Train firm replaces bespoke software off-the-shelf

Angel Trains is preparing itself for massive changes to the rail industry by replacing bespoke applications with Oracle software.

The company that has a fleet of 4000 trains is using finance, project management and procurement applications from Oracle’s E-Business suite to manage operations.

The McNulty report, which looked at value for money, and the Department for Transport identified how the rail industry could improve. This included the need for better asset management capability. 

Sir Roy McNulty's Department for Transport sponsored independent Rail Value for Money Study was published on 19 May 2011. It recommended ways in which the industry could “deliver a safe and efficient railway which represents value-for-money for customers and taxpayers.”

Steve Lamey, programme director at Angel Trains, said the new software would support Angel Trains in meeting new industry standards arising from the report.  “The purpose of the system is to get us on the front foot for future industry challenges.”

“The Oracle solution will allow Angel Trains to provide detailed analysis of its vehicles and be able to identify and plan modification work, with improved forward planning for both customers and suppliers,” he added.

The company can now use sophisticated project management, procurement, collaboration and planning tools, taking advantage of a synchronised database creating “one version of the truth” because  all information is held centrally.