CX Technology

Technology is a tool. It has no innate character. It is neither good nor bad, kind nor cruel. It can be used frivolously or thoughtfully. When it's used thoughtfully, it can make a wonderful difference in our lives.

If you're still skeptical, just talk to Zahra Darzi, an Engineer in Technology Systems Engineering at SaskTel. Zahra is a graduate of the University of Regina in electronic systems engineering. For the last 15 years, she has volunteered her time as an "industry evaluator" at Project Day, where she provides her insight to 4th year U of R Engineering students. SaskTel is a silver sponsor of this event.

Zahra has made a long-term commitment in channeling her enthusiasm toward the advancement of engineering in Saskatchewan and by extension providing value to the community.

"I really enjoy participating in events that make a difference, both at the university and the wider community," says Zahra. "As an engineer, I think it is important to design products and solutions that meet community needs. In my view, 4th year engineering students need to do more investigation and research to identify community needs before designing projects."

So, it's no surprise that Zahra was pleasantly surprised when, while attending the most recent Project Day on Saturday, 09 April 2016, she encountered the engineering team working on the Accessible Remote Control Car System (ARCCS). ARCCS is a custom control panel designed for a specific client who has limited fine motor skills. It replaces the conventional controller for a remote control car with an easy-to-use alternative. It allows the client to enjoy the world of remote control cars with the added benefit of developing their own fine motor skills.

"It was the way these three wonderful students - Nick LaPlante, Jonathan Giambattista, and Jacob Loos - on the team approached and delivered the project that piqued my interest," says Zahra. The students thoroughly investigated the project and consequently identified and really understood the needs of their client.

"I was impressed," says Zahra. "This is an excellent example of how engineers can make a difference. Engineering is about more than just bringing technology; it is about bringing happiness and delivering successful positive solutions in people's lives."

Zahra congratulated the 4th year project team and let them know they demonstrated excellent understanding of the engineering design process, the client's needs and teamwork. What they have shown through their effort is that by valuing the client's needs, applying a proven design methodology and using team work they can develop and build solutions that will keep their client happy and give the team satisfaction in their work.

Zahra says the customer focus applied by the U of R students is the same approach she sees at SaskTel with Customer Experience (CX) First.