Blog

Observations by The Marketing Edge's technology writer, Iestyn Armstrong-Smith

Aerial mapping and photography / airborne surveys / 3D map of Britain – Bluesky has produced an online 3D map of Britain. It has been created using data from aircraft mounted lasers that transmit light pulses, which bounce off the earth’s surface. The 3D map covers most of England and Wales, including all major towns and floodplains.

Available online at www.bluesky-world.com the 3D map complements aerial photomaps and other aerial survey data that are already available to purchase by simply entering a place name or postcode.

Read more on the techniques used to produce the 3D map: http://www.themarketingedge.org/3d-laser-map-of-britain

Wildgoose 2012 education catalogues / primary teaching (foundation, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 / secondary humanities (Geography, History and Religious Education at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5) - Wildgoose has released its 2012 educational resources catalogues. The two editions - Primary Teaching and Secondary Humanities - contain more than 2,000 educational resources, including new products, best sellers and award winning topic packs. The Wildgoose catalogues feature QR codes for smartphones, providing quick access to extended product information, video clips and teaching suggestions. Special offers, multi-buy discounts and a competition to win a £1000 worth of resources for your school are also included.

Read more about these useful catalogues for teachers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/wildgoose-launches-2012-catalogues

Warehouse management system / WMS / enterprise resource planning / ERP / integration / Balloon One / Community Foods – In just six months, Community Foods Limited has improved stock recording accuracy by 15 per cent with Balloon One’s wireless warehouse management system (WMS). The new WMS has also reduced wastage and improved stock reconciliation for the natural and organic dried food supplier. The company selected the Accellos WMS because it integrates seamlessly with its new enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.

“It is fair to say that we’ve seen stock record accuracy move from the low 80 per cent to about 95 per cent in six months. In a short, we have seen significant gains since installing Accellos and we expect a lot more to come,” says John Davies, Director of Operations, Community Foods.

Read more about this WMS/ERP integration: http://www.themarketingedge.org/community-foods-hit-target-with

Public Sector Digital Awards / National Address Gazetteer Database / GeoPlace - GeoPlace is one of two winners in the Best Project Delivery category at the 2011 UK Public Sector Digital Awards for the development and delivery of the National Address Gazetteer Database. GeoPlace was presented the award alongside Surrey County Council for their separate e-safeguarding project.

The award was presented by Joe Harley, CBE, CIO, for the UK Government and CIO and Director General for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). GeoPlace is a public sector limited liability partnership between the Local Government Association and Ordnance Survey. The National Address Gazetteer Database provides a definitive source of publicly owned spatial address data – comprising data from local authorities, Ordnance Survey, the Valuation Office and Royal Mail.

Gary Flood, editor of PublicTechnology.net and one of the judges said of the GeoPlace entry “The judges were impressed by the sheer size of the challenge faced, which involved synchronising more than 150million records from 5 primary data feeds.”

Read more about this awards news: http://www.themarketingedge.org/geoplace-wins-best-project-delivery

Fleet management software/ maintenance / workshop - Freeway’s new web-based Cumulus interface makes it easier for vehicle technicians and fitters to use fleet management software in real time. Cumulus was developed using Microsoft Silverlight. It enables workshop staff to interact with Freeway’s core software using tailored screens that communicate live information to and from the workshop floor. This cuts the cost of deploying the system to remote users who need limited access to its functionality and features.

The simple web-based deployment and straightforward user interface provides exactly the right level of detail required on the workshop floor. This simplicity is also proving successful with senior managers as Cumulus cuts to the core details, for example, only showing the key details of orders requiring a senior manager’s authorisation. The comprehensive detailed fleet management remains within the core Freeway system, while specific business functions can be extracted and rapidly deployed to remote users using Cumulus.

Read more about this innovation in fleet management software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/web-system-connects-workshops-to

Logistics / next day delivery / parcel courier / Platt Packaging - APC Overnight reliable deliveries have helped Platt Packaging Limited grow its business by 75 per cent. This business transformation is the result of a special parts assembly and packaging contract from an award winning central heating systems manufacturer.

“This is an extremely important contract for us and the delivery service we provide through APC is all part of the package. We need to get the parts to customers quickly and reliably and we are pleased to say that APC provides the essential logistics support we need. The local APC depot in Aberbargoed goes the extra mile to meet our requirements, which in turn keeps our customers happy,” says Rosie Platt, Commercial Director.

Platt books parcel collections online using the NetDespatch system installed by the local depot.

Read more on how APC services help Platt Packaging: http://www.themarketingedge.org/apc-deliveries-help-platt-packaging

3D laser mapping / laser scanning hardware and software - Jon Chicken has been appointed Managing Director of 3D Laser Mapping (he was previously the company’s Sales Director). Jon will take on responsibility for the day-to-day running of the Nottingham based supplier of laser scanning hardware and software and will manage the company’s continued worldwide expansion. 3D Laser Mapping founder, Dr Graham Hunter, will meanwhile take on the position of Executive Chairman. Dr Hunter will focus on the management of key suppliers, development of joint ventures as well as research and development to ensure the company’s offerings continue to ally with customer expectations and market demands.

More on this important appointment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/3d-laser-mapping-appoints-jon

National Gazetteers Exemplar Awards / Colchester Borough Council / Chorley Borough Council / Birmingham City Council - Three examples of innovation and excellence in street naming by councils have been recognised at the ‘National Gazetteers Exemplar Awards’. Colchester Borough Council was the overall Winner of the 2011 Street Naming Exemplar Award with Chorley Borough Council being Highly Commended and Birmingham City Council recognised as having Best Practice. The awards were presented at the recent ‘Everything Happens Somewhere’ conference.

The 2011 Exemplar Awards were presented by GeoPlace and aim to share, reward and celebrate best practice for projects which bring service improvements and efficiencies through the effective management of address and street information.

Read more about the awards in detail: http://www.themarketingedge.org/award-winning-street-names-reflect

Logistics / APC Overnight / new Chief Executive Officer / Syed Ziaullah - Syed Ziaullah is the new Chief Executive Officer of APC Overnight, following the retirement of MD Ivor Skinner. Ziaullah was Operations Director (since January 2008) and will lead a recently restructured senior management team. APC turned over £58 million in the period 2010-2011 with pre-tax profits of £3.4 million. It currently delivers 1.4 million parcels a month throughout the UK through its 120 strong network of local depots. APC’s premium services and reliability have been instrumental in helping hundreds of customers grow their businesses. APC’s “Handled with Care” services in particular have helped wine, beer and fine food retailers extend their reach across the UK.

More about this appointment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/apc-overnight-appoints-syed-ziaullah

Logistics / Siegrist-Orel / next day delivery - Fast collection and delivery of vital aircraft parts by APC Overnight is enabling Siegrist-Orel to provide critical spares to the aerospace industry. By working with APC East Kent, Siegrist-Orel can respond immediately to urgent orders for its high performance cable identification markers and sleeving. The rapid service ensures that planes are off the ground in the shortest time possible.

“APC Overnight’s flexibility enables us to meet customer needs and we can deal with urgent orders easily. This enables us to get our products to our clients in the shortest possible time. In the case of ‘aircraft on ground’ scenarios for aerospace/military customers, we need to guarantee a fast, reliable delivery to our customer,” says Natasha Couzins, Customer Services and Supply Chain Manager.

To manage order fulfilment, the company uses an advanced online web service (NetDespatch Velocity) to book collections and print routing labels.

Read more about how APC enables fast deliveries of Siegrist-Orel: http://www.themarketingedge.org/siegrist-orel-relies-on-apc

GeoPlace / Carolyn Downs- Carolyn Downs ( Chief Executive of the Local Government Association), has been appointed as a new Director and Board Member for GeoPlace LLP.
Richard Mason, GeoPlace’s Managing Director said: “We are proud that Carolyn has agreed to join the GeoPlace Board. This is an indication of the strategic importance of the partnership to the LGA.

GeoPlace is a 50:50 public sector limited liability partnership between the Local Government Association (LGA) and Ordnance Survey. The GeoPlace Board consists of four Members: two from the Local Government Group and two from Ordnance Survey. Carolyn replaces former LGA Chief Executive Officer John Ransford who was also a GeoPlace Board Member before his departure from the LGA.

More on this appointment at: http://www.themarketingedge.org/new-geoplace-board-director-named

Road safety / 3D laser scanning for collision investigation - GBP 2.7 million funding by the Department of Transport will enable 27 police forces across England to purchase 3D laser scanners for collecting highly detailed, 3D images of crash sites up to 50 percent faster than traditional survey techniques. Laser surveying equipment from 3D Laser Mapping is already being used to drive down the GBP 1 billion annual cost of congestion caused by collisions on motorways. Its RIEGL scanners have reduced the time spent collecting evidence at the scene, in turn reducing road closure times by an average of 90 minutes. Data from the scanners is used to produce high quality graphics and detailed plans of collision scenes for use in subsequent enquiries and court cases.

Richard Auty, Senior Collision Investigator in the Metropolitan Police Road Death Investigation unit said: “...we found the RIEGL laser scanner collected 30 percent more data, in less than half the time of any other Pulse scanner and it has helped us cut the road closure times in London by an average of 90 minutes.”

Read more on this: http://www.themarketingedge.org/government-funding-for-3d-laser

Logistics / next day delivery / APC Overnight - Ivor Skinner will retire from his position of Managing Director of APC Overnight, a position he has held for the last three years. Under his leadership, APC has grown into a £58 million turnover company with pre-tax profits of £3.4 million. Each month APC delivers 1.4 million parcels nationwide – and the company is on course for another record year in 2012.

The APC legacy that Ivor Skinner has created includes the company’s imminent move to a new £14 million purpose-built sortation centre in Staffordshire. The 128,000 ft2 national hub will more than double APC’s capacity and is essential to meeting the high demand from customers. Although retiring, he will continue to be very much involved in the company as a main Board Director.

More on Ivor Skinner’s term at APC Overnight: http://www.themarketingedge.org/apc-overnight-md-ivor-skinner

Ecommerce / e-commerce / online retail / web-based software / cloud computing / logistics - NetDespatch, whose web-based software helps retailers despatch parcels for orders placed on-line, is reporting a 50 per cent increase in online traffic compared with the same two weeks before Christmas last year. The company’s Internet servers are being accessed up to 20 million times an hour in the run up to Christmas.

Around 50,000 retailers worldwide are now using NetDespatch web technology for booking and tracking parcel deliveries through a wide range of postal and parcel carriers. December 2011 saw a record 400 new businesses signing up to use the service.

Read more on how NetDespatch is helping online retailers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/netdespatch-reports-internet-sales-boom

Street lighting management software / Balfour Beatty Mott Macdonald Area 4 Highways Agency MAC contract - Mayrise Systems software is playing an important role in the Balfour Beatty Mott Macdonald Area 4 Highways Agency MAC contract. Providing real-time asset management matched to complex maps of the highway lighting network, MAYRISE Street Lighting is helping identify and record faults, deliver a timely and efficient maintenance and repair programme and provide accurate management reporting.

“Mayrise enables us to maintain a complete service history for every lighting unit, allowing us to quickly identify its condition, age and fault history. This makes for better targeting of network faults and the identification of potential replacement upgrade of the street lighting asset,” said Rory O’Connor Street Lighting Design Team Leader for Balfour Beatty Mott MacDonald.

Read more on how Balfour Beatty Mott MacDonald uses Mayrise: http://www.themarketingedge.org/highways-agency-maps-a-route

Yodel / online shipping solution / web software / logistics / courier - NetDespatch is helping Yodel, the UK’s leading parcel delivery company, to offer advanced online shipping solutions to its clients. Yodel clients shipping more than 100 consignments each day can select the NetDespatch option which easily integrates their sales order processing and warehouse systems. This enables them to automatically print parcel shipping labels at any location and track consignments from despatch to delivery using any Internet-enabled device.
NetDespatch technology also underpins the award-winning CollectPlus collection and returns service, with the latter enabling consumers to return items back into stock for resale more easily than traditional methods. Yodel's CollectPlus retail clients can improve their smart phone applications using a NetDespatch service that helps their customers to find their nearest CollectPlus agent according to their geo-location.

Read more detail on this collaboration between NetDespatch and Yodel: http://www.themarketingedge.org/yodel-clients-streamline-processes-with

Aerial survey / aerial photographs / archive / digitisation - Bluesky is accelerating the digitisation of its archive of historically important aerial photographs following the acquisition of a new camera from the same range used by NASA on the Apollo space missions.
The digital Hasselblad camera is being used to photograph original survey films dating back to the 1940s in order to make the images available to view and purchase online at www.oldaerialphotos.com. The new camera can capture high resolution images in a fraction of the time it currently takes to scan each frame meaning they can be offered at the lowest ever price.

Read more on how Bluesky is using the camera for OldAerialPhotos: http://www.themarketingedge.org/bluesky-captures-old-aerial-photographs

Next day delivery / logistics / courier - APC Overnight has passed a major sortation milestone by processing more than 101,015 parcels a night - just as the Christmas rush gets into full swing. Volumes are up by over 10,000 parcels a night as more companies switch to APC Overnight. Shipments of perishable and delicate goods such as food and drink, popular around Christmas, have seen an increase as more companies choose APC’s special “Handled with Care” services.

Berry Bros. & Rudd, Slurp, Tanners, The Colchester Wine Company and ND John Wine Merchants rely on the next day Wine Delivery Service, one of the portfolio of Handled with Care services, to fulfil customer mail orders and online sales, and with Christmas on the horizon their orders are booming. Cider maker H Weston & Sons and Wye Valley Brewery also appreciate the reliability of the service.

Read more on how APC Overnight is providing exceptional delivery services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/apc-overnight-passes-100000-parcels

Father Christmas / Santa / Havergal School - APC Overnight’s reliability was put to the test for delivering Santa to Havergal school Christmas fair. Tasked with ensuring that Santa arrived at the event, APC Head of Sales & Marketing drove the VIP to the school in a company minibus. A significant number of children and parents attended the event at the school, which is located near to APC’s national hub in Wolverhampton.

Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/apc-delivers-father-christmas-to

Logistics / transport / Olympic Games / Paralympic Games / delivery routing and scheduling - Paragon Software Systems is providing software functionality to manage vehicle movements during the London Olympic and Paralympic games. Paragon software users can model how road closures, congestion and the increased demand for consumables will affect operations as well as consider how to handle changes to delivery times, unloading times and alterations in delivery frequency. A recent poll of Paragon customers indicated that around 72 per cent of companies have already begun planning for the games.

“Paragon customers servicing the areas affected by the Olympics and Paralympics will be able to use their existing systems to plan their deliveries simply by using the additional data files we can provide for both games. We are making these facilities available free of charge to all our existing users. Using the added functionality Paragon users will minimise disruption to their services, helping them keep their own customers happy during a very exciting but challenging time,” said Phil Ingham, Paragon Support Director.

Read more on how Paragon is helping customers deliver the goods during both games: http://www.themarketingedge.org/paragon-innovation-automates-olympic-delivery

Aerial photography, aerial surveys, Thurrock Council - Aerial photography dating back to the 1990s has been used to secure the long-term future of an Essex based nursery. Thurrock Council was claiming unauthorised uses on the greenbelt site close to Basildon and was considering enforcement action.

Greenwise Nurseries was able to prove the long-term use of the majority of the site for mixed-use industrial purposes with the aid of Bluesky’s historic aerial photography and the service of a professional air photo interpreter.

“The aerial photographs and the professional report derived from their interpretation allowed us to refute claims by the Council of over use of the site for non nursery purposes such as storage of new, reclaimed and architectural salvaged building materials. We now have a six-acre Brownfield site with lawful permission for retail sales, storage of building materials and other general retail items. This will allow us to develop our business and secure its long term future.,” said Mark Romero, Greenwise Nurseries.

Read more about Bluesky’s role in the Greenwise Nurseries case: http://www.themarketingedge.org/old-aerial-photographs-help-win

Rugged mobile computer / configurable tablet PC / tough portable computer - Mobexx is offering the ARMOR X10G, a uniquely configurable, best-in-class, 10-inch Tablet PC manufactured by DRS Tactical Systems, Inc. (a business unit of DRS Technologies, Inc.) This is a fully rugged tablet PC that can be configured to customer requirements. It also has a special FlexSpace expansion area to integrate customer specific functionality. The computer is manufactured and certified to MIL-STD-810F/G for extremes in temperature, vibration, shock, and drops to the ground.

The tablet PC is ATEX-certified for use in explosive atmospheres, and carries an IP 67 sealing rating, which means it is fully sealed against dust and can withstand water immersion to a depth of 1m for 30 minutes.

“The ARMOR X10gx is recognised as the ‘Rolls-Royce’ of 10-inch tablet PCs. It is a tenth-generation device that is top of its class. It has one of the best screens on the market, which allows use in both bright and shady conditions. It provides all the computing power needed for almost any type of mobile application...,” says Mark Dale-Lace, Director, Mobexx.

Read more about this super tough tablet PC: http://www.themarketingedge.org/mobexx-launches-best-of-breed

Mobile computers / telematics / vehicle tracking - Micronet has launched a rugged, all-in-one mobile computer that combines the benefits of a fixed in-vehicle terminal with the mobility and flexibility of a handheld device. The new CE-500 range offers a single solution that supports telematics and mobile applications, eliminating the need for multiple devices in the cab.

The CE-500 uses the GPS, GSM and GPRS built into telematics units that may already be installed on vehicles, avoiding the need for an additional mobile telecoms simcard or second airtime bill. The CE-500 series is based on Windows CE 6.0 features a choice of 7inch or 4.3inch LED backlit colour touchscreens, facilitating easy and intuitive operation by drivers of HGVs, Vans or Cars. In addition, it offers a host of integrated communication options including a quad band GPRS modem, GSM voice support via the internal microphone and speaker, GPS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.

Read more on this new product range from Micronet: http://www.themarketingedge.org/game-changing-mobile-computer-from

Logistics / next day delivery / food / courier service / Gower Cottage Brownies - Gower Cottage Brownies (www.gowercottagebrownies.co.uk) - Best Welsh Independent Retailer of the Year 2011 and multi award-winning confectioner - has seen its business double year-on-year with food logistics help from next day parcel company APC Overnight. Kate Jenkins, the entrepreneurial owner and creator of the highly acclaimed home produced brownie, trusts APC’s nationwide network to deliver her prized confection to customers throughout the UK on time and in perfect condition.

“I switched to APC when my previous service provider became unreliable and I’ve never looked back. I can confidently fulfil orders knowing that my customers will receive their fresh brownies on time, every time. The local depot, APC Celtic Couriers, is supportive and I trust them to do a great job and this works well for my business. The fact that I have a reliable delivery service completes the customers’ experience of buying from Gower Cottage Brownies,” says Kate Jenkins.

Gower Cottage Brownies benefits from easy online booking, shipping label printing and parcel tracking with full proof of delivery. The NetDespatch system introduced and implemented by the local APC depot has simplified the order fulfilment and despatch process.

Read more on how APC is helping Kate’s business: http://www.themarketingedge.org/gower-cottage-brownies-delivered-fresh

3D laser surveying / mobile mapping system / mine monitoring / Australia - 3D Laser Mapping has announced a new operation in Perth, Australia. The company is an international developer of laser scanning solutions including the world’s most accurate mobile mapping system StreetMapper and monitoring and mapping solutions for the mining industry. The new office will be headed by General Manager Iain Bramwell. The office will provide local sales and support for the whole of the Asia Pacific region.

“We are already very active in this region and have developed a good reputation and customer base through a network of local distributors,” said Dr Graham Hunter, Managing Director of UK-based 3D Laser Mapping. “Opening a dedicated office was the next logical step. This move will enable us to provide frontline support and service for both existing and potential clients, maximising the enormous potential of the region.”

Read more on this expansion into Australia: http://www.themarketingedge.org/3d-laser-mapping-expands-to

West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service / Technology Exemplar Award - West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service has transformed its IT assets, thereby reducing costs and improving the quality of its service delivery. Key to its success is “Chimp”, which is an innovative, highly functional and cost-effective technological response to the increasing demands placed on gazetteer software that manages addresses.

Chimp was awarded the 2011 National Gazetteers Technology Exemplar Award and following an audience vote at the Everything Happens Somewhere conference on the 3 November 2011 in Nottingham, the Overall Exemplar winner. The award recognised the innovative use of the National Gazetteers and the use of open source technology to realise significant operational efficiencies and cost savings.
Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/west-midlands-fire-and-rescue

Highways management software / Vale of Glamorgan Council / centralised and mobile solution for managing road closures / Dr Who - Mayrise Systems highways management software is helping the Vale of Glamorgan Council manage highway and highway assets in south Wales. The introduction of the centralised solution will be augmented with the use of mobile devices, also running Mayrise software.

The introduction of the software coincides with a revision of all procedures as well as reengineering of working practices in order to provide a ‘one stop shop’ for highways services.
“Using both the centralised software and mobile solution we expect to transform the execution of all our Network Management Duties. We can create and maintain a comprehensive knowledge database and automate many of the administrative functions such as billing and enforcement notices,” said Ken Evans, Group leader of Routine Highway Maintenance at the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

“The system also allows us to manage road closures including those required for filming of high profile television programmes such as Doctor Who...”

Read more on this highways management software application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/mayrise-it-system-revolutionises-highways

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / Multiglow Fires - Multiglow Fires is celebrating 15 years of quick, reliable “Handled with Care” next day deliveries from APC Overnight. Multiglow supplies advanced secondary heat source fires and maintenance parts to trade customers across the UK, relying on APC Overnight for the safe and speedy delivery of thousands of different items.

“APC Overnight has proven to be a reliable next day delivery service for us. It ensures we get our products to our customers on time and in perfect condition. Our products are unique in a mass market world and we need a delivery service to match, which is precisely what we get via the nationwide network. The team at the local depot, APC East Kent, is both helpful and friendly. The depot provides first class service and this helps us to maintain our own high standard of customer service,” says Sally Jones, Despatch Manager.

Multiglow uses an advanced web service (NetDespatch Velocity) supplied by APC Overnight for booking parcel collections and tracking the consignments to their customers.

Read more on how APC is helping Multiglow: http://www.themarketingedge.org/red-hot-apc-service-fans

3D modelling / aerial surveys / aerial photography / Virtual Newcastle Gateshead - A three-dimensional (3D) model from Bluesky is helping developers, architects and planning professionals assess the impact of urban building projects in the North East. The Bluesky data, supplied to Virtual Newcastle Gateshead, extends an existing city model and will help with decision making and save time and costs in the urban planning process.

The model is based on specially commissioned high-resolution aerial photography and it is hosted by Northumbria University’s School of the Built and Natural Environment. Local authorities are encouraging architects and developers to submit proposals in 3D so that they can be placed in the larger geographical context within the model.

“With large scale development and regeneration our cities are constantly changing and we therefore require technologies and improved processes to help both manage and monitor this change,” said Margaret Horne, Managing Director of Virtual Newcastle Gateshead. “A digital city model, widely accepted and adopted by key stakeholders, and based on reliable data such as that supplied by Bluesky, can make a very real contribution to the challenges faced by our cities.”

Read more about how the Bluesky 3D model is helping this project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/bluesky-model-supports-urban-regeneration

Next day delivery / logistics / electrical controls / CHINT - CHINT Group Corporation - Asia’s biggest electrical controls manufacturer and one of China’s largest companies - has chosen APC Overnight as its next day delivery parcel delivery partner for its UK division. CHINT Europe (UK) Ltd chose APC Overnight’s reliable and flexible service to boost customer service levels. The decision has proved successful in helping expand the company’s business in the UK.

“Despite the recession, our position in the UK electrical controls market is growing strongly. Our products are in great demand from electrical wholesalers and distributors and major OEMs. Part of our offering is the ability to process orders quickly for next day delivery. We rely on APC Overnight to get these critical items through to our customers and we are pleased with the strong partnership we have forged with the local APC Bolton depot. The excellent customer service that the depot - and the rest of the APC Overnight network - provides has no doubt helped with growing the business,” says Graham Chadwick, Company Director, CHINT Europe (UK) Ltd.

Read more about how APC helps CHINT deliver thousands of items throughout the UK: http://www.themarketingedge.org/chint-switches-on-to-apc

Logistics / routing and scheduling / software / transport planning / integrated satellite (GPS) vehicle tracking / Macfarlane Packaging - An integrated transport optimisation and vehicle tracking solution from Paragon Software Systems has helped Macfarlane Packaging with six figure savings. The software has helped Macfarlane maximise vehicle capacity and improve delivery efficiencies while reducing its fleet by 10 per cent. The software continues to provide savings through optimised delivery routes and schedules.

Paragon is also used for modelling transport plans across all Macfarlane UK-wide depots. This helps optimise fleet capacities, move vehicles to where they will provide best service and guide new vehicle acquisition. This modelling capability also helps identify and develop new business opportunities.

"We made significant early savings in operational costs with Paragon. The software allowed us to identify that we had spare capacity within the fleet and reduce the number of vehicles. It makes our deliveries to customers more efficient and enables us to run fuel-efficient routes and schedules that maximise our service and vehicle capacities. With the ever rising cost of fuel, the system ensures we get the best use from each vehicle," says John Redman, Logistics Development Manager, Macfarlane Packaging.

Read more about how Macfarlane uses and benefits from Paragon’s integrated solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/macfarlane-packaging-makes-significant-savings

Aerial photography / aerial surveying / Oliver Rothschild – Corporate strategist Oliver Rothschild has joined the board of Bluesky as Non Executive Director for the Leicestershire based aerial survey company. Rothschild will bring a valuable network of contacts, extensive board experience and a successful track record of business development. He is active in a range of industries and holds a diverse portfolio of business interests that are compatible and complementary to Bluesky’s own green agenda.

“Oliver brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the existing Board of Directors and will prove invaluable as we continue to develop our already extensive range of environmental data products - such as the UK’s first solar energy maps, heat loss mapping and night time aerial surveys,” said Bluesky’s Managing Director Rachel Tidmarsh. “His management experience, Chairmanships and charitable works make Oliver a powerful ambassador in our target markets both at home and overseas.”

More on Oliver Rothschild’s appointment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/oliver-rothschild-joins-bluesky-board

Logistics / courier / next day delivery / St Michael’s Hospice / Hereford - Hereford’s St Michael’s Hospice is to benefit from free Herefordshire-wide deliveries from APC Overnight. APC CS Couriers in Hereford will provide the next day deliveries to customers buying charity Christmas cards from the hospice. St. Michael’s will save around £1000 on postage and packaging costs.

St Michael's Hospice is situated in rural Herefordshire from where it serves local communities across the county and five neighbouring counties. It provides specialist care to individuals who have a life limiting illness and offers support to their families and friends. Since the first patient was admitted on 31st October 1984, more than 20,000 people and their families have benefitted from the care it gives. The hospice is an independent charity and all its services are given free of charge. It costs over £10,000 per day to provide these services and it relies on around 90 per cent of its funding from the community.

