Handlers gather information to answer the online audit questions and upload supporting documents at their convenience from the time they sign up for an online account up until the audit date. The repository is viewed in a questionnaire format that models the LGMA audit checklist utilized during an in-person audit. This makes document organization intuitive and enables easy fulfillment of all the required documents to satisfy the checklist of questions. Unlike other online platforms, as documents get uploaded the system allows them to stay organized and in-line with audit questions—reducing confusion for both handlers during upload and auditors during the review. The handler will work to complete the audit up until the audit date, at which time the auditor will then proceed to review supplied documentation and work with the handler to complete the audit. While it is early in the program, the outlook is promising for successful integration into the audit process. Early adopters of the program have made note of the quick onboarding process (less than 24 hours), the streamlining of the documentation process, and the versatility in data sharing after entering. The most notable feature of this system is the handler’s ability to share information with multiple processors and shippers. Audit information is entered once and then can be shared multiple times with different companies. Auditors have also provided positive feedback on the ease of use, gauging audit fulfillment, and the intuitive navigation of the software. The option of virtual desktop audits is showing promising results for handlers and auditors alike. Though the need for a virtual solution to substitute the in-person portion of the LGMA audit process was initiated by COVID-19, Western Growers can see the adoption of a virtual audit process, either in part or as a whole, as a great resource in the future. It can reduce time and costs associated with in-person audits while offering a variety of benefits such as efficiency, ease of use, and convenience. The Arizona Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement is also considering adopting the program and adapting it to the needs of its members. Even after the need for social distancing measures has subsided, we will encourage members to explore hybrid models: combining in-person audits with virtual components to find the solution that best fits the needs of their operations. Western Growers will continue to work with members to produce effective and meaningful data solutions for agriculture’s toughest problems.
Screenshots of the Virtual Desktop Audits online software system by iFoodDecisionSciences.
It is only through ingenuity and innovation that we can make it through the toughest times together. If you are interested finding out more about the Virtual Desktop Audits Program
or are interested in signing up, email us at lgmavirtualaudits@wga.com to begin the on-boarding process.
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JULY | AUGUST 2020
Western Grower & Shipper | www.wga.com
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