Transdev: from fragmented hardware to one streamlined process

For an organization with thousands of employees spread across multiple locations, well-organized workplace management is not a luxury but a necessity. At Transdev Netherlands, a mobility company that provides daily public transport and targeted group transport for millions of travelers, that necessity became increasingly palpable.

The organization purchased IT through various channels, both direct and indirect, which led to varying delivery times, costs, and service. Amir Heidari, IT Manager at Transdev Netherlands, noticed that this way of working was increasingly causing challenges. As a result, Amir began looking for a smarter and more efficient approach.

Inefficient onboarding and lack of control over devices

Transdev Netherlands employs more than 3000 people. Laptops were configured internally, often alongside other work. As a result, turnaround times increased rapidly, especially in combination with long delivery times. It could take weeks before the onboarding of a new employee was fully completed.

In addition, the need for better management of mobile devices grew. Consider the centrasecuring, configuring, and wiping devices upon loss or termination of employment. Transdev sought a solution that was not only technically sound but also practically workable within the organization.

Looking for a better approach

In early 2025, Amir began looking for a partner who could assist with the large-scale procurement and management of IT. This was not easy. Because Transdev operates globally in 19 countries, agreements have been made at headquarters regarding how and where IT is purchased. Nevertheless, there proved to be room to find a solution that aligned well with the Dutch organization.

"Socia “They stood out because they not only supply hardware, but support the entire process. From delivery and configuration to after-sales. Combined with a competitive price and flexibility within the existing framework, that ultimately tipped the scales,” says Amir.

From test phase to large-scale rollout

Together with Socia A portal was set up, linked to Transdev's systems. With this portal, hardware could be easily ordered, configured, and delivered, fully tailored to the organization.

The collaboration started with a test phase involving a small number of laptops to verify the entire process: from ordering and configuration to use with different profiles. Following a successful test, a larger-scale rollout followed: approximately 750 laptops, divided into two groups. For one group, the existing workstation was replaced, while the other group focused on onboarding new employees.

During the rollout, the laptops are made fully ready for use. Every employee received a manual from Transdev explaining the laptop, from startup to daily use.

As with any large project, not everything went smoothly. A small number of phones were delivered without the correct configuration. Nevertheless, Amir looks back on the project with satisfaction:

Such situations cannot be completely prevented, but were quickly addressed and resolved.

Workplace installation, also on weekends

What Amir remembers well is Saturday, December 13. That night, workstations were installed in multiple branches from late evening until early morning. At one branch, the team could only start work at 03:00 AM, because that was when the last bus arrived.

Socia worked that night with the Transdev team connecting workstations and TVs. It was also checked whether the network was present and working.

Immediately deployable workstations and smart reuse of equipment.

The process is now organized much more efficiently and saves a significant amount of time because it is largely automated. Through a web portal linked to Transdev's internal purchasing system, employees can place orders directly – without requesting quotes. The portal offers a fixed assortment from which they can choose. IT managers then only need to approve the orders.

Next, the devices are configured and sent directly to the end user. This allows employees to get started immediately, without extra steps or waiting time.

The process surrounding device lifecycle management has also been established. When an employee leaves the company, the laptop is collected and assessed for reusability. Suitable devices are completely wiped and redeployed within the organization. Transdev's policy stipulates that new employees receive a reused laptop as standard. Equipment that is no longer suitable is disposed of and recycled in a responsible manner. The proceeds are donated to a charity selected by Transdev itself.

Collaboration that goes beyond delivery

For Transdev, the added value lies not only in the technology, but precisely in the collaboration. Short lines of communication and personal contact play an important role in this.
“The combination of brand-independent advice and a personal approach ensures clarity and speed. It is precisely that personal contact that makes the difference in a process where flexibility is essential,” says Amir.