The context
KLM Equipment Services (KES) is the quiet force behind the bustling operations at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport. Since 1952, they have ensured the reliability of Ground Support Equipment (GSE), maintaining the delicate rhythm of one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. In an environment where safety and predictability are paramount, KES maintains the highest standards for airplanes, equipment, and people.
The challenge:
- The boomerang effect KES was dealing with repetitive challenges that created a "boomerang effect"—where inefficiencies kept returning to the desk. Paper-based inspections were time-consuming and error-prone.
- The methodology dilemma: When guidelines changed, updating inspection methodology was a resource-intensive project. KES had to manually update training and documents, struggling to reconcile new methods with past inspections.
- The "invisible" report: Inspectors often handed paper reports to someone else for storage. This lack of immediate visibility led to double work and increased risks, as findings were not validated by automated alerts.
- Incomplete data: Paper forms made it difficult to give proper follow-up instructions. Final reports were often incomplete due to missing information caused by human error, resulting in data loss.
The solution:
Smartflow & Aboma The solution, AMTeK, is the result of a strategic partnership. KES trusted Aboma and Smartflow to eliminate the risks endangering worker safety and machine quality.
| Aboma's expertise: | Provides the industry-standard content, machinery knowledge, health & safety regulations, and inspection criteria. |
| Smartflow's platform: | Provides the flexible digital infrastructure to implement Aboma's feedback quickly, creating a connected environment for field workers. |
This collaboration delivered a standardized inspection model that guarantees inspectors follow the correct procedure. The system ensures relevant follow-up questions are shown at the right time, and data is stored in one place for all stakeholders.
The results
The implementation of AMTeK created a transparent data-transfer process between field inspectors, office workers, and customers.
- Zero incomplete inspections: Since the introduction of the app, there have been zero incomplete or faulty inspection reports. Time saved is now focused on the actual inspection rather than administrative fixing.
- Seamless knowledge transfer: Inspectors access previous records digitally. If there was a point of interest last year, a direct follow-up is possible during the current inspection, preventing delays.
- A new generation of talent: The digital transformation attracts a new generation of tech-savvy inspectors who prefer simplified, agile processes over paper, making the job at KES more attractive.
"Field workers play a key role in driving better-informed operational decisions. They create a preventive maintenance mindset by generating the data necessary for accuracy."
