Dwight Deugo, associate professor at the School of Computer Science at Carleton University, has been nominated for the 2011 Manning Innovation Award for his iParked.ca parking system.
Since 1982, the Ernest C. Manning Awards Foundation has been recognizing and encouraging innovation in Canada. Open to all Canadians, the award recognizes innovative talent in developing and successfully marketing a new concept, process or procedure.
“I’m honoured to be considered a Canadian with innovative talent.” said Deugo. “I believe it demonstrates to students that I practise what I teach.”
Deugo has a chance to win the Encana Principal Award of $100,000 or the David E. Mitchell Award of Distinction of $25,000.
He was nominated for a system he created that allows people to pay for parking through text messaging. Users register through a website, iParked.ca, submitting their payment and vehicle information.
Customers send a text message from their cell phones indicating the parking lot and time required to park. A confirmation is sent to their phone.
“It provides a convenient, fast and safe way to pay for parking,” said Deugo.
The winners will be announced at the 30th Annual Manning Innovation Awards Gala in Edmonton, Alta. on October 14.