The Cloud-based PODStar system offers a ‘Planning and Optimisation’ tool that automates existing manual processes. Using real time job information, clients are able to drag and drop jobs onto the relevant vehicles. Once a manifest has been created it is then automatically sent out to the drivers remotely in the field. Jobs can also be automatically allocated vehicles in the most efficient order and display the route on a map saving FTS fuel and time on the road. FTS drivers are equipped with TouchStar TS3100 in-cab computers with the unit device used for both proof of delivery / signature capture and tracking of the driver and vehicle location safely use in the potentially explosive fuel delivery environments encountered by FTS.
Back at the FTS headquarters, management can view a real-time update on a map showing the fleet position as well as additional data and the job status and driver performance. FTS customers can login to the cloud-based system and enter jobs, view jobs and even track their deliveries, all of which as Jim Anderson remarks “offers a significant advancement in the service that we provide to our valued clients”.
The PODStar system also offers multiple facilities to enhance safety, allowing FTS to store key reminders, like tax, MOT, and service dates against their vehicles and to be notified in advance of renewal dates whenever management log into the system, thus ensuring full legal compliance. Furthermore, drivers can remove the TS3100 unit and use it to take photographs of any damage or low tyre treads, record a driver’s digital signature and capture the date, time and GPS location at the time of the check to ensure the highest levels of accuracy and eliminating paperwork. The PODStar software enables the driver to produce an on-device report which is extremely useful in the event of being stopped by the police or other officials.
Jim Anderson concludes: “The thoroughness of our initial search for a competent supplier has paid dividends. In TouchStar we found an organisation whose professionalism extended beyond the excellence of the PODStar product itself, right through to the installation and support aspects of the project. Our delivery drivers appreciate the simplicity and user-friendliness of the system and it’s helped us ensure that we’re legally compliant. Our customers have expressed their appreciation of the client portal facility. Overall we’re delighted with the system, as we continue to expand, and we look forward to a long-term relationship with TouchStar.”