Jan/Feb 2009

Information on drivers' hours gathered by the Tachomaster online tachograph analysis service can now be imported directly into Paragon routing and scheduling software. There are said to be significant benefits in the way the system allows users to take account of driver availability when planning schedules.

Whilst most routing and scheduling systems already make allowance for driver availability, the increasing complexity of UK and EU drivers' hours law has made this function increasingly difficult to implement.

The new arrangement is the result of an alliance between Paragon Software Systems and Road Tech Computer Systems, the company behind Tachomaster.

The companies say that by using Tachomaster working time data, Paragon planning software will be able to smooth out driver workloads, ensure compliance to the Working Time Directive regulations and maximise overall driver productivity.

In addition, companies using Paragon's Fleet Controller application will be given free access to vehicle tracking histories through Tachomaster screens, enabling users to see vehicle trails where a violation or unexpected break occurred.

Road Tech managing director Derek Beevor describes the partnership as 'an important milestone not just for both companies, but also for the transport industry'. He adds: 'Data from tachographs has traditionally only been used for compliance purposes, but through Tachomaster's digital data, it provides key information on actual utilisation of drivers and vehicles.'

Will Salter, Paragon's managing director, says accurate tachograph data from Tachomaster 'will add a vital new dimension to Paragon's routing and scheduling software.'