“... We are delighted to be working locally with APC in this way. Kirsty [Kirsty Merriman, MD of APC CS Couriers] has also offered to help with future projects, including delivering T-shirts for the next Venus Challenge Midnight Walk for Women,” says Nicola Wood, Head of Retail and Trading, St Michael’s Hospice.
Read more on APC’s local charity work: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53237.html

Logistics software / transportation planning / routing and scheduling / optimisation / Greggs - Bakery retailer Greggs will implement Paragon optimised transportation planning nationwide following a successful pilot project. Using Paragon to optimise delivery routes from its Manchester depot enabled Greggs to rationalize its delivery journey mileage while maintaining service excellence. Since achieving these efficiency improvements and savings, Greggs has worked hard to implement its special “shop window” cost-effective delivery planning approach to another three depots and hopes to have completed the roll out to the rest of the UK by the end of summer 2012.

“The annual savings clearly show that by using the routing software to produce the best routes and to improve vehicle use, we can make reductions in certain operational costs while doing more with existing resources - and without stretching them. We have begun to see these efficiency improvements at additional depots and we aim to replicate these benefits throughout the entire UK operation over the coming year,” says Paul Duggan, National Logistics Project Manager, Greggs.

“Transporting our fresh products to our shops is a key activity at Greggs and as we grow our number of shops, delivering to more locations in the UK, we want to do this without increasing our costs. Paragon is helping us achieve this...” he adds.

Read more on the importance of logistics to Greggs: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53236.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveys / Dartmoor - Aerial photography dating back to the 1940s has helped with a long running battle for public access to a historic site on Dartmoor. A Planning Inquiry has ruled in favour of the landowner who bought the land around Vixen Tor in 2003, closing off access to the general public. The order to open two paths across the land was made by Devon County Council with support from The Ramblers (formerly the Ramblers Association) and the British Mountaineering Council. Following the recent ruling by the Planning Inspectorate this order has now been rescinded. Bluesky supplied the historic aerial photography complete with certificates of authentification from their OldAerialPhotos archive providing factual and unbiased evidence for further investigation by Air Photo Services, a company that offers specialist interpretation of aerial imagery, consultancy and expert witness services.

Director Chris Cox said, “Acting as an Expert Witness and working on behalf of my client, I was able to establish, using the historic images, that a footpath was not visible in the alleged place. I conducted comparative analysis on other visible paths in the area from the 1940s to the present day to support this claim.”
Read more about how OldAerialPhotos was able to help resolve this case: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53222.html

GIS / geographic information systems / gazetteer management software - Users of GGP Systems gazetteer management software have once again performed well at a national award ceremony. Following an outstanding performance in 2010, which saw them scoop three out of the six top awards, the London Borough of Harrow came runner up in the Financial Award category and was Highly Commended in the Integration Category.

Leicestershire based Blaby District Council was named as best performing authority in the East Midlands region, following an award in 2009 for the ‘Most Improved’, and also achieved a Gold Standard award for the quality and accuracy of their local address database. Eastleigh and Runnymede Borough Councils, Salford City Council and Wyre Forest District Council, all users of GGP NGz software, also achieved Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) Authority Dataset Improvement Schedule Gold Standard awards.

Read more on the 2011 National Gazetteer Exemplar Awards: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53224.html

GeoPlace / EUROGI / geographic information / National Address Gazetteer - GeoPlace has been announced as a winner in a European wide programme by EUROGI - the European Umbrella Organisation for Geographic Information. GeoPlace is a public sector limited liability partnership between the Local Government Association and Ordnance Survey.

The only UK Award winner among about 50 entries across Europe, GeoPlace was awarded the winner in the "Quantity and Quality" category for the creation of the National Address Gazetteer Database. The awarding process was based on the SDI self-assessment framework. The Awards Jury then assigned grades to various indicators and ranked the entries with reference to six criteria.

Read more about why GeoPlace won the award: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53229.html

GeoPlace / 2011 National Gazetteers Exemplar Awards /
GeoPlace LLP has announced the winners of the 2011 National Gazetteers Exemplar Awards. The awards recognise the outstanding achievements of local authorities, local partnerships, police forces and fire and rescue services, in the creation, maintenance and utilisation of the National Gazetteers.

The 2011 Exemplar Awards were presented at the ‘Everything Happens Somewhere’ conference. Both the awards and the conference aim to share, reward and celebrate best practice that brings service improvements and efficiencies through the effective management of address and street information.

GeoPlace is a public sector limited liability partnership between the Local Government Association and Ordnance Survey. GeoPlace’s role is to create and maintain national databases of address and street data sourced from local authorities in England and Wales, brought together with Ordnance Survey data. These national databases provide definitive spatial address and street data as an enabler for public sector improvement and wider application in other sectors.

Read more about the categories and winners: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53228.html

Laser surveys / vehicle-based laser mapping / Main Roads Western Australia - StreetMapper, the vehicle-based laser mapping system, has completed a survey along the North West Coastal Highway in Western Australia. Travelling at normal traffic speeds, the StreetMapper system captured survey grade data achieving millimetre accurate measurements of the road surface and roadside features. StreetMapper mobile surveys replace the need for surveyors using tripod mounted lasers along the highway making it a much faster and safer process, as well as reducing disruption for other road users.

Commissioned by the Main Roads Western Australia (MRWA), the government agency responsible for highways and main roads in the area, the laser scan survey was requested by consulting surveyors Hille Thompson & Delfos. The survey route included a section of the main highway, which forms part of the coastal link between Perth and Port Hedland, through the metropolitan area of Geraldton and included offsets from the highway along intersecting roads.

Read more about this 3D Laser Mapping StreetMapper project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53226.html

Point cloud data software / 3D laser scanning / St Peter and St Paul Karlovy Vary - A project to reconstruct a Russian Orthodox Church located in the Czech Republic has deployed state of the art 3D laser scanning technology to quickly and accurately measure existing conditions; slashing survey times and costs. Local survey company, BW Precision Systems, in co-operation with design office Medika Projekt Karlovy Vary, first used a FARO Focus 3D laser scanner to complete the survey and afterwards used Pointools point cloud software to generate images, produce animations, and deliver coordinated plans, sections, and elevations to support future restoration work.

“Laser scanning has transformed our business. Using traditional survey techniques to accurately measure a building of this size and complexity we would be onsite for at least 30 days. With the 3D laser scanner in hand we were in and out in just ten days. That’s 3-times faster!” explained Jiri Blazek, co-founder of BW Precision Systems.

Read more about this Pointools software application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53227.html

GIS / geographic information systems / gazetteer management software / Surrey Heath Borough Council / recycling / ROAR - Surrey Heath Borough Council has won an award at the National Recycling Awards 2011 for improving recycling in the borough. Using address data from the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG), managed with GGP’s gazetteer management software NGz, the Council has increased its overall recycling from 32 per cent to 64 per cent.

The recycling scheme, called ROAR (Recycling Organic and Refuse) provides residents with separate wheeled bins for rubbish, mixed recycling and a sealed caddy for food waste. The award was in the "Local Authority Target Success" category which recognises those councils that have made a significant improvement in domestic recycling rates.

Read more on how GGP NGz helps the Council: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53219.html

Warehouse management system / WMS / Gro Company / SAP integration - Grobag® inventor, The Gro Company has streamlined order fulfilment with an integrated warehouse management system (WMS) from Balloon One. The wireless real-time system is integrated with the Gro Company’s SAP Business One computer system, which enables orders to be picked, packed and made ready for despatch within seven minutes of receipt.

“The changes we have been able to make have been immense and we are pleased to be able to offer our customers rapid service thanks to this advanced technology. Balloon One’s WMS is well regarded as an excellent fit for SAP Business One ERP (enterprise resource planning) systems. The investment in the system has more than paid for itself as we can respond quickly and accurately,” says James Green, Gro Company ICT Manager.

Read more on how Balloon One’s WMS helps the Gro Company: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53221.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling optimisation / transportation planning / warehouse - “Despatch Smoothing” is a new feature of Paragon’s transport routing and scheduling software to avoid bottlenecks in warehouse despatch. Despatch Smoothing enables companies to balance the needs of logistics and warehousing operations by optimising workflows that improve efficiency by ensuring that all available resources are used effectively.

The software makes it possible to plan the optimised loads for despatch to enable the warehouse to easily cope with the demand. It does this by controlling the profile of the loads prepared for despatch from the warehouse and automating the scheduling of vehicles, so that departures within a given period are achievable using the available warehouse resources. This helps to optimise the route schedules in such a way that these available warehouse resources are not overburdened while maintaining customer service excellence.

Read more about Despatch Smoothing: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53218.html

Rugged mobile computer / 7-inch tablet PC / Windows 7 -
Mobexx has extended its 7-inch tablet computer range with the new ARMOR X7 compact rugged tablet computer from DRS Tactical Systems, Inc., a business unit of DRS Technologies, Inc. Designed and engineered to operate reliably in extreme environments, this fully rugged tablet is manufactured to military standards. It is certified to MIL-STD-810F/G for extremes in temperature, vibration, shock, and drops, and it has an ingress protection (IP) rating of 65 for being fully sealed from dust and highly resistant to moisture. An ATEX-certified version is available for use in explosive atmospheres.

“The ARMOR X7 is an exceptionally well designed and made device. It is a high-grade 7-inch tablet PC, ideal for use in demanding and specialised applications requiring custom functionality and very harsh environments. Customers will benefit from its ingenious screen technology that allows it to be used under varying light conditions – even in strong sunlight: other manufacturers claim wonders about their screens, but this is the best we’ve seen so far,” says Mark Dale-Lace, Director, Mobexx.

Read more in detail about this rugged tablet PC: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news53220.html

Aerial survey / aerial photography / airborne surveys / renewable energy - Aerial surveying company Bluesky has secured 2.4 million Euros to fund research into developing a web-based renewable-energy rating-platform. Working with its European partners, Bluesky will investigate the use of geographic data to assess the suitability of individual properties for solar energy generation and create a web portal to deliver this data online. Bluesky will retain the rights to the engine used for analysing the raw data as well as the web portal and backend systems.

“This is a tremendous achievement for Bluesky and is recognition of the pioneering work we have already undertaken into green energy mapping,” said Rachel Tidmarsh, Managing Director of Bluesky International. “We are proud to be working with some of the leading organisations in this field from across Europe and we are looking forward to the challenges this research project will present.”

The title of the research project is “Development and demonstration of a dynamic, web based, renewable energy rating platform” and is funded by the Commission of the European Communities under Framework Programme 7.

Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news52408.html

Fleet management software / TWT Logistics / workshop software – TWT Logistics in South Wales is using Freeway fleet management software to improve efficiencies. The software automates workshop administration of inspections, servicing and repairs for the company’s entire fleet of HGVs and trailers. It gives an instant view of pending fleet maintenance jobs, those being done and comprehensive maintenance histories for each vehicle. It also provides warranty details for replacement parts and work by external contractors, which helps the company to save money.

“Freeway saves a lot of time and consequently it reduces administration costs. Without it, a workshop like this would need more staff to manage and administer the workload. It is extremely powerful tool for workshop management giving tighter control over booking jobs and stock and it gives instant view of maintenance costs for each and every vehicle,” says Phil Black, Workshop Manager, TWT Logistics.

Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news52414.html

New Zealand Post / MYOB / Moneyworks / integration / SaaS / cloud computing / web platform as a service - NetDespatch innovation has enabled New Zealand Post to extend availability of its web shipping tools to millions of small business users, who can now print the correct domestic and international shipping labels directly from their business software. This eliminates separate shipping systems, and duplication of customer information and data entry. As soon as an order is ready for despatch, shippers simply “click to ship” and the appropriate fully addressed shipping label is returned to them as a PDF. The system simultaneously advises New Zealand Post of the shipping request.

Following integration with Elegant Solutions’ StarShip application, a popular add on for accounting software, millions of MYOB and Moneyworks users in Australia and New Zealand will now be able to generate New Zealand Post labels directly from their despatch dashboard. They will also be able to use the dashboard to track all their outgoing orders.

Read more about how clever NetDespatch technology is helping to evolve postal services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news52410.html

Street works software / mobile computing / Isle of Anglesey County Council / Cyngor Sir Ynys Mon - Mobile street works software from Mayrise is helping street works inspectors in Anglesey achieve significant gains in efficiency. Daily inspection schedules together with exports from the Council’s Local Street Gazetteer (LSG) and Ordnance Survey MasterMap are downloaded to the mobile devices at the start of each shift. Using MAYRISE Street Works Mobile software together with it’s integrated mapping module inspectors can easily locate and identify scheduled inspections, record observations and complete ad hoc tasks. The Council estimates it has saved 1,500 staff hours per annum using the mobile system

“We have estimated that each inspector is saving approximately three hours a day with mobile working,” said Dewi Williams, Head of Service, Highways & Waste Management, Isle of Anglesey County Council.

Read more on how this mobile solution is improving efficiencies for Anglesey: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news52411.html

Medco Health Solutions / home delivery / logistics software / routing and scheduling optimisation - Medco Health Solutions is providing delivery time windows on days that are suitable for the patient while actively optimising fleet resource. The unique service for NHS patients has been made possible using special home-delivery logistics software from Paragon. With Paragon HDS, Medco is able to meet patients’ needs for receiving their therapy at a particular time on a particular day. This highly efficient service is enabling the delivery of therapies such as infusions to the patient just an hour before a nurse arrives to administer the drugs.

“Paragon HDS has been instrumental in enabling us to offer this service. If you want to promise tight delivery windows in this type of home delivery operation, you must have instant access to routing intelligence to do it cost effectively and with minimal environmental impact and this is what Paragon HDS provides for us. Without it, we simply couldn’t achieve this level of service within the financial constraints the NHS is currently operating under,” says Chris Clowes, Medco’s Head of Supply Chain.

Read more on how Paragon HDS is helping Medco provide a superior homecare home delivery service: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news52409.html

Logistics / routing and scheduling / food and beverages / distribution / transportation / supply chain - IFDA Foodservice Distribution Conference visitors will learn how Paragon software is helping food and drink transportation and distribution organizations, including Martin Brower, Loveland Distributing and National Food Corporation, to lower their logistics costs while delivering improved customer service. The event takes place from October 25 to 26, in Fort Worth, Texas, USA.

For food and beverages distributors serving retail or foodservice outlets, driving productivity through efficient distribution is critical for success. Whether supplying stores or restaurants and cafeterias, customers rely on accurate and timely delivery of goods. With demanding delivery schedules and often low profit margins, the key to generating repeat business for foodservice distributors lies with streamlined delivery operations that use optimized plans to increase on-time performance, minimize delays and boost efficiency.

Learn about Paragon’s capabilities , including Arrival Time Banding and Dispatch Smoothing by visiting Booth 609. For more on this, see: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51978.html

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / Nickys Nursery / online parcel booking and tracking / ecommerce / SaaS / web service - Award winning, online garden company Nickys Nursery is expanding its business throughout the UK and into Europe with next day parcel deliveries from APC Overnight. The local APC branch office near Ramsgate, Kent, collects and despatches millions of seeds and thousands of giant garden games each year via the APC Overnight nationwide network and its international partners.

“... we use the best available courier service for next day deliveries to provide a high quality service. The APC service has helped us grow the business and has continued to support the expansion of the business. We find APC Overnight to be dependable as well as flexible; working with the local depot that understands our business needs is a big plus. We know that when we say we will deliver our orders they will arrive with the customer on time and intact,” says Nicky Lee, Director of Nickys Nursery.
The company uses NetDespatch Velocity to book the parcel collections, print labels and track consignments.

Read more on how Nickys Nursery has grown with APC: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51975.html

SAP Business One integration / WMS / warehouse management / Premium Timber Products - Balloon One systems integration is helping Premium Timber Products to meet hundreds of daily customer orders in record time. The joinery products specialist supplies major out-of-town retailers, including B&Q and Magnet, with internal and external doors, PVCu doors, windows and fascias, and landscaping products.

Premium uses SAP Business One software for accounting and order processing integrated with a powerful, intelligent Accellos wireless warehouse management system (WMS). The system also has EDI functionality to allow customers to place electronic orders based on live and accurate stock levels. This is a common requirement of suppliers for most big retail organisations.
Read more on how Premium manages and despatches many thousands of product lines from its warehouses in Yorkshire and Somerset: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51976.html

Web service / platform as a service / SaaS / cloud computing / Collect+ / third party logistics / Retail Week Supply Chain Awards - NetDespatch customer Collect+ has won the “Third Party Logistics Provider of the Year” at the Retail Week Supply Chain Awards 2011 for its easy and convenient returns service using local corner shops. The company was also “Highly Commended” in the “Online Fulfilment Initiative of the Year” category in recognition of its partnership with ASOS, the UK's largest independent online fashion and beauty retailer. Collect+ is also a finalist in eCommerce Awards “Innovation in Delivery Award” category; the winner will be announced at this year’s eCommerce Expo in October.

Collect+ uses NetDespatch web services to integrate retailers, PayPoint terminals in the shops and parcel-carrier tracking systems. Each day, thousands of customers of major UK retailers, including Shop Direct Group (brand owner of Littlewoods.com, very.co.uk and Woolworths.co.uk), use the NetDespatch powered Collect+ service to return unwanted items. Read more on how NetDespatch’s clever technology powers the Collect+ service: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51977.html

Point cloud data / 3D laser scanning / scan-to-model workflow / KOREC / Trimble - KOREC Group, a Trimble surveying instrument distributors and FARO’s reseller for England, Wales, and Ireland, has joined the Pointools Partner Program in the UK & Ireland.

Pointools software streamlines scan-to-model workflows by enabling project teams to reference and reuse the largest point cloud models – the billions of measurement points taken by 3D laser scanners – inside the broadest range of applications.

“For over 40 years KOREC has been dedicated to providing customers with the best possible productivity solutions,” said Andrew Beckerson, Director of Sales at KOREC. “Our customers want to manipulate very high resolution point clouds because of their incredible clarity, particularly in the BIM, Forensic and Rail markets, where this data is proving vital. Pointools allows them to do that as well as produce fabulous video flythroughs and even create images and videos which can be viewed in 3D with special glasses.”

Read more about Pointools Partner Program: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51378.html

Logistics / next day delivery / online booking / Cohline / automotive spares - APC Overnight’s next day parcel deliveries get to Cohline UK Ltd’s customers on time. Each week, Cohline sends consignments containing cooling, heating and hydraulic lines and fittings for Audi, BMW and Bentley cars to automotive parts distributors throughout England and Wales. The company also supplies products for specialist and sports car marques, including Morgan and Westfield.

Cohline UK books collections online using a special NetDespatch web service supplied by APC Overnight.

“Cohline UK sets itself apart from the rest of the market as a high-quality automotive product supplier, manufacturing original equipment parts for the German motor industry. We need a similarly high-quality next day delivery service to ensure our customers are happy. APC's Overnight depot in Cliffsend, Ramsgate, is our local link with the nationwide parcel network. The depot is extremely efficient in dealing with our deliveries and we can rely on their friendly, professional service. Nothing is too much trouble for the APC East Kent team and overall the service provides good value for money,” says Donna Delderfield, Aftermarket Sales Manager.

Read more on APC and Cohline: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51396.html

Micronet / Martin Port / mobile computing / mobile data terminals - Micronet, a world leader in mobile data terminals, has entered into an agreement with Martin Port, founder of Masternaut Europe’s largest telematics service provider.
Martin Port will establish a new European headquarters based in Leeds, England, to spearhead the sales of the Micronet range of leading edge mobile data terminals. The company will be known as “Micronet Europe” and it will cover over 40 European countries.

Micronet has an established customer base supplying world leading telematics service providers. Micronet has recently developed a ground breaking revolutionary range of affordable mobile data terminals that will combine ruggedness, portability, high functionality and ease of operation. Organisations operating in the logistics, field services, public sector, utilities, waste, construction and emergency services sectors would all benefit from using such a device that will transform their businesses.

Read more about Martin Port’s new venture: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51374.html

Mobile workforce and fleet management / route optimisation / vehicle tracking / FleetGenie / logistics technology - FleetGenie is a new mobile workforce and fleet management system that includes vehicle tracking, route optimisation and mobile device management has been launched. FleetGenie enables any organisation with a mobile workforce and fleet operation to benefit from advanced routing, embedded satellite navigation, tracking and workflow management technology, which could save them up to 30 per cent on fleet running costs.

FleetGenie is seeking vertical sector specialists to help promote the new system to the mass market. Mark Dale-Lace, director of FleetGenie, says: “This new mobile workforce and fleet management product will open new opportunities for back office software providers and solutions specialists as it is quick and easy to integrate with any vertical market solution.”

You need to read the full story to learn more about FleetGenie specs, features, functions and applications: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news51376.html

Mobile computing / portable computers / in-vehicle computer / rugged mobile computers - JLT Mobile Computers, a developer of rugged computing solutions for the toughest environments, is extending its warranty from one to three years on all its products. The extended warranty is the next step in JLT's ongoing commitment to quality and is valid on products ordered on 15 September 2011 or later.

“We carefully track all the warranty and service requests that are coming in to learn and to continuously improve our products. Based on the results we’ve seen, we feel very comfortable with offering a three-year warranty to our customers,” says Peter Börjesson, Service Manager at JLT Mobile Computers.

Read more about this extended warranty from JLT: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50900.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transportation software - Paragon Software Systems, Inc. has introduced a special “Dispatch Smoothing” feature to its transportation routing software to prevent bottlenecks in warehouse dispatch. Transportation plans tend to react to customer demand but do not take into account the capabilities of warehouse resources and their availability. Dispatch Smoothing enables companies to balance logistics and warehousing operations by optimizing workflows that improve efficiency and reduce cost by ensuring that all available resources are used effectively.

Read more about Dispatch Smoothing: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50896.html

Street works management software / Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council / cloud computing - Street works management software from Mayrise Systems is helping keep local authorities on top of road works and Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council is the latest Welsh council to use a new web hosted service. The online Mayrise system will record street works activities across the County Borough, co-ordinate works and events that affect the highway and generate Key Performance Indicator (KPI) and management reports. With software held and updated centrally the Council will be able to keep up to date with changing legislation and working practices without needing to worry about software upgrades.

“Mayrise software is used to record, co-ordinate and report on all street works activities and events across the County Borough whether they are promoted by a utility company, private organisation or our internal departments,” said Jeremy Morgan, Highways Network Group Manager, Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council. “This helps us comply with our duties in line with the Traffic Management Act of 2004 while offering residents, businesses and visitors an efficient and effective service.

Read more about this web hosted application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50898.html

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / BioMonde / Western Couriers - Pharmaceutical manufacturer BioMonde is using APC Overnight for fully traceable, timed UK-wide deliveries from APC Overnight. BioMonde products have limited shelf life, so daily collections and efficient transport is essential to ensure on-time delivery to doctors.

BioMonde’s Sage production and accounting system is linked directly to the online APC Overnight shipping and tracking system. Bookings and manifests are transferred in real time using an advanced web service (NetDespatch). This seamless integration provides essential end-to-end traceability of all BioMondes’s products with the aid of barcode shipping labels generated automatically by the system.

“It is imperative that we get our special medical dressings to the customer on time. This is particularly important for medical professionals who have scheduled appointments for treating their patients. Traceability is a key requirement for us. We are shipping short life medical supplies and so we need to know that deliveries are progressing as expected...,” says Beth Williams of BioMonde.

Read more on how APC provides traceable critical timed-deliveries: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50568.html

Software as a service / SaaS / cloud computing / web platforms / web shipping / integration / integrated labelling / Post-Expo 2011 - NetDespatch will launch new online software innovations at the Post-Expo 2011 postal show in the Stuttgart Messe running from 27 to 29 September. The company, will demonstrate its new “Integrated Labelling” solutions that make it easy to print complex domestic and international shipping labels directly from sales order processing, warehouse despatch and accounting systems and software. This enables postal and parcel carriers to extend availability of their web shipping tools to millions of small business users, who can now print the correct labels directly from their business software, eliminating the need for separate shipping systems and duplicating customer information and data entry.

New Zealand Post, Royal Mail, Collect+ and DHL Sameday are among the postal providers that are benefiting from NetDespatch integration.

Read more about this here (and also in the next issue of Postal Technology International magazine): http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50564.html

Point cloud data / 3D laser scanning / 3D computer modelling / Globe Theatre - Complex laser scanned computer models, created using software from Pointools, are helping architects design the most complete recreation of an English renaissance indoor theatre ever attempted. The indoor Jacobean theatre, the shell of which already exists on the Shakespeare’s Globe site in London, will be restored to provide a brand new theatre space that will seat around 320 people, with two tiers of galleried seating and an authentic pit seating area.

‘We commissioned a laser scan survey at the outset of the construction venture to enable the project management team to establish the exact dimensions of the space and to discover any hidden issues that may affect the design and build process of the new theatre,” said Paul Williams, Technical Manager at the Globe Theatre. “The Pointools models will, primarily, be used by project architect – Allies and Morrison – to inform their design and quantify the interior dimensions of the space that the indoor theatre will occupy.”

Read more about this application of Pointools software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50566.html

Warehouse management / WMS / software / SAP Business One integration / Davant - Davant Products, a supplier of plumbing, drainage and insulation products to major retail and trade outlets, is benefiting from an advanced wireless warehouse management system (WMS) from Balloon One. The integrated Accellos WMS is maximising customer service to clients such as B&Q, Wickes and Travis Perkins, helping it win new business and encourage old clients to return to Davant as word spreads about the company’s new efficiencies. The system has already paid for itself by reducing stock costs from £1.75 million to £1.25 million in just 11 months.

“Balloon One showed us that we would be able to link our ERP system to the WMS to automate the warehouse. The system would revolutionise the warehouse with the introduction of radio frequency handheld scanners with mobile computing capability and barcoding technology. This would provide a host of immediate benefits that would boost our efficiencies,” says Jeff Pryce, Operations Manager, Davant Products.

Read more about this clever integration: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50140.html

Public lighting / street lighting / management software / Balfour Beatty - Street lighting software from Mayrise is being used to manage another 130,000 street lights following the award of two new Private Finance Initiative (PFI) concessions. The contracts valued at £203 million and £230 million respectively, awarded to Balfour Beatty by Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire County Councils, include the installation of new lighting stock and maintenance for the next 25 years. The MAYRISE street lighting management system will be integrated with remote monitoring technology to allow automatic dimming of street lights and signs and improved asset management.

“These are our fifth and sixth PFI street lighting concessions and we now manage in excess of 250,000 lit assets using Mayrise software,” said Paul Stoddart, Systems, Planning and Asset Manager, Balfour Beatty Street Lighting PFI Business. “Projects in Coventry, Sunderland, South Tyneside and Derby are all proceeding successfully and we are confident that Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire will follow suit.”

Read more about the use of Mayrise software for managing street light assets: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50138.html

3D laser scanning and mapping / MHP Geomatics / South African National Roads Agency - MHP Geomatics has purchased a high speed laser scanner to capture highly accurate 3D measurements as part of a multi-million Rand upgrade project for the South African National Roads Agency. The Riegl VZ-400 supplied by 3D Laser Mapping will be used by MHP to capture as-built drawings of bridges and other structures in order to improve the financing, management, maintenance and safety of the nation’s roads.

“We selected the VZ-400 as it has been proven to be the fastest, most reliable and most accurate scanner on the market,” said Terrence Elliott, Professional Land Surveyor at MHP Geomatics. “We have been monitoring the development and use of laser scanners in the market place for some time and we now believe the technology and demand for this product has matured significantly. We are confident the addition of the laser scanner will complement our existing survey capabilities, whilst exposing us to new applications and clients.”

