highest standard. The effects of this drive are becoming rapidly apparent, and have already resulted in an influx of fresh faces, in&#160;our on-going commitment to provide top-quality service to our clients.</p> <p>Two experienced Project Managers have recently joined Web Applications, who are currently in the process of being trained in all elements of their role. They will lead teams of developers to effectively and efficiently deliver a high standard of coding to clients, ensuring our products are operating to their full potential, so that they will best serve the&#160;needs of the customer.</p> <p>We are also delighted to welcome four new Software Developers to the company. All of our developers must pass a challenging in-house programming test in order to demonstrate an excellent level of ability, as well as progress through two stages of interviews. The new additions to the team will provide further high-quality coding output, assisting us in keeping ahead of the needs of our clients.</p> <p>The new intake of employees, which also includes a member of the administration department, is accommodating for the progression of Web Applications, not only in terms of physical expansion but also in terms of what we are able to achieve.</p> <p>We welcome all of our new employees to the company and hope their time here will be as fruitful and enjoyable as it promises to be.</p></div><br/><a href="http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/133.aspx">Go to article</a>http://www.webapplicationsuk.com/community/news/articletype/articleview/articleid/133.aspxHelen Burnett