At Pickwick we value communication. We are fortunate to have a large group of dedicated employees who come to us with excellent ideas that take our services to the next level. A good example is that of Shaminda Don who currently works for us at Deakin University’s Burwood campus. With an education background and working experiences in HR, ICT, and Business Information Technology in Sri Lanka, Shaminda came to Australia to pursue higher education in accounting and finance to enhance his knowledge and skills.

Under the guidance of Pickwick’s Contract Manager Manuel Neto, Shaminda has successfully led the design and implementation of a workflow management system, which has significantly increased the operational efficiency and communication effectiveness at the site level. The system operates on a free online platform that allows cleaners, supervisors and clients easy access via their mobile phone. During the first few months of trial there have been significant improvements in site operating processes, such as performance reporting, tracking and managing faults, requests and working progress.

Further to the workflow system Shaminda worked to create an online training module. Cleaners were required to complete knowledge tests on their mobile phones periodically. The tests include knowledge on waste management, proper use of vacuum cleaners, colour coding and emergency situations. Their results help identify staff who need further training. Feedback from our cleaners was good too. They found the applications fun to use and helpful in refreshing and updating their cleaning knowledge.

Currently Shaminda is working on two further projects. One is to optimise site stock management by using the workflow system and the other is to implement a security application that enables our cleaners to use mobile phones to report their locations in emergency situations.

Deakin University have spoken highly of Shaminda’s work. Pickwick is very proud of its in-house talent and we appreciate the dedication and innovation from employees like Shaminda. Tim Broatch, Pickwick’s Victorian State Manager said “Communication is the key. We receive many clever ideas from our staff and are more than happy to implement them. It’s amazing how much talent we have within our workforce from diverse cultures and educational backgrounds who are representing Pickwick every day.” Pickwick believes that to provide excellent services and develop long term customer partnerships we must constantly encourage our employees who possess both the technical skills and the passion to confront the challenges and make a difference.