Configurations for Reported Issues Notifications in Aviation SMS Software

Configuring Hazard Notifications in Aviation SMS Software

SMS Pro's recent December 2013 upgrade brought many improvements. Some enhancements are noticeable to all users, such as the "Automatic Logoff" feature that prompts users to continue their session after user activity ceases. Other aviation safety features are more subtle.

Here we discuss three features, two of which are new.

1) Disable Reported Issues' Emails Feature

SMS Pro support staff can migrate your legacy data into SMS Pro's aviation safety database software using scripts. We require that the data comes to us in an MS Excel spreadsheet, so we can analyze and prepare the data migration scripts.

Many airlines and airports have their legacy safety reports' data in MS Word or paper format. In this case, you will have to have data entry personnel enter in these reported issues manually. Data entry personnel have capabilities to enter reports on behalf of other employees in the system. It was as if the initial reporters submitted the issues when Data Entry personnel submit reports.

As you know, when issues are reported in SMS Pro, email notifications are sent to those reporting issues and managers configured to receive notifications of newly reported issues. When entering considerable numbers of legacy reports manually, users can become spammed mercilessly from the aviation safety management software.

New Feature to Disable Reported Issues' Emails

An enhancement now exists to turn off ALL email notifications for your aviation safety portal. Simply ask SMS Pro support staff to turn off all reported email notifications. Take your time and manually insert your legacy data. When you are ready to enable email notifications, simply contact SMS Pro support staff. This is an easy configuration for us. See image below.

2) Automatic Logoff Feature in Aviation Safety Management Software

Military and police organizations have strict Web security protocols that must be followed, such as SSL and automatic logoff of inactive users. A few airlines and airports may also have the need to automatically logoff inactive users after a certain period of inactivity. SMS Pro will now logoff inactive users 15 minutes after the last time a user refreshed the screen. See example below, requesting user to continue the session.

This automated logoff feature is similar to banking software behavior. If your SMS Admin feels that 15 minutes is too short, contact SMS Pro support staff and request a longer period. Available settings are:

• 15;
• 30;
• 45;
• 60; and
• 75 minutes.

3) Task Lead Time in Aviation Safety Software

The aviation safety management software SMS Pro notifies users when tasks are overdue, such as corrective preventive actions, assigned issues, work orders, etc. By default, notifications are sent out when the item is overdue. This is not a new feature, but work reminding SMS Admins about.

If your airline or airport wants to have "Lead Time" associated with these automated notifications, SMS Pro can send "warnings" to users when issues are about to become overdue. For example, your airline or airport personnel may want to be warned three days in advance that their assigned task will become due.

Contact SMS Pro support staff if you want to configure "Task Lead Time."

SMS Pro is a very full-featured, configurable aviation safety management system software application. If you don't see a configuration or a particular module, tell us about your needs and we'll work with you. Chances are the features are already built into SMS Pro.

Thank you for supporting SMS Pro and making SMS Pro one of the best aviation safety management software tools on the market. To learn more about aviation safety management software tools, see http://www.asms-pro.com

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Understanding User Dashboard Chart - Reporting Culture in Aviation Safety Software

Current Reporting Culture as of Today

Understanding your current reporting culture is an important exercise for any airline or airport safety manager. What perceptions toward your aviation safety management goals and objectives do airline and airport personnel currently hold? A question recently appeared regarding one of the new User Dashboard charts in SMS Pro's aviation safety management software. See the User Dashboard chart below:

Question: what does maximum 26 issues reported in 7 days relate to?

SMS Pro Fails to Make Intuitive Dashboard Charts

SMS Pro routinely creates new aviation safety software tools for airline and airport SMS programs. One measure of our success is when users intuitively understand the functionality or purpose of tools without further documentation. In this case, we failed and hope to explain this very useful dashboard chart. If you want to see the user-configurable dashboard to which this chart belongs, see User Configurable Dashboard in Aviation Safety Management Software

Explanation of Real Time Hazard Reporting Culture Chart

At the bottom of this aviation SMS charting tool are three radio buttons corresponding to three different result sets. The default selection is "7 Days." One can easily get another result set to fill the gauge and legend by selecting another option, such as "Month" or "Year."

For the current date the above aviation SMS chart was displayed to the user, 13 issues had been reported within the past 7 days. Result sets come from real time data and can change throughout the day. For the life of this particular aviation SMS portal, the maximum number of reported hazards (issues), not counting audit issues, for any given "7-day" time period was 26.

