We often hear about what the “the new normal” should be, but we rarely hear about how businesses are getting there in spite of disrupted supply chains, remote working conditions, and changing market needs.
Over a year into the crisis, we take a look at how Singapore-based companies AOS Offshore, Reckitt, and Unilever have tapped on technology, people, and partnerships to build sustained recovery and support their communities.
AOS Offshore: Can’t access equipment you need? Build a solution yourself
Owing to global supply chain disruptions in early 2020, marine and offshore supply specialist AOS Offshore could not procure parts to adapt its Remote Operating Underwater Vehicle (ROV) for different tasks, significantly limiting the work it could take on.
Faced with the possibility of months without regular supplies, AOS came up with a daring idea — to build its own ROV. The company’s Singapore-based tech, engineering, and operator teams collaborated to produce its first ROV in just three months, far shorter than the typical 18 months needed for an operation of this scale and complexity.
The ROV packs in technologies such as high-definition artificial intelligence (AI) imaging, cloud-based storage, as well as sonar and GPS sensors for infrastructure surveys and 3D mapping.
To tackle supply chain disruptions, AOS built its own in-house remote operating vehicle solution, pictured here with Technical Director Mr David Cheung (left) and Managing Director Mr Petter Nilsen. (Picture credit: AOS Offshore)
“COVID-19’s interruptions forced us to look inwards and maximise the talent pool that we have.”
Mr David Mugridge, Project Director, AOS Offshore
Thanks to the technological agility of its Singapore team, AOS has strengthened its position both in Singapore and the region despite widespread supply chain disruptions. “Everything we do tech-wise is done in Singapore,” affirms Mr David Mugridge, Project Director at AOS. “It’s very much a Singaporean effort.”
This article was first published by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) (This should link to the original article). EDB, a government agency under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, is responsible for strategies that enhance Singapore’s position as a global centre for business, innovation, and talent. Have the latest insights, stories and analyses on how companies are growing in Asia delivered to your inbox here.