Read more about this application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50002.html

Fleet management / fleet maintenance / workshop management / logistics / general haulage / ARR Craib - Scottish general haulier ARR Craib Transport Ltd. is benefiting from full integration of its Freeway fleet and workshop management software with its other business critical systems. Chris Livingston, ARR Craib IT Manager, says that the flexibility of the software, its integration capabilities and reliability eliminate IT support headaches and enable the company to streamline its fleet management and other business operations.
The software is also used to schedule calibration jobs for special equipment.

“Freeway interfaces with our Sage accounting software, Manpack transport management system (TMS) and Triscan fuel management software, which means we do not need to rekey information into the various systems, which saves a lot of time. This also eliminates inaccuracies,” he says.
Read more about Freeway fleet management software integration: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news50004.html

Courier / logistics / next day delivery / Phoenix IT Services - APC Overnight provides Phoenix IT Services with next day delivery and “swap out” services of retail technology to stores throughout the UK. The company's Mobile POS Support division maintains hardware - hand held computers and terminals - for high street retailers. The nationwide service ensures Phoenix customers have the equipment they need to deal with their customers and maintain their service levels.

Phoenix IT Services delivers a full range of IT Infrastructure Solutions throughout the UK and Europe. The company's Mobile POS Support division maintains a wide brand range of hand held computers and terminals, including Motorola, Nordic ID, Intermec and Telxon.

Read more on how APC Overnight supports Phoenix IT: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49916.html

Warehouse management systems / WMS / SAP Business One / integration / Camlab - Laboratory products supplier Camlab has slashed inventory costs and achieved 99 per cent stock accuracy with warehouse management solutions from Balloon One. In 12 months, this saved Camlab £100,000 in stock costs. Camlab expects to use the software to reduce stock holdings further while maintaining customer service excellence.

“Our SAP partner recommended Balloon One as our warehouse IT partner. The company has significant and demonstrable expertise in integrating warehouse management systems with SAP. Its radio-frequency warehouse management system offered the flexibility, accuracy and speed we needed to automate the warehouse for maximising efficiency and reducing operational costs. The system quickly provided 95 per cent accuracy, which was a big leap forward for us and now we consistently achieve over 99 per cent accuracy. The annual stock take is a thing of the past as we now have a perpetual inventory allowing full and instant visibility of stock and stocking levels,” said Rowan Maulder, Marketing Director, Camlab.

Read more detail on this cost saving integration: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49930.html

Local authority information management / software / Newport City Council / streetscene / street works - Mayrise Systems information management software is proving integral to the success of frontline service transformations at Newport City Council. To meet changing social and economic conditions, Newport has made a number of adjustments including the introduction of a centralised call centre and the formation of a Streetscene department that combines a number of service areas. Mayrise software has been introduced for both waste management and grounds maintenance, adding to the existing Mayrise systems used in street lighting, highways maintenance and street works.

“The recent realignment of services, evidenced by the newly created Streetscene department, has had a massive change on service provision across the council,” said Mike Amos, Streetscene systems team leader. “Key to the creation of the new department was the incorporation of the roles of waste management and grounds maintenance and collection, management and integrated use of information relating to assets and service provision.”

Read more on how Mayrise software is assisting the council: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49972.html

Rugged mobile computing / hand held computers / vehicle mount computers / mobile systems - Business growth sees rugged mobile computing solutions specialist Mobexx move its Cheshire headquarters from Runcorn to Sandiway. The move to a larger office in a semi-rural location, with easy access to the motorway network, provides an improved working environment with better facilities for the Mobexx team and its customers.

“Mobexx is growing from strength to strength and this move marks a very successful three-years’ of trade in the rugged mobile computing market. Companies are turning to us to help automate their processes through IT to reduce costs and our solutions cut paperwork and improve business efficiency. In a very short time we have won important contracts with major organisations in the manufacturing, engineering, waste, recycling and public sectors,” says Mark Dale-Lace, Mobexx Director.

Read more on Mobexx’s recent move and successes: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49932.html

Web services / platform as a service / software as a service / cloud computing / online parcel collection booking and tracking / Western Couriers - Welsh APC Overnight depot Western Couriers is hailing the success of an innovative high street style parcel post service aimed at the public. The APC “retail counter” uses the unique NetDespatch web-based booking and tracking system that has benefitted Western’s APC customers for over two years, substantially increasing the depot’s profits.

Conveniently located and near to a busy children’s play centre, the retail counter is open until 7 pm, Monday to Friday and until 12 noon on Saturday. It is fully equipped with weigh scales and offers a packing facility should customers require it. Customers simply call in with their consignments, pay with cash, credit or debit card and the job is booked in using NetDespatch. The simple to use web-based system produces the barcoded label and provides tracking for the consignment through to the point of delivery as it passes through the APC Overnight national network. It also provides proof of delivery should the customer require it.

Read more on how NetDespatch innovation is revolutionising the way we send parcels: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49974.html

3D laser surveying and mapping / bridge surveys / vehicle based surveying / SaaS / construction - StreetMapper, the vehicle-based laser mapping system, is now being offered with a range of tools for the automatic calculation of bridge heights and other measurements. Designed to simplify the complex task of processing the billions of individual laser scanned measurements recorded by the world’s most accurate mobile mapping system, StreetMapper Bridges is ideally suited for road construction and maintenance projects and abnormal route calculations.

StreetMapper Bridges automates processing of 3D laser scanned measurements using complex statistical algorithms to identify road surfaces, isolate bridge data, identify lane markings and remove noise - for example traffic on the highway. The application then extracts cross sections from the data and calculates clearances and other user defined measurements. This automation enables large-scale use of laser mapping by eliminating manual inefficiencies and reducing the chance for error.

Read more about StreetMapper Bridges: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49964.html

Crime scene and collision investigation / forensics / 3D laser scanning / police - Police forces from across the country gathered in Loughborough to see the latest developments in 3D laser scanning technology for crime scene and collision investigation. Organised by 3D Laser Mapping, the one day event attracted representatives from twelve police forces providing an introduction to laser scanning technology, an overview of recent developments in support of collision investigation and the chance to get hands-on with equipment already in use with one of the country’s largest Road Death Investigation Units.

The 3D Laser Mapping Forensic Investigation Conference took place on the 20th July at Loughborough University and is the first in a series of events being planned following the recent announcement by Roads Minister Mike Penning of a £3 million fund for police forces to purchase laser scanning technology.

Read more about this event: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49970.html

Aerial photography / airborne survey / mapping / solar energy / renewable energy / sustainability - Bluesky Solar Maps are helping businesses in the South of England benefit from free or low cost electricity. Working with Tidebank Energy, Bluesky has identified commercial properties across Hampshire, Dorset and West Sussex that have suitable roofs for arrays of solar panels. Qualifying businesses can enjoy free Solar electricity in exchange for renting their roof space to Tidebank Energy - who install, manage and maintain the solar array with no cost to the property owner.

“Bluesky’s Solar Maps offered us a quick yet highly effective method of identifying commercial properties that would be suitable for solar panels. The alternatives – walking the streets or trawling through online mapping portals such as Google Earth - simply weren’t viable,” said Kevin Jones, Partner of Tidebank Energy LLP. “The maps were easy to use and have helped us locate a huge number of previously unknown properties with real potential. The Bluesky maps also help us pre qualify our approach to prospective clients.”

Read more about how these solar maps are helping sustainability: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49908.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling optimization / multi frequency deliveries - Private fleets and transportation companies will benefit from important improvements to route optimization software from Paragon Software Systems, Inc. The company has enhanced the unique geographic clustering of customers and workload balancing capabilities of the Multi Period Planner module so that multiple frequency deliveries are more efficient.

The software provides improved optimization and accuracy in planning multi-frequency delivery routes and schedules, enabling fleet operators to reduce costs by smoothing workloads across their fleets while adhering to service constraints.
The intelligent software automates the planning of deliveries for periods of up to six weeks. Within a given period, different customers will require different delivery profiles, which could be daily, several times a week or monthly. It also allows for fixed and variable delivery patterns. Paragon does this differently by looking at the locations, the delivery requirements and the delivery capability of the fleet throughout the whole period.

Read more on this intelligent logistics software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49938.html

Point cloud data / software / scan-to-model workflow / 3D laser scanning - Survey Solutions Scotland, supplier of Trimble and FARO laser scanners, has joined the Pointools Partner Program in the UK. Pointools software streamlines scan-to-model workflows by enabling project teams to reference and reuse the largest point cloud models – the billions of measurement points taken by 3D laser scanners – inside the broadest range of applications.
Pointools offerings include stand-alone applications, CAD software plug-ins, and a third-party technology platform for point cloud processing and visualisation; uniquely enabling point cloud model reuse across Bentley, Autodesk, Safe Software, Rhino, and SketchUp applications without time-consuming translation.

The Pointools suite of software is used by architects, engineers, contractors and surveyors.

Read more what the Pointools Partner Program offers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49928.html

Next day delivery / courier / logistics / Rainbow Dust / sugarcraft - Rainbow Dust, a supplier of cake-decorating products to Harvey Nichols, Waitrose and HobbyCraft, has doubled its business-to-business sales year-on-year since choosing APC Overnight as its preferred parcel carrier. Working with the local APC depot, ABC Ltd, the Preston-based company sells coloured sugarcraft consumables to customers throughout the UK, through its online store (as well by using traditional sales channels). Customers simply submit orders, with APC looking after nationwide next day deliveries.

“With APC we can ship products to any part of the UK. The reliability of the next day delivery service is important for growing our business, so much so that we are pleased to report that the business has doubled in size over the last three years - and that’s during a recession. The service is flawless and it is cost-effective,” says Gary Brown, Rainbow Dust Director.

Rainbow Dust uses a clever web-based system (NetDespatch Velocity) to book collections and to print dispatch labels. The system also provides parcel tracking and proof of delivery, which helps with answering customer order and delivery queries.

Read more about why Rainbow Dust works with APC Overnight: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49922.html

Online fulfilment and shipping / SaaS / cloud computing / stock management - Axida has launched its integration into MetaPack for its stock management solution PPD. Axida's simple to integrate solution provides accurate stock management and efficient order fulfilment, and should be a good match for MetaPack users as it is a SaaS application charged on a per-transaction basis.
With no start up costs, PPD can give you business benefits from day one. Len Robinson, Director of Axida, says: "We are excited to be able to offer retailers and fulfilment houses access to a full range of delivery service providers via MetaPack."

Axida PPD is a ground-breaking pick, pack and despatch Software as a Service (SaaS) offering designed specifically for the needs of ecommerce, mail order and fulfilment businesses.

Read more about the PPD Metapack integration: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49978.html

3D laser scanning and mapping - 3D Laser Mapping, an international developer of laser scanning solutions, has appointed Adriaan Oeschger to the position of Key Account Manager. Oeschger, whose surveying background dates back more than twenty years, has worked in the mining industry and most recently for a distributor of survey, measurement and geospatial solutions in South Africa. Oeschger will join the existing team, providing support and development for key accounts across the region.

“This appointment was the next logical step in expanding our operation in South Africa,” commented Dr Graham Hunter, Managing Director of 3D Laser Mapping. “His dedication to customer service combined with firsthand experience of surveying within the mining industry makes Adriaan the ideal candidate to work with our existing user base supporting their existing applications and developing new solutions.”

Read more on 3D Laser Mapping expansion in South Africa: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49962.html

Transport / distribution / logistics software / routing and scheduling optimisation / multi period planning - Own fleet operators and logistics companies will benefit from important improvements to route optimisation software from Paragon Software Systems. The routing and scheduling software specialists have enhanced the unique geographic clustering and workload balancing capabilities of the Multi Period Planner module so that multiple frequency deliveries can be made more efficient.

The software provides improved optimisation and accuracy in planning multi-frequency delivery routes and schedules, enabling fleet operators to reduce costs by smoothing workloads across their fleets while adhering to service constraints.
With the software the planning of delivery routes and schedules for periods of up to six weeks can be automated. Within a given period, different customers often require different delivery profiles, which could be daily, several times a week or monthly. The software also caters for fixed and variable delivery patterns. Paragon handles this need differently by looking at the locations, the delivery requirements and the delivery capability of the fleet throughout the whole period.

Read more on how this software will help with multiple frequency deliveries: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49936.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveying / Birmingham - High resolution aerial photography by Bluesky is being used to create a new map of Birmingham. The digital imagery will be used to create a royalty free base map to support Interconnect Birmingham a project to raise the profile, image and identity of the city. It is hoped that the interactive map, which will feature visitor attractions, hotels, green spaces and other features of interest, will help improve the experience of visitors to the city and support a multi channel, multi-modal movement and information system.

“One of the key aspects of the Interconnect Birmingham project was an advanced wayfinding solution for the urban centre. In order to populate this we needed a royalty free base map and aerial photography seemed to offer the optimum starting point for it’s creation,” said John Maillard, Project Manager at Birmingham City Council, one of the project partners. “Topographical map layers such as building footprints and roads will be drawn, using the Bluesky imagery as the principle reference, and then styled creating a map that is fit for purpose and truly unique to Birmingham.”

Read more about how Birmingham will use the Bluesky aerial photography: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49914.html

3D laser surveys / Japan / earthquake damage / vehicle based laser mapping - StreetMapper, the vehicle-based laser mapping system, is being used to assess the damage caused by the Japanese earthquake of the 11th March 2011. The mobile mapping system, purchased from Mirukuru and operated by Asia Air Survey, has been used to capture highly detailed 3D survey data. This data will be used to assess the structural damage caused by the earthquake and tsunami, as well as the effects of soil liquefaction - loss of strength from saturated soil - which is an important factor in the disaster hit area where much of the land is reclaimed from the sea.

The Tōhoku or Great East Japan earthquake was the most powerful earthquake known to have hit Japan and one of the ten most powerful in the world since modern record keeping began in 1900. The quake then triggered a destructive tsunami with waves of 38.9 metres travelling up to 10 kilometres inland. Asia Air Survey had just taken delivery of StreetMapper, which they have named Geomaster Neo, and StreetMapper Product Manager Chris Cox was onsite at the company’s offices in Kanagawa on the outskirts of Tokyo when the quake struck. Fortunately, the building only suffered cosmetic damage and no one was hurt.

Read more on how Streetmapper is being used in Japan: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49976.html

3D modelling / aerial photography / airborne survey / railway station regeneration - Award winning architect Pozzoni LLP is using computer-generated 3D models from Bluesky to help redesign a number of railway stations in the south east of England. Working for Solum Regeneration (a partnership between Network Rail and Kier Property), Pozzoni has already completed the design of a mixed use scheme at Haywards Heath, including supermarket, hotel and improvements to the station facilities and a project near Tufnell Park tube station for Network Rail. The 3D models provide instant 3D context for the regeneration designs and are delivered ready to use in Pozzoni’s building design software.

Chris Slamon, Partner at Pozzoni LLP said: “The Bluesky models allow us to visualise and communicate our designs in real world 3D. They are easy to use and easy to interpret, essential when presenting potentially complicated designs to our customers and in turn to their customers.”

Read more on how the Bluesky 3D models are being used by Pozzoni: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49904.html

Logistics / courier / next day delivery / Express Instrument Hire - Express Instrument Hire Ltd in Preston has seen sales grow by 15 per cent over the past two years despite the backdrop of the recession, with APC Overnight helping deliver its success. The electrical and electronics test equipment hire company relies on the nationwide next day delivery network to reach customers throughout the UK and the Irish Republic. Its customers range from sole traders to the chief engineers of major national and multinational companies including Shell, British Airways, Marks & Spencer and Toyota, to name just a few.

“APC Overnight is integral to our business as it handles all of our deliveries and returns. We have a strong working relationship with the local depot in Preston [ABC Limited] and we have always found the service to be very reliable. Reliability is crucial because at least 95 per cent of our equipment is delivered to engineers working onsite in locations throughout the UK and Ireland, and engineers' time is valuable. We must get equipment to them on time to avoid additional costs to their customers – and that’s where APC fits in,” says Lee Myers, Sales Manager, Express Instrument Hire Ltd.

The company books collections using an advanced web-based system (NetDespatch) supplied by APC. This also prints the despatch labels that contain detailed delivery notes to help the courier locate the right person in the right place to hand over the equipment. Lee Myers reports that this is particularly useful as engineers may be working in very large sites. The system also allows the company to track timed deliveries and answer customer queries.

Read more about how APC helps Express Instrument Hire service its customers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49920.html

Point cloud data / software / 3D laser scanning - Position Partners Pty Ltd., Australia’s premier provider of positioning and machine control solutions for land management, civil works and building activities, has joined the Pointools Partner Program in Australia. Pointools software streamlines scan-to-model workflows by enabling project teams to reference and reuse the largest point cloud models – the billions of measurement points taken by 3D laser scanners – inside the broadest range of applications.

“Pointools provides an ideal solution for processing point cloud data from our systems,” said Martin Nix, CEO of Position Partners. “Our high precision mobile mapping and terrestrial scanning equipment is used in a wide range of applications, from mining to civil construction and surveying. Having a software platform like Pointools, which is technically advanced, versatile and user friendly is very important for our customers.”

Read more about what the Pointools Partner Program offers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49924.html

Logistics / customer deliveries / routing and scheduling optimisation / transport planning / Travis Perkins - A high-tech transport optimisation solution from Paragon Software Systems is enabling the Travis Perkins Group to plan customer deliveries for its Travis Perkins branches automatically. With the new centralised routing and scheduling software, Travis Perkins, the UK’s leading builders’ merchant and home improvement retailer, is improving operational efficiency and customer service while increasing transport productivity.

The new software allows Travis Perkins branches to add additional order information to tickets within the in-house POS system. This information is used to generate a delivery plan for the day. The company believes that the new streamlined procedure is eliminating manual planning and improving efficiency.

Richard Horton, Transport Development and Planning Manager for the Travis Perkins Group said: “We are really pleased with the cost and efficiency improvements that using the Paragon software are opening up to us. We are forecasting significant transport fuel cost savings in the regions we have set up so far. It is not an easy process to manually plan deliveries to customers’ addresses as there are so many variables to consider, particularly when dealing with building materials. As the software calculates and generates the optimum daily delivery plan automatically, and allows local branch teams to make any minor adjustments based on local knowledge, we can focus our attention more on developing our customer service.”

Read more detail about Travis Perkins’ use of this advanced logistics software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news49934.html

GIS / geographical information system / online mapping / public sector / Cumbria County Council - GGP Powers Cumbrian Mapping Portal - GGP Systems online mapping is helping Cumbria County Council provide essential information to the public. The eGGP Geographical Information System (GIS) gives visitors to the site the ability to zoom in and out and pan around the map window or navigate to a specific location by entering a place name or postcode. Users can switch the background choosing either a traditional map graphic or an aerial photograph before selecting information they wish to display.

“We wanted the information on offer to be easy to use,” says Nick Martin a member of Cumbria County Council’s ICT Team. “Using features and functionality familiar to other online mapping sites like Google Maps we are confident we have made the site very user friendly.”

Try it out; see: http://maps.cumbria.gov.uk

For more on this Internet-based mapping innovation visit our website: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44512.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / Managed Support Services / facilities management - MSS boosts responsiveness with Masternaut real-time system - Facilities management company Managed Support Services (MSS) is using an integrated real-time system to manage mobile engineers. The system gives full visibility of the engineers, their jobs and vehicles live on screen. The system helps MSS provide reactive and planned maintenance to customers throughout the UK, such as The Co-op, Thomas Cook and the Manchester property management firm Bruntwood Estates.

The system uses real-time vehicle tracking solution fitted to the company’s fleet of 85 engineers’ vans and mobile software running on rugged PDAs. Seamless integration with the MSS back office system – Nucleus – ensures that there is no duplication of data, with jobs transmitted direct to engineers’ PDAs. Being paperless, the system enables much faster administration and allows quicker turnaround of electronic paperwork and faster invoicing.

Read more on this real-time mobile resource management system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44506.html

Fleet maintenance / workshop management / software / myBus - Connex relies on Freeway for Jersey’s myBus fleet - Connex Transport Jersey, the operator of the iconic blue myBus fleet for the largest of the Channel Islands, is benefiting from computerised fleet maintenance management software. The Freeway software establishes vehicle maintenance histories for each bus, allowing the management team to see precisely how much each one costs to run over its working life.

“Each vehicle is logged within the system. Work done and parts used are recorded against each vehicle, building a detailed history. We can instantly see what has been done and identify problem areas, such as recurring failures of parts that have been replaced. The software also simplifies stock management as we can run off end-of-month and end-of-year reports automatically, with the system locking down the inventory, which gives us an accurate reading,” says Nigel Taylor, Engineering Manager, Connex Transport Jersey Ltd.

Read more on the Freeway myBus application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44460.html

GIS / geographical information system / Luton Borough Council - GGP GIS powers A to Z service delivery in Luton - Luton Borough Council is using an advanced GIS from GGP Systems to provide a range of frontline council services. Holding more than 190 individual layers of mapped information ranging from addresses to parking zones, gritting routes, potholes and street lights, the system can be accessed by more than 3,000 staff via the Council’s Intranet. Members of the public can also access the data via the Council’s website where it can be used to report a range of defects and service delivery reports.

“We use GGP GIS to store and maintain 192 individual layers of geographically referenced information,” said Peter Gell, GIS Officer at Luton Borough Council. “We started using GGP GIS back in 1998 when the initial map layers were compiled from old hand drawn highways maps. Over the years we have seen a rise in the number of requests from other departments to have their data added to the system and that is how we have arrived at this point with nearly seventy day to day users of the system and with access to the data from every desktop PC.”

Read more about this GIS application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44458.html

Brake Fleet Safety Awards / road safety / in-vehicle video / driver monitoring / logistics technology - SmartDrive Wins 2011 Brake Fleet Safety Product Award - SmartDrive has won the prestigious "Fleet Safety Product of the Year" award at the 2011 Brake Fleet Safety Forum “Awards for Excellence” for its advanced in-vehicle video safety programme that improves driver behaviour and reduces collisions. Another honour at this Brake event, the "Safe Vehicles" award went to online grocery retailer Ocado, a SmartDrive customer.

“We are delighted that Brake, the leading safety advocate in the UK has recognized SmartDrive Safety for its achievements in working with leading fleets in the UK to improve safety performance. We look at this as another validation of how the innovations in the SmartDrive programme are enabling fleets to better understand their driving risk and improve performance, said SmartDrive UK Managing Director Steve Cowper.

For more details see: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44490.html

Next day delivery / courier / food logistics / transportation / Bistro Express / Enterprise Brands - Bistro Express satisfies hunger for growth with APC Overnight - Bistro Express, an innovative ready meals company, has boosted growth nationally through APC Overnight's delivery services. Bistro Express provides wholesome alternatives to the usual lunch box fare and APC Overnight delivers next day for meals purchased from the Bistro Express website (www.bistro-express.co.uk). Within the next two years, Bistro Express is forecasting that more than 60,000 cases of its ambient meals will be sold over the web and delivered by APC Overnight.

"The APC Overnight service is an important part of our meal offering. With the help and support of the local APC Bolton team and all the other depots in the network, we are able to provide an efficient and reliable service. Our customers appreciate this and the word is spreading fast, which is helping our business growth. With APC Overnight we can respond quickly to customer orders and confidently approach new opportunities knowing that delivery to anywhere in the UK is not a problem," says Mike Ashton, Director Bistro Express.

Read more on how APC Overnight is helping Bistro Express: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44496.html

Vehicle tracking / road maintenance / job reporting and tracking / iPhone / Transport for Buckinghamshire - Buckinghamshire citizens to report highway defects with Masternaut iPhone app - People in Buckinghamshire can now use an Apple iPhone to photograph and report a pothole, loose paving, broken bollard or faulty street light. Developed by Masternaut for Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB), the app captures a digital image of the defect with its geolocation and transmits it back to highway maintenance teams. This gives highways managers important information direct from the scene, which helps with managing response levels and providing better service.

"Using this app, iPhones provide much more detailed information than a standard telephone call or email. Buckinghamshire residents who have these smartphones are our eyes on the street. They help us to review the nature of the problem and see its location. We would normally have to visit the scene to get this level of intelligence before deciding on a course of action," says Marc Evans, ICT Systems Manager.

Read more on this useful iPhone app from Masternaut: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44510.html

Logistics / fulfilment / software as a service / cloud computing /SaaS / picking, packing and despatching / web based systems - PPD – Pick Pack Dispatch launched as SaaS solution - Axida has launched PPD; a ground-breaking pick, pack and despatch Software as a Service (SaaS) for ecommerce, mail order and fulfilment businesses. The pay-as-you-go Axida PPD solution is hosted online and requires little to no upfront investment, has no licence fees and utilises the clients’ existing computer hardware. Set up is quick and simple as customers simply access the on-demand system on the Internet using a standard web browser.

“With our low-cost cloud computing pick, pack and dispatch solution, we are giving fulfilment houses, catalogue, mail order and ecommerce businesses the power to take control of their fulfilment operations with the added benefit of ensuring maximum customer satisfaction through efficient service. Our SaaS offering provides warehouse and fulfilment management functionality without the associated costs of installing expensive onsite systems,” says Len Robinson, Director, Axida.

Read more on this fulfilment software breakthrough: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44466.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveys / 3D modelling / Warrington / regeneration / sustainable development - Bluesky 3D Model Supports Warrington’s Regeneration - A computer-generated 3D model of Warrington Town Centre is supporting ambitious regeneration plans as part of the Borough Council’s Town Centre Urban Design Masterplan. Created by aerial mapping company Bluesky the highly accurate model will be used to show how proposed town centre regeneration schemes would look after development.

The Bluesky model was supplied ready for use in the Council’s Computer Aided Design software application – AutoCAD and in Google SketchUp. The 3D model, derived from the most up to date stereo aerial photography, includes the surface of the earth or terrain together with all buildings and trees in the urban centre. Using existing software Warrington Borough Council can model proposed works or new developments in order to visualise, communicate and assess their impact on the urban environment.

More on this at: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44468.html

Logistics / transport / distribution / software / routing and scheduling / planning / optimisation / DBC Foodservice - DBC Foodservice cuts carbon footprint with Paragon software - Food distributor DBC Foodservice is installing advanced routing and scheduling optimisation software from Paragon Software Systems.

DBC expects the software to enable customer service improvements, reduce operational costs by maximising the use of its assets, and lower the carbon footprint of its fleet of over 200 dual temperature controlled vehicles.

DBC delivers over 8,000 multi-temperature food products through a network of 14 depots across the UK to a wide range of customers, including contract customers such as the MOD, Caffè Nero, Prezzo, Selecta, Rail Gourmet and SSP.

Read more on how DBC Foodservice will use Paragon’s market leading software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44462.html

GIS / geographical information system / national address database / NLPG - GGP Helps Improve National Address Database - Software from GGP Systems will underpin a new initiative to improve the accuracy of data held in the national address database to help Councils and Emergency Services in England and Wales get to the correct address. Information gathered in the field by Fire and Rescue Services, Police Forces and County Councils, for example, can be automatically submitted for inclusion into the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) using GGP’s NGz software.

