In an era where digital transformation is reshaping industries, the Testing, Inspection, Certification, and Compliance (TICC) sector has often lagged behind in leveraging advanced technologies. Enter Checkfirst, an innovative startup led by Ben Lambert, which aims to make remote inspections more efficient and reliable using artificial intelligence. The company’s recent pre-seed funding of $1.5 million is set to propel its vision further and address critical challenges in the field.

From Challenges to Opportunities: The Birth of Checkfirst

When Lambert relocated to Portugal, running his wife’s property inspection business posed unforeseen challenges, primarily due to the need for remote operations. Gathering accurate information without on-site assessments became cumbersome, with final reports often delayed for weeks. This inspired Lambert to create Checkfirst, an AI-driven solution that not only streamlines inspection processes but also enhances the scheduling of auditors based on location and expertise.

AI-Enhanced Scheduling: A Game Changer in TICC

One of the main hurdles in TICC is managing schedules efficiently. Many companies face significant financial losses due to mismanagement of personnel and resources. Lambert pointed out, “The biggest problem in the industry is scheduling, and the cool thing is, with AI, you can schedule really easily.” Utilizing AI allows companies to assess inspector availability and location seamlessly, leading to reduced travel, minimized carbon footprints, and ultimately, happier workers.

• Maximizing Efficiency: If an inspector in London is needed for an audit in Munich, AI tools can quickly identify availability and prevent unnecessary travel, saving companies money.
• Reducing Costs: By projecting workforce needs accurately, Checkfirst prevents costly scheduling mistakes that drain profits.

The Technology Behind the Innovation

Initially leveraging a combination of open-source and commercial AI models, Checkfirst is now developing proprietary systems tailored for specific use cases in image recognition and scheduling. This focus not only enhances accuracy but also gives Checkfirst a competitive edge in a space dominated by established players like Intact Systems and Safety Culture.

Checkfirst’s Competitive Advantage

What sets Checkfirst apart from its competitors? It’s the project’s API-first approach, which seamlessly integrates with existing systems and automates complex tasks such as report generation and image analysis. While other companies may focus solely on compliance, Checkfirst also prioritizes the scheduling component, offering a well-rounded solution that addresses multiple pain points.

• Client Engagement: Currently, the startup is collaborating with various clients on proof-of-concept projects. One notable client boasts an impressive 30,000 customers, which speaks volumes about Checkfirst’s potential.
• Diverse Expertise: Co-founded by Lambert, CPO Oyvind Henriksen, and CTO Rami Elsawy, the team combines expertise from leading tech companies, positioning it for future success.

Conclusion: The Future of Inspections with AI

Checkfirst is poised to transform the way inspections are conducted by addressing scheduling complexities head-on and incorporating AI not just as an accessory, but as an essential driving force behind operational improvements. As the TICC industry continues to evolve, embracing technology like Checkfirst will be crucial for companies striving to stay competitive and efficient.

At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations. For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.