Staff Planning in Focus: Recapping November’s GroundStar Exchange

Every time we host a GroundStar (GS) Planning Product Exchange, I am reminded of how valuable it is to connect. Something I personally appreciate about this format is how, by being online, time zone and regional differences disappear. For one hour, we come together to exchange ideas, share challenges, and focus on what matters.

If this is your first time hearing about these sessions, let me give you a quick introduction. The GS Planning Product Exchange is designed to foster collaboration. The goal is simple: connect, share, and learn.

GroundStar users of the Planning Staff & Equipment module come together to talk openly about real-world planning challenges and get hands-on advice on how to make the most of the software.

I'm proud to say that what began as an idea to create more space for meaningful exchange has grown into a trusted platform for customers worldwide.

Our most recent session, held on November 5, marked the final Product Exchange of the year. And once again, it proved just how collaborative and engaged our community continues to be.

Let’s take a closer look at what we explored this time.

Preparing to Welcome Our Staff Planning Community

One of the things our users consistently value is the opportunity to help shape the agenda. Ahead of each Product Exchange, we welcome topic suggestions. This November was no exception. Thanks to the participants' input, we built a program centered on practical use cases that could deliver value to their daily work.

What we Explored Together

November 5 finally arrived, and we saw a lively mix of customer representatives from around the world. The largest groups joined from the Americas (49%) and Europe (31%). Although many great suggestions were submitted, we focused this session on a selection of topics that sparked widespread interest.

Scripting & Batch Modeling

We started with a look at how scripting techniques can be used to automate and streamline batch processes across planning scenarios. The focus was on demonstrating how routine tasks can be automated to free up planners’ time for more strategic activities.

Shift Modeling with Traffic Networks

Next, we walked through a use case combining task-based shift planning with traffic networks and multiple break depots. This example resonated with users managing intricate operations, where flexibility and structure must go hand in hand.

Learning Through the GS Academy

Proper training is essential for getting the most out of any tool, especially when new colleagues join the team. That is why we included a short overview of our GS Academy offerings. We discussed the benefits of structured learning paths and how they can accelerate users’ understanding of the full capabilities within GS Planning Staff & Equipment.

LoadControl Modeling

Finally, we explored how to model LoadControl in a way that ensures all tasks for a flight are handled by one person within a single shift. Using a demo scenario, we walked through three variant approaches that make use of volume and chain tasks.

Conversations That Count

What would a Planning Product Exchange be without an open Q&A? Participants had the chance to ask questions and share their own experiences. This part of the session is all about learning from one another, challenging assumptions, and discovering new approaches to shared challenges. It’s where the real strength of this community shines through.

Looking Ahead: March 10, 2026

While we closed the year with this session, planning for 2026 is already underway. I’m happy to share that our next GS Planning Product Exchange will take place on March 10, 2026.  If you’re a GroundStar Planning Staff & Equipment user and this format is new to you, or if you haven’t joined before, feel free to get in touch. These sessions are practical and shaped around your needs and experiences.

Let’s Spread the Word

Before wrapping up, I’d also like to highlight a key event taking place early next year: the INFORM AI Aviation Summit 2026. If you or your colleagues are working on shaping your organization’s AI strategy, this is the place to be. The summit will bring together forward-thinking leaders to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming decision-making and efficiency across the aviation industry.

The event will take place on February 24, 2026, in Frankfurt.
You can find more details here.

That´s all from my side this time. Until the next Planning Exchange Update!