PeopleNet’s Tablet computer an early success

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Updated Feb 25, 2011

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PeopleNet, a provider of integrated onboard computing and mobile communications systems, announced that its Tablet’s built-in features and optional portability are attracting trucking firms that want to optimize operational efficiency. “Tablet’s initial success is a reflection of the industry’s demand for faster workflow, improved cash flow and increased driver efficiency,” says Matt Voda, vice president of product management.

“Some firms are seeing Table as an opportunity to replace their current technology with an open Windows 7-based platform that offers longevity and a provider that drives innovation,” Voda says. “Others see Tablet’s arrival as the right time to adopt technology for the first time. They are impressed with the built-in time-saving features and the additional cost-saving efficiencies that integration with the back office offers.”

Central Illinois-based Air-Land Transport Services Inc. is replacing its current technology with Tablet to equip its 85-truck fleet, says Kory Lawrence, company safety director. Lawrence says Tablet’s built-in scanner and portability let the driver check the load, scan a copy of the manifest and download it to the customer immediately.

Lawrence says Tablet’s signature capture and streamlining proof-of-delivery also is a win to Air-Land, as is the built-in camera that can document accidents and cargo claims with downloadable photos. “In addition, because PeopleNet integrates with so many third-parties like our TMW Systems fleet management software and our planned payroll system, most of the workflows in our operation will speed up,” Lawrence says.

Air-Land says it also is installing/integrating PeopleNet’s eDriver Logs and Automated Fuel Tax reporting, which will help them stay ahead of the Compliance Safety Accountability initiative. Lawrence says that the company anticipates ROI about a year to 18 months after being fully deployed in September of this year

Heniff Transportation Systems, based in Oakbrook, Ill., is looking forward to improving driver efficiency and speeding up the accounting cycle as it begins replacing its current technology with Tablet. “Portability and built-in features close the lag between gathering documents at the customer site and submitting paperwork at the terminal and eliminates extra steps,” says Joe Neal, Heniff’s IT director.

Over the next eight months, Heniff’s 289 power units will be equipped with Table, and the firm will integrate PeopleNet’s eDriver Logs and Vehicle Management with its dispatch and routing software. “Table is flexible and expandable,” Neal says.

Murry Fitzer, Florilli chief executive officer, says that after evaluating technology advancements in the industry over the last couple of years, he views Tablet as a way to keep up with the latest developments. “We were an early adopter for a fleet our size, but I confess that the task of keeping up with increasingly sophisticated technology is daunting,” Fitzer says.

Florilli will begin installing Tablet in its 225 trucks in April along with electronic logs to ensure compliance with CSA. “We believe Tablet is the right technology to invest in because of its inherent versatility and longevity,” Fitzer says. “The integration of peripherals – now and in the future – puts it ahead of the curve.”