Reporting Culture Dashboard Chart Pulls Fresh Data on Demand

As mentioned, upon selecting "Month" or "Year," the legend changes to reflect:

• How many issues were reported within the "Selected Time Period;" and
• What is the maximum number of reported issues for the history of the portal for any "Selected Time Period."

Use Caution & Common Sense When Interpreting Hazard Reporting Data

The displayed metrics in this chart offer an indication of the current reporting culture in relation to the life of your SMS program. Several factors may affect these result for any given period, for example:

• Safety promotion newsletters increasing awareness and motivating employees to submit issues;
• Allowing contractors and customers to submit hazards and quality concerns using email and public hazard reporting tools;
• Providing aviation SMS training to airline or airport employees; and
• Organizational restructuring that causes sudden increase or decrease in number of active employees.

As with any data result, one has to be careful as to how you interpret this "snap shot" of your aviation SMS program. If a manager suddenly enters a large stack of paper-based reports, the result set will appear skewed.

We hope the above explanation satisfies any questions to the this User Dashboard chart. There are more than 20 User Dashboard charts in SMS Pro's user configurable dashboard. If you have any questions regarding other reports, please contact us and we'll provide a detailed explanation.

To see the configurable dashboard in action, follow this link:
http://aviationsafetysoftware.blogspot.com/2013/11/aviation-sms-software-configurable.html

Thank you for supporting SMS Pro and making SMS Pro one of the best aviation safety management software tools on the market. To learn more about aviation safety management software tools, see http://www.asms-pro.com

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Aviation Safety Management Software - Aircraft Weight & Balance

Aircraft Weight & Balance Software Best for Cargo & Commercial Carriers

There are many free aircraft weight and balance software apps on the market today. They have several limitations, including accuracy and platform dependency, such as Apple specific, Android, etc. NWDS, makers of the popular aviation safety management systems (SMS) software SMS Pro have developed a new device-agnostic aircraft weight & balance software application called Perfect Balance v2.

All modern devices that support HTML5 can use this aviation safety software, including:

• IPhone;
• IPad;
• Android;
• Blackberry;
• Windows Browsers (after IE 8);
• Chrome;
• Firefox;
• Safari.

More information about Perfect Balance's aircraft weight & balance software can be found at: http://www.weightbalanceaircraftsoftware.com

Aircraft Weight & Balance Software Video

For more information on SMS Pro, visit this aviation safety management software (SMS) software website.

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Aviation SMS Software Configurable Dashboard Features - Video & Screenshots - NEW!!!

Aviation Safety Management Dashboard Features Coming Soon

Since 2010, SMS Pro's User Dashboard has remained fairly static. New User Dashboard features include approximately 20 reports to choose from, based on your user permissions. The new SMS Pro dashboard is configurable by managers and end users alike. Users position reports on their home screen and save their preferences. 

Short Video Preview of User Dashboard

To see a quick 3.5 minute video of the Aviation SMS Software Dashboard, see

http://screencast.com/t/8mISe9nOnI

Configurable Dashboard Saves Aviation SMS Report Preferences

User Dashboard preferences can be changed as new reports appear, or as needs change. For example, a manager may assume a new role as the Director of Training. Reports exists specifically for this role, which the user may wish to view each morning when he comes to work on his home screen. SMS Pro allows users to easily configure Dashboard reports without contacting IT support staff.

Focus on KPIs in Aviation SMS Reports with SMS Pro's User Dashboard

Below are examples of the types of reports available in SMS Pro's User Dashboard, which include your aviation safety performance indicators or KPIs:

• Reported Issues (several variations);
• User Login statistics;
• Top Reporters
• Map and Location Data regarding recent reports;
• Top Root Causes of Incidents;
• Training & Qualifications (expiring)

If you need a special report to put into your User Dashboard, contact SMS Pro's sales & support at techsupport@nwds-ak.com and put in your request.

Screenshots of SMS Pro aviation safety management system (SMS) User Dashboard

Users can drag and drop aviation safety reports to suit their needs.

Aviation SMS Software Dashboard Configurator allows users to easily manage dashboard configurations.

