From Paper to Digital: Streamlining Custom Group Ltd.'s Anti-Ligature Track Testing with Safer Track

Introduction

Custom Group Ltd., a leader in manufacturing curtains and blinds for commercial projects, required an innovative solution to streamline their anti-ligature track testing services. Traditionally, these tests were conducted by engineers who recorded results on paper, a manual process that was time-consuming and prone to delays in report delivery.

To modernise this critical aspect of their business, Custom Group Ltd. partnered with RODA Technology to develop Safer Track—a digital system that allows engineers to record their testing data directly onto iPads while on-site. The system automatically generates PDF reports, which are promptly sent to clients, eliminating the inefficiencies of the paper-based process.

The Challenge

Before the implementation of Safer Track, Custom Group Ltd. faced several operational challenges:

• Manual Data Entry:
• Engineers recorded anti-ligature track testing results on paper, leading to potential errors during transcription and difficulty in tracking historical data.
• Delayed Reporting:
• Once testing was completed, the paper reports had to be manually compiled and sent to clients, often resulting in delays in communication and approval processes.
• Limited Scalability:
• As the company expanded its commercial operations, the manual processes involved in testing and reporting became increasingly inefficient, with no real-time access to data or reporting.

The company needed a digital solution that could streamline the process, ensure data accuracy, and improve communication with clients.

The Solution

In response to these challenges, we developed Safer Track, a cloud-based system designed to digitize the entire track testing process. The solution was tailored to Custom Group Ltd.’s specific requirements, focusing on accuracy, speed, and convenience for both engineers and clients.

Key Features of Safer Track:

• iPad Integration:
• Engineers now use iPads to record their test results on-site, eliminating the need for paper and manual data entry. The system is user-friendly, with clear input fields for each aspect of the testing process.
• Automated PDF Reporting:
• Once the test is complete, the system automatically generates a detailed PDF report and sends it directly to the client, reducing delays and ensuring clients receive accurate information in a timely manner.
• Cloud-Based Storage:
• All test results are stored securely in the cloud, allowing Custom Group Ltd. to easily access historical data for audits, compliance checks, and internal reviews.
• Real-Time Data Access:
• Clients and internal teams can access reports and testing statuses in real time, leading to improved communication and faster approvals.

Implementation Process

The project was completed in several stages:

1. Needs Assessment and Discovery: We worked closely with Custom Group Ltd. team to understand their current processes, pain points, and key performance requirements for the Safer Track system.
2. Design and Development: Based on the assessment, we designed a custom user interface tailored to the engineers’ needs. The backend of Safer Track was built to handle the complex data structures required for anti-ligature testing, while also providing a simple and intuitive frontend experience for on-site engineers.
3. Testing and Pilot Launch: We conducted several rounds of testing to ensure the system’s accuracy and reliability under real-world conditions. A pilot launch was conducted with a small group of engineers to gather feedback and make any necessary adjustments.
4. Full Rollout and Training: After successful testing, Safer Track was rolled out to the full engineering team. We provided training to ensure engineers were comfortable with the system and could maximise its potential.

Results & Impact

The implementation of Safer Track brought significant improvements to Custom Group Ltd.’s operations.

Key Results:

• Reduced Reporting Time:
• What previously took days to compile in paper reports is now completed and delivered in real-time, drastically improving communication with clients.
• Improved Data Accuracy:
• The digital input system reduces the risk of human error and ensures that test results are accurate and easily trackable.
• Enhanced Operational Efficiency:
• By digitising the process, Custom Group Ltd. can now handle a higher volume of track testing without the need for additional administrative overhead.
• Scalability:
• The cloud-based system allows for seamless scaling as the company grows, with real-time access to data across multiple projects and locations.

The Future

With Safer Track now fully integrated into their workflow, Custom Group Ltd. is well-positioned to expand its anti-ligature track testing services. As they continue to grow, the system’s scalability will allow them to easily onboard new engineers, projects, and clients.

Looking ahead, we are working on further enhancements, including additional reporting features, analytics for performance tracking, and even more automation to continue improving efficiency and client satisfaction.