IBS implements new generation cargo terminal operations system for Emirates

IBS implements new generation cargo terminal operations system for Emirates
Largest IT system implementation

Trivandrum - September 13, 2004 - IBS Software Services (IBS) has developed and successfully implemented Chameleon, a sophisticated new-generation, cargo terminal operations system for the Emirates Group.

IBS has designed Chameleon to handle end-to-end management and monitoring of cargo consignments, from the time a consignment is delivered to the airline till its delivery at the destination airport. IBS has delivered arguably one of the largest and most complex systems using new generation technologies for the airline cargo industry.

Chameleon enables a ground handler to manage all cargo terminal operations from reserving an air waybill to manifesting the shipment on a flight on the export/air side and to receive the cargo from the airline and deliver the shipment to the consignee on the import/land side. Chameleon also supports radio communications through hand held terminals and improves productivity and service levels by defining flexible workflows and monitoring the performance of the different business processes. Thus, Emirates SkyCargo and Dnata Cargo are currently operating with the most advanced Cargo Ground Handling and Warehouse Management IT system in the aviation industry today, providing Emirates with the tools that are needed to achieve its goals of efficiency, profitability and service quality.

Mr. V K Mathews, IBS Chairman and Managing Director said, “Emirates had a very aggressive time schedule for completion, and we are quite delighted that we were able to cut over two large terminal operators from existing systems to the new system with minimal interruptions to their operations. The success of both system development and implementation is a demonstration of our commitment, competence and determination to succeed even under the most challenging circumstances”.

“Chameleon is one of the largest IT system implementations which the Emirates Group has undertaken in recent times, and the project is strategically important for the Group. Understandably, Chameleon was a big challenge, and I truly appreciate and thank IBS for their professionalism, competence and commitment in making Chameleon a great success\", added Mr. Joshua Koshy, Senior VP-IT, Emirates Group.

A multi-million dollar project with over 120 person years of effort, Chameleon’s success could only be achieved through a spirit of co-operation and outstanding team work between ourselves and IBS. They created the product to our specifications and worked with us in implementing the system for the two business units resulting in very smooth transitions for them. As the project owner I could not have asked for more,” added Akshay Shrivastava - Manager-Information Services, Cargo and Logistics, Emirates Group IT.

Special features enable data communication using mobile computers and handheld devices to improve flow control and piece-level tracking, and hence reduce operational errors. The system is expected to improve productivity and service levels by automating the workflow, enabling paperless internal processes, and monitoring processes and performance. It also provides customers, suppliers and other partners direct control over logistics, processes and costs, while offering an advanced tool that boosts productivity and profitability - all of which will help Emirates to quickly boost its cargo revenue.

IBS recently partnered with Cendant Travel Distribution Services (TDS), a division of Cendant Corp. for the marketing of IBS’s new generation Passenger Services System that has been designed to replace legacy technologies.

About IBS Software Services
IBS Software Services is a world-class provider of software solutions to the global travel, transportation and logistics industry. IBS has business operations in USA, Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific, and Group companies operate out of USA (Atlanta), Europe (London), Middle East (Dubai), Asia Pacific (Sydney) and India (Trivandrum). IBS has a large offshore software production and competence development centre situated in India, which is SEI CMM Level-5 assessed, and ISO 9001:2000 and TickIT certified. The global clientele of IBS includes major corporations like British Airports Authority, Air Canada, Emirates, Dubai Airport, Swiss, Qantas, SITA, EDS, Shell, GulfShare, and Qatar Airways. More information about IBS can be found on the web at http://www.ibsplc.com.

Media Contact:
Pradeep P. Suthan
Head-Corporate Communications
Tel: +91-471-2700080
Email:pradeeps@ibsplc.com