Digital first
What does digital-first really mean for our business? It means that we are committed to approaching any new opportunity or problem with the assumption that the solution should be as digital as possible.
Fundamentally, this is very simple. We start by imagining as much as possible of the service or solution that we’re creating being used in a digital form and then explore how it can be powered by underlying digital platforms.
Some examples of where we’ve already considered digital-first:
Electronic ordering NVS now receives over 80% of our daily orders electronically. Not only does this save on paper, but it also creates fewer errors in processing and ensures that you get instant feedback on product availability.
Virtual MeetingsUsing digital platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom for virtual meetings allows us to cut back on the amount of travelling required by our employees and the associated carbon footprint.
YoDeck digital screensWe use digital screens in our warehouses, offices, and depots rather than printing notices and displaying on traditional style notice boards, helping to save on unnecessary printing and paper.
Geopointe software - electronically optimised route planningWe use Geopointe software to map our delivery routes. Looking at existing runs and loads, the software can offer the best solution to ensure that we can meet your delivery requirements, whilst actively reducing the mileage our van drivers do every day.
eSchedule by NationWide LaboratoriesYou can now book sample collections directly online rather than by phone, removing multiple touchpoints and increasing efficiency.
Digital Pathology by NationWide Laboratories (NWL)A new state-of-the-art digital pathology scanner at NWL means that we can offer you a high-end, extra fast and super-efficient digital slide scanning service. The top-quality images produced can be easily transferred digitally to NWL's expert teams for diagnosis and sent back to your practice, cutting out the need for physical postage and the associated carbon footprint.
Online Continuous Professional DevelopmentYou can access our wide range of online Continuous Professional Development (CPD) courses, created by NWL’s team of expert pathologists and scientists, from the comfort of your own home or practice. Reducing your need to travel and helping you cut your carbon footprint. The move to our new warehouse and distribution centre will allow for additional digital-first opportunities:
Warehouse Management System (WMS)Taking a digital approach, the WMS will increase levels of automation across the whole warehouse and is designed to use the minimum amount of paper and printing. In addition, where manual processes are still used, they will be driven using technology solutions. For example, using a wearable computer rather than using a printed pick list.Document Management SystemWe will be implementing a digitised workflow that will streamline the way we process invoices, generate fewer pieces of paper, and increase efficiency and accuracy.
Yes
No
Not yet, but we're looking into it
