SQS Software Quality Systems announces it’s tripling the size of its software testing facility in Belfast to meet increased demand for outsourced testing services from a ‘near-shore’ site. The expansion will mean the creation of 37 new jobs.

SQS is the largest independent software testing and quality assurance provider. The Belfast facility will offer a range of services including: security testing, environment hosting, test automation and performance testing for its Irish, UK, European and US customers. It will also provide specialised expertise in banking, insurance and telecommunications.

Rob McConnell, SQS Regional Director for Northern Ireland, says: “We’ve seen a strong growth in demand for outsourcing testing services to Belfast. In addition to cost-savings, near-shoring customers benefit from highly technical resources, close proximity for site visits, a common language and time-zone, full-cultural alignment and common communication channels.”

“We’re also fulfilling the needs of organisations, such as those in the public sector and financial services, whose data needs to remain in the UK for political or legislative reasons,” Rob continues.

The SQS Belfast office was originally set-up in 2007, based on Northern Ireland’s reputation as a technology hub with a strong supply of skilled IT graduates, high-quality service provision and low-cost differential over onshore providers.

The expansion has been partially funded by Invest NI.