SWAPP – our Safe Workplace App – adds stewarding, temporary staff management and accreditation features. Vindico’s talented development team have been busy creating some exciting new additions to SWAPP ahead of this year’s Autumn Internationals rugby tournament. The latest features introduced to SWAPP’s core platform include a staff management tool for all stewarding at the Principality Stadium, and a new accreditation system for all pass access. “We’re taking a process run by WhatsApp, email, and texts and bringing it all into on smart place – the SWAPP platform,” says Vindico MD, Jo Polson. “The SWAPP platform then provides the management team with live information on staff availability for all events – saving time, effort, and simply making the process easier and better.” These new additions now sit alongside SWAPP’s existing core features. These include a handy QR code scanner, contactless sign in / out access, valuable track and trace, live fire roll call, attendance dashboards, and pre-registration features. It also monitors industry standards, workplace regulations, and industry accreditations – ensuring all members of staff and contractors are up-to-date and meet the current required guidelines. “We used the Covid pandemic as a chance to not just tackle new problems, but solve old ones, too,” adds Jo. “What started as product for a public sector client quickly became an essential tool for changing workforces. And we’ve continuously updated features to stay one step ahead – adding contract management, track and trace, snagging, live fire roll call, and risk assessments to make workplaces safer and more efficient. Promoting digital knowledge transfer (which is more important now than ever before), SWAPP is now one of the most prominent safety apps used in Welsh sport and busines. “SWAPP has evolved rapidly in the last 12 months – going from something useful for providing safe working access to staff during the height of the pandemic, to becoming a key foundation platform that we can bolt on to existing systems, processes and problems. “Simple to use, and smart to run, SWAPP now provides a single portal for management to view essential live information. It also a provided an all-important audit trail of activity. “The WRU signing up for five years shows the faith they have in the platform, and there are yet more exciting plans ahead as we continue to work with the WRU on their development roadmap.” SWAPP originally caught the attention of the WRU in October 2020. It was adopted to safely bring us the Autumn Internationals and the Six Nations during the pandemic. Following its success, it was later adopted by Scarlets Rugby, Cardiff Rugby, Sale Sharks, and the Elite Ice Hockey League. Today it helps venues including Principality Stadium, Sixways for the Worcester Warriors, the Arms Park, and Parc Y Scarlets to safely manage staff, teams, contractors, and visitors. It’s also recently been adopted by Andrew Scott and Transport for Wales. For more information about SWAPP – and how it can help your team, business, or event stay safe and compliant – drop us a line

Vindico’s Head of R&D, Professor Paul Lewis, has been appointed regional Clean Air Champion for the UKRI and the Met Office’s Clean Air Programme. As a new regional Clean Air Champion, Paul Lewis joins the existing champions in supporting the national Clean Air Programme – a £42.5 million investment that supports high quality research and innovation to develop practical solutions for today’s air quality issues. It also equips the UK to proactively tackle future air quality challenges. As our Director of R&D here at Vindico, Professor Paul is already driving some of the most cutting-edge research, insights, and innovations around clean air and its impact on local communities. His most high-profile project to date is Think Air – Vindico’s self-funded background air quality monitoring and insights network – of which he is Co-Founder. Think Air is now the largest urban and rural background particulate network in Wales, covering the entire reach of the country. It provides air quality data  that supports agriculture, commercial, residential, and education environments. It’s also on track to being the largest non-governmental background air quality monitoring network in the UK by the end of 2022. Most importantly, it is collecting real-time data that is helping Professor Paul and the team to gain valuable data and insights into local air quality – what’s impacting it, and what we can do to improve it. “I am delighted to become the UKRI Regional Air Champion for Wales, supporting the work of the Clean Air Programme and Strategic Priorities Fund,” says Professor Paul. “The role will allow me to engage with key stakeholders from academia, industry, government, the NHS and third sector right across Wales to help develop new solutions and policies to reduce air pollution and the impacts on our health and wellbeing.” In addition to supporting the nationwide Clean Air programme, Professor Paul Lewis is a member of the Welsh Government Clean Air Panel. He’s also member of the Cross-Party Group for a new Clean Air Act, and sits on several advisory panels including the Wales Air Quality Direction Independent Review Panel and the Domestic Solid Fuel Burning in Wales, Task and Finish Group. You can fine out more about the Clean Air Programme and its regional champions

