Feb-March 2003

A real-time job allocation and proof-of-delivery system using "push" technology to send information automatically to drivers' handheld computers has been launched by T@lecom ("Talecom"), a wireless solutions provider.

Talecom supplies the product direct, and also to third-party party logistics software vendors, who then re-brand it to complement their existing product ranges. Among these is CMS (Courier Management Systems), which has integrated the system into its Logistix job booking solution set. Customers include Stocade and the Concord group.

DA Systems provides the Wireless Delivered system under the branding ADI to companies such as Courier Systems and MACH1.

Concord Couriers has placed an initial order with CMS for 45 mobile terminals, and plans to have an integrated system running by the summer. Capabilities of the CMS solution, Wireless Logistix, include instant job allocation, signature capture, text-to-speech conversion and instant two-way messaging. Additional options include satellite navigation and automatic vehicle location.

 

Although transmitting over conventional GSM/GPRS mobile networks, which usually work on a "pull" basis (in which users have to request data downloads), the underlying system uses a patented optimised push technology.

In the Wireless Delivered implementation, the system receives deliveries from the back-office application in real time over GPRS. Status information is then relayed back to the wireless application for each stage in the delivery cycle, including the recipient signature (captured on screen).

The solution is available in variants for same-day and next-day delivery operators, and an all-in price of £55 per driver per month is quoted, including GPRS and voice airtime, an XDA PDA from 02 and associated costs.

T@lecom is a wireless solutions specialist. A separate division sells mobile phone equipment online.