Developing Mobile Workflow Management SystemMirra developed a mobile workflow management system which allows the company’s customers to check the work status on their contracts. This increased customer confidence and relations between Alpheus and its customers. Mirra had to convince not only the engineers of the
value of the real-time communication, but also the management, that her proposed system was better that the current in-house system. Mirra’s solution is expected to reduce operating costs by 75%.
Background
Alpheus Environmental Ltd, a water and wastewater asset management company, is a subsidiary of the Anglian Water Group and Morrison Utilities with a turnover of £10m. Alpheus Environmental offers planned and reactive maintenance of pump stations and sewage treatment plants for blue chip companies and pub chains.
Approach
Mirra’s objective was to develop a mobile workflow system that enabled the field engineers to receive and send completed jobs in real-time to the Head Office. Mirra started by working alongside field engineers and head office administrators, to gain an understanding of their requirements as well as reviewing the current paper-based system. Having ascertained their needs, she drew up a specification that would be used as a baseline when looking for solutions. Mirra then researched available alternatives and after quantitative and financial evaluation of the alternatives, presented her findings and the possible solutions to senior management. During the implementation phase, close liaison with all parties, including the IT supplier led to it being successful.
Results
Mirra’s project is attracting new customers as well as retaining current clients. As the new system records all job details electronically, Mirra’s solution is expected to reduce operating costs by 75% ensuring real-time data transfer, eliminating time delays, data entry errors and paper chasing. This project will have a lasting and significant contribution to Alpheus Environmental, leading to anticipated savings in excess of £90k per annum directly due to the increased efficiency and reduced errors.
‘Mirra’s performance has been commended by our Managing Director. This project is just one of the initiatives developed by her during her placement. Mirra is an innovative self-starter who rarely needs supervision. She co-ordinated projects involving numerous people and her ability to work collaboratively while guiding the
project quickly and effectively was outstanding.’
George Maluga
National Business Manager,
Alpheus Environmental Ltd | 
