Emma Nash Network Rail's plans to implement an ebusiness supply chain programme is the latest step in the track operator's strategy to improve the UK rail infrastructure by implementing innovative technology.

The three-year ebusiness project will result in a comprehensive system that will streamline its processes, increase efficiency and improve visibility and control across the supply chain.

The wide-ranging initiative will cover: 'rationalisation, consolidation, simplification and integration of all planning and management processes and systems that are related to Network Rail's ability to source and supply key supply materials, distribution and services relevant to the maintenance and renewal of the rail infrastructure.'

The programme will cover general goods and services, core materials and services, supply chain management, integration and knowledge management.

'This is an innovative use of current technology. We are not going to be developing new technology to manage this. We will just use what we have differently,' said a Network Rail spokesman.

The programme is in its first stage of development, which involves installing what Network Rail calls a 'supply chain collaborative planning hub'.

The hub is essentially a centrally managed web site that suppliers can access and discover what projects the organisation is planning in the future.

Network Rail believes the hub will eliminate the risk of running out of equipment midway through a project.

'It's going to reduce our costs. We are going to be able to make sure we let everyone know when everything is going to be, and there is no way this can fail to cut costs,' Network Rail's spokesman told Computing.

The establishment of a supply chain system has been welcomed by rail organisations, who say it could reduce 'possessions' - the amount of time the track is closed for engineering work.

'This sounds really good, if it can deliver what they say it can,' said Jay Merritt, spokesman at the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC).

'Possessions are a big issue for us, and the train operating companies would like to see as much done as quickly as possible. The sooner they get this in place, the better.'

Alison Kerry, spokeswoman for the Rail Passenger's Council says the hub will have a positive impact on passengers.

'If they can get equipment and supplies on time, that will speed things up. Anything that can speed up engineering possessions where the track is closed, that's a great benefit to passengers,' she said.

The ebusiness programme is a major investment for Network Rail.

We have a very, very big budget for this. It will be multimillions of pounds,' said its spokesman.

Before Network Rail took over from Railtrack last October, it said it planned to use technology as an important tool in transforming the UK's rail infrastructure.

Deputy chief executive Iain Coucher told Computing in August that a large investment in IT was the only way the organisation would be able to do the job it had been tasked with.

'We feel we need to get greater visibility over operations, costs, and the way the business is run,' he said. 'The only way to do that is to have a large and lengthy investment in IT.'

Network Rail?s technology plans

Oct 2002 Network Rail takes over from Railtrack

Dec 2002 Company outlines plans for an asset management system to prioritise investment in the rail network

Jan 2003 SchlumbergerSema is awarded a £20m, five-year contract to standardise and modernise Network Rail's IT systems

Mar 2003 Alcatel wins an £88m deal to replace ageing radio systems and improve communication between signal operators and drivers

Mar 2003 Supply chain ebusiness programme starts, promising improved communication with suppliers and a reduction in time spent on maintenance work