NASHVILLE. PeopleNet is beefing up the new version of its popular in-cab communication system with a new customized software function called Blu Workflow for creating unique applications to meet specific fleet workflow needs. The BluLink development platform is the foundation on which Blu Workflow applications are built, Brian McLaughlin, PeopleNet COO, told FleetOwner here at TMW’s 2009 TransForum user conference.
According to McLaughlin, fleets can use this tool to create their own custom onboard systems with an easy-to-use interface supplied by BluLink, or they may choose PeopleNet Tailored Solutions to help design it into the device. He noted that Blu Workflow works in any dispatch software environment that incorporates PACOS 2.6.
“This device is also ‘Wi Fi’ enabled, so we plan to have connectability to the Internet as an option by 2010,” McLaughlin added. “Right now the challenge is securing the device, so it can’t be ‘blown up’ by any software viruses found on the Internet today.”
Randy Boyles, vp of PeopleNet’s Tailored Solutions division, showed off an example of how a fuel hauler is using Blu Workflow to customize fuel delivery information. PeopleNet customer Justin Davis Enterprises uses the Blu in-cab PC so its drivers can look ahead to the details of subsequent stops, including graphical facility maps of delivery locations.
At the point of delivery, drivers enter gross and net gallons as well as retains and accessorial information before declaring the delivery complete and can also print receipts to rugged mobile printers if necessary.
“While transportation firms have similar business processes, they typically have a special take on them,” Boyles said. “Blu Workflow enables customers to provide their drivers with a directed process that guides the driver though each day’s planned activities. Drivers drive the vehicle, secure in the knowledge that all trip information is at their fingertips and that Blu will lead them through their employer’s defined process.”