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Aviation SMS Database Software Security

Ensuring Aviation SMS Software Data Security & Integrity

A customer recently asked: "Is the safety data-base properly secured and confidentiality of data adequately protected? I know you have this covered but do you have something I can put in my manual to keep my auditor happy."

Short background of SMS Pro team developing aviation SMS Software

Before SMS Pro was developed by NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) in Anchorage, Alaska, its software engineers spent several years developing enterprise-level Web applications for department of defense (DoD) contractors. They also participated in a few DoD Web security research projects that focused on best security practices for the Web.

Data Security for Aviation SMS Software

We are not able to divulge security protocols for SMS Pro as releasing this information is a security risk. However, we can provide this information:

Data is backed up nightly and stored on two different servers in two geographically distinct regions of the United States.

Server rooms remain locked and secured from unauthorized access.

Data is secured behind enterprise grade firewalls. Data access is based on Microsoft's role provider.

Database access is restricted to application security protocols.

SSL can be applied upon client request and at client's expense.

For more information on SMS Pro, visit this aviation safety management software (SMS) software website.

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Pilot Flight-Duty Time Configuration in SMS Pro

Pilot Flight-Duty Time Configuration in SMS Pro

SMS Pro's Web based aviation safety management software has an integrated pilot flight duty time module that automatically reports flight/duty time exceedances to airline safety managers and others who may be configured to receive such notifications. The Pilot Flight Duty Time module had many possible configurations, but recently, helicopter operators and scheduled airlines recently requested additional configuration parameters. In this short post, we look at the current configuration parameters in this Web based pilot duty time limitations software.

Current Pilot Duty Time Limitations Software Configurations

As you can see from the following screenshot, SMS Pro's pilot flight duty time limitations module has several sections, including

• Flight/Duty Time Threshold Settings;
• Minimum Consecutive Rest Hours;
• Flight Attendants Duty Time; and
• Manage Alerts and Exceedances.

Besides alerting pilots that their flight duty time is about to exceed, SMS Pro's flight duty time software reports exceptions in the Web based aviation hazard reporting software.

Many Airlines Don't Have Modern Pilot Flight Duty Time Software

We have been surprised at how many operators are managing flight duty time using paper or MS Excel spreadsheets or very archaic DOS software packages. If you are interested in looking at SMS Pro's Pilot Flight Duty Time module, contact us or visit the SMS Pro site to best learn how our aviation safety management software can help your operation.

Revised Flight Duty Software Settings (Dec 2, 2013)

For current SMS Pro users, please review the above configurations to determine whether they are suitable. If you need a special configuration, please notify SMS Pro tech support immediately so we can incorporate the settings.

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) Audit - Achieving 4/4

Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) Audits - Getting Highest Marks

Internal audit leaders and safety managers should place higher importance on effectively using technology to prepare their airline or airport for civil aviation authority SMS audits. Across the industry, there appears to be a significant gap between the importance that top airline and airport executives place on acquiring aviation SMS software tools and the perceived ability to use this aviation safety software to effectively prepare for audits and improve aviation safety.

Technology changes rapidly. If your internal auditors and safety managers are stuck using paper and MS Excel to prepare your airline or airport for an upcoming audit, they are way behind the times. New aviation SMS software exists to allow your safety and compliance teams to work together in managing pre-audit checklists.

Getting Top Aviation Safety Audit Marks from Civil Aviaiton Authorities

To help ensure your airline or airport consistently receives the highest auditing marks

• Conduct a critical assessment of your airline/airport's current use of aviation safety software technology by the internal audit department.
• Conduct an inventory of your technology tools and create a map relating tools to auditing efforts these tools support.
• Develop plans for internal safety auditors to leverage the latest technologies to keep pace with technological advancements.
• Establish close ties to other departments within your airline or airport to ensure you are pursuing complementary strategies and taking advantage of available technological resources.

It is important to determine whether the internal auditing department can use the same tools as other departments, such as the safety department. As an example, the Web based SMS Pro aviation SMS database software has auditing tools that can be used by both the safety and auditing departments. When your airline or airport has SMS Pro, audit checklists can be easily created or imported. Audits can be scheduled and managed within the user-friendly risk management framework.

