Objective to Acquire Isovist for NZ$5 Million, Boosting Planning Software Portfolio
Objective Corporation has agreed to acquire Isovist, a leading e-planning software provider for local governments in Australia and New Zealand, enhancing its Planning and Building sector capabilities.
- Objective to acquire Isovist for NZ$5 million in cash
- Isovist’s GIS-based e-planning software used by over 50 councils
- Acquisition strengthens Objective’s Planning & Building GovTech portfolio
- Plans to integrate AI to enhance planning and development processes
- Isovist profitable since 2022 with strong customer retention
Strategic Acquisition in GovTech
Objective Corporation (ASX – OCL) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Isovist, a specialist provider of GIS-based electronic planning solutions tailored for local governments across Australia and New Zealand. The transaction, valued at NZ$5 million, represents a strategic move to deepen Objective’s foothold in the Planning and Building sector, a key area within the government technology landscape.
Isovist’s platform transforms traditional planning processes from static, document-heavy workflows into dynamic, digital experiences. Its flagship product offers an intuitive plan viewer that links specific sites directly to relevant local planning regulations, enabling councils, developers, and property owners to rapidly assess compliance and development potential. This approach has earned Isovist a loyal customer base of over 50 councils, underpinned by high retention and a profitable business model since 2022.
Complementary Strengths and Future Innovation
The acquisition brings together Objective’s expertise in information governance and AI with Isovist’s domain knowledge and user-friendly e-planning software. Objective plans to integrate its advanced artificial intelligence capabilities to further enhance the Isovist platform, aiming to streamline development consent approvals through high-quality, context-rich data and intelligent automation.
Both companies share a commitment to delivering specialised planning solutions that empower local governments to foster stronger communities. Objective’s CEO Tony Walls highlighted the disciplined approach to mergers and acquisitions, emphasizing Isovist’s alignment with Objective’s long-term vision and the value of its experienced team joining the group.
Transaction Details and Integration Outlook
The deal involves an upfront cash payment of NZ$4.25 million with a deferred payment of NZ$0.75 million payable after two years, reflecting confidence in Isovist’s ongoing performance. Existing Isovist customers will see no immediate changes, as the company continues operations while integration plans focus on supporting staff and clients before enhancing product capabilities.
Isovist’s Managing Director Mark Burston expressed optimism about accelerating innovation through Objective’s investment, signaling potential for expanded offerings and improved planning solutions in the future.
Bottom Line?
Objective’s acquisition of Isovist signals a calculated step to lead GovTech innovation in planning, with AI integration poised to redefine local government workflows.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will Objective integrate AI features into the Isovist platform?
- What are the key milestones and risks in the post-acquisition integration process?
- Could this acquisition pave the way for further consolidation in the GovTech planning sector?
