A focus on safety and enabling capacity for growth saw the birth of the Reefer Towers project requiring software and technology installation. Four vertical structures, capable of holding 440 containers in total, specifically designed to create a safe working environment for the daily management of refrigerated containers.

Initially the digital scope was straightforward – expand the current infrastructure to deliver fibre connectivity to the four towers, establish a communications hub at each tower. Replicate the existing reefer monitoring system.

During detailed planning we raised the concern of expanding an existing system that offered low performance, just 25% of containers were currently able to be remotely monitored. Time was available and we were approved to execute market research,  two suppliers were selected to undergo final review. Leading this part of the project we compared support, references, technology, reliability and known relationships. Identec Solutions product Reefer Runner was selected. It offered 90% success in remote monitoring using RF technology at each reefer bay connecting to antennas throughout each tower.

With the support of a nominated business owner, I led the establishment of requirements using observations, focus groups and subject matter experts. A trial area within the existing reefer yard was constructed to test configuration and train users.  Equipment was promptly relocated into the towers before go-live of the first project.

During the final month prior to go-live an organisational restructure saw the loss of the business owner. While never an ideal situation, I stepped up and led the business through testing, go-live and training, often late into the evening as our staff were shift workers. The business worked hard to uptake the new knowledge and committed to further development of the system.

The mobile tablet module that came with the system was stretched to capacity after go-live, our need for online connectivity was greater than other ports globally. We made a prompt decision to trial a new Android beta-version. Stripped of functionality but simpler to use and significantly improved performance made it a favourite amongst the staff, even those who claimed to be less tech-savvy. For a further six months we worked regularly with Identec Solutions and their Austrian-based product team to develop user stories to improve the Android app and it remained the primary module in use.

Four weeks prior to go-live a change in the New Zealand reefer environment saw a sharp capacity increase of 50%, a shortage of containers and delays in shipping meant containers were remaining in yard for longer than before. This disruption heavily impacted the go-live creating additional stress through the Operational team. We adjusted our delivery and training daily to meet the needs of the organisation and focused on creating a high feedback-loop to respond quickly to the needs of all involved.

Due to Covid-19 and significant global shipping disruption this was a tough and challenging project. However, I couldn’t be prouder of all who were involved, from the design and engineering experts to the impeccable delivery of the PMO. Internally the Operations team were juggling the usual complex operations with a completely new sector coming online. The Reefer Care and Foremen teams collaborated and focused strongly on the benefits that were to come.

The project was delivered successfully on time and underbudget and I’m pleased to report a performance of 95% remote monitoring was achieved.

Special thanks: Jonathon Deaker, (Rubix), James Craib, (Mitton Electronet), Malcolm Stanley (LPC), Ron Crosby (LPC), Treyton Maddock & Bernard Alheit (CCL) and Raymond Smith (Identec Solutions Ltd)

Main photo credit: Jonathon Deaker (Rubix)