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Communication is key
Page 19
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r Leeds-based Macfarlane Transport is still benefiting from a bespoke telematics system installed on its trucks some three years ago.
At that time. Macfarlane wanted to improve communication between drivers and its control centre and to track vehicles to help update customers on deliveries. Orange, together with mobile data solutions provider End 2 End, installed a system In over 100 of Macfarlane's vehicles that combined voice and data communications with a tracking mechanism in a single sixinch-cube unit that sits on the dashboard of each truck.
Since Installing the system. Macfarlane has been able to keep customers informed with up-to-the-minute progress reports on deliveries, and communication between drivers and the control centre has been improved with the option of voice or text messaging. The firm's ability to respond to ad hoc customer requests by locating the nearest truck has been enhanced, helping to increase the number of deliveries made each day and decrease waiting time for customers.
"At its most basic, the system allows us to call up our drivers and talk them through delivery details and we can text drivers to confirm an address, which eliminates the risk of drivers mishearing the details. We have also found it helpful to text them traffic alerts," comments Gordon Macfar4ane, joint MD of the distribution firm. 'All these different methods of communication ensure that drivers can stay in touch and means that back at base, we have more control over our operations than ever before."
Despite the prevalence of off-the-shelf packages now available, Macfarlane isn't interested in changing the system. "It still suits our needs, so why change it?" he says.
• Contact: 0800 731 3330 or see: www.orange.co.uk