Start-ups, Software and Student Innovators: App Factory

App Factory is a place of innovation, creativity and collaboration. Located in Gold Coast co-working space, Cohort, App Factory provides an opportunity for staff and students within the School of ICT to use their technological expertise in developing software applications for a range of organisations, including local government, public health and companies in the private sector.  

We spoke to Dr Sebastian Binnewies, Lecturer at the School of ICT and the Director of App Factory, about the projects worked on by the App Factory team. 

WHAT TYPE OF PROJECTS DO YOU WORK ON AT APP FACTORY?

Since its inception in 2014, App Factory has developed a range of mobile and web-based applications for Griffith and external clients.  

The team strives to provide commercial-grade solutions to satisfy the client’s requirements using industry-standard methodologies. For example, App Factory has been developing several medical apps that have strict requirements to comply with privacy and health regulations.  

When projects do not have full specifications yet, the App Factory team has the opportunity to apply and enhance their innovation skills by working hand-in-hand with the client from the ideation phase.  

The team are specialists in delivering mobile applications for both iOS and Android operating systems with seamless navigation and beautiful design. They also have the knowledge and capacity to work on projects such as data analytics, data visualisation and web applications.

“The idea of the App Factory is to increase student employability through exposure to real-life projects.”

App Factory has an office in the Cohort co-working space adjacent to the Gold Coast campus, which provides a unique opportunity for team members to network with other entrepreneurs. 

The initiative has been an excellent addition to the teaching program within the School of ICT, giving students the opportunity to undertake paid work within the application development field.

Caleb Howard is a 3rd Year Bachelor of Computer Science, majoring in Software Development, at Griffith University and is currently working at App Factory. We had a chat with Caleb about his experiences so far.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT APP FACTORY? 

My role in App Factory is Junior Software Engineer. My work involves assisting with development, design and implementation of software products. My roles generally include working alongside a development team to write and maintain code, fix bugs, attend meetings, and assist with design related tasks.

WHAT SKILLS HAVE YOU GAINED FROM WORKING AT APP FACTORY?  

During my time at App Factory, I have gained various new skills while simultaneously strengthening my existing skill set. I have seen improvements in my communication skills and in my ability to work in a team environment.  

While working at App Factory I have continued to grow as a Software Engineer. The modern technologies and development approaches used at App Factory have provided me with knowledge and experience that is highly valued throughout the technology industry. 

WHY DO YOU THINK OTHER ICT STUDENTS SHOULD BECOME INVOLVED? 

App Factory is an excellent way to gain real world industry experience by working on hands-on projects in a team environment.  

“Working with modern software development processes and technologies will provide you with relevant knowledge and experience that is highly valued in the technology industry.”

Joining App Factory is an excellent opportunity if you are looking for practical experience and an opportunity to jump-start your career.

ABOUT COHORT

Cohort Innovation Space, managed by CoSpaces, is a launchpad for health and technology startups and a home for innovative thinkers, events and support programs. Cohort is a home for founders, innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, professionals and students who want to contribute to creating an open and collaborative innovation and startup ecosystem on the Gold Coast.

“Our startups and industry partners have access to collaboration opportunities with research partners and the School of ICT, and students have the ability to work on real-world projects and participate in entrepreneurial activities and industry events.

We have had a countless number of students from the School of ICT work within Cohort as part of Griffith University’s Work Integrated Learning program. Cohort tenants IntelliHQ, Datarwe, Virtual Manager and SecureStack have all taken on PhD placements and student interns over the past year,” says Ariana Margetts, General Manager at CoSpaces.

Want to be part of the growing App Factory team?  

App Factory welcomes ICT students from all years and programs. Whether you’d like to build on prior experience or gain new skills,  App Factory has roles across a range of skill levels in software development, project management, and business analysis. 

If you are interested and would like to meet the team, contact Dr Sebastian Binnewies.