Improving Your Aviation Safety Auditing Performance

To start the process to improve your aviation safety auditing performance, develop a long-term technology strategy addressing:

• Core internal audit processes;
• Real-time reports and analysis, continuous monitoring, and other technology-based activities;
• Technology-related skill sets, reflecting the findings of a skills inventory for using these tools;
• Budget requirements supporting technology-related goals;
• Anticipated benefits of aviation safety auditing investments and activities; and
• Measurements of the effectiveness of technology investments, processes, and activities.

More Information About Aviation Safety Audit Management Software

Failing Your Aviation Safety Audit - Next Steps?
Internal Auditors' Reporting Software
Audit Inspection Form Creator
Safety Audit Checklists
Audit Management Systems Integrated into Safety Management Systems
Policy & Audit Elements of Effective Risk Management Programs

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Managing Vendors in Aviation Safety Management Systems (SMS) Software

Easily Manage Vendors/Contractors/Suppliers in Your Aviation SMS Software - New Vendor Dashboard

Vendors Should be Included in Your SMS Program

Vendor management is often initially overlooked when implementing an aviation Safety Management System. Many airlines and airports spend time and money assessing vendors/contractors and suppliers on an annual basis, but they neglect integrating these data points into their aviation SMS program.

One can easily argue your airline or airport should regularly identify any hazards associated with your vendors, as well as the quality of the service they are providing your organization. Recognizing any impairment a vendor may bring to your operation will save your organization a great deal of money in the future.

SMS Pro has a new Vendor Dashboard integrated into the Web based aviation SMS database software. This vendor dashboard is one of several new dashboards added to SMS Pro in 2013.

New Vendor Dashboard Video

Here is a free YouTube video describing the new Vendor Dashboard in SMS Pro's Web-based aviation SMS database software.

Related Aviation SMS Software Links

Aviation SMS Vendor Management Software
Vendor-Communication: Vendor/Supplier Message Acknowledgement Software

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Normalization Rates Added to Aviation Safety Management Software Charts

Normalization Rates Added to Aviation SMS Software Charts

For years, SMS Pro has been a popular aviation safety management software solution for airlines, airports, MROs (AMOs) and flight schools. One reason SMS Pro is popular is because it is user friendly and every manager can generate their own reports using the intuitive interface. SMS Reports can be ad hoc using the Data Analysis Export module, or they can be canned drill down charts, such as the Risk Analysis Charts, Financial Risk Analysis Charts or the Risk Impact Trending Charts.

Aviation SMS Software Developers Overlooked the Obvious

The above charting tools have remained relatively unchanged for the past several years, except for occasional cosmetic enhancements. Last week, two people mentioned that it would be great if the Risk Analysis Charts had a normalization rate built into the chart. While we have a KPI Normalization Rate module for monitoring safety performance indicators or key performance indicators, it never occurred to us to add the normalization rate to the risk analysis charts. This is such an obvious extension, but we missed the boat.

Adding the normalization rate to reports was a straight-forward task. They are now included in the system. Below is a screenshot of the Risk Analysis Charts with the normalization rates. You can use them for all types of reports, including key safety performance indicators.

Always Looking to Improve Aviation SMS Software Product

We are always looking for ways to make SMS Pro the best aviation safety management system software product on the market. We always appreciate feedback and try to incorporate feedback into the system. Some enhancements are company specific, while others benefit the entire community.

SMS Pro is highly configurable and every portal can be adapted to the airline or airport's needs. Please keep your suggestions coming. We value your input.

Other Learning Resources About Aviation KPIs for Airlines & Airports

Choosing Key Performance Indicators - Airlines and Airports
5 Tips for Controlling Aviation Key Performance Indicators
7 Quick Tips for a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Strategy
4 Steps to Automate Key Performance Indicator KPI Monitoring

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Transport Canada Bird/Wildlife Strike Report - Default in SMS Software

TC Bird/Wildlife Strike Report - Default in Aviation SMS Software

Airlines and airports around the world have been implementing aviation safety management systems (SMS) since 2006 to comply with the ICAO SMS mandate. One aspect of formal SMS programs is hazard reporting. Several world class Web based software programs have sprung up since 2006 to satisfy regulatory requirements. SMS Pro is one of the most popular Web-based aviation SMS software programs.

Not All Bird/Wildlife Reporting Forms are the Same

Hazard reporting includes accidents, incidents and irregularities, including bird strikes. Oddly enough, bird strike reporting forms are not consistent in the aviation industry. For example, SMS Pro has had the FAA Bird Strike Report and a UAE Bird Strike Reporting Form for several years. The FAA Bird Strike Reporting Form is a default, predefined report. These reports certainly share similarities, but if one is concerned about formatting, then airlines and airports need to use a civil aviation authority (CAA) approved bird strike reporting form.