Vindico are finalists at this year’s Cardiff Business Awards. We’re excited to announce that Vindico been shortlisted at this year’s Cardiff Business Awards for a second year in a row. As a business at the forefront of tech and innovation in the UK, we’ve gained a lot of national publicity in the past year – but to be recognized in our motherland means a lot to us. It gives amazing recognition to the partnerships, projects, and client collaborations we’ve been part of – and we hope it will help us raise the profile of the exciting work we have in the pipeline, too. The past 12 months has seen us implement some of our most game-changing innovations to date – working with clients ranging from the WRU and Cardiff Rugby to Worcester Warriors and Transport for Wales. Click here to see our recent #ThinkPurple projects. The seventh annual Cardff Business Awards takes place on 26 November at Cardiff City Hall. And after last year’s shift to virtual events during the COVID pandemic, we couldn’t be happier to attend this year’s ceremony in person (MD Jo loves an excuse to get suited and booted). You can find out more about the awards – and its celebration of Wales’s best businesses

This week is National Coding Week – and it couldn’t be better timing for TASK. As its presence in Primary Schools continues to rise, TASK’s introduction to coding is helping pupils and teachers to embrace STEM in the classroom. But let’s rewind – what exactly is TASK? TASK is the UK’s first air quality activity kit designed just for kids. Pioneered Vindico’s Director of R&D, and UK air quality expert, Professor Paul Lewis, TASK is a science lab in a box that covers all areas of the curriculum in England and Wales. With a focus on learning by doing, TASK’s interactive experiences help raise awareness of air pollution in a way that’s easy to understand, measure, and report. It covers all six key areas of learning and experience in the Welsh curriculum, and supports numerous programmes of study in the UK curriculum. But back to coding. TASK’s drag-and-drop coding is the ideal introduction to computer coding and logic – and it’s been designed especially for key stage 1 and 2 (years 5 and 6). Once the air quality sensors are attached and operating, pupils can create alerts and triggers when different levels are exceeded. Imagine an alarm sounding when air quality drops, or a class becomes too rowdy! Beyond building the sensor, pupils use the same intuitive tool to create live dashboards (outputting via HDMI) with the same drag-and-drop interface. In fact, it uses the same methods and tools that create live sensor-based automation platforms in industry and construction. Pretty nifty, right? And the learning doesn’t stop there. When kids learn to code, they gain tons of other skills too. Coding helps primary school pupils to build their digital skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, and teamworking skills. It also gives creative skills, too. TASK’s platform has also been designed to make sure knowledge is transferable to higher learning and activities beyond the classroom. If your classroom is new to coding and want to give it a go, you can find out more about TASK’s benefits

