Astao, the new alert system for SNCF agents

by Catherine Moal on alliancy.fr — October 2, 2018
IT Link (connected systems) and Mitel (corporate communications) launch Astao, an integrated and customizable security solution, in order to ensure the protection of people and property. SNCF has just adopted it, starting with 10,000 of its mobile agents.
The “Astao” alerting solution was deployed between January and June 2017 to 10,000 SNCF mobile agents. By the end of 2018, more than 15,000 people will be under protection. In fact, Astao responds to all types of emergency situations, from the discomfort of an employee on the move to the dysfunction of an infrastructure, including all the risks related to incivility and aggression...
This dedicated communication solution in SaaS mode (with secure interconnection with the SNCF information system), developed by IT Link and Mitel France based on more generic solutions, integrates a centralized alert management system that can be interfaced with the customer's security system, which can be deployed to employees through a mobile application or on sensitive infrastructures using connected smart sensors.

A “WHITE LABEL” OFFER

Four months at the end of 2016 were enough for both partners to deploy this tailor-made solution to start the gradual deployment in January 2017. Beyond the technical aspect, the emphasis was placed on supporting change, in particular through the adaptation of ergonomics to user uses and finally, training. “In order to create a tailor-made application, we have set up user workshops (business processes, ergonomics, reliability, etc.) within SNCF. Among the 10,000 employees using this new system, 8,000 have already used it at least once, a penetration rate that indicates the success of the solution,” explains Eric Boileau, technical director of the IT Link group, an ESN specialist in connected systems. As part of this project, the pre-existing solution did not have the expected success with employees, hence the change of application. This time, it was therefore necessary to hear all user feedback, in conjunction with the railway group's security department.
Available on Android and iOS as a “white label”, this solution is intended as much for navigators/mobile personnel in companies, hospitals, as well as in local authorities. “For organizations with a public service mission, ensuring the safety of their employees and their customers has become a major challenge”, adds Christophe Chamy, CEO of Mitel France. Today, the two partners are in discussion with several interested local authorities and two hospital structures to install the solution...