Read more on how GGP’s software will help frontline services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44492.html

Laser surveying / vehicle-based laser mapping / Malaysia - StreetMapper laser surveying takes to the streets of Malaysia - StreetMapper, the vehicle-based laser mapping system, has successfully completed high speed surveying trials in Malaysia. StreetMapper conducted a detailed engineering survey of the Univerisiti Teknologi Malaysia in a challenge, set by surveying company Jalal Johari Consultants, to compare StreetMapper’s performance against traditional total station surveying. Collecting 2.7 billion highly accurate measurements in just a matter of hours StreetMapper came out on top for speed of data capture, surveyor safety and ease of use.

A 3D animation of the StreetMapper survey of the University campus in Johor, created using Pointools point cloud software, has been posted on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BeNleNslKOM&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Read more on the advantages of StreetMapper: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44470.html

Vehicle tracking / fuel saving / Anglo Pacific / international removals - Anglo Pacific saves up to 10 per cent on fuel with Masternaut - International removals firm Anglo Pacific is using Masternaut to track its fleet. The company handles up to 500 consignments a week that are destined for overseas. The real-time pan-European Masternaut vehicle tracking system provides peace of mind for the operations team, while saving up to 10 per cent on fuel usage and reducing administration time.

“With Masternaut we can quickly locate any of our vehicles and get our people to where they are needed. It brings new levels of visibility and responsiveness with the added benefit of making sure each vehicle is being driven safely and used efficiently. The system also provides detailed weekly reports for each vehicle, which we can review in our monthly management meetings,” says Peter Hatt, Operations Manager, Anglo Pacific.

Read more on this Masternaut vehicle tracking application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44508.html

Logistics / next day delivery / national awards - APC Overnight recognises high achievers at national awards ceremony - APC Overnight has presented its top performing depot partners with special awards for “above and beyond” service performance throughout the past year. More than 120 depots took part in the largest competition of its kind, with the awards presented at the All Depot Meeting and Annual Ball held at Cheshford Grange Hotel, Kenilworth, Warwickshire.

“These are important awards for APC Overnight members and recognise their above and beyond commitment to service excellence. They reflect how hard depots work together to support each other within a customer focused, tightly knit and cooperative network of likeminded local delivery specialists. This dedicated approach allows APC Overnight to provide a seamless collection to delivery service for our customers throughout the UK,” said Ivor Skinner, APC Overnight MD.

Read more on which APC depots came out on top for 2011: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news44500.html

Fleet maintenance / fleet management / vehicle workshop management / software - Based in Kent, S&S Distribution uses Freeway software to manage the maintenance of its mixed fleet of 50 trucks that it uses for its Palletline pallet network operation, which serves more than 300 customers. The company is a shareholder member of Palletline. It is one of the busiest Palletline depots in the UK and delivers consignments to Palletline hubs each day for next day delivery.

“Freeway is a very easy to use. It drives our maintenance programmes for our Palletline dedicated fleet and importantly it allows us to analyse the running cost for each vehicle and manage the cost of servicing and repairs by giving a clear picture of parts prices. We can see precisely how much we paid for parts and which companies supplied them. We can identify the most cost competitive suppliers and this enables us to not only control purchasing, it also means we can manage our suppliers better,” says John Childs, IT Manager, S&S Distribution.

The Freeway Fleet Systems software is the backbone of the company’s efficient fleet maintenance programme, enabling the workshops to plan and schedule routine servicing, inspections and MOTs. The software provides full visibility of the firm’s existing parts inventory and helps to control the cost of restocking.

Read more on how Freeway helps with fleet maintenance: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42328.html

Aerial photography / airborne survey / 3D model / mapping / solar power / renewable energy / housing associations / Feed-in Tariffs / carbon reduction - Carbon reduction company Sustain and Bluesky are helping UK Housing Associations make the most of their housing stock’s solar energy potential. Using high resolution aerial photography combined with detailed 3D models Bluesky is able to measure the potential for solar energy generation for individual properties based on a number of contributing factors such as roof size and aspect. These measurements are helping the Housing Associations produce income from Feed-in Tariffs, reduce energy bills for householders and decrease carbon emissions.

“To date, working with Bluesky, we have calculated the potential solar energy yield of nearly 15,000 properties across the UK,” said Antony Scott, Senior Associate at Sustain Ltd. “Using the data supplied we are able to calculate the potential yield on a roof by roof basis. This can then be amalgamated into a value for the entire stock. We then work with the individual Housing Association to offer advice on funding options and on procurement, as well as management of the installation programme.”

Read more on how Bluesky uses high resolution photography and 3D modelling to calculate solar energy potential: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42184.html

Driver CPC Training / logistics / transport / APC Overnight / next day delivery / road safety - APC Overnight leading the transport industry by ensuring that their drivers have their Driver CPC qualifications in advance of the 2014 deadline. The 120+ depot company took the decision to ensure that each member of its HGV driver team is well on their way to passing the mandatory qualification before the rush for training places makes things difficult for the industry.

“Seven of our Midlands Hub-based drivers have already achieved their Level 2 NVQs, which means that they are already three-quarters of the way towards the Driver CPC qualifications which will become mandatory in 2014,” says Surjit Ram, Transport Manager, APC Overnight. “Without this essential qualification drivers will simply be unable to drive. It is a big challenge for companies to get all their drivers qualified in time for the deadline and we urge our colleagues to start early to avoid the rush.”

Read more on APC’s imitative: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42170.html

Vehicle tracking / road safety / Eurovia / Ringway / Drive for Life - Eurovia, incorporating Ringway, is launching a nationwide safe driving campaign and competition with support from vehicle tracking company Masternaut and insurer Royal Sun Alliance.
The greener, safer driving initiative is part of Eurovia's International Safety Day in May 2011, with Masternaut pledging £8,000 towards prizes for the winning drivers.

The competition will run through to the International Road Safety Week in November 2011, which is organised by road safety charity Brake.

Read more on this important road safety initiative by Eurovia: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42182.html

GIS / gazetteer management software / Local Land and Property Gazetteer / Runnymede Borough Council - Runnymede Borough Council will gain a range of back office efficiencies with the introduction of a new system that will join up disparate Council data and information management systems. The Gazetteer Management Software from GGP Systems provides a range of tools for the day to day management of essential address data together with a range of functionality to integrate with other Council systems such as those used in call centres, online and in the delivery of frontline services.

“The key features we required from a new gazetteer management system and supplier were a cost efficient solution over the next five years, compatibility with existing software and ease of connecting – both financially and technically – to other in-house systems,” said Peter Sims, Runnymede Borough Council’s Director of
Technical Services.

Read more on how Runnymede will use GGP NGz: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42202.html

Vehicle tracking / local authority fleet management / sustainability - Masternaut solutions are helping Local Authorities reduce costs to meet the government’s 25 per cent budget cuts. Using the web-based real-time technology, Councils are already saving money on vehicle purchase and leasing as well as running costs and administration, while making better use of existing fleet and human resources and delivering higher levels of service.
"We are very pleased with the results we are getting from the Masternaut system. It has given us visibility of our fleets across the two districts [Hambleton and Richmondshire]. We know precisely where our vehicles are at any time and where they have been thanks to its automatic reporting features. We have full information on driving behaviour such as speed and idling reports so that we can monitor vehicle use and fuel usage," said John Proud, Street Scene Manager, Hambleton & Richmondshire District Councils.

Click here to read more examples: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42180.html

Logistics / next day delivery / air filters - Filter Fit supplies air filtration spares to retailers such as Curry’s, PC World and GAP and to facilities management companies, including VINCI Facilities, Integral and Shepherd FM. The company bases its strong year-on-year growth on its cost effectiveness and reliability, with APC Overnight’s speedy and reliable next day deliveries playing a major part in the company’s success.

“Reliability has been a keystone in helping Filter Fit’s growth. We set up the company in 2008 and we are doubling the size of our business yearly. APC Overnight has an important role in helping us to fulfil orders and provide a fast and quality delivery service to our customers throughout the UK. The local depot, APC PGS, provides consistent good service and is flexible. We can always trust the company to deliver our consignments on time, which is crucial for keeping our customers happy,” says David Hicks, Director, Filter Fit.

Read more on how APC Overnight’s efficient deliveries help Filter Fit: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42172.html

Aerial photography and surveying / 3D computer model / height data / mapping / Kent County Council - Bluesky has supplied nearly 4,000 square kilometres of 3D height data to Kent County Council. The Digital Terrain Model (DTM) and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) show heights above sea level and can be used to create 3D visualisations of the earth’s surface and structures to provide real world detail. Kent Council plan to use the data for a range of applications including viewshed analysis of major works, feasibility studies, planning applications and site investigations.

“We previously had access to height data as part of the Mapping Services Agreement (MSA) but this was not included within the Public Sector Mapping Agreement (PSMA). We therefore needed to source replacement data in order to continue with a wide range of projects and applications that had come to depend on these types of models,” said Ben Holmes, Senior GIS Technician for Kent County Council.

Read more on how the Council will use the Bluesky data: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42186.html

Warehouse management / SAP integration / Jellycat – Jellycat, the luxury soft toy company, is benefiting from the integration of its SAP business software and its Accellos warehouse management system (WMS) from Balloon One. The wireless WMS eliminates duplicated data and paper documentation and enables accurate stock management. The integrated solution gives full visibility of information across the business and has reduced administration time significantly, enabling Jellycat to recoup the cost of the system within one year.

“Accellos has significantly reduced the amount of time spent on back office administrative duties and has improved efficiency in warehouse operations. We have been able to re-assign staff from administrative functions to revenue generating functions, which has significantly reduced the need to bring in agency staff to meet demand at the warehouse during the busy seasonal peaks. These administrative savings have easily justified the capital expenditure within the first year,” said Danny Olive, Finance Director, Jellycat.

Read more on how Balloon One integration expertise helped Jellycat: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42168.html

Logistics / transport / home delivery / order management / route optimisation / software - Paragon Software Systems has enhanced to its home delivery software - Paragon HDS. This integrates home delivery order management with live route optimisation enabling retailers and home shopping companies to improve their customer service. It helps companies manage their home delivery operations, enabling them to offer customers a choice of delivery options that are viable and cost effective. The software also reduces the cost of offering a premium service with narrower delivery windows.

The new features include web based access to the system from any authorised site with enhanced usability, the flexibility to support depots having different planning cycles, repeat scheduling of deliveries over different frequencies, more flexible fleet availability management, and a simple web-ordering front end to complement an order management system.

Read more on how Paragon HDS provides an effective home delivery solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42178.html

Logistics / transport / routing optimization / software / Convenience Transportation / Kwik Trip - Convenience Transportation LLC, the petroleum and grocery haulage arm of Kwik Trip Stores, Inc., has bought an integrated delivery routing and scheduling system from Paragon Software Systems, Inc. The new system integrates vehicle tracking, resource management and digital mapping with advanced transportation management software, allowing both strategic and dynamic route planning among other benefits. Convenience Transportation will use the Paragon solution to reduce costs, while improving driver and truck resource use to gain new efficiencies. The system will improve planning capabilities by providing accurate and realistic routes and schedules that reduce road miles and driver duty time.

More detail on this story can be found by following this link: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42176.html

Logistics / next day delivery / Acodent Dental Laboratory - APC Overnight next day deliveries are speeding Acodent Dental Laboratory products to the nation’s dentists. Offering dental services such as repairs, crowns, bridges, implants, and orthodontic products, Acodent customers are benefiting from rapid next day deliveries through APC Overnight - the UK’s largest parcel network.

“We send thousands of urgent items to customers throughout the UK using APC Overnight and we are very pleased with the service. The local APC Bolton depot is very supportive to our business and provides the flexibility we need to service our customers. We have over 3000 dental surgeries using our services and APC Overnight helps us to maintain service excellence by getting deliveries through on time, every time,” says Victoria Bailey, Acodent Manager.

Read more on APC Overnight’s service to Acodent: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42174.html

Fleet management software / London Borough of Sutton / fleet maintenance / spare parts inventory control - The London Borough of Sutton is reducing maintenance costs for its 136 strong vehicle fleet using advanced fleet management software for controlling the cost of spare parts for the Council’s municipal vehicles. The intelligent Freeway software gives instant access to critical stock and financial information without wading through mountains of paperwork.

“Freeway gives us a clear picture of high value items; how many we have bought, vehicle usage and budget control. The slow moving stock reports are also useful in reducing overheads; the reports help us to decide which items we can eliminate from stock as we don't want money tied into unnecessary inventory,” says Colin Homes, Fleet Procurement Manager at the London Borough of Sutton.

Read more on how Freeway software helps Sutton Council: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42166.html

Aerial photography and surveying / geographical data / Andrew Bridgen MP - Andrew Bridgen, North West Leicestershire MP, has visited aerial surveying company Bluesky to get a greater understanding of the pioneering work the company is undertaking developing geographic data products for environmental applications.
“It is a real inspiration to see the innovation that radiates from this group of people. By using state of the art technology to capture highly accurate geographical data, they are helping address some of the big challenges we are facing as a society,” he said.

Read more about Andrew Bridgen’s visit to Bluesky: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42190.html

Cloud computing / SAAS / logistics / Europe by road parcel service - NetDespatch web technology is being used to set up a new Europe-wide road parcel service. Welsh express transport firm Station Couriers will operate the new service, which is ideal for less time-sensitive consignments that can travel by road rather than by air.

The system uses intelligent web technology to produce all appropriate documentation required for domestic, EU and non EU destinations automatically. This includes international manifests, customs documents and export invoices. The system constantly evolves and is able to deal with different country rules and customs requirements as they change.

Read more on this innovative software and parcel delivery service: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news42188.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / The Haven – Masternaut employees have stripped off, to raise money for a breast cancer charity. The mastermind behind the daring photoshoot was Sonya Greer, aged 30 from Wakefield. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2008 aged just 27 and is now in remission, thanks to the help and support she received as a visitor to The Haven centre in Leeds.

Over 30 Masternaut employees took part in the photoshoot, which saw the employees adopt a whole host of glamorous and tasteful poses.

More on the naked truth behind this story: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39192.html

Mobile computing / tablet PC / semi-rugged / 7-inch touchscreen / field service / engineers - Mobexx has added the Viliv X70 EX 7-inch tablet PC to its product range. The computer is suitable for semi-rugged indoor or in vehicle applications where the 7-inch format is becoming popular. The tablet PC runs Windows 7 operating system - and has an Intel Atom processor.

Mark Dale-Lace, Mobexx Director says: "The 7-inch format ultra mobile tablet PC is proving popular for all kinds of mobile workforce applications such as field service, engineering, security and mapping and surveying where paper documentation is being rapidly replaced by electronic systems. The Viliv X70 EX is a good alternative to larger tablet PCs or laptops. It provides better ergonomics than smaller hand held computers or touchscreen PDAs where a larger daylight viewable screen is required but without the weight of a larger device."

Read more about this handy mobile PC platform: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39200.html

Vehicle tracking / iPhone / Android / custom app - Masternaut has launched a new custom iPhone and Android app solution for its clients using mobile solutions and vehicle tracking. It allows them to launch their own app and make it available to their customers on the Apple app store or Android market. The apps can be fully customised and users of Masternaut’s solutions can choose exactly what to include in their app (from a range of available modules).

Custom apps can include maps showing the live location of vehicles, assets and mobile workers or jobs. End-users of the apps can report problems quickly and easily - such as pot-holes, faulty street lamps or broken pavements (in the case of a local authority).

Read more on these mobile apps from Masternaut: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39190.html

Logistics / next day delivery / food distribution / The Pudding Shop - The Pudding Shop in Worcestershire has joined the growing number of fresh food and drink specialists who use APC Overnight’s nationwide next day deliveries. The rapid APC “Handled With Care” service will help the Upton on Severn family-owned business meet increasing demand for its handmade sweet and savoury puddings from thousands of customers throughout the UK.

“...we are delighted with the service we receive from the local depot APC PGS. We’ve been amazed at the positive response we’re receiving from our customers who are pleased with the prompt delivery service the APC network provides. The depot team takes an interest in what we do and is very accommodating to our needs as a fresh food company. Being local is an important benefit for us,” says Dorothy Bridges, Partner, The Pudding Shop.

Read more on this tasty answer to food distribution / deliveries: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39198.html

Street lighting / Suffolk County Council / software / asset management - Suffolk County Council is boosting the efficiency of its street lighting operations with an advanced computer management system. The Asset Management System from Mayrise Systems will be integrated with a new Central Management System supplied by Telensa. This intelligent lighting solution is expected to realise significant energy savings for the local authority, in line with its greenest county aspirations, and will improve maintenance of the county’s 55,000 street lights.

Councillor Jane Storey, Portfolio Holder for Resource Management said, “Suffolk County Council is an innovative and forward thinking authority. Alongside the procurement of an Asset Management System was a European Procurement for a Street Lighting Central Management System.”

“It was therefore essential that the two systems could communicate with each other so that the financial savings could be realised.”

More on this intelligent street lighting system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39186.html

Fleet maintenance / workshop / software / Aquila Truck Centres - Aquila Truck Centres Ltd, a leading all-make commercial vehicle dealership, is celebrating a successful IT partnership with Freeway Fleet Systems that spans more than a decade. Aquila relies on Freeway's advanced fleet management software for scheduling and managing the maintenance of more than 3,000 vehicles - collectively the largest commercial vehicle fleet in the UK.

Aquila supplies, maintains and repairs fleets of trucks, coaches and specialist vehicles for over 400 customers, ranging from small contracts through to many large household names. The company is renowned not only by MAN operators, but also by large fleets operating a mixture of DAF, Mercedes-Benz, MAN, Hino, Renault, Scania and Volvo vehicles.

Read more on how Aquila uses Freeway: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39202.html

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / Fire Protection Centre - Nationwide next day delivery services from APC Overnight are helping the Fire Protection Centre grow its fire sprinkler business (www.fireprotectioncentre.com) and its two online fire and safety storage products businesses. Offering a wide range of fire and safety products through its Internet trading arm, The Supply Centre (www.thesupplycentre.co.uk), the company is expanding into new markets with APC Overnight providing vital supply chain support.

The Supply Centre works closely with the local depot in Goole – APC Direct Logistics - to provide next day deliveries to trade customers and e-commerce clients who purchase products from its two online stores. These include the Safety Storage Centre (www.safetystoragecentre.co.uk), which sells safety storage cabinets, and the Fire and Safety Centre (www.fireandsafetycentre.co.uk) for fire extinguishers, safety signage and other fire and safety products.

Read more on how APC Overnight services help businesses grow: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39196.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveys / mapping - Aerial photography company Bluesky has revealed some of the UK’s most interesting collections of old aerial photographs through the website www.oldaerialphotos.com. With renewed interest in the images following the recent re-screening of BBC 1’s highly popular Britain from the Air series, visitors to the website can search through more than a million aerial photos dating back as far as 1917.

“The historic images we have brought together on www.oldaerialphotos.com offer a real insight into the development of every village, town and city in the UK,” said Rachel Tidmarsh, Managing Director of Bluesky. “We have images from virtually every decade in the last 100 years making this a truly unique resource for anyone with a personal or professional interest in the past. The images have proved an invaluable resource for many customers, including solicitors and expert witnesses, wanting evidence to substantiate their boundary disputes, planning disputes or rights of access claims.”

Read more about Bluesky aerial photography resources: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39188.html

3D laser scanning / mapping / long range scanner / Mining Surveys - 3D Laser Mapping has delivered the first long-range laser scanner in the UK. Purchased by Mining Surveys (UK) the VZ-1000 allows for high speed, non-contact surveying at distances of up to 1,400 metres.

The VZ-1000, which also includes specialist operating and processing software together with an optional integrated high-resolution digital camera, was specifically designed for long-range topography and mining operations yet can be applied to monitoring, civil engineering, archaeological and architectural projects.

“We chose the VZ-1000 as it is quite simply the best all round scanner,” said John Halifax, Principal Director of Chesterfield based Mining Surveys (UK). “The range allows us to survey large areas such as coastal zones, quarries, landfills and other inaccessible sites from a safe vantage point. It also delivers levels of speed and accuracy that means we can more than compete with the more traditional shorter range devices. I believe this is the first real future proof scanner on the market and that it will be a long time before we see anything better!”

Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news39194.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport planning / distribution / FIRST Tech Challenge / Grey Matter / robotics - Paragon Software Systems is sponsoring a team of teenage robotics engineers from Collingwood Technical College in Surrey for the FIRST Tech Challenge, an international competition for senior school age students.

The Grey Matter team members must design and build a fully functional robot using the Tetrix advanced building system and other mechanical and electronic components. The robot must perform in autonomous mode and under radio control to negotiate bridges, ramps and seesaws successfully, and collect objects on a 10 ft square playing field.

“We are proud to be supporting the Grey Matter team in the FIRST Tech Challenge. The teenagers have formed this team independently of any adult involvement and it is wonderful to see such initiative and drive... All at Paragon wish them well,” said William Salter, Paragon’s Managing Director.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a not for profit organisation that aims to inspire young people to become science and technology leaders. FIRST was founded by the American inventor and entrepreneur Dean Kamen, whose inventions include the Segway PT and the AutoSyringe.

Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news38704.html

Point cloud data / 3D laser scanning / Time Team / archaeology / Mont Orgueil - Channel 4’s Time Team has used sophisticated 3D laser scanning technology to create high definition fly-though animations. A survey team from Digital Surveys captured hundreds of millions of millimetre accurate measurements to map the development of advanced fortifications around Mont Orgueil Castle in Jersey. Processed using Pointools software, the survey team was able to create a series of high impact 3D images complete with advanced lighting effects. Watch again at http://www.channel4.com/programmes/time-team/4od#3174520

“Initially the producers thought the 3D laser scanner would only be used to record measurements to help the team make decisions, explain their discoveries and support any conclusions they may come to,” commented Ben Bennett, Director of Digital Surveys. “That’s because they had already employed their own 3D modeller to recreate the castle. However, after viewing the point cloud model captured during the first day’s survey work, the team agreed that it’s visual quality and clarity was far superior to the manual modelling efforts. As a result, the visualisations and animations created using Pointools software were used instead, greatly enhancing the show’s visual appeal.”

Read more on point cloud data for accurate 3D modelling: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news38702.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / real time temperature monitoring / cold chain logistics - Masternaut’s real-time temperature monitoring system Mastercold can give distribution firms a competitive edge when it comes to winning new business, according to Ocean Trailers. Mike McLuskey, Ocean Trailers Operations Director, says the Mastercold system, which is integrated with Masternaut tracking, helped the company win a contract with salad crop greenhouse complex Thanet Earth last year.

Mastercold provides a continuous log of temperatures in real-time via the Masternaut tracking system. This alerts users the moment a chamber is out of the required temperature range. The system eliminates conventional temperature recorders and dataloggers. Mastercold displays the temperature load information as reports and informative graphics.

Ocean Trailers, which runs a mixed fleet handling ambient, chilled and frozen transport, has Mastercold fitted on its 19 single-temperature refrigerated trailers. The company can transport products throughout the entire temperature range, from minus 30 degrees Celsius to plus 30 degrees Celsius. Customers on its chilled distribution operation include yoghurt company Yoplait, Danone and Sainsbury’s.

Read more on this innovative temperature monitoring system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news38700.html

Point cloud software / 3D laser scanner / imaging / CAD - Measurement Devices Limited (MDL), a leading laser scanner manufacturer has agreed with Pointools to deliver high-performance point cloud software with every new 3D laser scanner. Project teams use the software to reference and reuse the largest point cloud models – the billions of measurement points taken by 3D laser scanners.

“The importance of good point cloud software for laser scanning and mobile mapping operations should not be under estimated,” said Steve Ball, Group Chairman at MDL. “All stakeholders whether technical or nontechnical will benefit from cost-effective user-friendly point cloud processing and collaboration software to qualify, quantify, and assess the effectiveness of the field survey data. And in Pointools, we have found an organisation that can address our customers’ varied needs.”

Find out more about the MDL and Pointools partnership: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37976.html

GEO-11 / conference and exhibition / geographical information system / GIS - GEO-11 will host a series of seminars covering hot topics such as the use of Geographical Information System (GIS) tools for planning solar energy installations and the use of laser scanning and other geospatial technologies to resolve ‘right to light’ conflicts. The presentations are free to attend for visitors to the event. The GEO-11 seminar programme will also feature the laser scanning of dinosaur skeletons, the use of GIS to save millions in the public sector and optimising vehicle routing together with a major product launch from one of the event sponsors, Leica Geosystems.

The event takes place on the 6th and 7th of April at the Holiday Inn, London, Elstree. Find out more about the event: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37906.html

Fleet management software / public transport / Abellio - Abellio is using computerised fleet management system from Freeway Fleet Systems to maximise the efficiency of its London and Surrey bus services. Freeway software streamlines maintenance scheduling, eliminates mountains of paperwork and ensures that the fleet is running smoothly and that running costs are minimised.

The system gives full visibility of fleet maintenance activities, enabling Abellio’s engineering team to manage its workload efficiently and cost-effectively across five different workshops, while keeping tight control of its stock of spare parts through its inventory management and order processing capabilities. The software helps identify problems and schedule routine jobs so that engineers can work more efficiently with full access to vehicle histories and maintenance information.

Read more about Abellio’s route to optimises fleet maintenance: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37902.html

School resources / geography / Ofsted / teaching aids - Education company Wildgoose has launched a range of resources designed to promote and support the teaching of geography in schools. To counteract ‘poorly developed map skills’ Wildgoose has designed ‘Atlas Skills True or False’ a set of double-sided cards to give pupils practice in using and developing atlas skills and to cultivate knowledge of the world. The company has also increased its range of atlases, globes and maps and reduced the price of their award winning aerial photography products. All Wildgoose geography products are available to purchase online at www.wildgoose.ac.

The Ofsted report, Geography: Learning to make a world of difference (February 2011) highlighted a decline in geography in many of England’s schools as pupils found the subject ‘boring and irrelevant’. Dull lessons have left pupils with confused ‘mental images’ of the world with many children unable to locate countries, mountain ranges or other key features despite studying them.

Read more about Wildgoose geography teaching products: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37900.html

Point cloud software / 3D laser scanner / imaging / CAD – 3D laser scanner company Topcon Beijing (HK) Ltd has joined the Pointools Partner Program in Asia. Project teams use Pointools software to reference and reuse the largest point cloud models – the billions of measurement points taken by 3D laser scanners – for streamlining scan-to-model workflows.

“We are very excited to join the Pointools Partner Program,” said Nelson Ho, General Manager of Topcon Beijing (HK) Ltd. “Pointools software offerings perfectly complement our 3D scanning solutions to enable unrivalled scan data reuse across the broadest range of software apps.”

Pointools offerings include stand-alone applications, CAD software plug-ins, and a third-party development platform for point cloud processing and visualisation; uniquely enabling point cloud model reuse across Bentley, Autodesk, Safe Software, Rhino, and SketchUp applications without time-consuming translation.

Read more about the Topcon and Pointools partnership: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37872.html

Vehicle tracking / save fuel / CANbus data - Masternaut has launched a new patented contactless CANbus connector for commercial vehicles and cars. The Masternaut Engine Management Unit (or EMU for short) collects information and reports on driver behaviour, fuel consumption and the status of essential on-board safety systems.

