A new secure data collection platform has created ‘seven-figure’ cost savings over 12 months on a major rail upgrade, according to contractor Balfour Beatty.
The contractor, which is currently completing an overhead line electrification project between Bristol and Cardiff, introduced eviFile’s digital progressive assurance methodology to replace its paper-based approach.
Luke Allen, managing director of eviFile
It said the platform, which was configured to its exact reporting processes, has enabled it to speed up field data capture and transmission of quality information to field engineers, managers and Network Rail.
Balfour Beatty’s rail director of electrification delivery, Peter Webb, said: ‘We see mobile site-based technologies as a key way to gather richer data, faster and more cost efficiently. These marginal gains lead to significant efficiency savings, which our project with eviFile proves, as its use has enabled us to save seven figures in costs over a 12-month period.
‘The eviFile system is an amazing development and we’re extremely impressed with what the software delivers. It has streamlined our processes, reduced risk and given us actionable insights to deliver a higher quality project. Our field managers have also commented on the huge increase in productivity from not having to chase and collate data manually.’
The software as a service (SaaS) platform works via standard tablets and smartphones, enabling field operatives to use their device’s cameras and GPS capabilities to record inspection information. Every use is securely captured with information on time, date, geographical location, user and device orientation.
The platform can be integrated with other systems and completed inspection test plans are automatically uploaded to the Greater West programme’s database.
Luke Allen, managing director of eviFile, said: ‘Rail is necessarily a highly risk averse sector, but eviFile meets and exceeds the levels of assurance and evidence major contractors are demanding. We were able to give Balfour Beatty a rigorous approach to site data capture and workflow improvements which saved time and money.
‘We can make a complete evidence pack within 10 seconds which could take months using traditional methods. Our tamper-proof digital evidence can also help contractors avoid costly legal disputes.’
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