COVID has brought many new challenges for businesses. That’s where SWAPP (Smart Workplace Application) comes in. We’ve shouted a lot about SWAPP playing a crucial part in bringing British sport back safely. But SWAPP also provides the safety measures to keep staff, contractors, and visitors safe across all industries. But let’s rewind. What is SWAPP? SWAPP is our unique software platform that features a handy QR code scanner, contactless sign in / out access, valuable track and trace, and pre-registration features. It also monitors industry standards, workplace regulations, and industry accreditations. This makes sure that all members of staff and contractors are up-to-date and meet the current required guidelines. It’s also the app behind bringing many sporting events – including the Six Nations in Wales and the EIHL’s Elite Series – back safely in the UK. How did it come about? SWAPP was originally developed to meet the accreditation needs of Transport for Wales. But we used a new problem (COVID) as a catalyst to not just solve new issues but fix old ones, too. SWAPP then caught the attention of the WRU. So we developed it to meet the demands of sport during the pandemic. It was adopted to safely bring us the Autumn Internationals and the Six nations. Following its success, it was later adopted by Scarlets Rugby, Cardiff Rugby, Sale Sharks, and the Elite Ice Hockey League. Today it helps stadiums including Principality Stadium, the Arms Park and Parc Y Scarlets to safely manage staff, teams, contractors, and visitors. It’s also recently been adopted by Andrew Scott. “We used the Covid pandemic as a chance to not just tackle new problems, but solve old ones, too,” says Vindico MD, Jo Polson. “What started as product for a public sector client quickly became an essential tool for changing workforces. And we’ve continuously updated features to stay one step ahead.” New features and updates for SWAPP include contract management, track and trace, snagging, and risk assessments to make workplaces safer and more efficient. Promoting digital knowledge transfer (which is more important now than ever before), SWAPP is now one of the most prominent safety apps used in Welsh sport and business. It will also soon be rolled out at every train station in Wales, too! Got a business, venue, or team who could benefit from SWAPP? Click here to drop us a line.    

Vindico has made the prestigious Small Biz 100 line-up, which showcases inspiring, independent businesses from across the country. Now in its ninth year in the UK, Small Business Saturday celebrates small business success. It encourages us to ‘shop local’ and support businesses in our communities – especially as we navigate the pandemic. Vindico will be highlighted on social media on 4 December 2021 as part of the 100-day countdown to Small Business Saturday UK. “It’s been a challenging time for small businesses everywhere, and we’ve all had to work smarter and harder to make it through,” says Vindico MD, Jo Polson. “For us, making the Small Biz 100 line up is recognition that we are on the right path and are set up ready for the next stage of our growth and development. “It’s about more than just our story though, this is an opportunity to learn from and collaborate with 99 other fantastic small businesses in the UK – and that’s something that excites us massively!” This year, ahead of the UN Climate Summit COP26 in Glasgow, the Small Biz 100 features small firms with a passion for sustainability, to demonstrate the important part small businesses play in tackling climate change and helping the UK to achieve net zero. And our self-funded Think Air project is helping businesses and individuals to do just that.  It’s on track to being the UK’s largest live background air quality monitoring network – and it’s changing the way that schools, businesses, and the agricultural sector approach – and manage – activities related to air pollution. With a pledge to go net zero, Think Air is helping to raise awareness of air pollution and encourage positive behaviour change for better – more sustainable – outcomes. “Throughout the crisis we have been reminded of the special role that small firms play in local areas, looking after their customers, communities and the planet,” says Michelle Ovens CBE, Director of Small Business Saturday UK. “We are excited to be kicking off this year’s campaign to show our thanks to amazing small businesses like Vindico. As firms recover from the challenges of the pandemic we are calling upon everyone to get behind the campaign to make it our most impactful Small Business Saturday yet.” A grassroots, not-for-profit campaign, Small Business Saturday was originally founded by American Express in the U.S. in 2010. It remains the principal supporter of the campaign in the UK, as part of its ongoing championing the UK high street and commitment to encourage consumers to shop small. On Small Business Saturday, customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Many small businesses take an active role in promoting the day by hosting events and offering promotions. Small Business Saturday attracts huge attention on the day itself, with an impact that last all year. Last year the campaign trended at number one in the UK on Twitter, with the Prime Minister, leader of the opposition and the Mayor of London among those publicly supporting the campaign. Over 90% of local councils also supported the campaign. Click here to get involved in Small Business Saturday

