MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. - Instructional Technology Services Inc. of DeWitt is expanding services in The Center for Applied Research and Technology at Central Michigan University.

Founded by CMU Professor Timothy Brannan in 1995, ITS provides online training, multimedia development, technical writing, and online hosting and support services for all levels of education as well as businesses, corporations and associations.

ITS plans to expand its operations by working with area businesses and CMU working out of the Mount Pleasant SmartZone, a state designated incubator area for attracting high-tech companies. CMU Research Corp., a not-for-profit organization established to support high -tech companies with research and development opportunities, will be working closely with ITS.

"Global demand for postsecondary education has risen significantly," Brannan said. "ITS is preparing educators for the increased demands placed on education institutions and businesses to provide education anytime, anywhere.

"The Mount Pleasant SmartZone and CMURC have provided ITS with an excellent opportunity. CMURC's infrastructure and support services will strengthen our marketing efforts and help connect with local companies," he added.

Brannan has leveraged $700,000 in grants from the Michigan Department of Education to infuse technology with curriculum at CMU and other schools. Current and past clients and partners include CMU's distance learning programs, Grand Rapids Community College, the Michigan Education Association, CMU's Charter School Office, Old Kent Mortgage Co. and Michigan National Bank.

CMURC CEO Nathan Long said, "CMURC is very pleased to partner with this thriving CMU faculty -owned business. We look forward to helping Tim Brannan grow his company and hope to develop business partnerships with more CMU faculty who have business and technology commercialization ideas."

Brannan, who has more than 12 years experience with distance learning techniques, is an assistant professor of educational technology at CMU and a PalmOne education technology coordinator. While employed at Lansing Community College, Brannan created the largest virtual college in the Midwest.

For more information about CMURC, visit http://www.cmurc.com or call Brent Case at (989) 774-1021.