Whilst the K2 business continues to expand, an ongoing evaluation of our technology infrastructure remains essential.
These regular reviews of our technology estate have helped us to evolve forward-thinking initiatives that both support the aims of our sustainable technology policy and align with the wider goals of our growing business.
AlphaTech
Introducing an in-house solution
2023 saw the launch of K2 AlphaTech, K2’s new in-house technology division. Working closely with all teams at K2 and all of our clients, the AlphaTech team’s focus is the development and design of tailored, hightech, time saving solutions. A major milestone for the technology team, establishing the AlphaTech development hub is part of the longer-term commitment to investment in quality technology solutions.
Integrating technology into every aspect of our business enables us to maximise the efficiency of our processes whilst ensuring the data we handle is safe and secure. Alpha leads on technology integration, carrying out research, developing innovative applications, and driving initiatives that will help K2 to maintain its shape whilst growing sustainably.
Sustainable Technology Policy
Keeping circularity in mind
Embracing circularity principles, our Sustainable Technology Policy endeavours to maximise the value retention of hardware components throughout their lifecycle. Notably, a significant emphasis is placed on procuring equipment designed with circularity in mind, facilitating repurposing endeavours and eventual charitable contributions upon their retirement from K2 service.
Our Sustainable Technology Policy was launched in September 2022, and in 2023, we repurposed 27 laptops (vs 14 in 2022), extending their operational lifespan within K2. Notably, no laptops were disposed of or recycled during the same period, although several are securely stored pending determination of their optimal end-of-life solution in 2024.
Moving Services
Enhancing operational efficiencies
In our pursuit of operational efficiency and environmental stewardship, we transitioned from paper-based pre-move surveys to an electronic platform (SurveyPro), following a trial in September 2022. In 2023 287 surveys were completed via SurveyPro and in 2024 we plan to extend use of this electronic premove survey platform further.
2023 also saw us roll out a browser-based Moving Cost Estimate (MCE). The introduction of this digital processing tool enabled us to streamline the bid summary process for clients, eliminating unnecessary printing, and further protecting data, whilst providing a more user-friendly and interactive experience.
Partnerships
Ensuring a secure network
Efficient communication with partners remains paramount, guided by stringent data privacy standards. Our ongoing efforts are geared towards enhancing technological frameworks to streamline data exchange, bolster security protocols, and mitigate email traffic.
Governance & Compliance
Additional certification
Building upon our ISO:27001 accreditation attained in 2017, we persist in adhering to global standards, with a concerted focus on achieving Cyber Essentials Plus recertification and a new certification for 2023, SOC II. These certifications serve as testament to our unwavering commitment to safeguarding data integrity and fortifying our cyber resilience posture.
Further achievements in 2023:
- Extending scope of Quality Control feedback online survey to reduce emails and ensure better reporting and feedback.
- API build out to reduce requirement of emails to support move process and protect data.
- Developed partner portal for accounts payable for supply chain invoicing reducing email and unnecessary printing ensuring a less manual process.
- Developed client portal for reporting reducing email and unnecessary printouts whilst also ensuring a less manual process.
Our 2024 goals:
- Extend use of electronic pre-move survey platform.
- Cyber Essentials Plus recertification.
- Annual review for SOC II certification.
- Annual review for ISO:27001 certification – aligning to 2022 standards.
- Achieve more online quality control feedback.
- Secure document transfer capabilities in K2 portal – safer transfer of client data.
- Extend client reporting capabilities.
- Introduce internal educational campaigns to raise awareness of the importance of infosec & the role that all of our people play.
- Introduce Supply Chain InfoSec Certification via a secure online survey tool to improve efficiency, reduce email comms and provide an enhanced partner experience.
