Digitalization is a hot topic for QM and EHS and offers exciting possibilities to go remote. On the one hand, remote audits, assessments, and certifications increase flexibility, reaction speed, and transparency. On the other hand, they reduce traveling costs and improve productivity. When using digital technology, the auditors or assessors don’t have to be on site anymore. Management representatives and experts can be easily included as participants, even if they are in different locations or countries. Remote visits can be conducted immediately if needed, for example, to investigate and to solve problems.

How we started

In the beginning, a remote audit toolbox was established within Digital Industries in close collaboration with the Siemens Businesses. This helped us to become front-runners regarding remote audits, assessments & certifications when the COVID-19 crisis started. For example, we were able to conduct most of the ISO (re-)certifications remotely, where we strove to bring the real and virtual industrial world together. Thus, smart glasses that collect and transmit information from various sensors (e.g., camera, microphone) and have the capability to provide audiovisual information to the wearer were of high interest to us.

How we did it

Together with colleagues from Information Technology and Customer Services, we successfully introduced this technology in Quality Management. Then, we rolled it out in Environmental Protection, Health Management and Safety in the Business Units in close cooperation with EHS in Smart Infrastructure. Together, we setup a knowledge base for remote EHS audits, assessments, and certifications. On Corporate level, a cross-organizational team, an agile project plan, and regular meetings with EHS representatives were established to provide experience, methods, and tools for implementation.

Looking ahead

There is an exciting future for QM and EHS regarding remote technologies. We are now part of the Corporate XR initiative and benefiting from the exchange. The possibilities for digital workflows and audit documentation with smart glasses are being currently evaluated. For those who like to learn more about going remote, there is an in-house training available on our training site “MyLearningWorld” and a SharePoint for further information.