A swing towards breakthrough technology makes ‘child’s play’ of playground maintenance and inspections for Darwin-based company.

The traditional paper-based inspection and audit process for playgrounds in Australia has remained largely unchanged within the sector for more than 30 years.

However, NT Surfacing and Playgrounds owner Robert ‘Bob’ Fleming’ and his team are disrupting tradition with a revolutionary digital ‘software as service’ program called Playground123.

“This technology is being developed in the Territory but could be an international game changer in this sector,” he said. “Thanks to the Territory Government’s commitment to building an innovation-driven economy a local business is developing leading technology for the world.” 

Robert, who has been in the business of building playgrounds in the Territory for over 10 years, is a graduate of the Northern Territory Government’s Business Innovation Program.

He said Playground123 allows individuals or organisations such as councils to undertake real-time digital inspections and audits of playgrounds to ensure they meet the Australian Standards.

In addition, playground owners will be able to manage their playgrounds in real time using accurate data to make decisions on all aspects of strategic planning, infield maintenance and risk and asset management.

“If companies and organisations want to expand, innovate, increase efficiency, enhance performance and improve their bottom line, they need to understand the current wave of technology and its potential to transform business.”

Playground123 has a ‘service as software’ (SaaS) based platform that links to the cloud and a management website portal to create a complete digital solution. This digital solution is based on a unique process (identify, manage, eliminate) to ensure the effective use of technology. 

“It’s not just about putting in technology in this digital age,” said Robert. “Digital transformation is relevant because it’s about growing business. It’s about thriving in the digital age and innovation economy.”

If you have an innovative idea which includes digital solutions to meet local challenges and encourage economic growth, see what support is available from the Digital Partnerships Program.

Page last updated on 20 April 2022