Nov/Dec 2005

One hundred and sixty vehicles used by Help the Aged to collect donations have been equipped with a wireless data and tracking system from Masternaut. The organisation is thought to be the first charity to introduce satellite-based vehicle tracking, and is also the first user of any kind to introduce Masternaut's new dash-mounted computer terminal (m.logistics, last issue).

The decision to equip the fleet followed a pilot exercise, which is said to have highlighted various opportunities for productivity improvements. The system is recording fleet activity continually, offering controllers a time-logged and real-time view of operations.

The on-board computer is being used for requests for assistance, safety reporting, and recording operational information such as the number of collection bags dropped off and picked up.

In the next phase of the roll-out, Help the Aged will be adding Masternaut's route-planning software to help optimise vehicle schedules. According to retail administration manager Jon Evans: "This is where we can make real productivity improvements and reduce our increasing fuel bills." He says the scheduling system will allow the organisation to examine the way each van is being used, and improve utilisation across the fleet.

 

Help the Aged is one of Britain's largest charities, and has an annual income of £70 million, of which 66 per cent goes to charity. It delivers plastic collection bags to households across the country, collects donated goods and sells them through its 380 shops.