PeopleNet® Converges Handhelds With g3 Onboard Computing and Communications
April 30, 2007 - PeopleNet today introduced its handheld platform offering that integrates PeopleNet's g3 mobile computing and communication system with ruggedized handheld devices that enable drivers to gather and display information both in and out of the truck.
PeopleNet is the leading provider of intelligent onboard communications and fleet management solutions in North America. PeopleNet's new handheld platform creates a hybrid of onboard and portable technologies so PeopleNet's cost-effective capabilities extend seamlessly from behind the wheel to wherever a driver actually works, at customer facilities and around the truck.
PeopleNet partnered with leading mobile solutions software provider TrueContext to provide mobile form solutions on handheld devices for virtually all relevant transportation applications. Situation-specific forms are easily understood and completed by drivers who experience less hassle and inconvenience.
"We're excited that PeopleNet and TrueContext have generated new potential for operating efficiency" said Jeff Lindauer, CEO, TrueContext. "Customer fleets will be able to capitalize on all of the functions a particular device might offer."
"Our handheld offering advances PeopleNet's commitment to versatility through open systems leaving the choice of handheld device up to the customer," said Brian McLaughlin, Vice President, Marketing and Product Planning. "Most any handheld device that runs on the Windows Mobile 5 platform can now operate with PeopleNet's g3 onboard system. Customers can use handhelds from virtually any manufacturer. PeopleNet's handheld offering will enable customers to use all the capabilities a particular device provides."
Drivers can quickly, efficiently fill out essential business and regulatory forms - vehicle inspection reports, delivery manifests and much more. These digital documents can be adapted to virtually any specialized requirements, something of particular importance in many private fleet operations.
Depending on the handheld devices selected, customers will be able to implement powerful functions that can eliminate steps in business processes, protect company interests and enhance the bottom line. Most handhelds support signature capture, making it possible to document deliveries, for example, beginning a billing cycle before the delivering truck has gone to its next stop.
Bar code scanning enables a driver to flawlessly document items delivered or picked up, eliminating the unavoidable errors of manual data entry and speeding handling along the way. Digital cameras built into some handhelds enable a driver to photograph and document damages to merchandise or even to the truck itself -- on the spot.
All handheld data - images, scans, documents - can be electronically transmitted to headquarters over PeopleNet's g3 mobile communications system. The transmission can be regularly scheduled or at the option of either driver or management.
About PeopleNet:
PeopleNet, based in suburban Minneapolis, is North America's leading provider of Internet-based and integrated onboard computing and mobile communications systems. Its transportation products are used by top truckload, LTL, private, and service fleets in the U.S. and Canada. PeopleNet was the first major technology provider to offer Internet-based communications to the transportation industry 13 years ago and now serves more than 1,000 customers, including several Fortune 500 companies. PeopleNet is on the web at www.peoplenetonline.com.
About True Context:
TrueContext is an award-winning provider of innovative mobile business solutions with offices across North America. TrueContext serves customers in the United States with Pronto and customers in Canada with Rogers mForms™. Businesses enjoy fast and flexible field force automation without high upfront costs, IT requirements, or compromises on experience. TrueContext was recognized by Microsoft at its Worldwide Partner Conference with the Award for Mobile Innovation in 2006. For more information about TrueContext visit www.truecontext.com
For more information contact: Joleen Keenan (952) 227-7245
jkeenan@peoplenetonline.com
