(Ferrovial) Information Technology

Ferrovial Agroman has invested in information technologies for some years in order to improve the efficacy and efficiency of its business processes and to facilitate access to information and the exchange of information among its personnel.

Ferrovial Agroman bases its actions on the following strategic axes:

• Redesigning business processes to incorporate internet technology and tools.
• Connecting all the work centers and job positions to the corporate network.

The most significant projects established during 2001 consist of the following:

• The Connectivity project.
• Works Planning (Program +).
• Procurements (Ferrob2b).
• Knowledge management.

Connectivity

Within the framework of this project, Ferrovial Agroman has connected up all its site personnel (site managers, technical staff, administration) to the corporate network using advanced communications technologies which take account of workplace mobility and solve the related problems.

In consequence, all members of our staff, at any time from any place, can:

• Access information about construction works.
• Use corporate applications.
• Exchange information with people within the company and outside it.

The Works Plan (Program +)

Using the best tools available in the market, Ferrovial Agroman has developed a proprietary application tailored to the sector, which enables site managers to control technical and economic planning.

This shortens execution times through better control and more efficient coordination with subcontractors and suppliers. During 2002 the group plans to set up Internet-based management tools for its projects, so that the various players involved (customers, engineers, works management, subcontractors, suppliers) can quickly and easily access information, thereby enhancing quality and delivery times.

Managing procurements via the Internet (Ferrob2b)

This project has enabled Ferrovial Agroman to redesign its purchasing process using Internet technology.

Using a single integrated system, the group effects all the phases of the purchasing cycle: definition and publication of requirements, requests for proposals, negotiation, contract award and order issuance, supplier evaluation and qualification, control of invoicing and payments, etc.

This system is integrated into Obralia, the leading portal for the Spanish construction sector.

This system will provide considerable savings on purchasing:

• improve prices due to more agile and transparent access to the market
• reduce administrative costs on purchasing, for both purchaser and supplier
• optimize delivery time for supplies