Jade Software has received funding from TechNZ, the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology's business assistance programme to further develop an award-winning software product.

Investigator, Jade's intelligence-led case management product, was first developed in association with the Australian Federal Police, and is now a market leader in Asia-Pacific. Designed by investigators to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of often complex, highly sensitive cases, Investigator is distributed through Jade's subsidiary Methodware, through offices in Wellington, Sydney and London.

The high performance investigations and case management software is now used by law enforcement agencies, government departments and companies in more than 29 countries. Investigator manages activities ranging from covert investigations and trans-national crime through to border security, anti-doping, confidant and witness protection. Customers include some of Europe's best known police forces and many leading government organisations in the Asia Pacific region.

Methodware Managing Director, Mr Paul Stokes, said the company was investing in growing its Investigations and Intelligence business both internationally and within New Zealand. He says the TechNZ funding would let the company step-change its product development programme to further improve the award-winning product.

"We have a unique selling point and a compelling value proposition for investigation and law enforcement teams. Investigator is all about giving front line officers useful and usable technology so they can get on with solving difficult cases."

Mark Gallagher, Director Sector Investments at the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology said that Jade Software is the type of market-focused, innovative company that TechNZ investment supports.

"The further development of this very successful product will allow Jade to bring more highly-skilled research and development capabilities on board." Managing Director of Jade Software, Craig Richardson indicated his company was actively exploring the local market for complementary products with a view to building a portfolio offering in the Investigations and Intelligence sector.

"New Zealand is one of the few countries recognised internationally as a safe haven for developing superior software for these secure markets. We should be leveraging our trusted status and we are grateful the New Zealand Government has recognised this potential with their investment in Investigator."