New technology counteracting SARS
New technology counteracting SARS
As the spectre of SARS threatens to loom once again, an Australian company has created technology that is helping companies that have interests in SARS affected areas continue to do business without risking exposure to the deadly virus.
Elcom Technology's Lifecycle software uses the Internet to overcome geographical obstacles to product development, allowing stakeholders to monitor, collaborate and draw on knowledge from any location, at any time.
This means that a production development manager in Adelaide can monitor the stages of production in Shanghai without having to travel to the factory itself, thus eliminating the risk of contracting SARS. Changes that need to be made can be done so remotely by submitting them online, where they can be viewed immediately by the factory in Shanghai (or anywhere).
Not only does the software negate the need for employees to risk visit SARS affected areas, it also – according to Elcom - streamlines the product development process, reduces time to market, and reduces the costs associated with traditional product development methods (travel, insurance, lag times associated with working in multiple time zones, etc.).
News of Elcom's success in the market goes some way to fulfil the prophetic words of Austrade's Chief Economist Charles Harcourt, who suggested during the initial SARS outbreak that it could trigger and unexpected economic boost to technology companies that facilitate remote communication (see link at foot of page).
The technology has already attracted interest overseas, with US-based manufacturer KidKraft having deployed the system to interact online with its factories in China.
"Lifecycle has enabled us to manage the development of our products throughout times of global conflict, without missing a beat. We have been able to communicate with our factories and customers and have been able to continue delivering on time and achieve our high standards. Lifecycle has also given us a competitive edge, enabling us to continue business unhindered and achieve a ROI in three months."
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