14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft and SITA, the organization whose main purpose is to provide the air transport industry with technological solutions to improve their efficiency, have developed a Windows 10 universal app whose purpose is to “transform ground operations at airports,” as the two companies announced.
Called SITA AirsideApp, the new app works on phones, tablets, and the Microsoft Band, and helps reduce paperwork and streamline a number of processes by collecting and sharing information on a Windows 10 device. It can also send notifications and send status updates which can be easily checked out on a phone or the Band.
It appears that several airports have already started using it and in a press release today, Microsoft says that some locations in Middle East and Asia have tested the app and the results are promising.
“It has been shown to reduce administration time to process forms and manuals by as much as 30% and increase the accuracy of time-stamped activity recording by up to 25%,” the press release shows.
Used to sell additional services
Last but not least, the application also comes with support for mobile POS services, which enable agents to sell select services, such as lounge access, seat upgrades, and duty-free products.
“SITA and Microsoft have focused development on improving the workflow for ground staff at airports. By moving from paper-based checklists and operations, SITA AirsideApp eliminates fragmented processes and enables workforce collaboration. This agile way of working means it is easier to make the right decision quickly every time,” an Ebbinghaus, senior vice president, Communications and Infrastructure, SITA, said.
While this isn’t the type of application that can be used by all Windows 10 users, it’s still a good thing that it’s there because it proves the true capabilities and opportunities created by the new operating system. Microsoft is still pushing hard for universal apps adoption and development and every single new item that reaches the store is one step closer to the company’s goal of making the lack of apps a thing of the past.