KEEPING IN TOUCH LIKE A PRO
A new app is changing the way traincare colleagues manage tasks, making their work easier and smarter
When it comes to train presentation, speed and efficiency are the keys to providing a clean, safe and reliable service to customers. That’s why a new app, introduced to traincare colleagues following a smartphone rollout, is proving to be a game-changer.
Currently, turnaround and depot colleagues need to record on paper what train unit number was cleaned and any comments or issues on that unit. This data is then shared with TfL to show that the required levels of cleaning have been completed and given to ARL supervisors, who manually log it onto a spreadsheet for our records.
Ebenezer Oladunni
Ebenezer Oladunni
This is where the new app, called MPRO5 can make a real difference. MPRO5 can log data for quick turnaround, nightly and heavy cleaning jobs. Traincare colleagues will log on to the app and scan a QR code when they enter a train to start a new job. They will then be given prompts and checklists for the required tasks and can upload real-time images – such as damage to equipment, graffiti or chewing gum – which are automatically shared with supervisors and stored on the cloud.
“I’m excited that MPRO5 will cut out steps, save time and reduce unnecessary complication for colleagues,” says Ebenezer Oladunni, traincare supervisor. “Right now, colleagues sometimes use their personal devices and WhatsApp chat to share information and images quickly with supervisors, which in some cases then need to be shared multiple times to solve an issue.”
Environmental solution
With data logged automatically, traincare colleagues can react quickly to reported information and solve issues before they become much bigger problems. And by having easily accessible information in one place, data trends can also be tracked to see where we are currently falling short and highlight opportunities to improve efficiencies further, helping us act rather than react to potential setbacks. For instance, colleagues can monitor data to see whether train floors and seats may need heavier cleaning at certain times, perhaps due to weather changes, and then act on that information immediately.
It is estimated that around 260 cleans take place daily, with 2,000 sheets of paper used every month to record data in our current processes. In some cases, these sheets are then filed for up to six months. As well as being a more environmentally friendly solution, MPRO5 will mean no physical handling of data on paper, which is much harder to manage and more prone to human error.
“With this much paperwork you cannot guarantee that some documents won’t get lost,” adds Ebenezer. “In these cases, traincare colleagues may have to remember information such as train unit numbers, sometimes a day after it was originally recorded. Sometimes supervisors have also had to contact colleagues on their days off for data on documents accidentally taken home. MPRO5 will make life easier for everyone.”
Better connected
Using their new smartphones, colleagues can also access Exchange Extra while on the move and read company and colleagues’ news, as well as find out about ARL employment opportunities. They can also access their work emails, view the new rostering system and book leave directly from their devices.
Meanwhile, colleagues like Ebenezer have started testing MPRO5 and its capabilities. “The response from early trials has been really good,” says Ian Goakes, train presentation standards and compliance manager. “Colleagues can already see how effective MPRO5 will be in simplifying communications.”
A full rollout of the app is expected in the coming weeks and will be deployed in different locations at a time to manage its early usage. “Rollout will coincide with the introduction of chargeable lockers that are being added to sites,” says Aaron Bryant, train presentation turnaround manager. “Colleagues have requested these lockers so that they can leave their devices at work after their shifts if they want to.”
MPRO5 is a bespoke app for ARL, which means it can evolve and develop based on user needs and be expanded for multiple purposes in the future.
“I’m excited for more colleagues to start using it,” adds Ebenezer. “It’s not just that it is making our processes more convenient, but it will make us communicate more effectively with each other and connect us as one team.”
Built with Shorthand