Descartes Systems Group chose its Global User Group Conference in Atlanta this week to highlight the company’s advanced Wireless Global Logistics Network (wGLN) solutions. The wGLN is a centralized hub designed to manage data from multiple applications across an organization.
An extension of the Descartes Global Logistics Network (GLN), Descartes’ wGLN integrates wireless technologies with enterprise route planning and other applications to provide an end-to-end shipment management solution. It supports multiple wireless carrier networks and a variety of mobile technologies, from “black box” and telematics solutions to java phones, Microsoft-based handhelds and cab mounted PCs.
"The Descartes wGLN is an important step to improving our customer’s operational efficiency," said Chris Jones, executive vice president of Solutions and Services at Descartes. "It enables companies to proactively manage their resources in the field, whether they are people or vehicles, and measure their plan versus what actually happened."
During the conference, Descartes also announced that Wolseley North America has extended its use of Descartes solutions by adding Descartes intelligent Automated Vehicle Locator (AVL) to provide integrated two-way wireless communication and monitoring capabilities for its Ferguson division fleet of over 3,000 vehicles. The division, which serves thousands of customers daily, will use the AVL capability to extend visibility to delivery status in the field and allow for delivery route changes on-the-fly when exceptions occur.
"Extending our services with Descartes to add AVL capability is a natural progression for Wolseley and a commitment of our brand and service to our customers," said Brad Marsh, director of transportation of Wolseley’s North America Division. "Descartes routing and dispatching solutions, combined with Descartes AVL, provides real-time visibility of our assets in the field and enables us to update the status of our deliveries on-the-fly…"
Primary sponsors for the Global User Group Conference included Xata, Avocus Group, BSM Wireless, CombineNet, Intermec, Motorola, Navteq, NationLink Wireless, SMC3, TeleAtlas, Telogis, Turnpike Global Technologies, and Viewnyx. Descartes customers speaking at the event included the Vice President of Engineering at DHL Express, as well as spokespersons from CVS/Pharmacy, Delta Cargo, The Home Depot, Ideal Supply, Panalpina and others.