The patented innovation is contactless, does not interfere with vehicle electronics and does not need access to an open FMS (fleet management standard) gateway. This retains the vehicles full manufacturer’s warranty. Masternaut’s EMU connects directly to their vehicle tracking/telematics box without the need for any additional equipment.

CANbus data lets vehicle operators identify and address the causes of poor MPG and helps to reduce running costs and environmental impact simultaneously.

Read more about how users access CANbus data using Masternaut’s web portal: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37878.html

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / c3imaging - Next day “Handled with Care” services from APC Overnight are helping to nurture business growth for Liverpool-based digital printer c3imaging. The important partnership with APC Swift Despatch has helped c3imaging win business from major companies such as Zara, Berghaus, 3 Mobile, O’Neill Sports Clothing as well as many private and public sector organisations.

“We operate in a high-tech industry and that is why we invest in the latest digital printing technology to produce high quality print products accurately and quickly. However, that isn’t the end of the story as we then have to deliver our products to the customer on time. A fast and reliable delivery service is, therefore, necessary to back up the speed at which we work. That is why we rely on APC Overnight. It gives us the edge in a competitive marketplace and helps win new business as well as maintain our strong relationships with our existing clients,” says Gary Tyrer, Production Manager at c3imaging.

Read more on how Handled With Care services help dynamic business to solve their supply chain requirements: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37898.html

Point cloud software / 3D laser scanner / imaging / CAD - Linkfast Technology Co., Ltd., a Taiwan-based survey solutions provider of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) data, and a reseller of 3D laser scanning technology, has joined the Pointools Partner Program in Asia. Pointools software is used by project teams to reference and reuse the largest point cloud models – the billions of measurement points taken by 3D laser scanners – inside the broadest range of applications for streamlining scan-to-model workflows.

“This is excellent news for our own team and for our customers,” said Michael Lee, Sales Director of Linkfast. “Pointools software offerings perfectly complement our 3D scanning solutions from Riegl and Topcon to enable unrivalled scan data reuse across the broadest range of software apps.”

Pointools offerings include stand-alone applications, CAD software plug-ins, and a third-party development platform for point cloud processing and visualisation; uniquely enabling point cloud model reuse across Bentley, Autodesk, Safe Software, Rhino, and SketchUp applications without time-consuming translation.

Read more on the about the Pointools and Linkfast partnership: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37874.html

Logistics / software as a service / online booking - Team C Express Logistics in Norfolk has shipped its millionth consignment using the unique NetDespatch Velocity real-time web booking and tracking solution. Since integrating NetDespatch as its dedicated online booking system in 2007, Team C has achieved this record level of online business in just four years.

"We are very pleased to pass the 1 million booking milestone and it demonstrates that our business is growing, despite the economy. The NetDespatch system is very important to us and now plays a key part in our operation. The online booking and tracking, with real-time proof of delivery, and automated label printing provided by NetDespatch is now an integral part of our service. Our operation would not be as successful without the web-based system," says Scott Gaine, Business Development Manager, Team C.

Read more about Team C’s success with the NetDespatch online solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37894.html

Logistics / software / routing and scheduling / vehicle tracking integration / food transport - DIBS Distribution is implementing a high-tech solution from Paragon Software Systems to enhance customer service and reduce transport costs. The routing and scheduling optimisation system will integrate with Navman Wireless satellite vehicle tracking to provide live fleet activity information via Paragon’s Fleet Controller option.

The Middlesex-based family-owned company delivers a wide range of frozen and ambient products to fast food businesses throughout the UK. Lee Payne, Transport Manager for DIBS Distribution says: “We selected Paragon’s routing and scheduling software to help bring new efficiencies to our transport and distribution operation. It will allow us to optimise our routes and delivery schedules for each week and the addition of Fleet Controller’s vehicle tracking and text messaging facilities will give us the ability to provide our customers with accurate ETAs for their deliveries. While taking active steps to reduce our transport costs we will also be improving our customer service.”

Read more on how Paragon provides an integrated food distribution solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37890.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / Canterbury City Council - Canterbury City Council has recently completed an award winning review of its Play Strategy for Canterbury, Whitstable and Herne Bay. The review was based on national guidelines for play area provision and used the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) to calculate areas where this fell short. The review has already resulted in improvements to six play areas and prioritisation of areas in need of further provision, which will be addressed through the planning process.

The Play Strategy review was carried out under the Council’s existing Play Strategy and looked at three distinct types of play:
- fixed play –facilities, such as equipped play areas, skate parks and ball- courts
- organised or adult-led play – supervised activities, such as play schemes, children’s clubs and youth clubs
- casual or child-led play –activities that children and young people create and do on their own, without supervision.
Read more on how Cantebury used the NLPG to help improve play areas: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37888.html

Vehicle tracking / Caterpillar / field service management - Finning, the sole dealer for Caterpillar® equipment for the UK and Ireland, has selected Masternaut vehicle tracking for its field service fleet across the United Kingdom. The web-based system provides real-time visibility of service engineers who are working across the UK. Using Masternaut, Finning can offer enhanced customer service and gain significant efficiency benefits.

“The Masternaut system helps us to respond to customers. It allows us to find the closest engineer and send them to customer’s site; it even allows us to give the engineer precise directions to the customer’s address. If there is a problem on the road, we can alert the driver and offer an alternative route to the customer. We can also give customers accurate ETAs; this helps us to be proactive and deliver better service,” says Rachel Collins, Business Support Analyst, Finning.

Read more about Finning’s real-time approach to service management: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37880.html

Vehicle tracking / ambulance service / Patient First / safety / fuel efficiency / greener driving - Patient First is using a high-tech fleet control system from vehicle tracking specialist Masternaut to improve ambulance service performance. The system combines satellite vehicle tracking, environmental management tools and fuel card integration. Patient First uses the system to provide high quality non-emergency transport NHS Trusts. The system provides real-time vehicle intelligence and historic data to the operations team, helping them to ensure safe, fuel efficient and eco-friendly driving by all the ambulance drivers.

“Masternaut gives transparency of our fleet, both in real time and with its detailed vehicle activity reports. It is a powerful management system. We can use it to track vehicle speed and routes and the live view provides added safety as we know exactly where each vehicle is and who is driving it. We use the system to improve our service through helping with driver training and re-education when necessary,” says Nathan Wynne, Operations Manager, Patient First.

Read more about Patient First’s Masternaut application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news37884.html

LLPG / Local Land and Property Gazetteer / Huntingdonshire / Boundary Commission - Boundary Commission changes affecting more than 6,000 properties in Huntingdonshire have been assimilated across the region thanks to the high quality of the District Council’s address database, the Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG). Changes to boundaries affect Council Tax, Electoral Registration and administration across Local Government. The process to change parish and ward boundaries can take several years before the necessary statutory instrument is drawn up. In the final calculations, the Huntingdonshire boundary changes of 2010 affected 27 out of 84 parishes, three were abolished, four new parishes were created and the remainder saw changes to their boundaries. The changes also affected eight of the 29 electoral wards and most significantly more than 6,000 properties.
Huntingdonshire District Council’s Local Land and Property Gazetteer is central to this project to assimilate and communicate the boundary changes.

Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36940.html

Home delivery / software / time slotting / logistics - Axida has introduced major enhancements to its time slotting capability with the latest version of its groundbreaking HDi home delivery software. HDi version 5.2 has the ability to allocate timeslots by different retailers and their individual delivery requirements. For service providers, this unique feature simplifies the management of complex home delivery timing scenarios where some retailers may want to offer all day time slots and others want to provide deliveries within a two-hour delivery window. The system enables service providers to support the retailers’ delivery promises without increasing transport costs.

“... Version 5.2 will benefit multi-client shared user home delivery service providers enabling them to offer different service level models to suit different clients using their existing resources. This enhances their service and will result in significant increase in customer satisfaction while increasing operational efficiency,” says Wayne Holgate, Director, Axida.

Read more on how home deliveries can be improved: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36950.html

GEO-11 / exhibition / geospatial / geographic information system / GIS - With just over a month left to go the organisers of GEO-11, virtually all exhibition spaces at the event have been reserved. FARO, Leica Geosystems and Optic-cal Survey Equipment have signed up as Platinum Sponsors with other organisations including Pointools, 3D Laser Mapping, Kubit and Z+F UK also on board. The independent event, which has been at the fore of the UK geospatial calendar for 14 years, has also moved to a new venue. GEO-11 will take place on the 6th and 7th of April at the Holiday Inn, London, Elstree which offers first class exhibition and conference services and deluxe accommodation and leisure facilities.

For more information see: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36956.html

Aerial mapping / airborne survey / colour infra red survey / Cheshire - Bluesky has supplied ultra high-resolution aerial maps to Councils in Cheshire. The map package includes countywide coverage of 12.5cm resolution, full colour, digital aerial photography together with the Councils’ first ever Colour Infra Red survey and a highly accurate height model (Digital Terrain Model or DTM).

The aerial map data will be used by staff at both Cheshire West and Chester Council and Cheshire East Council with access via the Councils’ desktop Geographical Information System (GIS) and their ‘WebGIS’ intranet system. Members of the public will also be able to access the data via the Councils’ interactive mapping website.

Read more about this unique Cheshire aerial survey: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36944.html

Logistics software / transport optimisation / CILT / Glanbia / environmental award – Irish food company Glanbia has been recognised for its carbon reducing initiatives by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). Transport technology played an important part in winning the peer-reviewed CILT Environmental Award, with a computerised routing and scheduling solution from Paragon Software Systems taking a key role in reducing Glanbia's environmental impact, while improving the efficiency of its delivery operation.

Glanbia has been using the transport optimisation solution since September 2009 for its chilled distribution fleet. The system has enabled the company to reduce the size of its fleet while improving efficiency and service. The system includes Paragon Fleet Controller software for integrated satellite vehicle tracking, which allows the comparison of actual fleet activity against the delivery plan.

Read more on Glanbia’s award: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36946.html

GIS / geographic information systems / INSPIRE - Users of the latest release of GGP Systems’ desktop Geographical Information System (GIS) are among the first to comply with the latest EU Directive. Designed to improve access to and knowledge of geographical data holdings the INSPIRE directive requires that member states provide public access to location based data related to the environment.

“With this release GGP users will be amongst the first in the UK to comply with this legislation,” commented GGP Systems Managing Director and founder Tim Maxwell. “As early adopters GGP GIS users will be instrumental in the development of a fundamental shift in the development, management and dissemination of public sector data.”

Read more on the benefits of this new GIS release: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36954.html

Rugged mobile computer / integrated broadband and GPS / mobile office - JLT Mobile Computers has launched a new computer equipped with mobile broadband and GPS called the JLT 1214S in-vehicle computer. The 1214S will provide truck drivers with satellite navigation and online order management using its wireless broadband connection.

The new computer enables drivers to receive orders and communicate with customers and their transport offices using voice, video, instant messaging, SMS and email. As a fully mobile computer, the 1214S will also run any type of application software required for the end user application.

Read more on this new in-vehicle computer: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36952.html

Street light / Coventry City Council / maintenance / Balfour Beatty PFI / remote monitoring – Street lights in Coventry are being equipped with new remote monitoring technology connected to a central street lighting management system supplied by Mayrise Systems. Following a £250 million PFI award to Balfour Beatty by Coventry City Council, the citywide installation of a centralised system will allow the automatic dimming of street lights and signs from a central control centre.

The Mayrise integrated Telensa system also allows automated fault reporting and improved asset management through the synchronisation of asset information. The 25 year project will see the replacement of 38,000 lit units over a five year period, including the introduction of energy efficient ‘white lights’, followed by a 20 year maintenance programme.

Read more on this first citywide installation of remote monitoring and control technology in the UK: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36948.html

Vehicle tracking / trailer management / logistics / telematics - TT Express (TTX) – which works with Toys“R”Us, McDonalds (STI), Mothercare (Early Learning Center), TJ Hughes and Littlewoods Shop Direct - is installing Masternaut self-powered Trailer Track units in its fleet of 175 trailers. Trailer Track will help reduce the cost and size of the trailer fleet and will also eliminate ad-hoc trailer hire by instantly locating available, unused trailers.

“Trailer Track is an ideal solution for trailer management, particularly as we have the benefit of Masternaut vehicle tracking already. The system updates automatically enabling us to see all of our trailers at any time, whether in use or empty. We will be able to pinpoint locations of stationary units and reduce the number we have in circulation. It will ensure we are getting full value from each trailer by maximising the use of the entire fleet. The added security it provides helps to save on insurance costs and it gives added peace of mind to our customers,” says Peter Shepherd, TTX’s General Manager.

Read more on how tracking trailers delivers benefits to fleet operators: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36942.html

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / beauty products / Crystal Clear / Liverpool - Manufacturer and supplier of hi-tech beauty treatments and skincare products, Crystal Clear International, is benefiting from reliable next day “Handled with Care” deliveries from APC Overnight. Julie Smith, company manager, says that the ability to guarantee next day delivery for tens of thousands of high value parcels to customers is important to the business and has helped it grow its leading position in the beauty industry.

“By working with the local APC Overnight depot – APC Swift Despatch – we are able to provide rapid fulfilment of orders to salons and online customers throughout the UK. In addition, we are confident that our beauty treatment equipment will arrive in perfect condition and working order at our customers’ premises. Some of the machines can cost up to £10,000, while beauty products are worth as much as £110. We can’t afford to make mistakes and the APC service is an important link in our supply chain. We have worked with the local depot for more than 15 years and are very happy with the service we and our customers receive,” says Julie Smith.

Read more on the beauty of APC Overnight's next day delivery service: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36038.html

Vehicle based laser mapping / 3D scanning / survey - StreetMapper, the vehicle-based laser mapping system, is now being offered on a Fractional Ownership basis providing affordable access to leading edge technology. Projected cost savings are more than 25 per cent.

“For StreetMapper customers there are significant advantages. The plan offers real cost savings relative to purchasing a commissioned surveying service and reduced capital outlay and associated staff costs compared to purchase of a full system. This plan allows organisations to take advantage of the very latest laser mapping technology and expert support with high levels of asset utilisation at a much lower risk,” says Dr Graham Hunter, Managing Director of StreetMapper developers 3D Laser Mapping.

Read more about the StreetMapper Fractional Ownership Plan: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36060.html

Aerial survey / aerial mapping / thermal imagery / GIS integration - Bluesky has been awarded a number of contracts by UK Local Authorities to map heat loss using new thermal imaging technology. The thermal maps help Councils and other organisations to address fuel poverty, reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency.

The latest night time surveys will extend over nearly 2,000 square kilometres of urban Britain. The surveys will use Bluesky’s advanced thermal survey system. The areas being surveyed by Bluesky include Leeds, North Lincolnshire, East Lindsey, Bassetlaw and Breckland. The thermal maps will be supplied ready for use in the Councils’ Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and web mapping services.

Read more about how BlueSky’s thermal images will help reduce fuel poverty and improve the environment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36054.html

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / Herefordshire - APC Overnight has trebled the size of its Herefordshire service capability with a new 3500 square ft site. The family-owned and managed APC C.S. Couriers distribution centre joined the APC Overnight network in 2008 and business has grown rapidly for next day deliveries. The Herefordshire depot customers include the cider company H Weston & Sons, Wye Valley Brewery and natural gardening company Wiggly Wigglers.

The depot now handles over 180,000 consignments a year and APC has the majority market share for next day parcel deliveries.

Read more about APC Overnight’s success: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36040.html

NLPG / National Land and property Gazetteer - Intelligent Addressing has appointed Neil Silley as the new custodian of the NLPG (National Land and property Gazetteer). The custodian is responsible for the coordination of inputs from local authorities across England and Wales to ensure the quality and accuracy of this key national database.

For Neil, who has been with Intelligent Addressing since 2005, this is a logical progression. For the last three years, he has been managing the team that provides day-to-day support to the Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) custodians in local authorities across England and Wales.

Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36044.html

Vehicle tracking / fuel management / CO2 / carbon footprint / logistics / dairy / chilled food distribution - Irish food company Glanbia plc is implementing Masternaut’s integrated vehicle tracking and environmental management solution GreenerFleet across its dairy and chilled food delivery fleet. The real-time web-based service will enable Glanbia to focus on fuel management and reduce CO2 emissions.

“We are already benefiting from the accuracy and visibility that the Masternaut system has brought to our fleet management. The system is accurate and easy to use. It allows us to keep precise driving time records, ensuring all drivers are compliant with tachograph regulations. The reporting tools are a huge advantage too; the automatic system has these ready for us each morning so there is no additional administration necessary to get the information we need. It gives us a clear view of what is happening out on the road and will help us to gain more efficient use of each vehicle in the fleet- In addition to the vehicle benefits, the system allows Glanbia to proactively manage the performance of our drivers,” says Denis Conway, Logistics Manager at Glanbia.

Read more about Glanbia’s high tech approach to carbon reduction and improved fuel usage: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36062.html

Rugged mobile computing / New Mills School / Derbyshire / media studies - JLT Mobile Computers is sponsoring an exciting video production initiative by New Mills School, Derbyshire. Media Studies students will write the screen play, shoot and produce video advertisements for JLT’s tablet PCs. JLT’s UK Managing Director Mark Muslek will award a prize for the best advert.

This is the second time JLT has participated in the school’s advertising competition. The previous winning video advert can be seen on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elkO75_MzNI

Read more about JLT’s involvement in this project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36042.html

School resources / education / royal wedding - Wildgoose has created a range of resources to support the cross curricular topic of weddings in general and specifically the forthcoming wedding of HRH Prince William and Catherine ‘Kate’ Middleton. The Royal Wedding pack includes a range of red, white and blue decorations, balloons, streamers and bunting together with a large Union Jack to help get pupils and teachers into the party mood.

The pack also includes a world map to help plan the honeymoon, an aerial photograph of the wedding procession route, a recording of the Wedding March, writing frames for a wedding invitation, a wedding menu and marriage certificate and is accompanied by a booklet of teaching ideas.

Find out more from the Wildgoose website: www.wildgoose.ac
Read more on this story: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36058.html

NLPG/NSG Exemplar Street Naming Award / National Land and Property Gazetteer / Myles Standish / Chorley / Lancashire - A new link road in Chorley, Lancashire was named by Chorley Borough Council as Myles Standish Way after an English Officer hired by the Pilgrim Fathers as Military Advisor for the Plymouth Colony. A passenger on the Mayflower on arrival in the ‘New World’, Standish played a leading role in the administration and defence of the settlement from its inception. The Standish family lived in Chorley from 1300 to 1623 and built an Elizabethan Hall at Duxbury close to the new road, thought to be the birthplace of Myles Standish.

“Myles Standish has an historical importance that exceeds local, regional or even national significance,” commented Paul Sudworth, Information Manager, Chorley Borough Council. “He is rightly honoured and respected in his adopted home; Duxbury, Massachusetts so the opportunity to remember him in his probable place of birth seemed a fitting tribute.”

Read more about Chorley’s street naming: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36046.html

Aerial mapping / airborne survey / solar energy / solar map - Bluesky is rolling out nationwide coverage of its pioneering Solar Suitability Map. By mapping the potential for power generation using solar panels of roofs, the Solar Map identifies optimum properties for solar power, helping to achieve renewable energy targets and reduce soaring energy costs. Bluesky has seen a growing demand for its solar mapping amongst local authorities, utilities, housing associations and solar panel companies.

Bluesky’s solar maps calculate the usable roof space of each property. By using detailed 3D aerial survey data and discarding features such as dormer windows, large skylights and chimneys, Bluesky’s Solar Maps provide the only truly accurate indicator of the solar potential of individual roofs.

Read more on solar mapping: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news36056.html

Logistics / transportation / software / home deliveries / routing and scheduling optimisation / reduce fuel consumption / furniture - The Dufresne Group (TDG), a furniture retailer in Canada, has bought a computerised logistics planning system from Paragon Software Systems, Inc. The new software has helped the Manitoba firm to improve delivery performance, optimize resources and save costs.

"With Paragon, we expect to maximize efficiency of transportation resources during execution and increase control of transportation through better management reporting. We aim to reduce delivery lead times by maximizing use of our existing fleet and the software will allow us to model routes therefore improving strategic decision making," says Ian Ahvenniemi, TDG Service Center Operations Manager.

TDG uses Paragon routing and scheduling optimization software to plan daily home deliveries from its seven distribution centers to customers throughout Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan and Alberta. The company will also implement Paragon's satellite tracking integration software and Paragon Resource Manager.

Read more on how The Dufresne Group and its customers benefit from Paragon planned home deliveries: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news35128.html

Vehicle tracking / Scottish Water / utilities / temperature monitoring / road safety / fleet management - Scottish Water has selected Masternaut satellite vehicle tracking to improve fleet utilisation of 1400 service vehicles. This helps deliver better customer service while reducing running costs. Because the system provides accurate information, Scottish Water is also able to ensure compliance to road safety legislation. In addition, Scottish Water’s scientific vehicles are equipped with Mastercold real-time temperature monitoring.

“Masternaut is a comprehensive fleet management solution that provides a clear view of the fleet in a real time environment. It gives a detailed profile of vehicle activity and it will help with our business decisions going forward. We can see whether we are making full use of our fleet assets and it helps our teams to plan activities,” says John Tripp, Supply Chain Manager, Scottish Water.

Read more on how Masternaut provides a clear view of Scottish Water’s fleet resources: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news35130.html

Logistics / transportation / courier / next day delivery / signage / Liverpool / Benson Signs - Benson Signs in Liverpool has seen a substantial growth in its business for nationwide next day deliveries by APC Overnight. APC Overnight delivers signs of all shapes, sizes and weights through its unique ‘Handled with Care’ delivery service to Benson Signs’ customers across the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands. The sign manufacturer’s customers include Whitbread, Costa Coffee, Pizza Hut and Subway.

“APC’s reliability and flexibility is an important factor in helping us to expand our nationwide sales and it also keeps our existing customers happy. Having a depot nearby - APC Swift Despatch – also allows us to respond to urgent requests with a next day delivery if necessary...” says Dave Moore, Technical Sales at Benson Signs.

Benson Signs uses an innovative web-based system called NetDespatch Velocity that links directly to APC for online booking, parcel labelling, tracking and proof of delivery. The NetDespatch Velocity system was set up for Benson Signs by APC Swift Despatch and is saving administration time and helping with customer service.

Read more on APC Overnight service to Benson Signs: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news35134.html

Local Land and Property Gazetteer / LLPG / London Borough of Harrow / address intelligence - Harrow Council has been using the Royal Mail ‘Return to Sender’(RTS) service to improve the quality of its Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG). The LLPG is a vital corporate resource used increasingly as the single source of addressing by service departments across the council.

Councils mail their residents on a regular basis, to notify changes in service provision, provide up-to-date news and annually for Council Tax. Many Councils use Royal Mail’s RTS, to update their own mailing databases but very often there isn’t the manpower to deal with the returns.

Harrow’s LLPG custodian realised that these items of returned mail were a good source of address intelligence because they came as a result of a postman visiting each address, with each returned item having a label with the reason for non-delivery.

Read more about Harrow Council’s innovative solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news35132.html

Point cloud data / laser scan / 3D model / Caves of Nottingham Regeneration Project - Nottingham’s architectural heritage is enjoying a new lease of life thanks to a University project to survey almost 450 caves located below the City. The survey project is being led by Trent and Peak Archaeology from the University of Nottingham and is the first part of the Caves of Nottingham Regeneration Project (CoNoRP) designed to assess the archaeological importance of the caves and to encourage the city and its visitors to appreciate the caves as a unique historical resource.

Using 3D laser scanners from Leica to measure millions of points inside the caves, and point cloud software from Pointools to create photorealistic 3D models, the project team has produced a number of high-definition movies which have already been viewed more than 100,000 times on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/user/NottinghamCaves?feature=mhum).

Read more on how Pointools software is helping with the cave survey: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news35136.html

Mobile laser mapping / survey / geomatics / Africa / 3D scan - Global Geomatics, an African survey company, has purchased a StreetMapper mobile laser mapping system. It is the first system of its kind to be operational in Africa and will provide Global Geomatics with a competitive advantage with a world-leading rapid surveying capability.

Global Geomatics is a multi disciplinary geomatics company specialising in geographic data to support engineers, planners, architects, government departments, local authorities and utility companies. The StreetMapper system will complement existing capabilities in the fields of aerial mapping, underground detection and 3D laser imaging.

“We are proud to set the standard for the geomatics industry,” commented Altus Strydom, Managing Director of Global Geomatics.

“We were the first survey company in Africa to adopt satellite positioning (GPS), the first to embrace Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and one of the first to purchase a static laser scanner. The acquisition of the StreetMapper mobile mapping system will help us maintain this position and continue to offer our international client base a first class service and best possible value for money.”

Read more on this revolutionary laser surveying system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news35126.html


Vehicle tracking / logistics / construction - Esh Group – a big construction firm in the North East - is more efficient since installing Masternaut satellite vehicle tracking. The company has installed the system across its entire fleet of vans and trucks.

Esh Group includes Lumsden & Carroll Construction, Deerness Fencing, Dunelm Homes and Dunelm Property Services. “Since we began fully using the Masternaut system we have reviewed how we work which has led to re-structuring, new working procedures and resources and productivity improvements. We have identified a significant saving over the Esh Group, which Masternaut has influenced,” says Steven Doran, Group Systems Administrator.

Read more on how Masternaut is proving to be an important management tool for driving improvements at Esh Group: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34550.html

Vehicle tracking / gritting / winter maintenance / highways - Renfrewshire Council is using satellite monitoring on its road gritting fleet to map routes and track vehicle activities. Masternaut ensures Renfrewshire’s 800 km road network is treated properly and provides the Council with vital time and location records of all gritting activities.

With Masternaut, the Council’s highways team gets a real-time view of gritting operations. The system records precisely where the gritters have been, the times when the equipment was in operation and the rate, density and spread of grit used to treat each road.

“Masternaut enables us to geofence the gritting routes and these are mapped digitally and displayed on screen to show the vehicles in action. The activity reports provide accurate records so that we have a robust computerised paper trail for each vehicle and its driver and each route throughout the winter,” says Bill Baldock, Works Manager, Renfrewshire Council.

Read more on how useful this is to the Council: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34552.html

Logistics / routing and scheduling / transport planning / service management / software - TRACKER Network has improved the performance of its mobile engineering service operations with Paragon routing and scheduling software. Owned by RBS Insurance, TRACKER Network is the UK’s leading vehicle tracking and vehicle theft recovery company. Its system is the only stolen recovery solution used by all police forces throughout the UK. Working with the police, TRACKER has recovered almost 20,000 stolen vehicles worth over £400 million.

“We have seen a significant performance improvement in the way Paragon helps the service team to schedule installations. The routing performance has increased and we have also been able to automate the allotment for lunch breaks and administration,” says Daren White, Senior Analyst Programmer, TRACKER Network.

