Working for rail operators, such as CN Rail (Canadian National Railway) , comes with its unique challenges, particularly when it comes to meeting stringent requirements for data capture and reporting. At Aimsio, we understand these challenges and have developed a solution specifically tailored for companies operating under rail industry standards: the Rail Production Report.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the pain points contractors face when working with rail operators and how Aimsio’s platform can streamline operations, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency, with a special focus on addressing the needs of CN Rail contractors.
Example Production Report by CN Rail
The Challenges of Working with Rail Operators
1. Complex Data Capture and Reporting
Rail operators have requirements for daily production reports that must align with their operational guidelines and agreements. For instance, CN Rail mandates that these reports adhere to your Master Service Agreement (MSA).
Traditionally, companies use manual methods like paper forms, Excel sheets, or fillable PDFs to comply. These manual methods are inefficient when dealing with the complexities of projects involving rail construction, maintenance, and inspection.
The need for accurate and timely reporting is amplified in these contexts, where delays can impact project timelines and budgets. However, these methods often lead to inefficiencies, especially since the same data must be re-entered into accounting software and Fieldglass—a proprietary payment system used by CN Rail.
2. Manual Entry in Payment Systems
Systems like Fieldglass introduce another layer of complexity. Contractors need to manage various worker IDs, which differ based on roles like flagging foreman or trackman. This process is prone to errors and requires significant administrative effort, especially if done manually.
3. Disconnected Workflows
Many contractors struggle with disconnected systems for dispatching, invoicing, and payroll, leading to redundant data entry and increased chances of mistakes.
Aimsio’s Production Report
How Aimsio Solves these Problems
1. Digitized Daily Production Reports
Our platform transforms the traditional paper-based or PDF-based production report into a fully digital form (see the production report generated in Aimsio above). This digitization reduces errors and ensures that the data is ready for downstream processes like invoicing, payroll, and payment system submissions. The digital forms include built-in checks to ensure compliance with rail operator requirements—for example, ensuring specific fields are completed based on the type of work, such as track tie installation or thermite welding.
2. Integration with Payment Systems
Aimsio simplifies the submission process by:
- Maintaining master data for all SOWs (Statements of Work) and worker IDs.
- Automatically mapping roles and worker IDs based on predefined rules.
- Generating CSV files formatted precisely to import requirements, such as those for Fieldglass, eliminating the need for manual entry. For accounts without CSV import enabled, we guide users on how to enable this feature with their rail operator.
3. Connected Workflows
Our platform integrates key processes to streamline operations:
- Dispatch Module: Plan day and night shifts effortlessly, assigning crew and equipment. These assignments automatically populate the daily production report.
- Invoicing Module: Generate invoices with accurate line items at the click of a button, complete with support for package rates, billable/non-billable items, and detailed rate assignments.
- Time Cards Module: Use production report data to calculate payroll, including overtime, truck pay, and other custom rules.
4. Comprehensive Reporting and Analytics
Every data point captured in the digital production report is stored in our database, enabling detailed reporting. Whether you need job-specific reports, cost analysis, or revenue tracking, Aimsio provides actionable insights to help you optimize operations.
Real Results from Rail Contractors
Aimsio’s Rail Production Report is already being used by contractors working with major rail operators, including CN Rail. These companies report significant time savings, reduced errors, and smoother workflows, from dispatching crews to submitting data in payment systems. Our system is designed to handle the complexities of rail operator requirements, allowing you to focus on delivering quality work without administrative headaches.
Ready to Simplify Your Operations?
If you’re tired of juggling multiple systems and manual processes, Aimsio’s Production Report is here to help. Contact us today for a demo and see how we can transform the way you work with rail operators.
