Quillsoft Ltd.

A Memo from the CEO

Each member of our team at Quillsoft has personal experiences with the challenges of reading and writing. Whether it's our own struggles or those of our loved ones, these difficulties touch every aspect of our lives, be it at school, home, or the workplace. This profound understanding has fueled my lifelong dedication to researching and developing assistive technology that empowers individuals to unlock their full potential. Similarly, our Quillsoft staff has devoted their careers to this mission.

My journey began in the early 1980s when I played a key role in establishing and leading Canada's first R&D team dedicated to emerging computer technology for children with disabilities. One of our earliest achievements was creating software that allowed non-speaking young children with cerebral palsy to draw on a computer using Blissymbols and just a few switches. In the mid-80s, my team collaborated closely with IBM to ensure that personal computers would be accessible to all. This pioneering work has had a lasting impact on computer accessibility worldwide. By 1991, we developed WiViK, the first commercial onscreen keyboard for Microsoft Windows. As you're aware, onscreen keyboards are now a standard feature on all mobile and tablet devices.

From 1992 to 2002, my team was part of the Ontario Rehabilitation Technology Consortium (ORTC), a collaboration of university and hospital research labs dedicated to developing and commercializing effective rehabilitation technology. During this time, we embarked on the design and development of a new product to support students with learning disabilities. We meticulously designed this product from the ground up, incorporating only functionality supported by rigorous research. By 1999, we had created WordQ, a simple-to-use writing tool that helps students produce higher-quality writing with greater independence and confidence. WordQ provides ongoing support for students with learning and physical disabilities, as well as anyone facing writing barriers for any reason. Moreover, it complements reading and writing instruction for students learning English or French.

Seeking a commercial partner with an international vision to distribute WordQ, I founded Quillsoft in partnership with Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in 2001. Operations began in my basement, and later that year, we launched WordQ. Today, 24 years later, it remains our flagship product.

Throughout the years, our products and technology have evolved, and we now offer a comprehensive range of software solutions to support inclusive literacy and education globally. Every aspect of our work is evidence-based, with input from educators and clinicians, supported by an exceptional team of software developers and engineers, some of whom have been with us for over 20 years. We hold several patents for functions embedded within our software solutions.

Today, we are proud to be partnered with the Nisai Group, which has been supporting hard-to-reach and hard-to-teach learners for 27 years. Together, we are transitioning from an EdTech company to an education company, offering a suite of solutions.

At the heart of all our solutions, both present and future, lie values such as esteem, acceptance, confidence, achievement, belonging, worthiness, happiness, and success. While these qualities may not be tangible like spelling and grammar, they are the true benefits and rewards of effective written communication.

I invite you to explore our website and reach out to us to discuss our solutions and provide any feedback you may have. Your input is always welcome.

Best regards,

Fraser Shein