HKBN Enterprise Solutions first off the blocks with a full spectrum of smart technologies to combat coronavirus outbreak
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HKBN Enterprise Solutions first off the blocks with a full spectrum of smart technologies to combat coronavirus outbreak
Known for its agility and flexibility, HKBN Enterprise Solutions (HKBNES) proactively rolled out innovative and fast-to-deploy solutions that help clients ride out the unprecedented pandemic challenges and adapt to the “new normal”.
COVID-19 end-to-end IoT and disinfection solutions
As soon as news of Hong Kong’s first coronavirus cases broke before Chinese New Year, the HKBNES team knew they had to come up with some solutions quickly to give their clients a fighting chance to keep their businesses running.
Responding fast to market needs, the premier integrated telecom technology solutions company serving every one in two companies in Hong Kong collaborated with appropriate partners; and leveraged its expertise in ICT solutions to optimise the best results for customers and maximise their outcomes. They came up with a three-pronged approach that covers all the bases.
The fully integrated, end-to-end solutions, adapted to individual client needs, encompass all three touchpoints: pre-, during- and post-visit on a virus transmission journey. All were road-tested internally before deployment to clients, followed by an after-sales briefing to ensure smooth operation.
First up was the Smart IoT Thermal Detection Solution (SITD Solution) deployed as a prevention measure during the pre-visit stage. Using advanced IoT and AI thermal tracking technologies, this contactless body temperature tracking solution supports real-time monitoring, smart alerts and record uploads via WiFi or mobile network, without requiring a staff member to conduct thermal checking manually.
“We started creating this on January 26 and went to the market on February 3 to help businesses identify and avoid suspected infection before they enter the premises. Recently we enriched this technology with a face mask detection solution,” recalls John Liu, Co-Owner & Associate Director, IoT, HKBNES. “Other prevention solutions include effective and safe UV-C based chambers to disinfect a variety of objects from small personal belongings to books, documents and large items.”
The next step is implementing control measures during the visiting stage. To this end, HKBNES offers a range of UV-C air disinfection units to ensure a bacteria- and virus-free indoor environment. And for large scale operations with higher requirements to comply with social distancing measures, it adds sophisticated AI technology and an IP camera to the SITD Solution that helps management track and analyse traffic flow and spacing, allowing them to make necessary adjustments quickly.
Full disinfection post-visit
Carrying out full disinfection in the post-visit stage is the final step. “For this, we offer UV-C sterilisation robots, trolleys and battens. For smaller spaces like an office area or a shop, there’s the new Philips UV-C Disinfection Desk Lamp. Laboratory tests conducted by the Boston University proved that it could inactivate 99% of COVID-19 virus on a surface with an exposure time of six seconds. A small F&B outlet may only need one or two lamps to disinfect its premises,” Liu adds.
Operating with the agility of a feisty startup whilst being part of a large corporation best describes HKBNES’ modus operandi. “This mode enables us to move fast, make quick decisions, and prioritise our work to meet the operational needs of our customers. For example, we were able to deploy SITD Solutions to our F&B customers within two days after the government announced on March 27 mandatory body temperature measures to be implemented at restaurants. We practically dropped everything else and jumped through hoops to do so,” Liu recalls. “Another case we were pleased with involves a client who runs a face mask factory. We received a request one morning during the height of the face mask shortage to deliver a SITD Solution to them the next day. Wishing to contribute to this meaningful endeavour, we rushed the Solution to them that afternoon. I think our engagement speed is second to none.”
In addition to speed, Liu cites an example of going the extra mile for a large fast-food restaurant chain who needed more flexibility with their SITD Solution. “They do not have anyone stationed near the device at the entrance to hear the body temperature alert should it goes off. So, we came up with a solution by installing a blue tooth speaker at the food pickup area, which enables staff there to go and take appropriate action when required.”
Helping customers thrive in adversity
The number of businesses that HKBNES has supported with its end-to-end solutions to combat COVID-19 is massive. From SMEs to large corporations, they run the gamut from schools and hospitals to F & B outlets and shopping malls. “Even micro enterprises can leverage our solutions. An inline skating school installed our SITD Solution early on and posted the safety measure on their social media. Their revenue grew by three times the following week. This positive outcome proves that when there’s a danger, there’s a chance, even during the time of coronavirus,” Liu concludes.
Tide over the tough times
In keeping with its core purpose to “make our home a better place to live”, the HKBN Group launched the #ToughTimesTogether campaign in March when it waived one month’s service fee for corporate and residential clients. It also provided 10,000 underprivileged families with two-year free broadband service. And over the summer, 100 university graduates undertook the three-month, on-the-job training and mentorship #ToughTimesTogether – Career Kickstarter programme as a springboard for their future career aspirations.