Custom reporting forms are not uncommon in SMS Pro's aviation safety database. They are quick and easy to produce and integrate nicely into the aviation risk management framework.

SMS Pro now includes the Transport Canada Bird/Wildlife Reporting Form as a default reporting form. Since the Canadians are among the leaders in implementing formal aviation SMS programs, they represent an appreciable customer base for SMS Pro. This reporting form is available to all SMS Pro users, regardless of whether you are a Canadian based airline, airport, flight school or maintenance facility.

Key Features of TC Bird/Wildlife Reporting Form

Transport Canada Bird/Wildlife Reporting Form is available in English and French, the two national languages.

Dropdown lists are configurable for aircraft make, model, engine manufacturer and bird/wildlife common species. Only SMS Admins can edit these lists. These configurable lists ensure users are not bombarded with information not relevant to their operations.

Besides using the Web based reporting form to submit issues into a company's SMS database, SMS Pro's TC Bird/Wildlife Reporting Form can be used to optionally submit reports directly to Transport Canada. If desired, safety managers can desensitize reports before transmitting reported issues to Transport Canada.

More Information

Aviation Hazard Reporting Software
Public Hazard Reporting at Airlines & Airports

If your airline or airport requires a unique reporting form, contact techsupport@nwds-ak.com. For sales information, contact sales@nwds-ak.com.

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Hidden Secrets in Aviation Safety Software You Never See

Hidden Features in Aviation Safety Management Software

Out of sight, out of mind. When you don't see certain features in SMS Pro, you would never expect them to be configurable in the Web-based aviation safety management (SMS) software solution. For example, most SMS Pro users don't realize how configurable their aviation SMS software is, such as the ability to change the system from a "Safety Management System" to a "Quality Management System."

Below is a screenshot of the hidden tab in SMS Pro's Setup >> Customize Settings.

What Are These Aviation SMS Software Features?

Many of the features displayed are self explanatory based on the setting label. There are a few configurations that bear more detail.

Task Lead Time: When issues, corrective actions and tasks are due or overdue, the assigned user is sent an email advising that action is required. By default, the default lead time is set to 3 days, which means that 3 days before an item is due, assigned users are notified of the required action. Note: Users must be configured to receive daily email notifications (see User Roles Setup tab).

Default Culture: This is the default culture code (language) that your portal is designed to use. SMS Pro's default language is English, but other options include Spanish, French, German and Chinese.

CEO Commitment Tab Name: Some companies don't have CEOs. The accountable executive may be called "President," "Chief," etc. The User Dashboard has a tab called CEO Commitment to Safety where accountable executives can post an explicit commitment to safety visible to all users. Your SMS Pro software can be easily configured to use another title for this tab.

Safety Manager Tab Name: Some companies don't call Safety Managers by this title, but by "Safety Director," or "Safety Officer." We can easily accommodate your needs when you request.

System Type: SMS Pro can not only be an aviation safety management system (SMS) software solution, but also a Quality Management System or an Environmental Management System, or even a Security Management System. Most elements (modules) remain the same across systems, however, we easily change the name of the system using this software configuration setting.

Meeting Manager Front Image: SMS Pro's Meeting Manager has a group of white managers sitting  around a board table. This image may not be fitting for Asian, African or Middle Eastern cultures. We can easily change this image based on your request.

Is Helicopter Company: Helicopter companies have helipads that can be configured in SMS Pro's Flight Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT).

Self Induction: Users receiving initial SMS training are inducted into the program to document they have been trained in the usage of the software and understand the role they play in your companies SMS program. Users indicate they understand the SMS program by completing a short form, which then notifies managers that a user "requests induction." By default, managers must confirm that users have been inducted into the SMS Program. Some companies don't want to be bothered by confirming thousands of users, but allow users to "self induct."

Anonymous Induction Reporting Allowed: When users are not able to honestly complete the induction process by answering all questions, they may leave their concerns and an issue is reported in the aviation safety management software program. After all, when users are not inducted into your safety program, this is a safety concern. By default, safety managers are notified of the person's name who has troubles becoming inducted into your safety program. But what about the so-called "anonymous reporting" that may be required by many companies? This feature allows a user to request anonymity when indicating that he doesn't agree with all the statements in the induction request form.

