Hertfordshire Equipment Service (HES) has reported a 50% rise in online orders and a number of efficiency improvements following the implementation of equipment loans management system ELMS2.

The deployment sees HES take advantage of software developer Ethitec’s ELMS2 Online Ordering, Route Optimisation, and Online Driver Scanning Modules to support the efficient management and delivery of around 80,000 pieces of equipment to approximately 27,000 unique service users.

HES is also trialling a version of ELMS2’s Online Ordering Module optimised for smartphones and small-screen tablet devices, which enables equipment to be ordered in real-time from people’s homes and an easy authorisation process for managers on the move.

The trial complements Hertfordshire County Council’s ‘SmartWorker’ programme, which enables staff to work remotely and reduces the need to print off documents.

Barry Fearon, a Manager at HES, commented: “We’re delighted to be working with Ethitec to implement ELMS2 at HES. Since its introduction all staff who have been registered to use ELMS2 have access to real-time information on equipment status and there has been a definite reduction in the number of calls from frontline staff to check on delivery progress. The system is robust and assists us in delivering the best service to our customers, allowing them greater independence and support while living at home.

“The speed of response by Ethitec in undertaking minor changes to the system to support new operational pilots has been exceptional and has enabled HES to continually deliver efficiencies in the service.”

Simon Taylor, Managing Director at Ethitec, commented: “We’re thrilled to add HES to ELMS2’s growing user community. ELMS2 is a powerful solution that is proven to deliver the efficiency gains needed to support such a large-scale operation. We’re looking forward to adding more enhancements to the system and working with HES to trial them in the future.”

ELMS2 has a proven track record of supporting the efficient management of Community Equipment Services and other areas of NHS and Social Care supplies provision, and is currently in use across 54 organisations.