Matthew Gawn
ISB Global and CIWM Unveil Groundbreaking Research on Software Use in the UK Waste Sector
Introduction & Overview
ISB Global embarked on an extensive primary research project to understand the use and perception of software technologies in the UK waste sector. The objective was to gather and analyse information to better understand how to serve the incredibly dynamic waste logistics and recycling materials sector better. This is the first report of its kind completed in the UK. Unlike other reports taking a broad approach and reporting on high-level trends analysis, this research focused on multiple qualitative methods to scrutinise and evaluate attitude, feeling and opinion.
Using a questionnaire, focus group and a second set of hypotheses derived from the first and second phases – the webinar poll was used to help alleviate bias and clarify answers in phases 1 & 2. To further impartiality and reduce bias, ISB Global worked to deliver the research with The Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM). The research was also supported and part sponsored by United Kingdom Research & Innovation (UKRI).
The Problem & Overarching Hypothesis
The challenge ISB Global wanted to investigate further was based on a multitude of hypotheses, covering a range of subjects. Primarily it was to understand the use and perception of software in the UK sector, but ISB Global has also seen distinct similarities in global use and attitude in multiple geographies. Focusing on key areas to include usage, applications, investment, service levels, projects, change, relationships, technologies, innovations, productivity and integration, ISB Global was able to quantify and then analyse a large amount of data to report, evaluate, summarise and recommend progress for the entire sector. While developing an internal strategy to better serve the market, currently in ongoing implementation.
The 15 Key Takeaways Document
This document aims to be a recap on the extensive research and to highlight some of the key quantitative findings in the research. It delivers some critical results for the reader to understand the current state of use and perception of software in the UK sector. It does not offer summary, recommendation or comment on the results. The full results with commentary and recommendations will be provided in the full research report published late Autumn.
Purpose & Objective
The objective, compiled by a range of hypotheses from 20 years of experience in the sector, was to identify, analyse, and then understand how ISB Global can help drive a range of sector-wide efficiencies and serve the market far more effectively with the software [stack] Waste & Recycling One. However, it was not solely focused on software and service sales for ISB Global but designed wholistically to be an in-depth insight into the use and perception of software by the sector. Analysing attitudes and beliefs, concluding and recommending to industry, software partner and vendor on engagement and progress. Aiding to differentiate strategy and direction for ISB Global and helping to drive greater digital transformation. Including the use of existing, new and emerging software technologies for the benefit of UK business, a transition to a digitally driven circular economy and operational efficiency for the mitigation of climate change through more effective secondary use of materials.
Reference to Integration
ISB Global’s accreditation and citation on integration is based on expert understanding and 20 years’ experience in building, implementing, developing and enhancing mobile, web, low code, SAP ERP and AWS applications. When ISB Global use the word ‘integration’ we refer to the automation of data and transactions using master data controls in bi-directional business processes throughout modules, infrastructure and applications from operations to accounting transactions and automated intelligence. Delivering accuracy, speed and automation throughout.
Methodology & Solutions
Due to the objectives of the research, the sensitive nature of information and the likelihood of bias, a critical process was to ensure impartiality. This is why we sought a partnership with the CIWM and let the Institution recruit the sample(s) built from senior operations and IT executives. The research utilised a comprehensive questionnaire (Phase 1) with a set of questions to first determine a range of sample demographics deemed appropriate for further research. The questionnaire then posed 36 questions on a vast range of subject matter. A focus group (Phase 2) was then used to check on appropriateness, clarity and bias, gathering feedback from the questionnaire and answers. The second set of questions delivered in a webinar (Phase 3) again alongside CIWM, was designed as an additional hypothesis to further clarify, simplify and alleviate bias.
The analysis of the feedback from these sources was then collated and divided into different sections. Applying critical analysis techniques on the sample and respondents’ feedback and relating to hypothesis and cross-referencing other answers. Multiple methods of analysis were used including inference, interpretation, explanation and problem solving. Then creative thinking methodologies were applied to find facts, objectives, problems, solutions and acceptance. Results were then translated into internal subject matter to help deliver solutions to the hypothesis and fulfil the strategic objectives of the research. Ultimately, aimed at better use of software for the sector, industry-wide digital transformation and mitigation of climate risk by more efficient waste and recycling operations.
Conclusion
We hope that you find these initial quantitative results both interesting and insightful, hopefully stimulating investigation of your own thoughts, attitudes and beliefs on use, efficiency, investment and productivity. We look forward to marketing and engaging further with the sector when the full report is published late Autumn.
