CASE STUDY #1
Empis, Aljean B.
BSAIS-III
QUESTIONS/ANSWERS
1. What types of transactions are handled by baggage handling systems?
Answer:
Baggage handling systems handle various types of transactions related to baggage
management, such as scanning and tracking baggage, sorting and routing it to the
correct destination, loading it onto aircraft, and transferring it between flights or to
baggage claim areas. These systems use a combination of technologies, including
conveyor belts, barcode scanners, RFID tags, and automated sorting machines, to
ensure that baggage is handled efficiently and accurately. Overall, baggage handling
systems play a crucial role in ensuring that passengers' luggage is safely transported and
delivered to their intended destinations.
2. What are the people, organization, and technology components of baggage handling
systems?
Answer:
A baggage handling system involves different groups of people, organizations,
and technology working together to ensure that luggage is transported from check-in to
the right plane and destination.
The people component includes airport personnel who manage the baggage
system, such as baggage handlers who load and unload luggage, and customer service
representatives who help passengers with their luggage-related needs.
The organization component involves the different companies and departments
responsible for different parts of the baggage handling process, such as airlines, baggage
system manufacturers, and airport authorities. They work together to ensure that the
system is efficient, secure, and meets industry standards.
Finally, the technology component includes the various technologies that make
up the baggage handling system, such as conveyor belts, scanners, and software that
tracks luggage and ensures that it is delivered to the right plane and destination. These
technologies are designed to improve the speed, accuracy, and reliability of the baggage
handling process.
3. What is problem these baggage handling systems are trying to solve? Discuss the
business impact of this problem. Are today’s baggage handling systems a solution to this
problem? Explain.
Answer:
The problem that baggage handling systems are trying to solve is the efficient and
accurate transportation of passenger luggage from check-in to the aircraft. The business
impact of this problem is significant, as delays or mishandling of baggage can result in
missed flights, frustrated passengers, and costly compensation claims. Baggage handling
systems aim to improve the passenger experience by providing a smooth and seamless
check-in process, reducing wait times and errors, and minimizing lost luggage incidents.
Today's baggage handling systems have come a long way in addressing these issues, with
advanced technologies such as RFID tracking, automated sorting, and real-time
monitoring. However, there is always room for improvement, and continued innovation
in baggage handling systems is necessary to meet the evolving needs of the airline
industry and its passengers.
4. What kinds of management reports can be generated from the data from these
systems?
Answer:
Baggage handling systems generate data that can be used to generate various
management reports. These reports can provide insights into the system's performance,
such as the number of bags processed, the time taken to process them, and any delays or
issues that may have occurred. Additionally, the reports can be used to monitor the
efficiency and effectiveness of the system, identify areas for improvement, and make
informed decisions about future investments or upgrades. Overall, the data generated by
these systems can be a valuable tool for managing and optimizing baggage handling
operations.
1. Do a search on “airline baggage handling technology” and identify suppliers of
baggage
handling systems to the airlines industry. Choose one supplier and describe how its
systems work. How are they different from the systems described above?
Answer:
After conducting a search on "airline baggage handling technology," some
suppliers of baggage handling systems to the airline industry include Siemens Logistics,
BEUMER Group, Vanderlande, Daifuku, and SITA. I will choose Vanderlande and
describe how its systems work and how does it differentiate from the system discussed
in the case study.
Vanderlande's baggage handling systems are automated and utilize advanced
technology to ensure efficient and accurate processing of luggage. Their systems include
automated check-in, conveyor belts, sorters, and scanners. One unique aspect of
Vanderlande's systems is their use of autonomous vehicles (AVs) to transport bags
between different parts of the system. These AVs are equipped with sensors and
cameras to navigate and avoid obstacles. Additionally, Vanderlande's systems are
designed to be flexible and scalable, allowing for easy customization and expansion.
Overall, Vanderlande's systems are characterized by their advanced automation, use of
AVs, and flexibility in design.
The system described by Vanderlande is different from the one system described
in the previous case study in terms of its use of autonomous vehicles (AVs) to transport
bags, as well as its greater emphasis on automation and flexibility. The previous system
discussed in the case study primarily involves manual handling of bags by human
operators, whereas Vanderlande's system relies heavily on automation and advanced
technology. Additionally, Vanderlande's systems are designed to be highly flexible and
easily customizable, while the case study system appears to be more static in design.
2. Go to ibm.com/luggage and watch the video case study of the IBM baggage handling
system installed at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. The video claims that Schiphol’s
system is the most advanced in the world. Review this case and discuss whether or not
this claim is justified.
Answer:
The claim that Schiphol Airport's baggage handling system, powered by IBM, is
the most advanced in the world is a bold statement that requires further analysis.
However, it is undeniable that the system is highly innovative, featuring a fully
automated system capable of handling high volumes of baggage with minimal human
intervention. Incorporating advanced technologies such as RFID and real-time data
analytics, it enhances operational efficiency and improves the overall passenger
experience. While difficult to confirm, Schiphol's baggage handling system is certainly
highly impressive and sets a high standard for other airports to follow.
3. One of the largest baggage system modernization program failures in history occurred
at the Denver International Airport in the period 1995–2005. Do a search on “Denver
baggage system failure” and write a brief report on why this project failed.
Answer:
The Denver International Airport wanted to improve its baggage handling
process with a new, advanced system that would automate the process. However, the
project failed after ten years and $1 billion was invested. The new system had many
technical issues, including software and mechanical malfunctions, which caused
problems and delays. The project was also complex and lacked adequate planning,
management, and testing. Furthermore, changes in airport leadership and budget
constraints led to design changes and further delays. The Denver baggage system failure
shows the significance of proper planning, testing, and management in large
infrastructure projects.
