How does the software cope with that and how fast can the solution be updated? “Ports always face challenges to the planned schedule due to vessel delays and equipment breakdowns, etc.,” says Ray Lee at Portside Solutions. “These disruptions to the planned operation can be managed with Microster – which enables the port operator to run scenarios on what cranes and teams to assign. It will assist the port operator in seeing the real-time labour cost impact of bringing in casual/contract labour versus the use of permanent teams on overtime, as an example.
“Port operators will decide how they want to handle off-schedule vessels or disruptions using their TOS berth planner. We can integrate Microster with the TOS to show the operator the cost impact from a labour standpoint running various scenarios.”
Microster has a specific module to help automate the allocation of agency/casual/contractor workers, he adds. “We have developed an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system for contractors in Australian ports that automates the calling of contractors to fill shifts over the next 24 hours.”
Once the orders for contractors are filled by the port operator, the IVR will dial workers based on a series of user-defined assignment rules such as minimum rest between shifts and maximum hours in a time period. The worker enters their pin code and accepts or rejects the shift, via a keypad entry on their phone. They can also use internet, iPad and SMS applications to accept or reject orders. “This halves the amount of time it requires to allocate agency staff and reduces a lot of database look-ups and phone calls,” he says.