SCOTLAND’S software sector is defying economic gloom to attract millions of pounds in new business, according to a new survey.

A study by technology consultancy firm Targeting Innovation has found that in the Glasgow software sector, for example, total turnover rose to £184m from £126m last year and profit was up by 5% to £9m.

George Boag, Targeting’s chief executive, said the sector deserved more recognition. “The Scottish software sector is quietly winning new business and bringing in money while most other businesses are wringing their hands,” said Boag. “Scotland has a very strong foundation in software development — with around 1,500 companies trading. This isn’t widely recognised beyond the games industry.”

Dunfermline-based Level Four Software has won £2m in contracts in the last 12 months and has rapid sales growth.

The company has developed cutting-edge software for ATM machines.

East Kilbride-based Gael Ltd, which specialises in compliance management software, has seen a 40% growth in turnover in the last 12 months, accounting for £2.2m.

Software awards

The Scottish Software Awards will celebrate the talent and success of Scotland’s software industry later this year. The deadline for entries has been extended to October 13.

Entry forms for the awards are available online at www.scottishsoftwareawards.co.uk , and finalists will be invited to a ceremony at the Radisson SAS hotel in Glasgow on November 28.

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