PEX Network Weekly News Bulletin: Innovations in Operational Excellence and RPA

Welcome to PEX Network’s weekly news bulletin, where we round up the latest developments in the process community. From operational excellence (OPEX) and digital transformation to business process management (BPM) and robotic process automation (RPA), we cover the trends shaping the future of business. In this edition, we highlight significant advancements, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative operational strategies.

Wimbledon to Replace Line Judges with AI Tech from 2025

Wimbledon is set to make history by replacing all 300 line judges with AI technology starting in 2025. The All England Club has announced that all courts will be equipped with automated electronic line calling (ELC) systems. This change marks the first time in 147 years of the championship’s history that human officials will be removed from officiating matches.

The ELC technology will mirror the systems used at the US Open since 2020. The automated calls will be delivered within a tenth of a second of the ball’s landing, as reported by Sky Sports News. Sally Bolton, the chief executive of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, emphasized the importance of accuracy in officiating and the benefits it would bring to players, aligning the experience at Wimbledon with other major events on the tour.

As the technology utilizes voice calls for accuracy, it raises discussions about the integration of AI and operational excellence within traditional settings. Wimbledon’s transition reflects a broader trend towards digital transformation.

DAFBOT Aims to Streamline US Air Force Operations with RPA Efficiency

The Department of the Air Force Bot Operations Team (DAFBOT) recently hosted an event at Rose State College, Oklahoma, focused on robotic process automation (RPA) to enhance daily operations. This initiative brought together team members from Tinker Air Force Base to explore RPA, participate in bot-building workshops, and develop practical prototypes.

Mark Jensen, the 72nd communications directorate CTO, highlighted their mission to empower users to leverage automation. This involves reducing time spent on repetitive tasks, thereby fostering innovation and efficiency throughout the organization. The event saw participation from 57 students across Team Tinker, marking significant engagement in the use of automation tools.

By introducing RPA into everyday operations, DAFBOT aims to streamline processes, allowing Airmen—both military and civilian—to devote their attention to more critical tasks instead of mundane activities.

Channel 4 Commits to Digital Transformation Despite Large Loss

British broadcaster Channel 4 is unwavering in its commitment to digital transformation, despite reporting a hefty full-year loss of £52 million ($68 million) for 2023. CEO Alex Mahon reiterated that this planned deficit is part of a strategy to accelerate their digital initiatives.

Mahon’s insights reveal that Channel 4 is focused on expanding its digital business, resulting in increased digital revenue and record streaming figures. The planned investment in digital innovation was deemed necessary to shift from traditional linear broadcasting to a more modern digital-focused model.

Channel 4’s Fast Forward strategy aims to ensure it remains at the forefront of the industry, preserving its ability to provide unique, trustworthy content to audiences across the UK, even in the face of financial losses. Their approach exemplifies resilience and a forward-thinking mindset within the media industry.

San Bernardino Airports Focused on Staff-Enabled OPEX

The San Bernardino Department of Airports is dedicated to achieving operational excellence (OPEX) by emphasizing the importance of its employees. Director Brett Godown outlined a strategic three-pillar approach concentrating on people, processes, and products as integral components of OPEX initiatives.

The department manages six regional airports across San Bernardino County. These general aviation airports support various activities, such as pilot training and civil service operations. Efficient management of these airports hinges on the expertise and technical savvy of its staff.

Godown asserts that cultivating the right skills and knowledge within the team is crucial. The department’s commitment to operational performance through its unique workforce illustrates a robust application of OPEX principles within a specialized sector.

Dutch Water Supplier Vitens Invests in Process Automation

Vitens, the largest water supply company in the Netherlands, has made a strategic move by partnering with ABB to upgrade approximately 200,000 connectors at around 250 sites. This investment will significantly enhance operational performance and compliance with industry standards.

ABB aims to develop a cohesive process automation system for Vitens, which supplies 340 billion liters of drinking water to six million customers annually. The initiative is designed to streamline operations, reduce maintenance costs, and improve visibility across the organization.

CIO Matthijs Zwart emphasized the essential nature of reliable and safe process automation in preparing Vitens for increasing demand and challenges such as cybersecurity threats. The collaboration with ABB represents a concerted effort to ensure sustainable water supply amidst evolving operational pressures.

Conclusion

This week’s PEX Network news bulletin highlights impressive strides in process innovation and digital transformation across various sectors. From Wimbledon’s groundbreaking shift to AI in officiating to the U.S. Air Force’s focus on RPA for efficiency, it’s clear that automation and technology are reshaping traditional industries.

Channel 4’s steadfast commitment to digital change, complemented by the San Bernardino Airports’ emphasis on staff expertise and Vitens’ investment in process automation, emphasizes that operational excellence is achievable through strategic integration of modern technologies. As businesses continue to evolve, the importance of embracing these innovations cannot be overstated.