Issue link: https://resources.genetec.com/i/1022411
FV: I think the challenge is that airports don't mine all the data that they have. Today, if we put a system into an airport, we could probably increase the efficiency of that facility by 15% just by helping them realize what data they're collecting, and how that data can help them achieve better results. But data mining and data collection follow business processes and, if airports aren't keen on understanding what their KPIs are, and what their businesses processes need to be to be successful, then we can give them all the data in the world, they just won't know how to use it. FM: I agree – the potential is huge. We need to use the knowledge and data gained to provide the best service. Of course, it will take time, but along with our IT department, we're beginning to implement a Hadoop data lake. We hired our first data scientists, and they will help us design and introduce a loyalty program. Soon, we'll launch a platform dedicated to accelerating the development of our Smart Airport program – building the airports of the future. So, what does the future hold for airports? OJ: Airports will continue to look outward for industry solutions. We're seeing the emergence of airports hackathons – where teams of developers, user experience designers, and product managers get together to brain- storm new ideas and develop working prototypes. We're also seeing more and more C-level appointments of people from other industries, which brings a fresh boost of cross-pollination – people from the energ y industry, logistics, packaging, telecoms, and elsewhere. And, although it doesn't get nearly enough coverage, there are also more women running airports in Europe than running airlines, which is a great sign. FV: It really is. But what we're seeing in the US is that very few airports think like businesses – 90% of our clients don't know what their KPIs are. In the past, many airports were built and owned by airlines, and the airport was simply a tenant or a landlord that had all these airline tenants managing their own little pieces of the facility. We're now transitioning away from that business model to an 'I own everything' business model. It's causing a huge shi in thinking about facilities. Airports are taking up the fight at this point and starting to own their own technolog y systems and destinies. at's where things are going next. FM: An airport is no longer just a place for waiting and passing through. e smart airport will give travelers the experience of being in the city, with spaces for gathering, entertainment, and customized information. In France, airports, regional tourist offices, museums, congress centers, hotels, and other transportation facilities must work together to provide the best experience for leisure and business travelers. Collaborative decision making is already happening in Paris. And in the airport industry, our dreams become reality very quickly. Faith Varwig is Founder and Principal at Faith Group. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, Faith Group provides airports across North America with expertise in technology, security, master planning, strategic planning, design, and construction oversight. 4 Roundtable