Secure Dashboard Charts from SMS Users: SMS Pro's aviation SMS software has a Users' Dashboard available to all general users, as well as more in-depth charts for managers. A few companies don't wish their users to see the User Dashboard Charts. This setting allows Administrators to easily hide these charts from general SMS Users.

Use Message Board: Turns Message Board features off and on.

Use Status Board: Allows company to use Airport Status and Aircraft/Vehicle Status modules that are integrated into the Message Board.

Use Mission Dispatch: SMS Pro has a Mission Dispatch module used for dispatching aircraft and crews. This module is used very little.

Requires Message Board Popup: Message Board has messages which users indicate that they have read. Some companies have requirements that pilots must read all messages before departing on missions. To prove they have read a particular message, a popup appears with a code that the pilot jots down and takes to dispatch before departing. Dispatch easily confirms the number proving the pilot has read the message.

Log Every User Activity in DB: SMS Pro has the ability to track every action taken by a user. Many enterprise level aviation SMS software programs can track when users add, delete or update records in the database. However, SMS Pro has the ability to track every page and report that a user has seen, including search variables used to run reports.

Use Mapping Interface in Reporting: SMS Pro's Web based reporting software has a configurable map on the initial screen for users to add "pins" indicating where the event occurred. This map is optional and can be easily removed upon request.

Allow Email Link in Reported Issues: By default, users are sent a "Thank You" email after submitting their report. Each email has a link to allow users to track and follow up on their reported issues. If you don't want the link to appear in the email (for whatever reason), we can easily exclude the link.

Additional Aviation SMS Software Features?

All of these features have been requested over the past six years by airlines and airports around the world. If you have a feature request or enhancement, please send us an email at chowell@nwds-ak.com

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Quality of SMS Data Top Concern for Aviation Safety Managers

Quality of Aviation SMS Data Top Concern for Airline & Airport Safety Managers

Fewer than a quarter of respondents rated their SMS programs as "extremely" or "very effective" with safety data management/maintenance, safety data processes, safety management system architecture, including workflow logic, according to a recent "Aviation SMS Data Management Survey" mailed to safety managers from NWDS, the developers of the Web based aviation safety management software, SMS Pro.

The concern over aviation SMS data technology ties closely to risk management, as the quality of aviation SMS data was the top concern in the survey, cited by 45 percent of respondents.

Other notable concerns among safety managers are the ability of their safety management systems (SMS) technology to adapt to the quickly changing regulatory requirements, cited by 40% of respondents, and the lack of integration among other operational data management systems, including human resources and maintenance. It follows that the main priority for investing in aviation safety management systems is regulatory compliance (cited by 85 percent), followed by safety data quality and management (cited by 67 percent), followed by enterprise-wide SMS implementation (cited by 51 percent).

CAA SMS Interpretations Cause Confusion

Questions surrounding regulatory reforms and interpreting regulations by civil aviation authorities and how airlines and airports have adapted to increased oversight appear throughout the survey. SMS compliance costs are on the rise, as 65 percent indicated that they’re spending more compared to 2011.

Aviation SMS Regulatory Changes

Aviation SMS regulatory changes also have caused a much larger number of airlines and airports to revise business activities.

The question of the education of the in-house safety management teams, and whether it may inadvertently sway auditing efforts of civil aviation authority (CAA) auditors is also raised.

The survey results depict a trend to increase aviation SMS training; 59 percent said, as a safeguard, their upper managers review the SMS training programs when considering pending SMS audits.

Similarly, 83 percent said they use multiple SMS training methods; 73 percent providing in-house aviation SMS training and 58 percent hiring outside SMS professionals.

Aviation SMS Programs Still Not Fully Implemented in Industry

Formal aviation safety management systems are still not ubiquitous. 82 percent of respondents said their airline or airport has a formal aviation SMS program. Also commonplace is another layer of oversight beyond that; roughly 80 percent of airlines and airports surveyed said upper management reviews and approves safety management policy, enterprise safety management implementation milestones and the safety management business workflows.