Read why TRACKER Network is a convert to Paragon: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34546.html

CAD / point cloud data / 3D laser scanning / mapping / GIS / software - Archway Systems a provider of CAD software, consulting, and technical services for Bentley and Rhino software users, has joined the Pointools Partner Program for North America. Project teams use Pointools software to reference and reuse the largest point cloud models – the billions of measurement points taken by 3D laser scanners – for streamlining scan-to-model workflows.

“Our users are always seeking new ways to improve project efficiency as they move data across the many different software apps they use. With the Pointools Vortex platform already integrated into MicroStation, and with our new ability to sell the Pointools portfolio of apps and plug-ins for point cloud processing and reuse, our users can now take full advantage of 3D laser scanning technology across the broadest range of software without paying the price of time-consuming data translations,” said Tom Lazear, Chairman of Archway Systems, Inc.

Read more on Pointools partner and product offerings: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34548.html

Logistics / courier / next day delivery / Bristol / business / economy - APC Overnight has doubled the size of its next day delivery services capability in Bristol. The new, larger APC distribution centre - owned and managed by APC Priority Express - allow customers to take advantage of later collections for overnight sortation and next morning delivery throughout the UK. This major investment in new warehousing and distribution facilities is the result of year-on-year business growth and will extend APC’s service offerings in south-west England.

“... the new St Philips location keeps us in the heart of Bristol, allowing us to provide later collections for our customers to better suit the needs of their business. APC Priority Express customers can confidently extend their selling hours and their customers will still receive their orders the following day. This large investment gives us capacity to cope with an increasing number of deliveries we are handling for APC Overnight and will also help us to maintain the highest levels of service for our customers,” says Neil Havill, Managing Director at APC Priority Express.

Read more about APC Overnight’s success in the south west: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34564.html

NLPG / National Land and Property Gazetteer / Fenland District Council / Valuation Office / billing - Fenland District Council, with the local Valuation Office, has introduced award winning new working practices to ensure bills for Non Domestic Rates are issued promptly and to the correct address. Based around the use of the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) as the definitive address list, this has resulted in significant efficiency gains for both organisations, with resulting cashable savings, and improved customer service for businesses in the rural Cambridgeshire district.

The new working practices developed by the Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) Team at Fenland Council builds on work done to match Council Tax records to the national address database. Notification of new premises – as a result of a merge or split of an existing property for example – recorded by the Council are forwarded to the Valuation Office using NLPG compliant addresses and the VO staff now request an official address prior to completing a valuation report.

Read more about how Fenland’s new working practices and the NLPG: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34572.html

Thermal survey / aerial surveying / mapping / GIS / Bassetlaw Council / CO2 reduction / energy efficiency / fuel poverty - Bassetlaw Council has commissioned a night-time thermal survey to help address fuel poverty and provide better detail on private housing stock across the Nottinghamshire district. Using a new thermal mapping system Aerial surveying company Bluesky will use a new thermal mapping system to record highly accurate measurements of relative heat loss from individual buildings, delivering a property level digital map for use in the Council’s Geographical Information System (GIS). The thermal data will be used to support the Council’s intentions to reduce CO2 in the area and educate the public on energy efficiency.

“Living in a safe, warm and well-maintained home is essential to enjoying a good quality of life,” said Kerri Ellis, Sustainability Officer at Bassetlaw District Council, “and we have introduced a fuel poverty reduction campaign to support this objective.” She continued, “The Bluesky thermal data will help us accurately identify individual properties at risk of fuel poverty and enable us to proactively target households for tailored advice and signposting.”

Read more on Bassetlaw’s thermal survey and its benefits: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34562.html

Driver safety / in-cab video / Brake / Best of the Best / Fleet Safety Forum / Ocado - SmartDrive will launch its in-cab video safety system at the annual Fleet Safety Forum conference organized by the road safety charity Brake. The “Best of the Best” conference takes place on 3 March 2011 at the National Motor Cycle Museum, Birmingham, UK, and is sponsored by Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance. The conference gives fleet managers the opportunity to hear detailed case studies from fleet safety managers and suppliers who have won Fleet Safety Forum Awards for best practice. SmartDrive customer Ocado, the award winning online grocer, will be one of the companies presenting at the conference.

Visitors to the SmartDrive stand will learn how in-cab video safety systems are proving essential to driver and vehicle safety on the UK’s busy roads. The system makes it easy for companies to improve driving behaviour and eliminate noncompliance and risks such as smoking, eating, using handheld mobile phones and non-use of seatbelts. For example, Reynolds, the company that delivers fresh food to Pret A Manger and Pizza Express, has benefited from a 61% decrease in the number of collisions, and weekly minor damage costs have decreased by 50%. The company has also reduced their annual insurance costs by over £250,000 and these costs continue to decrease. This represents a better than 4-to-1 return on the company’s investment in the SmartDrive Safety System.

Read more on how in-vehicle video systems are improving safety: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34570.html

Rugged mobile computer / Algiz / Viliv / tablet PC / computing - Mobexx has added two new 7-inch (18-cm) tablet PCs to its range of mobile computers. The Algiz 7 is an ultra-rugged device for harsh and all-weather environments and the Viliv X70 EX can be used for semi-rugged applications. Both run Windows operating systems - including Windows 7 - and have Intel Atom processors.

The 7-inch format is popular for mobile workforce applications such as field service, engineering, security and mapping and surveying where paper documentation is being rapidly replaced by electronic systems. These devices offer a better alternative to larger tablet PCs or laptops and have better ergonomics than smaller hand held computers or touchscreen PDAs where a larger daylight viewable screen is required without the weight of a bigger device.

Read more on Mobexx’s new products: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34576.html

Logistics / software / routing and scheduling / transport planning / Marie Curie Cancer Care / Saddle Sore Sisters / charity / Sussex / Surrey - Paragon Software Systems headquartered in Surrey, is sponsoring Marie Curie Cancer Care fundraisers “The Saddle Sore Sisters”, a novice horse riding duo from Sussex. The Sisters - Mary Braddock and Caroline Ingham - are preparing themselves for the Tri Jordan challenge, an epic cross country trek from Amman to Petra that will take place in April 2011. The riders will cross 150 km of hard packed tracks, sand and hills - spending up to six hours a day in the saddle.

Details about the Saddle Sore Sisters’ fundraising events can be found on their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Saddle-Sore-Sisters-Aka-Caroline-Ingham-Mary-Braddock/153263798047908 and donations can be made online at http://www.justgiving.com/SaddlesoresistersAKAMaryBraddockandCarolineIngha

Read more about the Sisters’ fundraising work: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34560.html

Rugged mobile computer / computing / business / economy / India - JLT Mobile Computers AB has a new distribution partnership with Apoorva IT Solutions in India. Hyderabad-based Apoorva IT Solutions will operate as JLT’s exclusive distributor in India and will actively promote the Swedish designed and manufactured tablet and in-vehicle PCs to its expanding customer base.

The distribution partnership will be managed and serviced by JLT’s office in Runcorn, led by Mark Muslek, UK MD.

“We are pleased to be working with Apoorva IT Solutions. The company is well established and is a respected pioneer in India’s technology market. The company provides innovative solutions using best in class technology. It has a broad base of clients throughout the private, military and public sectors – areas in which JLT excels in providing rugged mobile computers. We look forward to a long, successful and prosperous business partnership as Apoorva’s preferred rugged mobile hardware manufacturer and supplier,” said Mark Muslek.

Read more on this new business partnership in India: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34578.html

Point cloud data / software / 3D laser scan / computer modelling - Pointools has launched a new high-value software bundle for working with point clouds – the billions of measurement points collected by 3D laser scanners. This new Pointools Suite gives users a portfolio of applications and plugs-ins designed to streamline the conversion, processing, and reuse of point cloud models, and eliminates the need for time-wasting translations while maintaining the visual quality and accuracy of the data.

Read more about the benefits of this new point cloud software offering: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34566.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / Ashfield District Collection / refuse collection / waste management - In an attempt to reduce costs and minimise their environmental impact, Ashfield District Council has introduced an award winning revised refuse collection programme. The project has been supported by an online web application and underpinned by the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG). The new routes were mapped and addresses for each of the 30,000 affected households extracted from the NLPG for an initial mailshot.

The address data has been fundamental in the development and take up of an online property look up application. This allows visitors to the Council’s website to look up a street, select an address and then self access a wide range of property specific information - including details of new bin collection dates.

Read more on the benefits of using the NLPG at Ashfield: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34574.html

Logistics / software / routing and scheduling / transport planning - Window, door and conservatory manufacturer Future Products is using route planning and scheduling software from Paragon Software Systems. The software has cut planning time from one day to one hour.

Future Products is confident that the Paragon software will boost customer service, improve reliability and reduce operational costs. Future Products chose Paragon after strong recommendations from Synseal Extrusions and Door Stop International.

“We have to remove manual planning and paperwork from our delivery operations to improve efficiencies. We run fixed routes with variable quantities of high value, breakable products on board each vehicle. As you would expect, it is not easy to plan such complex deliveries manually. Planning deliveries on paper takes many hours to complete and this is valuable time we could use to improve our service,” said Stuart Bower, Technical Services Manager, Future Products.

Read more on how Paragon will help daily dynamic planning at Future Products: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34558.html

Logistics / vehicle tracking / transport and distribution / CO2 reduction / CANbus link - TT Express (TTX) is installing Masternaut’s patented contactless CANbus connector in its tractor units to reduce running costs and environmental impact of its fleet. The engine monitoring and diagnostic system will help to identify the causes of low mpg and record excessive braking, idling, speeding and under or over acceleration. TT Express is the logistics partner for Toys“R”Us, McDonalds, Mothercare, TJ Hughes and Littlewoods Shop Direct logistics.

The Masternaut contactless CANbus connector does not need an open FMS (fleet management standard) gateway, which retains the full vehicle manufacturer's warranty. It sends information in real time to the Masternaut vehicle tracking system, alerting TTX’s fleet management team of faults or unusual driver and vehicle behaviour.

Read more on how linking the CANbus can bring benefits to fleet management: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news34554.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / Chorley Council - Chorley Council is using a special web application to access up to date and accurate information about commercial premises. The Council uses the information for monitoring town centre vacancies and marketing to potential tenants.

“As the current economic climate continues to bite, one of the most visible impacts is the changing face of our high streets and town centres,” said Paul Sudworth, Information Manager, Chorley Borough Council. “By giving the Town Centre Management team access to up to date and accurate property specific information they can monitor the situation and better match interested tenants with suitable properties.”

Learn more about this use of NLPG data: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33310.html

Aerial surveying / 3D height data / Eduserv / aerial photography / geographic data - Aerial surveying company Bluesky has signed an agreement with public sector technology solutions company Eduserv to promote the affordable use of the latest aerial survey and 3D height data within the academic community.

The agreement, which covers Bluesky’s archive of the most up to date aerial photography covering the whole of England, Wales and parts of Scotland, together with highly accurate height data, provides best value combined with licence agreements appropriate for academic users. Under the agreement Eduserv will promote the Bluesky data to universities and colleges across the UK and Ireland.

Read more about how academics will benefit from this agreement: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33312.html

Logistics / courier / parcel carrier / software / cloud computing / medical / shipping and tracking / multi-carrier deliveries - Medical retailers and manufacturers are using innovative NetDespatch web technology for tracking multi-carrier deliveries of valuable products to their customers throughout the UK and Europe. With the PODXchange web portal, companies can automate the capture and transformation of delivery status and Proof of Delivery signatures from different carriers, making important data available in real time through a single centralised system.

PODXchange frees customer service teams from the time-consuming task of interrogating different carrier tracking systems and making numerous telephone calls to find out the delivery status of their shipments.

Read more about this application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33182.html

iPhone app / CoachTrac / coach and bus travel / vehicle tracking / public transport - First developed for passengers using The Kings Ferry coach services in south-east England (http://www.thekingsferry.co.uk/commuter-services), the Masternaut CoachTrac app allows passengers to find the nearest bus stop, check schedules and live view the location of the coach on its route.

CoachTrac is the first consumer iPhone app from the Leeds-based vehicle tracking company and is downloadable from the Apple iTunes store http://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/coachtrac/id391458017?mt=8. It allows passengers to find the nearest bus stop, locates it and can navigate the traveller to it using digital street maps displayed on iPhone. Users can also live track coaches en route using Masternaut’s satellite tracking system which is fitted to King’s Ferry coaches.

Find out more about this iPhone and iPad app: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33184.html

Road safety / transport / commercial vehicles / in-cab driver monitoring / video surveillance - Research by SmartDrive – a company that provides in-cab cameras in commercial vehicles - proves that drivers using mobile phones or other in-vehicle gadgets are more likely to be involved in a road traffic incident, either a full collision or a near miss. The study also shows that eating, drinking or smoking while driving should be avoided so that drivers can concentrate fully on the road ahead.

The study is based on SmartDrive Distracted Driver research and uses the world’s largest database of risky driving incidents. So far more than 34 million incidents have been recorded on in-vehicle video cameras by the SmartDrive Safety programme in the UK and USA.

Find out more about this research: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33186.html

Logistics software / transport planning / routing and scheduling - Paragon Software Systems has moved its international headquarters to new premises in Dorking. The company has been in an employer in the town for almost 20 years. The business is expanding due to new sales growth over the last two years. The Parsonage House 6,000 sq ft office also provides a dedicated training centre and a suite of meeting rooms.

“Paragon has experienced another strong performance this year and we have significantly expanded our client base in the UK and globally, especially in the US and Europe. In the current uncertain economic climate, transport and logistics businesses are facing spiralling operational costs... Paragon software is the key to reducing these costs by up to 20 per cent through optimising their transport operations...” said William Salter, Paragon’s Managing Director.

Paragon’s new software installations announced in 2010 include AgReliant Genetics, Southeastern Food Merchandisers, Enviroco, Fergusons Transport, Linde, Martin-Brower, Roberts Bakery, R McDowell and WaverleyTBS. The company’s established customers include CEVA, Dixons, DHL, Indesit, Morrisons, Royal Mail, Sainsbury’s, Silentnight and Tesco.

Read more about Paragon’s 2010 success and office move: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33084.html

3D laser mapping / laser scanning / LiDAR / mobile mapping / highways / runways / railways / infrastructure / buildings / civil engineering - 3D Laser Mapping and IGI have announced the first ever StreetMapper USA User Conference. Organized in conjunction with partners GeoDigital and Terrametrix the inaugural event will take place on the 10th February 2011 at the Astor Crowne Plaza in New Orleans and will follow on directly from the world’s premier LiDAR event the International LiDAR Mapping Forum (ILMF), which is being held on the 7-9th February at the same venue.

For further information or to express an interest in attending the StreetMapper International User Conference please email info@3dlasermapping.com, visit www.3dlasermapping.com or call 00 1 402 618 3165. Attendance is strictly by invitation only and registration is essential.

Follow this link for more details: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33086.html

Point cloud software / spatial data / interoperability - Pointools ltd. has licensed Pointools Vortex – its market-leading point cloud software platform – to Safe Software Inc. – the maker of FME and the global leader in spatial data transformation technology – to help GIS professionals and organizations streamline point cloud data transformation and delivery, and overcome point cloud interoperability challenges.

“This partnership with Safe Software is a natural fit for us both,” said Joe Croser, VP of Products at Pointools. “With its FME products – that work with almost every leading application from Autodesk, Bentley, ESRI, Google, Intergraph, MapInfo, Microsoft, Oracle, and Smallworld – Safe Software is the global leader in spatial data transformation. By licensing Pointools Vortex, Safe Software will take full advantage of the Pointools POD model file format and empower its users to transform the largest point cloud models for use inside the broadest range of applications.”
Read more about this partnership and Pointools Vortex: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news33088.html

2010 NLPG NSG Exemplar Awards / Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service / National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG - Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service (FRS) has won a prestigious award for its integrated application of addressing at the 2010 NLPG NSG Exemplar Awards. The project has resulted in significant gains in efficiency and improvements in the delivery of frontline services such as site assessments, home safety checks and the targeting of essential safety campaigns.

“When attending a scene or making a site visit it is essential that our staff know where they are going and what they can expect to find when they get there. New build houses, isolated parcels of land and units on large industrial estates are all notoriously difficult to locate but the integrated use of the NLPG means that not only can we find a specific address, we can also have knowledge of relevant aspects of the property – such as an onsite petrol tank – before we arrive,” said Nicola Smith, Business Information Manager, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Read more about the Cambridgeshire FRS and its 2010 NLPG NSG Exemplar Awards: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news31856.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport planning and optimising / refrigerated food distribution - Dairy Crest has centralised its UK-wide delivery planning by implementing a high-tech automated routing and scheduling solution from Paragon Software Systems. Centralising Dairy Crest’s planning gives the company a clear view of its entire delivery operation and allows planners to model and map the most efficient routes and deliveries to service its customers.

The software is key to Dairy Crest’s operation and business decision making. It allows Dairy Crest to run “what if” scenarios to test and monitor distribution so that the fleet is being used efficiently to meet customers’ needs in the most cost-effective way. Dairy Crest’s refrigerated vehicle fleet comprises articulated and rigid bodied trucks used to serve major multiple retailers, supermarkets and other dairies.

Read more on how Paragon is helping with the transformation of Dairy Crest’s logistics operations: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news31852.html

2010 NLPG Exemplar Naming Award / Plymouth City Council / National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG - Plymouth City Council has won a national award for its street naming and property numbering. The 2010 NLPG Exemplar Naming Award was presented at Everything Happens Somewhere, a one-day conference held recently in Sheffield.

Plymouth City Council takes its street naming and numbering responsibility very seriously...

“Through liaison with local residents and other interested parties we were able to use the development of a high profile Brownfield site to celebrate and honour heroes and heroines of the two World Wars. As the years pass, memories fade and the number of survivors or relatives of those lost dwindle. To be able to provide tribute at this time was important to all of us involved in the naming process. The names chosen provide reference to the site’s former use, its residents and the price they paid during a time of conflict. It is hoped that the chosen name will prompt reflection and provide a fitting tribute for future generations,” said Jane Hirons, Senior Property and Terrier Officer, Plymouth City Council.

Read more on Plymouth’s street naming award success: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news31854.html

Street lighting / software / fault recording and maintenance / field service - More than two and a half million street lights in Britain are now managed using an advanced computer system developed by Mayrise Systems. The IT company from Gloucestershire is playing a major role in keeping street lighting in perfect working order by recording faults and managing repairs.

By controlling more than a third of local authority street lights, illuminated signs and bollards in England and Wales, MAYRISE Street Lighting software provides an asset database with integrated on-screen maps. These can be live linked to customer call centres and mobile devices used by field service teams.

The software, which is being used to help schedule night-time inspections, manage routine maintenance and respond to reported faults or emergency call outs, is helping local council’s reduce costs and achieve efficiency gains in the delivery of street lighting services. In England MAYRISE Street Lighting is already used by many County, Metropolitan and City Council’s while in Wales the solution is helping eighteen out of the twenty-two Authorities deliver street lighting services.

Read more on street lighting software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news31848.html

GIS / geographical information systems / software / digital mapping / housing associations - GGP Systems has announced a start up package to enable social housing providers to take advantage of free Ordnance Survey digital mapping. GGP Housing is an off the shelf software package including licences of GGP’s Geographical Information System (GIS) together with a complete installation, training and support programme to ensure the most effective use of geographical information and map based data.

The management of housing stock and associated assets is easier using computerised mapping and geographical information. The GIS helps with managing property records, occupancy rates and maintenance schedules as well making it easier to share information with suppliers, tenants and stakeholders in an easy to understand visual way.

Read more on GGP Housing: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news31840.html

Gazetteer Management Software/ GIS / geographical information systems / Local Land and Property Gazetteer / LLPG / software / digital mapping - Tamworth Borough Council will transform its services to the public with a new system that gives rapid access to information held in different council computer systems. The Gazetteer Management Software from GGP Systems, which is designed to improve frontline services, links information together using a centralised database of all properties, land and streets.

The GGP NGz software will be used to manage the Council’s Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG). The Gazetteer is part of a national, definitive address database that provides a unique ID for every single property in England and Wales and allows different public information to be connected together and shared. It will also be used to improve the accuracy of records and integrate address data for Council Revenue including Council Tax and Non Domestic Rates, and the Council’s Electoral Register in time for 2011 Census.

“Through the use of GGP NGz we will be able to deliver services more effectively,” said Jon McDevitt Tamworth Borough Council.

Read more on how Tamworth is utilising its LLPG data: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news31838.html

Logistics / next day delivery / courier / shipping label / software as a service - APC Overnight has introduced a new time and cost saving integrated shipping label system to help customers with preparing and sending their next day deliveries. Using an innovation from web services company NetDespatch, the system embeds parcel label information within the customer’s own label. This eliminates the need for printing, accurately matching, and attaching two separate labels to every parcel.

APC Demon Logistics in Hertfordshire has already introduced the new service. The depot’s customers simply send an automated XML format request for the APC Overnight parcel label information direct from their sales order or warehouse management systems. The customers then receive the information electronically and this is printed on the company’s own label in a single printing operation.

By including the APC Overnight information in their own labels, customers can streamline their sales order processing, warehouse and delivery operations and have only one label to match to the parcels.

Read more on this new parcel labelling service: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news31850.html

Ordnance Survey / Local Government Group / NLPG / Intelligent Addressing - A joint venture has been formed between The Local Government Group and Ordnance Survey for the ongoing maintenance of a single definitive national address and street database, currently referred to as the national address gazetteer.

Subject to approval from the Office of Fair Trading, the joint venture, which will be known as GeoPlace LLP, has agreed terms to acquire NLPG Custodian, Intelligent Addressing (Holdings) Limited. This will give the joint venture access to the company’s intellectual property, software, NLPG and NSG data hubs, and expertise.

Until now there have been a number of address datasets produced by the public sector. This new joint venture will help consolidate them.

Read the rest of this acquisition story: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30888.html

Aerial mapping and surveying / GIS / Bluesky and ESRI partnership - Aerial mapping specialist Bluesky has signed up to the ESRI (UK) Partners and Alliance Programme as a Data Partner. The partnership between Bluesky and ESRI (UK) will maximise the potential of each party’s specialist knowledge and market position, developing and promoting innovative data solutions and products.

“Bluesky, as a specialist data provider, fits well within our community,” said Ivor Wheeldon, Data Consultancy Manager at ESRI (UK). “The beauty of partnerships such as the one between ESRI (UK) and Bluesky is that our offerings are truly symbiotic – after all a GIS solution requires accurate data and data cannot be viewed, edited or understood visually without a GIS. By joining forces we are able to offer packaged solutions that consume both ESRI’s ArcGIS software and Bluesky’s geographic datasets.”

Read more about the alliance: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30918.html

Royal Mail / cloud computing / web services / online despatch management - Royal Mail is using NetDespatch web shipping, online tracking, labelling and systems integration tools for its Royal Mail Tracked® and Royal Mail Tracked Next Day® services. Royal Mail will offer the NetDespatch service as a free Royal Mail Tracked on-line despatch management service. This will streamline despatch operations for major home shopping companies, manufacturers and on-line retailers as well as thousands of smaller organisations using Royal Mail Tracked services.

The system is entirely web-based, does not require special dedicated hardware or software, and can be accessed anywhere, at any time. Authorised users simply use their normal web browser to access the system through a secure login page. Users can book or import parcel data on line using full PAF (Postcode Address File) business address lookup and address book management, print labels anywhere in the world, request data downloads and review the status of all their shipments in real time. NetDespatch systems integration tools allow parcel data and tracking status to be transferred automatically between the secure NetDespatch servers and shippers' own systems.

Read more about the Royal Mail’s new NetDespatch powered services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30890.html

2010 Exemplar Awards / West Oxfordshire District Council / National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) / National Street Gazetteer (NSG) - West Oxfordshire District Council is the ‘2010 Exemplar’ that is the first ‘Overall Winner’ at the 2010 National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and National Street Gazetteer (NSG) Exemplar Awards. West Oxfordshire had already won the Citizen Award, cited as the best example of a project delivering services to citizens for its new waste and recycling provision.

The West Oxfordshire project introduces alternating fortnightly collections of household refuse and free garden waste together with weekly collections of recycling and food waste. It makes extensive use of the NLPG to link data from different Council systems to build a single customer database that underpins the new services. By matching the NLPG to existing waste and refuse data and then linking it to the Council’s CRM system, it was possible to target and personalise mailings to all of the Councils 46,000 residential addresses.

Read more about Oxfordshire’s success: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30916.html

Aerial mapping / 3D digital map / aerial photography - Bluesky has created a computer-generated map of Manchester’s urban trees. Reportedly, the first project of its type in the world, the 3D map is helping authorities across Manchester understand the impact of urban trees on the environment, public health and the aesthetic qualities of the region. Using recent aerial photography, Bluesky’s ProximiTREE details the precise location and extent of trees and their proximity to buildings and other landscape features.

The map was commissioned by a consortium of organisations headed up by Red Rose Forest and including local authorities, the Homes and Communities Agency and the University of Salford. The ProximiTREE data will be used to provide a greater understanding of the benefits trees can provide across the community.

Read more about this high tech tree audit: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30896.html

Road safety / vehicle tracking / telematics - Brake failure on a van was averted using new technology from vehicle tracking company Masternaut. Its patented contactless CANbus connector recognised and reported a fault in the vehicle’s antilock braking system (ABS) and electronic power steering (EPS). This alerted the service engineer to the potential failure allowing the vehicle to be stopped and recovery arranged.

Masternaut’s contactless CANbus connector does not need an open FMS (fleet management standard) gateway, which retains the full vehicle manufacturer’s warranty. The engine monitoring and diagnostic system sends information in real time to the Masternaut vehicle tracking system, alerting operators of faults or unusual driver and vehicle behaviour.

“This is a cautionary tale for fleet operators and shows that an investment in technology is worthwhile. Drivers often ignore warning lights assuming that these are simple electrical faults and have no bearing on the safety of the vehicle...” says Martin Port, MD of Masternaut.

Read more about how vehicle tracking technology can improve road safety: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30910.html

Web services / software as a service / SaaS / parcel logistics - NetDespatch, a leading provider of web-based shipping technology solutions for postal and parcel carriers worldwide, has again achieved 100 per cent transaction growth in 2010. Working in partnership with carriers such as Yodel, New Zealand Post, APC Overnight, DHL Sameday, Collect+, Nightline, Nordic Parcels and Royal Mail, NetDespatch enables hundreds of thousands of organisations globally to use advanced web services to produce shipping labels and track deliveries through their chosen carrier networks.

End users include on-line retailers such as Marks and Spencer and Boohoo.com, catalogue companies such as Shop Direct Group and many specialist suppliers of wine, food and gifts, such as Berry Bros and Rudd, Cook Foods and The Cheese Society.

Read more about NetDespatch’s continuing growth: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30914.html

Vehicle tracking / Apprentice / Alex Epstein - Masternaut, the Leeds-based company that uses satellites to track 130,000 vehicles across Europe, has hired BBC Apprentice star Alex Epstein as its Marketing Guru. Company MD and entrepreneur Martin Port, recruited Epstein as a Marketing Consultant as soon as he left the reality TV show.

