BaseStone’s CEO, Alex Siljanovski, presented yesterday at the Rail Industry Association’s “Unlocking Innovation” event. Key figures from the industry were there, eager to understand and implement technology at various stages of rail projects. It was great to be invited to speak by the RIA, demonstrating the potential for tech startups within an industry with such complex information processes.

Alex’s “Elevator Pitch” covered the importance of connected data and collaboration for engineers, to ensure construction of rail infrastructure in the the UK is efficient and effective. Alex painted a picture of the future of the industry as it embraces innovations such as machine learning to intelligently work with the vast quantities of data on projects.

Other speakers from Thales and Network Rail gave interesting insights into about the collaborative Shift2Rail initiative that supports research into market-driven solutions to integrate advanced innovations and new processes in the rail industry. By seeking and implementing this kind of technology within the Horizon2020 framework, they will promote the competitiveness of the European Rail Industry and meet the changing EU transport needs.

We look forward to seeing some exciting outcomes from the day and future Unlocking Innovation events!