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Integrated Aviation Safety Audit Software for SMS Programs

Integrated Aviation Safety Audit Software for SMS Programs

SMS Pro has had safety auditing software tools for many years. Auditing had never been the primary focus of SMS Pro. SMS Pro was designed to provide Web based hazard reporting and risk management tools to airlines, airports, ATC, MROs (AMOs), flight schools and FBOs.

SMS Pro's aviation safety auditing software contained three modules:

1. Custom Audit/Inspection Form Creator;
2. Audit Scheduler; and
3. Audit Manager.

When performing an audit, all findings and concerns are managed in the risk management framework where corrective actions can be managed appropriately. Corrective action plans are also automatically generated and sent to stakeholders.

New Aviation Safety Auditing Software Features

Safety and compliance managers familiar with SMS Pro will love the new enhancements to SMS Pro. See screenshot below.

Aviation Safety Auditing Dashboard

The new safety auditing dashboard integrates the auditing form creator to the Audit Manager. The Safety Audit Dashboard allows one less menu item (Audit/Inspection Form Creator). Also, one can navigate to the Audit Scheduler.

More details about SMS Pro's aviation safety auditing software can be found at
http://asms-pro.com/Modules/SafetyAssurance/CustomInspectionFormCreator.aspx

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.

Have You Outgrown Your Current Aviation Safety Management System?

Have You Outgrown Your Current Aviation Safety Management System?

Many airlines and airports are in the same boat. Due to internal or external mandate, they assign safety managers the responsibility of aviation safety management — the process used to manage all aspects of your company's aviation safety program.

Basic Approach to Aviation Safety Management

When tasked with aviation safety management, airlines and airports typically start out with the simplest solution possible...

• An Excel spreadsheet listing basic hazard & event information;
• A shared network drive that houses all electronic files relevant to safety events and hazards;
• Safety managers manually check when corrective actions are due and determines next steps;
• Excel and Word files managing audit schedules and checklists.

Can the Above Safety Management Solution Work?

Sure, on a small scale. But eventually your airline or airport will encounter one or more of the following problems...

• Too much safety information to reliably track in an Excel spreadsheet;
• Lack of searching and reporting makes it difficult to get the right information when you need it;
• Shared drive becomes completely unwieldy with too many documents with little structure;
• Over-reliance on manual oversight leads to human error impacting important business decisions;
• You spend more time fixing the system and creating workarounds than on managing your safety program.

How SMS Pro Works

SMS Pro is a secure, web-based product that NWDS hosts & maintains. NWDS manages all aspects of running the safety management application (hosting, security, backups, software upgrades, etc.) thereby allowing you to focus on your actual aviation safety management program.

SMS Pro's approach to aviation safety management is based on these assumptions:

• Your airline or airport is required to have a formal aviation safety management program (SMS);
• Your airline or airport has many events and hazards to manage in an ever changing environment;
• You need a hazard reporting system that is easy to manage and accessible to all stakeholders;
• Each event can have one or many corrective actions that may be managed by different employees;
• Each event and hazard must be reviewed on a regular basis;
• You perform risk assessments to determine safety events and hazards' criticality
• You track safety issues & incidents from the time they are reported until closure and review;
• You conduct periodic safety reviews to ensure the safety program is meeting expectations;
• You perform periodic safety surveys and publish safety newletters to promote safety; and
• You need to demonstrate to auditors the effectiveness of your SMS program.

 

Available Aviation Safety Management Modules

Depending on the resources your airline or airport allocates to safety management, you may be doing all of the above or a fraction of it. SMS Pro is modular & a la carte so that you only need to pay for the features you need.

How to best help your
Aviation Safety Management System

Become an SMS PRO

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About NWDS - founded in 2003 by six software engineers, NorthWest Data Solutions (NWDS) provides custom computer programming and systems design services. NWDS creates many types of software, including e-commerce, financial, defense, engineering, logistics, aviation and more. In 2007, NWDS developed SMS Pro™ a web based SMS application that supports an organization's overall SMS through safety reporting, safety documentation, safety risk management and safety assurance. SMS Pro™ is currently used by aviation organizations in the U.S., Canada, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East to help manage their SMS programs. NWDS continues to support SMS Pro™ and add new functionality. NWDS offers custom contract programming services in the U.S. and Canada and is managed by Chris Howell, one of the founders. Their headquarters is in Anchorage, Alaska. For information on NWDS visit their website at www.nwds-ak.com and www.asms-pro.com to learn more about SMS Pro™.