"Alex is a great thinker and marketeer. He has a unique approach to marketing and brand building; his ideas are original and exciting, which is exactly what innovative companies need in today's competitive markets. Masternaut will benefit greatly from his ideas that will enable us to further develop our marketing strategy," says Port. Read more about Alex and Masternaut: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30912.html

GIS / geographic information systems / gazetteer management - GGP Systems has launched a new look website. The new website - www.ggpsystems.co.uk - includes customer case studies, white papers and videos as well as product literature, company information and the latest news and events from the world of GIS and Gazetteer Management. The site also includes business and technical blogs, a link to follow the company on Twitter and a ‘customer only’ section with new product downloads and user documentation.

“The spatial technology market is changing and it was important that our online presence reflected this,” commented Tim Maxwell, founder and Managing Director of GGP Systems. “The use of geographical information systems and corporate address databases within the public sector is proving critical and the selection and use of appropriate technology is fundamental for the realisation of efficiency gains and return on investment.”

Read more about GGP’s new website: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30898.html

GIS / geographic information systems / gazetteer management - GGP Systems has launched a new range of software options for UK fire and police services. GGP Response combines gazetteer management software with a geographic information system (GIS) to enable easy access to centralised address data, integrate front and back office systems and benefit from a set of powerful geographic analysis tools. GGP Response is now available in three options; Gold, Silver and Bronze, structured and priced to help organisations make the most of restricted budgets while still benefiting from the latest software innovations.

GGP Response provides centralised access to address data and allows organisations to access and maintain national datasets such as the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and National Street Gazetteer (NSG). The gazetteer management software also provides the tools to integrate the data with web-based applications and other corporate or departmental systems as well as communicating with the national hub.

Read more about these new GIS offerings: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news30906.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport optimisation / fleet management / HGV - Paragon Software Systems is sponsoring a new business initiative for unemployed and homeless young people aged from 18 to 25 years. Set up by Indian Ocean rowing race world record breaker Guy Watts and lifelong friend James Grubb, Streetscape offers bespoke landscape gardening services.

Streetscape brings together Guy Watts’ landscaping and plant knowledge with the management team’s shared vision for social change. The organisation’s objective is to establish a sustainable business and charity for young people that will provide job training and guidance. To get things moving, the organisation is launching a pilot scheme to create a therapeutic garden at Stepney City Farm, Stepney Green.

Read more about Streetscape: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29680.html

3D laser scanning / mapping / LiDAR / StreetMapper Conference - 3D Laser Mapping and IGI have announced the programme for the StreetMapper 2010 International User Conference. Co-hosted with the European LiDAR Mapping Forum the StreetMapper Conference will take place on the 02 December 2010 in The Hague, Netherlands.

The conference will feature a range of presentations including keynotes and technical presentations from 3D Laser Mapping and IGI as well as user papers from around the world. The conference will also provide the perfect opportunity for delegates to meet with laser scanning specialists and network with mobile mapping professionals.

Find out more about the StreetMapper Conference by reading the full press release: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29672.html

Logistics / courier / express delivery / ecommerce / shopping cart / web service - Velocity eTrader2 is an updated version of the NetDespatch shopping cart that allows courier companies to offer anyone the opportunity to book parcel delivery services online and pay by credit card or PayPal Account, from their own web site. The innovative service helps couriers to win new business from SMEs and other occasional users of same day or next day collection and delivery services.

Companies using the eTrader2 shopping cart to grow their businesses include DHL Same Day, Collect+ and many APC Overnight network partner depots.

Read more about this NetDespatch innovation: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29670.html

Next day delivery / logistics / parcel delivery services / online volumetric calculator - APC Overnight has launched a unique online volumetric calculator as part of a comprehensive overhaul of its website - http://www.apc-overnight.com. Customers just enter the width, height and depth of their parcels and the calculator provides the volumetric weights in kilograms in order to get an accurate quote for shipping each parcel.

The new website gives a quick visual reference to APC Overnight nationwide next day delivery services available through the UK’s largest network of independent local depots.

Read more about APC Overnight’s new website: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29676.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / waste collection fleet management - Hambleton & Richmondshire District Councils are tracking their shared street scene and waste collection fleets with an innovative vehicle tracking and map-based waste management solution from Masternaut Three X. The Councils are already making savings through vehicle efficiency and productivity gains.

“We are very pleased with the results we are getting from the Masternaut system. It has given us visibility of our fleets across the two districts. We know precisely where our vehicles are at any time and where they have been thanks to its automatic reporting features. We have full information on driving behaviour such as speed and idling reports so that we can monitor vehicle use and fuel usage,” says John Proud, Street Scene Manager, Hambleton & Richmondshire District Councils.

Read more about this vehicle tracking application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29666.html

3D laser mapping / avalanche prediction / monitoring / Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment / Himalayas - Laser mapping technology is predicting avalanches in the Himalayas. The SiteMonitor laser monitoring system, developed by 3D Laser Mapping and first used to monitor gold mines in Africa, is being distributed by M/s Elcome Technologies, Gurgaon in India.

The Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) is now using SiteMonitor to watch the snow cover build up, as well as access its displacement with passage of time, and provide valuable inputs for improving the accuracy of avalanche prediction in the Himalayas.

Read more about this SiteMonitor application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29674.html

Next day delivery / logistics / online angling store / ecommerce / fishing tackle - Ultimate Angling is sending thousands of parcels containing rods and accessories to every corner of the UK through the APC Overnight network.

“We chose APC Direct Logistics in Goole as our next day delivery partner following many recommendations from other satisfied customers. We have never looked back. The company has a thorough understanding of our requirements and customer service is excellent. APC Overnight will also deliver on a Saturday if we need it and for high-value equipment we can use the company’s Security Service,” says Seb Blow, Ultimate’s General Manager.

Running alongside the Ultimate Direct order processing system is the advanced NetDespatch online booking, labelling and tracking system. This not only streamlines fulfilment it also provides security for each order.

Ultimate is one of the biggest names in fishing. The company’s own brands - irange, ULTIMATE, PRIMEVAL, VISION and BADGER - are well known in the angling world. Read more about how APC Overnight helps with fulfilment and delivery to Ultimate customers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29678.html

Gazetteer management software / GIS / National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG - Surrey Heath Borough Council is set to boost the efficiency of local services with new software that simplifies access to council information. The award winning Gazetteer Management Software from Croydon based GGP Systems will help the Council integrate their centralised property database with front and back office systems such as Council Tax, the Electoral Register and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software supplied by Lagan.

The software, GGP NGz, will also be used by the Camberley based Council for the day to day management of the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG).

“Our previous set up was difficult to work with and although our database is of a good standard with the additional tools offered by GGP NGz we hope to achieve a ‘Gold’ standard shortly,” commented James Rutter, GIS Manager at Surrey Heath Borough Council.

Read more about this GGP NGz software application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29684.html

Aerial photography / aerial survey / mapping / Millennium Map - Following an exclusive agreement between aerial survey specialist Bluesky and Getmapping, the original images that make up the Millennium Map will now be available from www.oldaerialphotos.com. Billed at the time as a modern day equivalent of the Domesday Book the Millennium Map was the first commercial countrywide survey and is credited with the popularisation of aerial photography with reader offers in daily newspapers and reports that the Queen had invested in the company.

The 120,000 images cover the whole of England and Wales, and parts of Scotland, at a resolution of 25cm with selected cities at up to 10cm resolution and date from 1999 to 2001. The agreement will also see Bluesky take delivery of the original aerial survey films that will be held at their secure archive facility in Leicestershire.

Read more about OldAerialPhotos: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29686.html

Home delivery software / in-store scheduling of home deliveries / logistics - Axida reports a significant increase in the use of its intelligent software for live in-store scheduling of home deliveries. Retailers are finding that the cost of failed first time deliveries is just too high. With systems that allow customers to book a specific delivery window when they order, there is less chance of delivery failure.

“We see good growth in the use of our Axida HDi home delivery software. Many organisations recognise that they could use it to raise the value of their brand through improving their home delivery service while reducing their costs,” says Wayne Holgate, Director of Axida. “Axida HDi makes it easy to ensure first-time home delivery success by managing the complete delivery lifecycle. Importantly for the retailer and the carrier, the solution balances service efficiency with the cost of delivery.”

Read more about this advanced retail logistics solution that ensures successful home deliveries: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news29668.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / security / antitheft / local government / public sector / council / technology - Reigate & Banstead Borough Council quickly recovered a ride-on mower using Masternaut real-time vehicle tracking. The real-time fleet management system alerted the Council of the theft and the equipment was tracked accurately to a location approximately 60 miles away in Harlow, Essex.

“The mower was taken from its depot in Redhill on a Friday evening. As soon as we looked on the Masternaut system, we could see exactly where it was in Harlow. We were delighted to have recovered it because it is a valuable and necessary piece of grounds maintenance equipment,” says Ken Dodds, Fleet Manager, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council.

Read more about how vehicle tracking can save money, time and improve services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news28368.html

Aerial imaging / remote sensing / data collection and processing / airborne survey - Bluesky is celebrating a period of successful growth with appointments to its board of directors, internal promotions and new recruits. Ralph Coleman joins the board as Sales Director for the aerial survey company while Simon Tidmarsh is appointed as Operations Director. Ashley Gordon has been promoted to the position of Research and Development Analyst (an internal appointment) and Debbie Smith joins the company from Navteq as Sales Executive.

Rachel Tidmarsh, Managing Director said: “These new appointments represent a significant milestone for Bluesky. By restructuring our team we have put ourselves in the in the best possible shape to face the challenges and opportunities ahead and we are confident we can continue to grow despite the difficult economic climate.”

Read more on Bluesky’s success: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news28384.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / road safety / technology - Leeds-based vehicle tracking company Masternaut is helping to reduce dangerous driving by commercial van drivers. Masternaut telematics tracks 70,000 vehicles in real-time on UK roads and fleet operators are embracing the company’s technology to monitor and encourage safer driving behaviour, reduce speeding and guide drivers to more suitable and safer routes.

With Masternaut, driving performance is automatically monitored by including the recording of vehicle speed against the speed limit at any point on a journey. Excessive fuel consumption and even rapid breaking or acceleration can also be reported to build a profile of driver habits using a driver ID key. Read more on how Masternaut is helping road safety: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news28370.html

Laser mapping / street level scanning / highway survey / asset information / GIS / data management software / geographic information- 3D Laser Mapping and IGI mbH launch StreetMapper GIS - a new version of the mobile laser mapping system with an integrated panoramic camera. StreetMapper GIS mounts easily on any vehicle and is a cost effective solution for collecting street level asset information that can be used with a GIS (geographic information system) or other desktop software solutions.

The system is offered as an entry-level version of StreetMapper 360. Equipped with single vehicle-mounted laser enabling high precision mapping to a range of 300 metres, it has a capacity of 300,000 measurements per second.

StreetMapper GIS also includes an integrated high-resolution digital camera to capture street level images that can be tagged directly to the GIS database. A suite of data management software specifically designed to maximise the potential of the StreetMapper GIS is also available. Read more about this mobile laser mapping system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news28364.html

Rugged mobile computer / mobile computing / in vehicle / fixed mount / in cab / touch screen or touchscreen/ forklift / packaging - The corrugated packaging firm DS Smith Packaging has bought more JLT 1214 series ultra-rugged fixed-mount PCs for its fleet of forklift trucks. This purchase is a step forward in making the JLT 1214 the standard touchscreen PC across its group-wide sites. Supplied by JLT partner Mobexx, the computers perform a variety of real-time data communication and capture tasks for the award winning packaging firm.

“We believe that there is nothing to beat the JLT computers for our purposes. Our decision to standardise on the product follows extensive use at three key sites where the computers have been tested in extreme conditions. The manufacturing environment in which we work is challenging and the forklift trucks are working both inside and outside at all times of year. We value the product and the service we get from Mobexx,” said Glyn Tomlinson, Regional IT Manager, DS Smith Packaging.

Read more about this mobile computing application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news28374.html

Point cloud modelling software / computer model / laser scan / 3D / three dimensional / survey / Milan Cathedral / Duomo di Milano - Pointools software is being used to create a highly accurate, 3D model to support restoration work at the Duomo di Milano or Milan Cathedral - the world’s fourth largest church.

Millions of laser scanned measurements were combined with other survey data and photogrammetric images allowing researchers from the Politecnico di Milano to generate both 2D and 3D visualisations, classical plans and elevations, as well as computer generated animations. The main aim of the project was to obtain an understanding of the state of the spire in order to support restoration operations ahead of an International Expo due to take place in 2015.

“Pointools is simply the best visualisation software on the market at this time,” commented course leader Ing. Francesco Fassi.

Read more on Pointools point cloud modelling software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news28376.html

Geographic information systems / GIS / gazetteer management / National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and National Street Gazetteer (NSG) Exemplar Awards - GGP software users were winners in five out of six categories at The 2010 National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and National Street Gazetteer (NSG) Exemplar Awards. The awards were presented at a one-day conference ‘Everything Happens Somewhere’ held on the 20th October at Cutlers’ Hall, Sheffield.

The London Borough of Harrow scooped awards for their innovative use of technology together with the Financial and Green Awards, while Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service were rewarded for organisation wide integration of address records. Plymouth City Council meanwhile received the Naming Award having demonstrated two street naming projects that celebrated and commemorated former residents of the historic port city.

In addition to the primary award categories, performance category winners were Tandridge Council - the ‘Best in South East’ for the NLPG - and Blaby, Blackpool, Eastleigh and Tandridge Councils all achieving ‘Gold Standard’ for their quality and accuracy of their local databases.

Read more about the award winners: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news28382.html

Street works / software as a service / hosted systems / construction / civil engineering - The civil engineering firm Mott MacDonald Bentley is using a web-hosted street works management solution from Mayrise Systems to reduce the impact of essential water service upgrade works across Cambridgeshire on road users.

JN Bentley (Mott MacDonald Bentley's contracting arm) will oversee the maintenance and replacement of existing Cambridge Water assets, plus the provision of new assets under the water company’s Asset Management Plan (AMP). This includes scheduled network pipe renewals, emergency repairs and meter installations. The three-year contract, with optional two-year extension, covers the AMP5 period (2010-2015) and will see JN Bentley working with H2O Water Services and Groupbridge to deliver works in the field.

Read more about how MAYRISE for Street Works will support this project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27762.html

Logistics / software / SaaS / web services / ecommerce / labelling / express transport - Demon Logistics (an APC Overnight depot) has introduced a new way for its customers to include shipping information within their own delivery labels. Using an innovative web service from NetDespatch, Demon's customers can use the service to electronically request the information normally printed on the APC Overnight parcel label and embed it directly within their own shipping labels.

Demon Logistics is an early adopter of NetDespatch technology, and already has a high volume retail customer using the service. An automated XML request from the retailer’s warehouse systems receives the new 'label data' response in real time as part of their fulfilment operations. By embedding APC Overnight label information into their own label, their sales order processing, warehouse and delivery operations have been streamlined, with only one label to match to the parcels at point of despatch. Since the latest routing information is always being used, APC Overnight’s high percentage of on-time delivery success is improved even further.

Read more on the benefits of this integrated shipping label solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27700.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / fire and rescue / emergency services - Recent press reports that the information used by emergency services does not include new housing estates should soon be a thing of the past as Police forces and Fire and Rescue Services make greater use of the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG), which is designed to be the definitive address list for England and Wales.

Police forces and Fire and Rescue Services need quick and reliable access to intelligence about new housing estates and these organisations can get access to the latest new build information through the NLPG.

“Key systems, stretching from Council Tax to the Electoral Register rely on the NLPG,” said Tony Black, Operations Director at Intelligent Addressing. “You can be sure that if new houses are receiving Council Tax statements and refuse collections, they will be included in the NLPG. We have seen huge improvements in the completeness and currency of the NLPG in the last few years as a result of national initiatives involving the Fire Services and the Electoral Roll for example. As more and more emergency service organisations engage with the NLPG, the better it will become,” added Black.

Read more about how the NLPG can assist blue light services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27698.html

Next day delivery / parcel logistics / transport - APC Overnight, the UK’s largest next day parcel delivery network, has appointed Steve Salt as Head of Sales. He will develop a nationwide focus on sales for growing national APC Overnight accounts and also help to open up new opportunities for larger companies to take advantage of the network’s unique local, personal service.

Ivor Skinner, MD, says: “Steve Salt’s appointment is an important step forward in developing APC Overnight’s major national accounts. He will help to create a strong sales support structure and is currently recruiting regional sales managers to assist at local depot level. He has already broken new ground in delivering sales seminars to the depots and is helping them to spread the word about our consistently high levels of customer service and service quality.”

Read more about Steve Salt’s appointment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27694.html

3D modelling / laser scanner / point cloud / acoustic - A 3D architectural computer model generated from millions of laser scanned measurements has been used to help design and build a futuristic Library Resource Centre (LRC) for Suffolk One, a new college in Ipswich. Using Pointools software, TMJ Interiors was able to create a highly accurate model of the two storey LRC structure from which more than 7,000 different components were designed, manufactured and installed to achieve the necessary acoustic qualities.

The futuristically designed LRC pod is located within the entrance lobby of Suffolk One and stands approximately 40 metres long and 9 metres high it acts as a focal point for the whole site.

“The need for accuracy in the model was essential to eliminate, to a large degree, hand fitting work,” commented Rob Form, Design Technician. “Rhino and Pointools worked together seamlessly and allowed the construction of a large model of such a complex project resulting in minimal waste on finished components and the very high levels of accuracy demonstrated at all stages of this design and build project.”

Read more on how point cloud data helped with this futuristic library project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27408.html

Rugged mobile computer / embedded computers / partner program - Rugged mobile computer manufacturer JLT Mobile Computers AB has appointed the german company MCTX Mobile & Embedded Computers GmbH as European business development partner. MCTX will assist existing and new members of the JLT Partner Program to develop the German, Austrian and Swiss markets. The company will also develop the JLT OEM project business in central and northern Europe.

The MCTX team has been working with embedded PC technology since the early 1990s and has extensive experience in delivering solutions for a wide range of rugged applications.

"Our broad expertise from embedded PC-based systems complements the high quality of JLT products and the company’s expert knowledge of rugged computers. We recognise many new opportunities, particularly within in the logistics, public works, public security, factory management, and transportation sectors, where we can work together,” says Thomas Hagios, MCTX CEO. “We’re excited about our new partnership because the extreme ruggedness of JLT computers makes them the first choice for demanding applications."

Read more about JLT’s partner programme developments: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27414.html

GIS / geographic information system / fire and rescue / gazetteer management software / NLPG - Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has procured an award winning Gazetteer Management Software and Geographic Information System (GIS) from GGP Systems. The GGP Response GIS provides easy access to centralised address data, integrates front and back office systems and delivers powerful geographic analysis. GGP Response will initially be used to help integrate the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) within the Service’s mobilisation software.

Future plans include accessing the gazetteer data from Mobile Data Terminals on fire appliances and the integration of the NLPG to join up disparate departmental databases.

“It was important that the selected solution had a proven track record in the emergency services sector,” said Darryl Keen, Project Sponsor for Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (FRS).

“GGP Systems could demonstrate this credibility with reference sites giving positive recommendations. During the tender process GGP Response performed very well; it offered the functionality we required, and in some areas exceeded our requirements, required no special development work and was available off the shelf.”

Read more about this powerful address-based intelligence solution for emergency services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27406.html

NLPG / National Land and Property Gazetteer / geospatial information / public service - A recent local government report shows that putting the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) at the heart of Council service delivery can save between £15 and £24 million. The NLPG exemplifies one of a range of uses of geographic information that leads to productivity increases in local service provision.

‘The Value of Geospatial Information to Local Public Service Delivery in England and Wales’, published by the Local Government Group seeks to examine the economic impact of the use of geospatial information upon service delivery. The report also highlights the role played by the NLPG in many of the key service delivery areas provided by Local Government.

The adoption of geospatial information resulted in an increase in GDP of approximately £320m higher in 2008-9 than if geospatial information hadn’t been adopted. The report suggests that this could be expected to rise to £560 million by 2014-5.

Read more on how the NLPG brings savings to local government: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27418.html

Logistics / parcel delivery / warehouse / distribution / pick and pack - APC Overnight “pick and pack” services are expanding with a new warehousing and distribution centre (DC) in High Wycombe. The DC is owned and managed by Scarlet Couriers, an established courier with additional offices in Slough, Bracknell, Reading and Uxbridge. The new facility will enable Chiltern-based businesses to take advantage of a local storage, order fulfilment and despatch service for UK-wide next day delivery through APC Overnight - the UK's largest overnight network.

The 20,000 sq ft modern warehouse provides safe and secure storage and is equipped with the latest technology and equipment to maximise use of warehouse space, including VNA (very narrow aisle) flexi-articulated forklifts. The narrow aisle design provides storage for over 1,000 pallets on modern racking systems.

Read more about this service from APC Overnight partner Scarlet Couriers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27416.html

Aerial photography / mapping / Spooks / airborne survey - Bluesky’s aerial photography is featuring in the BBC’s spy drama Spooks. Bluesky images were included in the programme’s opening credits and Bluesky aerial photography also featured in the first episode of the new series highlighting the location of a prime terrorist suspect. Other images supplied by Bluesky for this series, including a world satellite image, will be included in future episodes.

“Aerial photography is a highly effective tool to communicate detailed information about a location,” commented a member of the programme’s production team. “With one graphic on the screen for possibly just a second or two the viewer immediately gets an understanding of the detailed street environment of a suspect or operative’s location or potential incident. Over the years Bluesky has supplied a number of images for use in Spooks and we are always impressed with both the quality of the imagery and the prompt and efficient service we receive.”

Bluesky has been supplying aerial images to Spooks since 2004; read more about it: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27412.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport optimisation / ITIS road speed data - HST Feeds, the Cheshire-based animal feed manufacturer, has bought a high-tech delivery fleet optimisation solution from Paragon Software Systems. The automatic system will include ITIS road speed data for improving the accuracy of the daily transport plans and a special function for managing vehicle compartment space when scheduling loads. The software will reduce daily planning time, boost customer service and lower haulage costs by maximising the use of its mixed fleet of six, eight-wheel and articulated compartmented trucks.

"With ever increasing fuel costs we have to be able to run our vehicles to their optimum - we cannot and will not expect our customers to pay for hauling fresh air. We have a duty to ensure that our business costs are under control and haulage is a big part of this. With Paragon, we can automatically optimise the use of our vehicles every day. Importantly, irrespective of who uses the software, we will get a quick and reliable optimised answer every time," says Steve Rogers, Associate Director Operations, HST Feeds.

Read more on how HST Feeds will use the compartmented delivery fleet optimisation solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news27410.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics - Masternaut has launched a new type of vehicle tracking system based around a single intelligent mobile communication unit. Hailed as a world first, the system comprises a Mobile Communication Centre (MCC) combining vehicle tracking, GPS satellite navigation, hands-free mobile communications and real-time job scheduling and messaging in a single unit.

The new all-in-one unit eliminates the need for separate Sat-Nav, mobile phones and hands-free equipment. It also integrates with mobile workforce applications, as well as Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft CRM providing a wireless link to important business data while on the move. Read more about this breakthrough in vehicle tracking technology: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news26604.html

Point cloud data / 3D model / Grand Designs - 3D computer models generated using Pointools software kept one of the most challenging builds ever seen on Channel 4’s ‘Grand Designs’ on schedule and free from error. The popular UK TV show applied a Pointools plug-in for AutoCAD to compare a 3D point cloud model of ‘just-built’ items with architectural designs to identify potential errors. Measured in minutes using a 3D laser scanner, the model eliminated the risks usually associated with very tight construction tolerances to keep the project on time and on budget.

“We used the scanner to check all of the formwork just before the slab was poured. After only 3 seven-minute scans, we had a complete 3D model of the site which enabled us to overlay our CAD drawings to double-check that the formwork was accurately located on site,” explained Helen Seymour-Smith, the project architect and client. Read more on: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news26590.html

Next day delivery / courier / logistics / parcel carrier - A custom-built Strategic Support Vehicle is in use by APC Overnight to promote its next day delivery business. Cambridgeshire firm Freeway Trailers built the special vehicle to APC Overnight’s own specification. The multi-purpose vehicle provides an emergency depot solution, mobile exhibition stand and classroom for depot staff training.

The Strategic Support Vehicle has advanced mobile communications, touch screen computers, printers and high-speed broadband. The equipment connects the vehicle to APC Overnight’s systems and network as if it was a permanent site. Measuring 4.25 metres in length, the vehicle is built on the latest Mercedes Sprinter Euro 5 long wheelbase rolling chassis. Read more on how this special vehicle can assist the APC Overnight network: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news26602.html

3D laser mapping / survey / mine monitoring - 3D Laser Mapping innovative laser-based mine monitoring solution - SiteMonitor Mobile - combines the flexibility of a mobile mapping system with the performance and accuracy of a fixed laser monitoring solution. It is designed to improve site safety and increase production and offers a flexible set up with mine operators able to choose the best configuration for different mines. The system includes the latest laser scanning technology, navigation system and highly advanced mine monitoring software.

“In today’s economic climate it is often not possible to focus limited resources on a single area. The flexibility of SiteMonitor Mobile ensures it can be used as a static scanners for areas of high risk or concentrated production but can also be mounted on a vehicle for use at any location around the mine,” commented Dr Graham Hunter, Managing Director of UK based 3D Laser Mapping. Read more on this advanced mobile monitoring system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news26600.html

Rugged mobile computing / tablet PC / drilling logging - Ultra rugged JLT 8404 tablet PCs are providing reliable weatherproof computing power for Keynetix and The Drilling Academy’s specialist borehole logging software. The team selected the Swedish designed and built IP65-rated JLT computer to run its KeyLogbook paperless borehole logging software because it offers advanced specifications for consistent outdoor use and value for money.

"Our integrated KeyLogbook system is used in all weathers and conditions for geotechnical drilling. The JLT 8404 fits the bill perfectly. Its touchscreen is the brightest on the market and is fully adjustable for varying light conditions. The sturdy aircraft-grade aluminium casing is robust enough for use at the drilling site and drillers like the device as it is easy to use when wearing gloves,” says Roger Chandler, Technical Director, Keynetix. Read more about this mobile geotechnical drilling logging solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news26596.html

National Street Gazetteer / Olympic and Paralympic Games - The National Street Gazetteer (NSG) is being used as part of the planning for the Olympic Route Network (ORN) and Paralympic Route Network (PRN). The ORN/PRN is the definitive list of designated transport routes essential to the smooth running of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The ORN/PRN has been incorporated into the NSG in order to minimise any disruption to the network in the lead up to, during and after the games. The ORN/PRN will affect 45 different local highway authorities across London, the Home Counties and parts of the South West where sailing will take place. It is vital to the success of the Games that traffic disruption is kept to a minimum.
Read more on this Intelligent Addressing solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news26598.html

Point cloud data / 3D modelling - Joe Croser has joined Pointools Limited as Vice President of Products. He will lead Pointools’ product management, product marketing, and sales strategy.

“Joe is a major addition to our management team,” said Faraz Ravi, CEO. “His global sales and marketing experience combined with his natural ability to simplify complex product positioning and messaging is key to our continued growth.”

