Workflow management system delivers data in real time

Holland is a regional less-than-truckload (LTL) transportation provider offering one- and two-day service in the midwestern and southeastern United States and eastern Canadian provinces. After deploying a new mobile pickup and delivery solution, the company’s 3,000 drivers now collect real-time data that informs operations at the docks of each of the company’s 53 terminals.

According to terminal manager Scott Shaffer, the previous workflow management system was slow and difficult to navigate, and the short battery life offered less visibility throughout the course of the day. The new Android-based logistics software runs on a mobile computer (Honeywell) and allows drivers to manage their daily work, communicate with dispatch and update shipment status in real time. Drivers can also scan labels or take pictures of shipments.

The pickup and delivery solution integrates a mobile application for drivers directly to Holland’s dispatch system using mobile communications software to manage the high volume of business-critical communications between drivers and dispatchers. The system gives dispatchers real-time visibility to driver and shipment status while optimizing worker productivity by guiding drivers through each step in the pickup and delivery process.

“This investment has allowed us to proactively address hurdles facing the industry,” says Holland president Scott Ware, who adds that the technology foundation places the company ahead of industry electronic logging compliance deadlines. “Customers will benefit from heightened shipment visibility and driver communication.”

Cheryl Saxton, Holland’s director of process development, notes positive feedback from drivers and terminal managers. “As soon as a driver performs an activity, whether a pickup or delivery, the data feeds back into the system and is used for everything from providing statuses to customers on the Web and informing planning systems on the dock,” Saxton says. “It’s key information for the operation.”