An Edinburgh-based construction software supplier, PODFather, has enabled works for phase one of HS2, with logistics and safety compliance software speeding up processes on sites across the West Midlands
Working with HS2’s enabling works contractor, LM-JV (a joint venture made up of Laing O’Rourke and J. Murphy), PODFather has implemented a system of construction site logistics, vehicle safety compliance and material tracking software.
The company became engaged in the HS2 project in 2013 and attended events designed to support business interested in working on the project such as ‘Meet the Contractor’ events.
This was where they were introduced to LM JV and subsequently won work directly with HS2’s enabling works contractor in the West Midlands.
Companies within the supply chain
David Poole, procurement and commercial director, said: “Now more than ever, HS2 is critical to economic recovery and will support thousands of jobs across the country.
“It is great that companies across the UK, including PODFather in Edinburgh, are already delivering for the HS2 project and we encourage more businesses of all sizes from across the UK to bid for work to help us build Britain’s new high-speed railway.”
Colin McCreadie, managing director at PODFather, added: “Projects like HS2 run for a long time so it’s essential that we form close relationships with our clients to ensure the system is fit-for-purpose, and continuously improve the solution based on changing end-user requirements as the project goes through its various phases of construction.
“The benefits of digital transformation experienced by LM JV are not uncommon and speeding the flow of data through an organisation, delivering it in a format required for the different users that need to consume it, saves time and improves quality.
“In the construction sector, it also improves safety.”
PODFather benefits
The fully automated system tracks and monitors deliveries and allows suppliers to book them in on a digital system, negating the need for spreadsheets and printed paper tickets, and reduces time lost waiting for processing as bookings can be managed efficiently in real time.
The system has also supported LM JVs compliance with environmental controls as all vehicles that show up on-site or travel between sites are monitored and tracked.
Being able to monitor this has allowed for measures to be put in place to reduce unnecessary vehicle movements, reducing the impact on local roads and improving air quality.
