ICTs bring customers and suppliers closer together in a global market. However, we are all aware that face to face contact is unrivalled even with long-term relationships where trust, commitment and good work are tacitly assumed.
This is especially so when unforeseen events arise. When customer and provider sit side by side something changes, an extra dynamic is attained. Both parties can communicate freely, the customer can express their concerns and requirements in a more personal manner, not through webcams, while the provider is able to explain themselves better, check for the problems first hand and determine how the client utilises their solution etc.
Recently such an interaction occurred between the Autonomous Port of Kribi (Cameroon) and Prodevelop (Spain). These organisations work together on a number of different solutions but one that stands out is the acquisition and deployment of aerial and bathymetric drones by Kribi.
Lately, a bathymetric drone suffered an electrical shock due to a malfunction during deployment. This damaged the modules and other components. Prodevelop, aware of the importance of these drones for Kribi, traveled to its facilities in Cameroon to diagnose the problem and solve it onsite.
After the diagnosis and replacement of damaged elements, testing was conducted at Kribi marina, where the proper functioning of the drone was verified, as well as the perfect handling and piloting by the operational team.
Once work was finished, the members of the Prodevelop team were able to enjoy the incredible landscape of the area, learn more about the local culture, and strengthen ties with the Kribi team before returning to Spain.
This trip was beneficial to both parties. The Autonomous Port of Kribi knows that it has a partner it can count on with Prodevelop continuing to provide exceptional support by ensuring the proper functioning of its products, and in addition strengthening its ties to an its customer.
In conclusion, having the right partner makes a difference irrespective of whether you are a customer or supplier. Working with someone who has a common understanding of business and who you can trust makes life easier for both parties and brings them closer to success.
