SAN FRANCISCO, CA, 09/23/05 -– Innovative ideas flow freely in the new i-Lab at Hassenbrook School Specialist Technical College, thanks to online collaboration software from Facilitate.com. Officially opened this week by Britain's Secretary of State for Education and Skills Ruth Kelly, the i-Lab is a design and innovation centre that provides 'free thinking' space and interactive computer technology to support the development of creative thinking skills in young people and businesses alike. Networked computers with Facilitate.com web-based collaboration software enable students or professionals to share ideas quickly and anonymously with the guidance of a trained teacher or facilitator. Online brainstorming and video conferencing allow connections with other schools and businesses anywhere in the world.

Hassenbrook selected Facilitate.com's web-based collaboration software because of its application in the classroom as well as the local business community. The online brainstorming and decision making software complements the creative space surrounded by white walls where people can write or draw their ideas.

"This stimulating space is ideal for creative thinking," commented Julia Young, Vice President at Facilitate.com. "The technology allows ideas to be captured and developed, providing focus and critical thinking amidst the play and spontaneity."

The i-Lab was created with funding from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. It is part of a £6 billion action plan to transform the Thames Gateway into thriving sustainable communities that includes major investments in transportation, health services, land development and education.

"One of the greatest pleasures of being Secretary of Education," said Ruth Kelly, "is supporting this kind of ambitious and innovative project. I see great benefit to education and the future of our pupils. "

For more information about Hassenbrook School Specialist Technology College, visit http://www.hassenbrook.org.uk.

About Facilitate.com

Since 1992 Facilitate.com has specialized in facilitation and collaboration software tools and techniques that dramatically enhance meeting productivity. Facilitate 8.5 helps generate, capture and formalize ideas with tools for capturing, categorizing, voting, surveying and building instant documentation.