We’ve all heard the stories about the benefits of technology to improve and streamline processes, improve communication and reduce data re-entry. But what about morale?
A recent ATP Flightdocs webinar took a look at the positive impact that technology has had on individuals working at all levels in flight departments and throughout organizations.
The Importance of Employee Engagement In Aviation
Employee engagement is increasingly important to organizations. When the workforce understands the bigger operational picture, they are more willing to take ownership.
Jeff McClean, Aviation Director with Procter & Gamble, noted that he has seen a new level of engagement across his department with help from electronic maintenance, inventory and compliance applications, adding,
“We’ve found that technology is helping every individual feel like they’re part of the larger operation versus just a cog in the wheel – a critical distinction to the modern workforce. As the next generation of pilots, schedulers and maintenance technicians comes through the system, they expect to have information at their fingertips. Technology is a critical aspect of tracking and retaining talent as we evolve.”
How Modern Technology Can Help Streamline Flight Department Operations
With the right technology, organizations can facilitate proactive versus reactive business environments. Key components of a successful aviation software solution include ease of use, transparency and mobility.
Greater Transparency
In addition to the added benefits of functionality comes transparency. The antiquated method of carbon paper documents comes rife with human error. One mistake has the potential to cause numerous wasted man-hours. With modern technology, it’s possible to note discrepancies instantaneously, allowing for a better, more productive use of time.
“So much of our data now is just fed into the database automatically from the aircraft or another program. Technology has helped take out the chance of human error and improve transparency,” McClean adds. “We’re not wasting time tracking someone down. Everyone has visibility and is engaged. Transparency translates to better production, better use of our time, and we feel like we’re spending time on valuable work – and saves money.”
Searchable Information
Aircraft value is also affected by use in leveraging technology. Both asset value and liquidity are increased via the readily available information provided by digital documentation. Instead of having a third party pour-over countless documents, every inquiry is searchable, which allows the potential buyer to put faith in the airworthiness of the aircraft.
Mobile Accessibility
Technology has evolved rapidly over the last thirty years. From the introduction of cellular phones to the internet and then smart phones, it has become critical that operations provide the best technology for both their employees and their customers. Where it was once seen as a technological marvel to be able to make a phone call from the cockpit, access to modern connectivity options are expected. This rings true with regard to flight department employees as well. Mobile apps have become a critical part of operations’ ability to be efficient and accurate when inspecting and maintaining their aircraft.
McClean says, “Mobile accessibility to applications is important for us. We’re able to take care of issues and don’t have to be at the hanger. The data is always accessible no matter if a cellular connection on iPhone or logged into the internet.” He says that his organizations customer response time is much better as is the integrity of the data.
Engages A Younger Workforce
The use of modern technology attracts a modern workforce. Younger employees are comfortable and familiar with operating newer technological methods in their day-to-day work. Having these tools readily available, and as the preferred method, will not only provide opportunities for success, but also serve to retain talent.
Summary
It’s time to adapt to modern methods and tools for maintenance tracking, inventory management and flight operations. Not only do these tools provide the means to have the most effective and efficient operation possible, they ensure ease-of-use and accuracy for your employees and customers. It’s a tech-based world we live in – change your operation to a high-performing one by seeing what modern technology can do for you.
Click here to watch the full webinar: A New Approach to Flight Department Technology.