>> Rosetta Stone acquired Seattle-based Livemocha, one of the world’s largest online language-learning communities, for $8.5 million in cash. Livemocha features a robust and extensible cloud-based learning platform and a community of more than 16 million members.
>> Payroll Data Processing (PDP), a provider of payroll administration services distributed exclusively through independent insurance agents, formed a strategic partnership with ThinkHR. Every new and existing client of PDP will have access to ThinkHR services—including an HR Hotline, an HR Library, and an HR Training Center—through this partnership.
>> Mobiquity, a professional services firm creating mobile solutions and apps that drive business value, acquired Providence, RI-based Vertical Performance Partners (VPP), an enterprise-class mobile software provider. Mobiquity now will offer Velocity, VPP’s customizable software for branded interactive live meetings, events, and training sessions, to its enterprise client base. The newly formed company will be called Mobiquity Velocity Solutions, Inc.
>> Energy marketing specialist Reese Energy Consulting announced the formation of Reese Energy Training, Inc., a full-service, knowledge-based provider of high-end energy training designed for virtually every level of employee—from new hires and field employees to mid-level management and executives.
>> In an initiative to accelerate the growth of leadership skills among first- and second-level managers, national IT consulting company Catapult Systems is using Rise Performance Group’s CheckPoint 360 leadership assessment tool. The tool focuses on eight management competencies; once the assessment is complete, managers receive individual development plans and guidance regarding ways they can improve and be more effective.
