Case Study: Llywodraeth Cymru achieves scalable online assessments with Method4

Llywodraeth Cymru scales personal assessments for tens of thousands with Method4

Llywodraeth Cymru (the Welsh Government) launched an initiative to transform learning and replace paper-based reading and numeracy tests with online personal assessments for students across Wales. They faced the challenge of building a platform that could scale to support tens of thousands of concurrent users, rapidly synchronize user data, and ensure AA compliance with WCAG 2.0 guidelines. Method4, along with a consortium, was selected to provide the new bilingual online personal assessment platform.

Method4 developed a purpose-built system that integrates with Hwb and Surpass, using .NET, SQL, and Azure technologies. Their solution included system checks to predict high usage periods, load balancing for scalability, and robust Azure functions for fast data synchronization. The resulting platform is cost-effective, scalable, and provides a seamless, accessible user interface. It went on to win the 'Best Use of Formative Assessment' category at the 2020 e-Assessment Awards, playing a key role in the digital transformation of education in Wales.

Llywodraeth Cymru