NEWS
Skanka ’ s highways project supports post-prison employment in the construction sector
S kanska ’ s highways project is defying the odds of post-prison employment , where fewer than 20 % secure work . The project , notably the M42 Junction 6 improvement scheme near Birmingham , UK , is making a significant impact .
Crucially , Skanska collaborates with Beating Time ’ s Inside Job initiative , finding employment opportunities for individuals during their sentences . Around 70,000 people are released each year from prison , with 56,000 jobless people , who are all half as likely to reoffend if they have a job . This strategic partnership underscores the project ’ s commitment to not only infrastructural development but also societal rehabilitation , offering a beacon of hope for those seeking a fresh start post-incarceration .
Jack Rooke , Manager on the scheme , said : “ Since starting only a short while ago the guys have taken on further training and been promoted because of their positive attitudes . I really believe people should be given a second chance . It ’ s about what is ahead not what has happened in the past .”
Trimble introduces AI-powered capability to automatic invoicing functionality with Microsoft AzureAutomatic
T rimble has announced that Trimble ’ s Viewpoint Spectrum and Viewpoint Vista construction enterprise resource planning ( ERP ) software now includes Automatic Invoicing capability . The integration of Azure AI Document Intelligence enhances Automatic Invoicing , helping automatically turn paper and PDF invoices into validated , unapproved invoice entries within Spectrum and Vista for faster , more accurate workflows that save contractors valuable time , effort and money .
Lawrence Smith , Vice President of Construction Management Solutions at Trimble , said : “ Trimble ’ s Automatic Invoicing and Document Intelligence integration was created to take the manual burden of data entry and verification off the accounting department and automates it using Artificial Intelligence . The result is a more accurate process and a higher level of productivity , while also freeing accounting departments to focus on more strategic tasks .”
One of the most significant advantages of the integration is the reduction in errors . Construction projects involve intricate financial processes , and even minor inaccuracies in invoices can lead to major setbacks . By automating the data extraction process , Trimble ’ s Automatic Invoicing /
Document Intelligence integration delivers a heightened level of accuracy , improved financial workflows , and streamlined project management overall .
“ We are pleased to see Trimble leverage the power of Azure AI to drive meaningful and transformative innovation for its customers ,” said Eric Boyd , Corporate Vice President , AI Platform , Microsoft . �
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