Control Of Work Software Providers Focus On Three Key Innovations To Differentiate From Competition

Control Of Work Software Providers Focus On Three Key Innovations To Differentiate From Competition

The 2021 Verdantix Buyer’s Guide on control of work (CoW) software applications has been released. As part of the research process Verdantix collected 17, 30-point questionnaires from CoW software suppliers and conducted several follow-up interviews and demonstrations. The Buyer’s Guide provides details on the use cases, core functionalities, new innovations and profiles on 13 CoW software suppliers. Verdantix found that many CoW software suppliers have developed trump card features to differentiate themselves from competition. While potential customers should not base their decision on these functionalities alone, awareness of these value adding features is crucial when selecting a final software supplier from the short-list. So, what are some of these innovative features?

The first is the utilization of sensors and wearables to collect real-time risk data and integrating this information when creating and issuing permits. Damstra Technology’s workforce management software solution integrates, via API, with a terminal that features a breathalyzer and temperature scanner to ensure that the workforce is COVID-19 asymptomatic and safe to work. Intelex’s permit to work software application integrates with HazardIQ, its gas monitoring system to inform the workers if, at any point during the work, the environment becomes unsafe to work in. TenForce, the Belgium-headquartered EHS and risk management software provider has partnered with Rombit a wearables solutions provider, to input data about worker location and enforce geofencing within its PTW and isolation management modules.

Visualizations of work activities is the second differentiating feature. Visualizations can help operations managers by providing a holistic view of the work planned as well as ongoing in a facility allowing them to efficiently plan and coordinate the work schedule. Workers can also leverage visualizations to identify assets and pull up relevant information. This is particularly helpful when performing lockout-tagout (LOTO) procedures. Enablon, Hexagon’s PPM division and Sphera stand out with their clear and powerful visualization capabilities.

Finally, CoW software providers are partnering with augmented reality solution providers for remote assistance. Uptake of industrial augmented reality technology is still low, but there is a strong use case within CoW; the virtual presence of an expert who can provide remote sign off or guidance to onsite personnel can act as a force multiplier. Remote assistance has become even more relevant given social distancing guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Cority has partnered with Interaptix and leverages the latter’s AptixAR platform, which enables customers to quickly create 3D visual twins of their assets and facilities. These visual twins can be used to perform LOTO procedures and identify hazards via annotations.

To learn more about the advancements and trends in the control of work software application market, see Verdantix’s new Buyer’s Guide: Control Of Work Software Applications and register for the webinar: The Growing Control Of Work And Operational Risk Management Software Market: What Does It Hold For Buyers And Vendors?