Aug/Sept 2007

This summer's roll-out of handheld computers by Home Delivery Network (Stop Press, last issue) is one of the largest in the market this year. Altogether 4,850 Intermec CN3 handheld terminals are being deployed to drivers and depot staff over a three month-period.

The objective is to offer a real-time track and trace service extending from retailer through to consumer. Home Delivery Network says the system will set a new benchmark for the express delivery industry.

Not all features of the system will be implemented from day one, but timed delivery information should be available by the Christmas peak, the company says. Further developments in the pipeline include satnav, image capture, alert messaging, voice and data communications and management information.

Home Delivery Network managing director Walter Blackwood claims: 'No other delivery company can offer this kind of functionality through their handheld terminals.'

 

Software for the implementation has been specially written by mobile systems integrator Jade of Newton-le-Willows, Merseyside, which specialises in networking and enterprise mobility projects. Its existing customers include McDonald's, The British Museum, Marks & Spencer, Body Shop, Homebase and HSBC.

Jade director Dave Sharratt says the contract 'cements our position as lead integrator for large complex mobile solutions.'

The Intermec CN3 terminal at the heart of the project is one of the most compact and advanced in the field, boasting the option of a full QWERTY keyboard, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networking, quarter VGA transflective screen and integral colour imager. It runs Windows Mobile 5.0, and is powered by a fast Intel XScale processor rated at 520 MHz.

The first Home Delivery Network region to introduce the technology was due to go live with it during July, and all 62 depots and 3,500 staff should be using it by the end of September.