Think Air will launch on 22nd June 2021 at Parc Y Scarlets with a FREE virtual event. Think Air has had quite the year so far. It now powers the largest non-governmental external Air Quality network in the UK. It’s also transforming public and private sector workplaces by internally monitoring CO2 for optimum health, wellbeing and performance. It made the shortlist at this year’s national Small Awards, and it was also presented to Prime Minister Boris Johnson at No 10 Downing Street.   Now – after a whirlwind 2021 so far – Think Air is officially launching – and we’re inviting forward-thinking organisation, individuals, and school who care about climate change to be the first to see why we need to think air.   Air pollution is a major concern in the UK – and this virtual event will reveal how the air around us is key to driving better outcomes – for businesses, stakeholders, schools, communities, and the next generation.   This free virtual launch event – which takes place on 22nd June 2021 – will give you an insight into: Air quality in the UK – and why it’s never been so important The benefits of external air quality monitoring (PM2.5 and particulate matter) Internal air quality monitoring (and the impact of CO2 on health and wellbeing) Think Air for Schools (TASK) and its seamless integration into the national curriculum (Key Stage 2)   You’ll also learn: What air quality monitoring can do for your business, your targets, your productivity, and your community How low-cost local monitors can help organisations drive measured improvement Why it’s crucial that we measure PM2.5 – and the need for background monitoring How it impacts the next generation – and what you can do to become a champion for change There will also be a live Q&A, where you’ll be encouraged to send questions in advance for: Professor Paul Lewis – Head of R&D at Think Air and Professor Emeritus at Swansea University Ryan Griffiths – Technical Director of Think Air Jo Polson – Award-Winning Tech Entrepreneur and MD of Think Air Catherine Lloyd-Jenkins – Former Head Teacher, and Education Consultant to TASK   We all have a responsibility to create a better future and now you’re invited to join other environmentally conscious organisations and see how you can play your part, too. Click here to get your

This week marked the first Cross-Party group session for the Clean Air Act under the new parliament – and Paul Lewis was there to lend his advice. The Clean Air Act Cross-Party Group was formed in January 2019 to deliver a Clean Air Act for Wales. Originally chaired by Dr Dai Lloyd MS, the membership included Members of Senedd (MS) across major political parties, Professor Paul Lewis (representing Swansea University), and representatives from non-governmental organisations. These include British Lung Foundation, Sustans Cymru, Friends of the Earth, Living Streets, British Heart Foundation Cymru, Royal College of Physicians and Renewables UK Cymru. More than just a meeting, these groups provide an important opportunity to bring academia, the public sector, and commercial enterprises together to find tangible solutions. “Cross-Party Groups provide an opportunity for Members of Senedd to engage with external stakeholders on a particular subject,” explains Vindico Head of R&D, Paul Lewis. “Given the major and growing concerns about air pollution in Wales there was an obvious need for politicians and experts to engage on a regular basis to help deliver and change and improved legislation.” Meetings are held quarterly. The Clean Air Act for Wales sessions usually involve a presentation from an expert on air pollution, followed by important discussions on strategies for clean air zones in Wales, transport improvements, and awareness campaigns. Following the 2021 Welsh Parliament elections, the group was reformed with a new chair, Huw Irranca-Davies MS, who now leads the group to debate the needs of the Clean Air Act – and how air pollution continues to impact on the health and wellbeing of people in Wales, and its biodiversity. The first meeting of the reformed group took place on 9th June 2021, and Vindico’s Head of R&D, Paul Lewis, was there to advise on air pollution patterns in Wales, and the impacts of pollutants – such as fine particulates – on health and wellbeing. “The Cross-Party Group – A Clean Air Act for Wales – through its members – have played a significant role in discussing air pollution problems in Wales, and what the requirements should be for new legislation,” says Paul. “Following the introduction of the Clean Air Act White Paper in January, the group now has a critical role in ensuring that the Act is delivered as soon as possible by the new Welsh Parliament. “The group will strive to ensure that Members of Senedd and Ministers are kept informed of new evidence on how air pollution impacts lives through continued engagement with experts until at least the Clean Air Act is delivered.”   And leading the way for the essential data needed to shape these decisions is Think Air. The largest non-government urban and rural background particulate monitoring network in the UK, Think Air is now live across over 100 locations in England and Wales. It officially launches on 22nd June 2021. Click here to find out more.    

