Simon & Schuster ramps up collaboration with Thoughtworks to boost experience for publishing firm’s language learners

Languages

27 May

Technology consultancy, Thoughtworks, has announced an extension to its long-term collaboration with publishing firm, Simon & Schuster. The aim here is to enhance the digital capabilities of Simon & Schuster’s Pimsleur Language Program to improve the learning experience for its global language learners.

Since the partnership’s inception in 2017, Thoughtworks and Simon & Schuster have co-created a series of digital enhancements across the Pimsleur experience.

This includes the relaunch of mobile and web apps with improved accessibility and engagement features, alongside a scalable backend system for streamlined customer management, learning progress tracking, B2B sales and platform integrations. Building on this foundation on AWS, AI powered innovations like Voice Coach for pronunciation and engaging Mini Lessons have added to the language learning journey.

Simon & Schuster ramps up collaboration with Thoughtworks to boost experience for publishing firm’s global language learners

“By continuously iterating to optimize performance and user experience, Thoughtworks helped us achieve significant growth in user volume and revenue,” says Tom McLean, SVP Pimsleur Language Programs.

“For more than 50 years, Pimsleur Language Programs has remained true to the Pimsleur Method that has helped millions of people learn to speak a new language while also continuing to leverage digital platforms and innovative subscription models to meet the needs of modern learners,” says Craig Stanley, Executive Vice President, Thoughtworks Americas. “We’re excited to be partnering with Simon & Schuster as it continuously enhances, elevates and augments the value of its digital assets, such as the Pimsleur Mobile app, to drive tangible results while improving operational cost and efficiencies.”

More recently, the integration of Thoughtworks Digital Application Management and Operations (DAMO) services has begun to streamline processes and, according to those involved, is showing early signs of enhanced collaboration between maintenance and delivery teams supporting the Pimsleur platform.

Webinar

Thank you to all those who joined our sister title RTIH and Thoughtworks at their recent webinar, Winning the Loyalty Game.

If you missed it first time around, you can view a recording here.

In this engaging, conversational style webinar, Chris Ford Tech Director for Retail, Consumer Goods, Travel and Transport at Thoughtworks) was joined by industry leaders Suraj Nagaraj, Head of Product - Loyalty and Support, Tesco; Tanvi Taparia, Product Office - PMO Digital Commerce B2B, B2C and D2C, Henkel; and Mike Cadden, Chief Technology Officer, Marie Curie; to explore what it really takes to build lasting customer loyalty in today’s complex digital landscape.

Here are four standout takeaways from the discussion:

Personalisation should feel effortless: The most effective personalisation is seamless and intuitive - when it’s done well, customers don’t feel targeted; they feel understood.
Loyalty is being redefined by Gen Z: For younger audiences, traditional rewards are no longer enough. They seek meaningful connection through shared values, authenticity, and a sense of community.
AI is an enabler, not a solution in itself: While AI offers powerful capabilities, its true value lies in supporting human centred experiences. Empathy, clear intent, and transparency in data use are critical.
Trust drives long-term value: Sustained loyalty is earned through relevance, emotional connection, and the responsible use of customer data.

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