Costain has become the first major UK construction/engineering company to launch an 'app' for the Apple iPad.

The innovative move will allow the Group to showcase its technical capabilities and offer an outlet for its views on major issues affecting the construction/engineering sector.

The launch of the app will also reinforce the Costain drive for innovation in every facet of the Company's operations, says Group Strategy & Business Development Director, Stephen Wells. "We want to communicate in the most modern way and the iPad is an integral part of that process.


"Now we can offer through our website and the 'app' regular sector news and a diary of events - not just Costain events but commentary on developments such as the Government White Paper on energy or announcements on the National Infrastructure Plan.

"We feel this is a more immediate way of communicating to our stakeholders and the world at large. News and views on the various sectors in which Costain works will be updated weekly."

"It's a communication tool for external contacts," added Systems and Technology Director, Bill Price. "It gives the true breadth of our services and expertise. It also allows us to communicate our views on strategically important events affecting the construction/engineering industry."

The app will also include videos and be updated automatically. Available through the Apple Store, it is initially suitable only for the iPad, but will be adapted to fit other platforms that will include BlackBerry's equivalent device, which is due to appear after Christmas and Price is looking at other potential platforms.

(CD)