For Victoria-based Zengar, the story started in 1970, when Valdeane W. Brown was a 14-year-old high schooler who visualized a self-navigating, self-correcting neurofeedback system. It would be decades before computing power could support the mathematical innovation he envisioned. But now Brown and his wife Sue—both dedicated clinical psychologists—are using mathematics and technology to provide a transformative approach to helping people who are suffering.
Zengar Institute Inc., is the developer of an innovative neurofeedback system called NeurOptimal®. Digital optimism is inherent in everything Zengar stands for; by leveraging Microsoft solutions, Zengar has created a system that makes it easy for virtually anyone to get up and running quickly in order to become the best version of themselves.
Leveraging the power of an integrated computer environment
The Zengar company mantra is that NeurOptimal® isn’t just the only non-linear dynamical neurofeedback system in the world, it’s also the only system that anybody can use at any time, to help anyone, including themselves. No education, certification or additional expertise is needed. To this end, the fully integrated Microsoft environment that makes NeurOptimal® easy to use is key.
“User experience is at the forefront of everything we do. The ease of use of Surface devices with Windows and our software creates a simple and elegant experience that puts the user first.” Valdeane W. Brown, Ph.D., Co-Founder, Zengar Institute, Inc.
As a Microsoft client, Zengar is powered by the following solutions:
Surface devices: The NeurOptimal® software is uploaded on Surface devices, packaged with a proprietary amplifier, sensors, earbuds and paste. The intuitive, easy-to-use Surface devices and Windows environment create a positive, powerful user experience. After watching a short video, users can get up and running quickly. This has allowed Zengar to increase distribution to end users at scale.
Microsoft Teams: 95% of the team works remotely, so Microsoft Teams is used all day, every day, for time management, collaboration, sharing, chats, meetings and calls.
Dynamics 365: The robust platform helps with streamlining internal operations such as inventory management, finance, integrating with their tech support, and more.
Office 365: OneNote is used to manage internal workflows; educational trainings and materials are delivered via PowerPoint, email and calendars are managed in Outlook.
Future-proofing to help more people around the world
In its early days, NeurOptimal® customers were largely mental health professionals who delivered sessions in office settings. When the recent global pandemic accelerated the need for at home use, Zengar was already set up for success, having begun a business model transition: helping clients deliver brain training sessions via rentals, around the globe. Thanks to Microsoft’s digital technologies and easy-to-use hardware, they’re able to help more people reach their peak at home.
These same Microsoft technologies helped Zengar’s internal team move the company in the direction of a permanent hybrid work model, as they realized that except for physical distribution, stock control and configuration of systems, their work could be done from home.
Zengar remains committed to creating space to innovate and bringing new ideas to the table. They’re excited to be partnering with a provider that supports their innovation and evolves along with them. Because at the end of the day, their focus is not on the technology but on improving people’s lives.
“Zengar is committed to being in the forefront of technology. Anticipating where technology will go allows us to keep introducing refinements and iterations based on client needs, and we want to be out in front instead of being in the rear.” Valdeane W. Brown, Ph.D., Co-Founder, Zengar Institute
