CLIENT CHALLENGE
The ULD (Unit Load Device) management systems used by the client were short on performance. They did not support real-time updates, were tied down to a platform and had significant functionality gaps. Thus, they  often failed to deliver desired results.

The lack of an efficient ULD management system often resulted in ULDs being lost en route translating into significant financial loss. The client felt the need to develop an ‘integrated ULD management system’ that would support the world-wide ULD operations of an airline and the airport operations of an airport the client supports.

IBS SOLUTION
IBS was able to use its business domain knowledge and software component frameworks to quickly develop a ULD Management System that was cost-effective. This system was developed in small iterations, starting with elements of high risk. The project employed the Rational Unified Process (RUP) methodology.

A prototype was developed, to mitigate high-category risks and to demonstrate the technological capability of IBS. Both high and low level designs were developed for approval by the client. The final system was built based on the design approved by the client. Tests were conducted at all stages of production.

The system uses three-tier architecture, JSP for the client layer, EJB for the business layer, and Oracle as the database. This enabled the system to be deployed on the web. Interface with MQ series is also provided, so that SITA messages that come in the queue can be parsed to update the system.

All major functionality of ULD management is handled by the application. The client now uses it to track ULDs across the network, throughout the lifetime of the ULDs. Awarded “The Best Small Project” by the client, the application has proved to be highly efficient in meeting and exceeding customer requirements.

KEY FEATURES
The key features of the application include:
• Multi-hosting capability, developed with state-of-the-art technology which is fully web-enabled
• Web browser interface and Java technology that facilitates easy installation and enhances portability  
• Support for handling all standard ULD-related SITA Type B Messages
• Automatic generation of chaser messages
• Comprehensive seasonal and daily flight creation
• Generation of custom reports over the web  
• A loaning subsystem to track loaning and return of ULDs

BUSINESS BENEFITS
The system gives the client a host of benefits:
• Efficient planning and tracking of ULDs
• Effective utilization of the ULDs by reducing turnaround time
• Accurate handling of various activities of ULDs across their lifespan
• Real-time update of stock 
• Cost savings due to reduced number of lost ULDs
• Enhanced communication between airports
• Minimal use of costly SITA messages 
• Easy access to the application over the internet

About the Client
The client is the IT division of a leading airline group  and is a leading supplier of IT solutions to the global air travel industry.

This client meets the full range of IT needs of the constituents of the corporate group – which includes a large airline, and one of the largest air travel services organizations in its region.

With a portfolio of innovative products encompassing finance, cargo, airport, reservations, frequent flyer and airline commercial solutions, the client has a list of customers that reads like a virtual who’s who of the airline industry.