Vindico Managing Director Jo and Technical Director Ryan were at Downing Street on Friday to help Boris Johnson launch the new ‘Together for Our Planet’ campaign. The event at No 10 Downing Street launched the nationwide campaign that will roll out across the UK in the run up to the UN Climate Summit in October. With the aim of encouraging small businesses to commit to cutting their carbon emissions, the campaign celebrates small businesses – like us at Vindico – who are taking steps to decarbonise their businesses. Only eight small businesses from across the UK were in attendance, and we were over-the-moon to be chosen as a UK Business Climate Leader for our leading air quality monitoring and measuring network, Think Air. Officially launching on 22nd June 2021, our Think Air network is already gathering live data across Wales and England. It’s also the largest non-governmental particulate monitoring and measuring network in the UK. Following months of research and development, we used Friday’s event to unveil our latest Think Air product: “TASK” (which stands for ‘Think Air Schools Kit’). We developed the latest product alongside head teachers – so it sits in line with the current Welsh and English curriculums. And it’s been specially designed to get children aged 9 to 11 building, coding, and measuring the air quality around them – at school, at home, and on the daily commute. Who was the first person outside of Vindico to get their hands on TASK? Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, of course. The PM not only built the product, but also praised Vindico’s vision and commitment to the next generation. “I’m not just a business owner, I’m a parent as well. And I, like many parents, want a better, more sustainable world for my children,” said MD Jo. “It’s our job to make sure that children have the tools and knowledge to deal with the challenges ahead. TASK delivers this in a practical and fun way, while learning about the importance of sustainability. “Sustainability spreads – and we’re lucky that we get to work with some of the UK’s most carbon-conscious clients. But now’s the time to help spread the message to the next generation. “Being a part of the Together for Our Planet campaign, and being able to present at Downing Street, has been a huge opportunity for us as a small business. By committing to Net Zero, we’re just trying to do our bit, and to be recognised for our carbon-conscious efforts is incredible.”   Click here for more information about Think Air, TASK, and our official

Vindico’s SWAPP app and the WRU will be partnering once again to keep players, staff, and contractors safe.   Following successful Autumn International and Six Nations campaigns, the WRU are again turning to SWAPP to keep everyone safe during their upcoming Wales U20 Six Nations tournament.   SWAPP’s latest adoption by the WRU follows the EIHL’s successful Elite Series tournament at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena.   It will also be the first to extend SWAPP’s track and trace capabilities beyond the stadium.   “This latest gig for SWAPP will see it being used by the WRU’s teams and staff at Principality Stadium, as well as the teams looking after players and staff at each of the six allocated hotels in the city,” explained Vindico MD, Jo Polson.   “This latest extension will not only keep everyone at the stadium, both and off the pitch, safe and compliant, but will also make sure that all staff at the hotels are safe to work and make contact with the tournament’s teams and staff.”   “Additions including accreditation standards, access zones, daily COVID testing, and outputting data direct to the NHS have all been added. SWAPP will continue to evolve to play its part in bringing events back safely, and we’re looking forward to the next challenge.”   The safety app – which is a bespoke version of the original app we created for Transport for Wales – features a handy QR code scanner, valuable track and trace, and pre-registration features. It also monitors standards and accreditations. This makes sure that all members of staff and contractors are up-to-date and meet the current required guidelines.   We’re also continually enhancing SWAPP Lite’s safety features. Its latest features include accreditation standards, access zones, daily COVID testing, and the ability to output data directly to the NHS. A fire register, and a new look sign in/out book are among the latest app updates.   SWAPP is playing a valuable part in bringing sport back safely to stadiums and arenas across the UK. And as we gradually ease lockdown restrictions, we’re looking forward to seeing this valuable app continue to evolve.   Got a team, organisation, or venue that could benefit from SWAPP? Drop us a line to see how its tailored features can help you stay safe