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FORS Assist: Inform UK

Overview

Over the course of 35 years, Inform UK have established a reputation for innovation and efficiency as suppliers to the construction industry. From their base in Cambridge, they produce reinforcement, accessories and form-work systems for businesses nationwide.

Wishing to further enhance their fleet management systems, Inform UK sought a reputed FORS Assist programme to bring their operation into line with the highest recognized standard. Chartwise UK were perfectly placed to provide the comprehensive architecture necessary to take the Inform fleet to the next level.

 

Background

 

How did Inform find us?

As part of the Ischebeck Titan group, Inform UK are inspected regularly by a logistics specialist from their head office. It was during one of these inspections (a FORS pre-audit) that outdated processes within the system were found. The specialist was known to Chartwise UK, having already taken advice from our EU Drivers’ Hours expert Chris Allen.

Following the FORS pre-audit, Inform UK brought us into the fold to modernize their tachograph analysis and working time record management systems. The system in place required self-management of data uploads and report generation; the Inform team had neither the time or technical expertise necessary to make this sustainable.

 

How many meetings were involved?

Only two meetings were required to get the ball rolling. The first took place on-site between Chartwise M.D. Paul King, Inform’s Operations Manager and the logistics specialist. During this consultation, Inform UK signed on as a Compliance client and had card reading software installed at their depot.

The second meeting was an online video call between our M.D., Fleet Support Manager and the Inform Operations Manager. In the course of this consultation, the full compliance infrastructure was set up and demonstrated with full training.

 

Integration

 

How long did it take to implement the package?

From the initial consultation to the integration of the solution, the process took less than a week. As there was a backlog of working time reports required for use in the impending FORS audit, this was the first cluster of data to be put through the new system. The first section of the backlog was processed the week following integration, and going forward, regular reports were scheduled for conversion each month.

Were there any roadblocks, and how were they overcome?

There were no significant roadblocks. However, the Inform team placed emphasis on the importance of regular data downloads, as this was the major aspect of the previous system that they found difficult to maintain. Due to the Chartwise reminder system implemented as part of the package, it did not take long to establish regularity.

How often are the two parties in contact?

For data collection and report processing, we are in contact bimonthly. We also provide annual CPC/ADR training for their drivers, and carry out an audit every two years to ensure the system remains fully compliant with the highest standards.

 

Going Forward

 

Are there any projected updates to the package?

Inform receive updates to their infrastructure in line with the Chartwise continuous development programme. As a compliance customer on a fixed term contract, Inform enjoy all advances in procedure and technology as and when they are released.

How will the new software improve the system?

The latest release of the software will allow the Inform team to deal with driver infringements in real time, as well as monitor reports and download records via tablets and smartphones. This will allow Inform to manage its fleet remotely, and take appropriate action quicker and more efficiently.

How will Inform thrive under Earned Recognition?

Inform UK continue to be fully compliant with the standards of FORS, and, considering the effectiveness of the system implemented by Chartwise, we are confident that the fleet will continue to run smoothly under the DVSA’s Earned Recognition Scheme.

ClientInform UK
SkillsCompliance and FORS Assist
Vehicles30

Operator Compliance

Following the FORS pre-audit, Inform UK brought us into the fold to modernize their tachograph analysis and working time record management systems.

The system in place required self-management of data uploads and report generation; the Inform team had neither the time or technical expertise necessary to make this sustainable.