Read more on Croser’s appointment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news26594.html

Logistics / software / SaaS / parcel returns and collections / ecommerce - Web services from NetDespatch have been used to integrate PayPoint terminals in local convenience stores with parcel carrier tracking systems to power Collect+, the new parcel returns and collections service. The seamlessly integrated system is already being used every day by thousands of customers of the UK’s leading online and home shopping company, Shop Direct Group, home to brands such as Littlewoods.com, very.co.uk and Woolworths.co.uk.

The NetDespatch platform connects customers dropping returned goods and collecting parcels at their neighbourhood stores to the powerful NetDespatch Velocity web booking and tracking applications. Collect+ stores include members of symbol groups such as Londis, Spar, Nisa Today’s and Best-One. Read more about this convenient solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25898.html

Next day delivery / logistics / transportation - APC Overnight has announced record growth in business. With continuing economic problems in the UK, the company is bucking trends and forging forward with increased profits and plans to keep APC Overnight at the forefront of the parcel delivery business.

Ivor Skinner, Managing Director of the UK’s largest next day delivery network with over 125 local depots nationwide, says: “These are challenging times for all businesses, but we have experienced exceptional growth over the last 12 months. Our turnover has grown and we have achieved over 20 per cent growth in gross profit. Profit on ordinary activities before taxation was £2.015 million, compared to 2009’s figure of £0.307 million.” More on this spectacular performance: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25894.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveys / aerial mapping / GIS integration- Bluesky is working with Northamptonshire County Council to help it continue to improve its service to local residents with a newly-launched interactive mapping service providing live feeds of information. The interactive map can be found at http://maps.northamptonshire.gov.uk.

The revamped interactive mapping service provides live feeds of information including Council news, travel updates and a ‘Where’s my Nearest’ search tool with visitors being able to choose their preferred backdrop.

Bluesky aerial photomaps give the presented information locational context and a real world familiarity building on the success of more high profile sites such as Google Earth. Read more at: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25888.html

Next day delivery / logistics / transportation / medical / physiotherapy- Next day delivery services from APC Overnight are working hard to transport rehabilitation and physiotherapy products throughout the UK for Physio-Med Services. The Derbyshire-based company is the UK’s market leader and stocks 8,000 product lines, ships over 150,000 items a year, and is the largest supplier of “rehab” and “physio” products to the NHS.

“APC Nationwide Express Parcels is a local firm working within a national network of customer-focused depots. The depot team takes a keen interest in Physio-Med Services and is consistently helpful. The team is always ready to go the extra mile to ensure an efficient, cost-effective next day delivery service to our customers, whether they are an NHS client or a private individual,” says David Brightmore, Operations Manager Physio-Med Services. Read more on how working with a local APC depot can help business: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25886.html

Logistics / Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport optimisation - Glanbia plc has saved 16 per cent in delivery costs thanks to an advanced computerised routing and scheduling solution from Paragon Software Systems. The company says the savings have paid back its investment in a matter of months.

“We are very pleased with the performance of the Paragon system. Not only has it helped us reduce our delivery costs by 16 per cent, we have improved the accuracy of our plans. This way we are saving around 3.5 per cent a year for each vehicle and driver that we take out of the fleet operation, says Dave Colgan, Transport Manager. “Also, with vehicle tracking communicating with the system through Fleet Controller, we can easily recalibrate the system to use actual times spent on making each delivery. Our overall delivery performance and efficiency has increased significantly with this technology.” Plan to read more? See: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25902.html

Rugged mobile computers / in-vehicle / fixed-mount - JLT Mobile Computers is shipping the latest version of its JLT1214 touch screen PC for in-vehicle and other fixed-mount applications. Featuring a new Intel Atom 1.6 GHz processor, 2 GB RAM and Microsoft Windows 7, the Swedish designed and made computer offers outstanding performance and energy efficiency in all environments, even in temperatures as low as -30C. The new computer is now shipping for immediate delivery in standard configuration and it is also available with Windows XP if preferred.

The IP65-rated JLT1214 is ready to go right out of the box with all the features needed for demanding forklift trucks, cranes, industrial vehicles, production lines and plant applications. The computer provides built-in wireless connectivity (WLAN, high-speed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth), an uninterruptible power supply and power stabilisation for voltages ranging from 9 to 72V DC. With these features, the computer provides a unique one-for-all mobile solution for rugged industrial environments. Read more about this rugged computer: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25876.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport optimisation - Paragon software has enabled QSR distributor Martin-Brower to increase delivery frequency using its existing fleet without adding significant mileage. One of its service centers eliminated 5,000 miles a week on the road with the software, substantially lowering its operational costs.

Martin-Brower selected Paragon because it offers a range of important features. According to Gans, the software includes several key features, including dispatch smoothing, allowing dispatches to be spread throughout the day utilizing the warehouse workforce properly. It also enables arrival time banding, ensuring locations with multiple delivery frequencies are all delivered within a user-defined number of minutes on all delivery days. This avoids some customers receiving morning deliveries on one route, and an afternoon or evening delivery on the next. Read more detail: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25882.html

Logistics / telematics / vehicle tracking / temperature controlled deliveries - Chef’s Connection is satellite-tracking daily deliveries of fresh foods to London’s top hotels and restaurants with Masternaut telematics and temperature monitoring. The award-winning food company uses the web-based system for delivering to The Berkeley, The Lanesborough, Koffmans at the Berkeley, L’Anima and Quaglino’s. The system also monitors deliveries of fresh produce to hundreds of caterers, manufacturers and food service suppliers throughout southern England and Wales.

The British Retail Consortium (BRC) Grade 1 accredited food company uses a fleet of specialist 7.5- and 3.5-tonne vehicles fitted with integrated Masternaut vehicle trackers and unique Mastercold temperature monitors. The system includes driver ID keys so that managers have instant reporting and visual status for each vehicle, its movements and driver. Read more on this cool delivery solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25884.html

Mobile mapping / 3D laser scanning / geospatial engineering - Using the world’s most accurate mobile mapping system StreetMapper, geospatial engineering company Coastway has completed an as built survey of the final section of the M8 motorway in Ireland. Collecting billions of highly accurate measurements in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional survey techniques the resulting 3D models will be compared to the digital road design and will be used as a base line record against which future surveys can be compared.

“StreetMapper appeared to be the only logical way to complete such a large survey in a timely and cost effective way,” commented Mark Hudson, Director and co-founder of Coastway. “In all, the actual time in the field amounted to little more than a day during which some 2 billion points were measured. The StreetMapper data was easily tied into our existing work flow which, despite the large volume of data collected, made processing relatively easy.” Read more on StreetMapper in Ireland: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25878.html

Point cloud data / laser scanning / 3D modelling software -
Hi-tech 3D modelling software from Pointools is being employed by University College of London (UCL) to create 3D computer visualisations of stunning environmental installations. Researchers at the acclaimed Bartlett School of Architecture are using the Pointools software to process millions of laser scanned measurements into highly detailed 3D models.

These models are then used to complete environmental analysis of potential sites and create a digital landscape in which installation prototypes could be formed, honed and tested. The projects making the most of this high tech surveying and modelling solution included a ‘rainbow maker’ and ‘55/02’ a steel structure designed to maximise key site lines at its location on the shores of Kielder Water in Northumberland. Read more on how Pointools aids digital design: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25880.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveys / boundary dispute - Bluesky has launched a new cost effective way to obtain irrefutable evidence for use in boundary disputes and other land based disputes or studies. Priced at just £175 the OldAerialPhotos Photopack contains two digital image files; one archive scan of a location and date of the customer’s choice and a corresponding image from Bluesky’s contemporary archive.

The Photopack also contains A4 printed versions of the aerial photos, a certificate of authenticity, a copy of the archive search details and the supporting flight report from the archive scan (where available). The OldAerialPhotos Photopacks offers savings of 30 per cent against the list price of all items contained and is the ideal resource for site investigation, boundary disputes or local studies. Read more on how to obtain the photopacks and their benefits: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25892.html

Highway inspection / mobile software / hand held computers / mapping- Highways Inspectors in Rochdale use HTC Touch devices running MAYRISE Highways Mobile software allowing them to spend more time in the field undertaking more routine safety inspections and investigating reports from members of the public. This is attributed to the adoption of mobile working, resulting in less time travelling between inspection sites and the office and a reduced administrative burden.

Using MAYRISE Highways Mobile software running on the HTC Touch devices each member of Highways inspection team receives their daily schedule prior to the start of their shift. In the field MAYRISE MapNow provides access to integrated Ordnance Survey mapping and the Council’s street gazetteer facilitating the location and identification of reported faults or routine safety inspection routes. Read more on how mobile software is boosting local authority highways inspection: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news25900.html

Logistics / software / home delivery / routing and scheduling / supply chain
Axida – the integrated home delivery solutions company - has incorporated Paragon Software Systems’ continuous route and delivery time-slot optimisation within its intelligent Axida HDi home delivery system. This is a unique high-tech system that manages complex home deliveries where the customer needs to be at home to accept the delivery.

Axida HDi calculates possible deliveries, presenting a selection of available time-slots to the customer from which they pick the one that best suits them.

By integrating Paragon’s software, the system further improves delivery efficiency as the system automatically re-optimises delivery routes and schedules as customers place new orders.
Read more about how missed home deliveries could be a thing of the past: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news24116.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveys / surveying / remote sensing
More than 100,000 aerial photographs of Northern Ireland have been added to the Bluesky online collection of historically important images. This follows an agreement with Land & Property Services (Northern Ireland) to supply the entire Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland photographic archive. This includes complete countrywide coverage from 2002 onwards together with a vast array of mainly urban areas dating back to the 1950s.

Visitors to the website - www.oldaerialphotos.com -will be able to view and download images - scales range from 1:20,000 up to 1:3,000 - to help with boundary or property disputes, site investigation, historical research or genealogical studies.
The website already contains more than a million aerial photos dating back as far as 1917 by simply entering a postcode, address or grid reference.

Read more details about this useful web resource: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news24117.html

Apple iPhone / vehicle tracking / mobile computing
The world’s first feature rich web-based vehicle tracking service for the Apple iPhone and iPad has been launched by Masternaut Three X. According to the company, the Masternaut Rapide app is the first in a series of free apps for Apple products from the innovative telematics and mobile resource management company.

The new app has the core functionalities of the live Masternaut service. It gives mobile managers a real-time link to important operational information whenever they are away from the office.
With the app running on an iPhone or iPad, users can access real-time and historic vehicle information. They can monitor vehicle movements, with instant updates tracked by global positioning satellites. Read more detail about Masternaut on the iPhone: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news24118.html

Home delivery / door to door parcel deliveries / software / web services / SaaS / cloud computing
Thistle Couriers – the Scottish Courier of the Year - is talking about the success of its special web-software powered door-to-door parcel service for the public. The service utilises a special online system called NetDespatch eTrader. It allows individuals to send a parcel to anywhere in the UK from the comfort of their own home and without setting up an account with the courier. Customers go to http://www.thistlecouriers.com where they can book a collection online and the courier collects the parcel from their doorstep.

The innovative and easy to use online system provides security of payment for Thistle Couriers and a competitive, high-quality traceable door-to-door delivery service for customers throughout the UK.

Read more on Thistle Couriers NetDespatch eTrader powered service: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news24119.html

3D scanning / laser scanning / mapping
3D Laser Mapping has opened a new global headquarters near Nottingham, UK, following continued expansion of its worldwide laser scanning solutions business. This relocation to larger premises will allow for development of a dedicated research and development facility together with the capacity and capability for equipment testing and calibration. The new premises will also provide improved administrative services for the company’s global operations and will allow for the development and delivery of onsite training courses.

“Just last year we opened a dedicated production facility for our StreetMapper system,” commented Dr Graham Hunter, Managing Director of 3D Laser Mapping. “...following another period of growth...we realised that larger premises were required. The new facilities will provide the perfect base for an ambitious five year plan...”

Read more about 3D Laser Mapping’ success: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23894.html

Next day delivery / courier / sports goods / ecommerce
Run 4 It, Scotland’s largest chain of specialist running shops, is expanding its online business thanks to UK-wide next day deliveries from APC Overnight. Working with the local APC operator, APC Thistle Couriers, Run 4 It online www.run4it.com - serves customers as far north as Orkney and the Shetland Isles and as far south as Cornwall.

“... We now have over 11,000 regular online customers and we get more than 30,000 visits to the website each month. The local APC Overnight depot – APC Thistle Couriers – in Aberdeen is helpful and provides a flexible and rapid service. Indeed, a good courier is essential to running a successful online business,” says Hannah Glasscoe, Run 4 It Website Administrator.

Run 4 It uses the innovative NetDespatch Velocity web-based booking, labelling and tracking system. With this, Run 4 It can quickly book parcel collections, print all the labels and have parcels ready and waiting for APC Thistle Couriers. The system also provides end-to-end parcel traceability and proof of delivery.

Read more about this clever approach for online store order fulfilment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23892.html

Vehicle tacking / highways maintenance / Transport for Buckinghamshire / customer service
Transport for Buckinghamshire is providing live highways maintenance information to the public through a new online Service Information Centre. The result of a real-time web innovation from Masternaut Three X, the system has been implemented by Transport for Buckinghamshire - a partnership between Buckinghamshire County Council and highway infrastructure services provider Ringway Jacobs.

This first of its kind website will provide the public with real-time information and communications. They will be able to log on to the website to report highway defects, monitor progress of planned and emergency roadworks, track road maintenance teams, and monitor gritters and grass cutting teams in action.

Live information is captured and transmitted using the advanced Masternaut satellite vehicle tracking system, which monitors the Transport for Buckinghamshire highways maintenance fleet. Vehicle movements are displayed on the website in real time, giving the public complete transparency of highway maintenance and treatment work.

Read more detail about this exciting, first of its kind project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23891.html

Point cloud data / laser scanning / digital map / 3D mapping
A hi-tech digital map captured using laser scanning technology is being created Flanders, Belgium, using British developed 3D mapping software. Using the Pointools ‘point cloud’ software, Belgian surveying company Teccon has processed billions of individual measurements to create high accuracy data for use by central and regional government, plus utility companies and the transport sector. Mobile laser mapping, satellite navigation and more traditional field and office data capture methodologies, has resulted in an attributed base map that now covers more than 1,200 square kilometres.

The Grootschalig Referentie Bestand (GRB) is a project by the Agency for Geographic Information Flanders (AGIV) to create large scale mapping for the region. Unlike traditional paper based mapping the project aims to create an inventory of ground features – including waterways, railways, roads and administrative plots, etc – recording the position, extent and characteristics of every feature.

“In order to obtain the highest positional accuracies our mobile laser scanning system has proved to be the most cost effective solution,” commented Bruno Van Bastelaere, Co-owner of Teccon. “Having tested several software packages to process this data we selected Pointools ‘point cloud’ software together with the Rhinoceros modelling package as the combined solution offered high productivity with a small learning curve.”

Read more about this project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23893.html

3D laser mapping / highways maintenance / surveying
The StreetMapper mobile mapping system is now available with four unique system specifications offering users around the globe a flexible solution for gathering highly accurate 3D laser measurements on the move. Ranging from dedicated survey vehicles to portable systems that can be checked in as standard luggage at the airport StreetMapper systems can be tailored to meet virtually any surveying requirement on or off road.

"StreetMapper is a modular system that has been proven in environments ranging from the Arctic Circle to the Tropics,” said Dr Graham Hunter Managing Director of StreetMapper’s developer 3D Laser Mapping. “By offering a range of physical configurations we can ensure we deliver systems that are fit for purpose and offer the best performance in even the harshest operating conditions.”

Read more on what’s on offer from 3D Laser Mapping: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23890.html

Aerial photography and surveying / airborne surveys
Fugro-BKS (formerly BKS Surveys) has signed up as a content provider to Bluesky’s online collection of historically important aerial photographs. Visitors to www.oldaerialphotos.com will now be able to search through thousands of additional unique aerial images from the 1950’s onwards including many complete UK county surveys. The Fugro-BKS images available from OldAerialPhotos also include a significant amount of project specific photographs covering sites in Cornwall, Hampshire, Norfolk, Grampian, Tyne and Wear and Merseyside.

“BKS is a well known and highly respected name in the aerial survey sector and we are therefore delighted that they have come on board as content providers for the OldAerialPhotos website,” commented James Eddy, Technical Director of Bluesky. “This agreement with Fugro-BKS will further enhance the visitors’ experience providing access to an unprecedented million plus historically important images.”

Read more about this news: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23224.html or visit http://www.oldaerialphotos.com

Point cloud data / laser scanning / 3D modelling
Pointools, the laser scanning data processing software specialist, has released the latest version of Pointools 4 Rhino. Delivering industry leading point cloud display technology into Rhinoceros 3D modelling software means that designers can visualise their designs within a real world context. Pointools allows 3D models to be created from the millions of 3D measurements collected by laser scanning devices.

Rhinoceros 3D is a standalone modelling tool developed by Robert McNeel & Associates and commonly used for industrial, marine, jewellery, graphic and automotive design as well as architecture, CAD / CAM, rapid prototyping, reverse engineering and multimedia. Pointools 4 Rhino enables users to benefit from Rhino’s powerful design toolset within a point cloud context and is ideal for visualising, modelling and drawing.

Read more about this new development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23225.html

Logistics / next day delivery
APC Overnight is expanding with significant increases in warehousing and operational facilities focused on the Midlands and Southern Counties of England.

APC EDS Couriers in Cannock is now occupying a new site five times the size of its previous depot and warehouse. APC Acclaim Parcel Express is servicing Portsmouth from a new local depot, adding to its existing businesses in Southampton and the Isle of Wight. APC Streetwise moved its Warwick operation to a new 10,000 sq ft site with a half acre loading bay, to accommodate expanding demand including daily fresh food deliveries to household name restaurateurs such as Heston Blumenthal and Raymond Blanc. The company also has facilities in Croydon, Leatherhead and New Malden. APC Scarlet Couriers has added a new 20,000 sq ft depot to its chain of facilities serving the Thames Valley and Chilterns. The Wycombe depot allows it to consolidate warehousing and distribution under one roof.

Other depots that have moved to new bigger sites include APC Roadlink, Bournemouth, APC TWC Parcel Collection Services in Shrewsbury and APC Eezehaul in Crawley. Read more about this expansion news: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23220.html

Cloud computing / software as a service / SaaS / service management software / Microsoft 2008 Server and virtualisation
Following the move to MAYRISE Online Brighton and Hove Council has seen improved coordination and delivery of frontline services, better integration and joined up working between Council teams and contractors and is investigating options for mobile working. The provision of ‘software as a service’ is a relatively new concept and Brighton was the first UK Council to benefit from the Mayrise solution with MAYRISE for Street Works going live last year. Since then both MAYRISE Highways and MAYRISE Street Lighting have been transferred to the hosted service.

“The original problem solved by the Mayrise hosted service was the fulfilment of some of our statutory obligations, specifically in the provision of Street Works coordination as required under the Traffic Management Act,” commented Jeff Elliott, Highways Services Manager. “Since transferring to MAYRISE Online we are now able to submit internal notice of works, as well as external, and we have the ability to store, manage and export our Local Street Gazetteer (LSG) in compliance with national rules and regulations.”

Read more about this SaaS solution for service management: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23221.html

Waste management / routing and scheduling / transport planning
Hazardous waste management company Enviroco Limited is implementing a hi-tech computerised route optimisation solution from Paragon Software Systems. The transport planning software simplifies complex route planning and helps Enviroco meet exacting service requirements across the company’s UK-wide customer base.

The Enviroco system incorporates specially calculated ITIS road speed data to give greater journey accuracy for mixed long haul and city driving. The Paragon software has reduced planning time from four days to a few hours. It also allows Enviroco’s transport management team to adjust the plan to include urgent call-outs and last-minute changes requested by the customer.

“We collect packaged waste from customers across the UK – including Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man and the Isle of Wight. Collections vary in frequency from site to site, plus we have to deal with ad hoc requests and emergencies. Paragon brings new levels of accuracy to our route planning and it removes laborious manual processes. Our staff now have more time for customer service and to manage and improve our efficiencies,” says Howard Jonas, Enviroco Operations Director.

Read more about this high-tech route to planning waste collection: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23222.html

GIS / geographic information systems
Councils can now instantly pinpoint and contact all residents affected by road closures, floods or health hazards following the development of an innovative solution by Croydon based GGP Systems. The company has combined computer mapping and property ID technology to create address lists allowing instant mail merges for notification or consultation letters and other direct communications. The new software saves council staff time when communicating with local residents and businesses as it uses a spatial search to easily and quickly identify and select address data.

Useful for alerting people about planning consultations, road works, changes in waste collection services and environmental hazard warnings; a simple geographic query is used to extract the addresses of only affected households before automatically merging the information into a pre-prepared letter or calling list. The GGP Mail Merge Spatial Tool also allows for the creation and inclusion of a map within the letter, highlighting the area affected.

Read more about how computer mapping and property ID integration is improving local authority communications: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23074.html

Food logistics and distribution / next day delivery / cold chain
The award-winning pie maker pieminister is feeding the nation with next day “Handled with Care” deliveries from APC Overnight. High-profile celebrities, including Kate Moss, David Beckham, John Cleese, Dannii Minogue, Julie Walters and Keira Knightley have all eaten pieminister pies.

Each year pieminister sends more than 100,000 of its handmade speciality pies in specially designed chill packs to customers nationwide – anywhere from Inverness in northern Scotland to Falmouth on the southern coast of Cornwall. The unique next day delivery service ensures that customers receive their pie parcels on time and in perfect condition.

Local Bristol depot APC Priority Express works closely with pieminister to rush supplies through to eager pie connoisseurs. To streamline collections and deliveries the depot installed NetDespatch Velocity online booking and parcel tracking web software for the customer services team. Read more on how APC Overnight delivers the pies: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23072.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport optimisation / next day delivery
Rexel UK - an electrical supplies company – is using an advanced computer system for coordinating next day deliveries to contractors throughout North West England. With the technology developed by Paragon Software Systems, the company aims to reduce road miles and drive down operating costs through improvements in fleet usage and maximising vehicle loads.

"The Paragon software allows us to maximise the use of our fleet and drivers, ensuring that we utilise vehicle capacities and meet delivery time windows. With these efficiency improvements, we can reduce mileage, fuel usage and fleet operational costs," says Neil Murphy, Transport Analyst, Newey & Eyre, a division of Rexel UK.

Rexel UK currently runs 16 to 17 routes to provide up to 350 deliveries per day using its fleet of 3.5 and 7.5 tonne trucks. The routing and scheduling optimisation software completely automates the company's transport planning process and provides accurate routes, schedules and driver manifests whilst allowing operator intervention if required. Read more about this cost saving and efficiency boosting transport optimisation solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23068.html

Vehicle tracking / mobile computing / fleet management / telematics
Global air filtration company Camfil Farr has revolutionised UK-wide productivity and customer service levels with real-time vehicle tracking and PDA software from Masternaut Three X.
The integrated web-based solution allows the company to manage its delivery fleet and drivers in real time. It also provides two-way communication of jobs, accurate navigation to supply and delivery locations and proof of delivery. This saves more than two hours a day in administrating and managing the fleet.

Camfil Farr uses the Masternaut-based system to expedite and cost-effectively manage transporting over a million products a year - including its speciality low-energy air filters - to customers across the UK. The company reinvests its transport cost savings into strengthening the UK fleet capacity and continuously enhancing its customer service.

Michael Bolton added: "... we now deliver about 150,000 cartons of product each year. Masternaut provides us with a total transport solution in all-in-one easy-to-use package to make this happen. Also, it keeps our customers informed of their order and delivery status as they can simply log into the system using a secure interface." Read more about this paperless productivity and customer service solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23070.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / NSG Exemplar Awards
Intelligent Addressing and Local Government Information House have announced the release of the 2010 NLPG and NSG Exemplar Awards. The awards recognise the innovation, effort, commitment and achievement of local authorities, police and fire services in the creation, maintenance and utilisation of the National Land & Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and the National Street Gazetteer (NSG).

Intelligent Addressing and Local Government Information House will jointly present the awards at a one day conference and exhibition ‘Everything Happens Somewhere’ which takes place at Cutlers’ Hall in Sheffield on 20th October 2010. Read more about the awards: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23073.html

3D scanning / laser scanning / mapping
The Riegl VZ-400 laser scanner has entered full serial production following extensive real world trials by partner organisations such as 3D Laser Mapping. Part of the V-Line range, the VZ-400 is set to revolutionise the surveying, mapping and modelling industries and the mass production model will include an increased measurement range, improved data storage and support for the Nikon D700 professional grade digital SLR camera. The upgraded VZ-400 also features a range of options for automatically finding and fine-scanning targets making data capture easier for the operator and reducing the time spent in the field.

“By feeding back results from trials of the pre production models we have been able to contribute to an even more exciting scanner specification,” commented Dr Graham Hunter, Managing Director of 3D Laser Mapping. “Even under the harshest operating conditions the VZ-400 captures very high accuracy measurements, at speed – in fact it’s the fastest time of flight terrestrial scanner on the market! Additional quality indicators and these latest improvements will ensure it has a major impact on terrestrial laser scanning.” Read more about this exciting development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23075.html

Aerial surveys / airborne surveys / aerial photography / LiDAR / Countryside Council for Wales
Following a rigorous selection process aerial survey specialist Bluesky has been appointed as contractor to the Countryside Council for Wales (CCW). The framework contract covers the provision of range of data capture, data conversion and cartographic services to support the Council in its role as statutory advisor to the Government. Under the contract, Bluesky can be called upon to provide a variety of aerial photography services including Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), infrared imaging, georeferencing and scanning together with the production of index maps.

“We selected Bluesky as they clearly demonstrated experience and expertise in the relevant fields,” commented Mo Gash, Senior Cartographer at the Countryside Council for Wales. “The examples of work presented by Bluesky provided evidence of their capability, quality of service and response time - all essential components to support the environmental and wildlife work we carry out.”

Read more about how Bluesky will be instrumental in aiding the health and well-being of the Welsh countryside: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23069.html

Satellite tracking / Jane Tomlinson Appeal
Masternaut Three X is providing real-time satellite tracking to Mike, Rebecca and Steven Tomlinson, husband and children of the late charity fundraiser Jane Tomlinson CBE, and their team of cyclists on their 2500 mile bike ride from Istanbul to Leeds. Using an advanced portable tracking unity attached to one of the bicycles, the Masternaut web-based system will monitor the team on-road activity and performance, providing instant live progress reports.

The ride begins on 25th July and is in aid of the Jane Tomlinson Appeal. Supporters will be able to track the riders progress in real-time on the events website www.istanbultoleeds.co.uk which will also contain daily blogs and latest pictures taken on the journey.

“We are pleased to support the Jane Tomlinson Appeal and the bike riders in their efforts. Jane was a remarkable local person and the appeal is a tremendous legacy and memorial to her,” said Martin Port, Masternaut Three X MD.
More at: http://www.janesappeal.com and http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23071.html

Mobile working / lone worker safety
Rugged mobile computing company Mobexx has launched a revolutionary lone worker safety solution for engineers working in hazardous and potentially hazardous environments. Ideal for monitoring mobile service staff in the oil and gas industries, the new computerised “Work-Alone” solution provides a clear view of field engineers and their vehicles. This keeps them safe and connects them to the office, wherever they may be working.

Office-based staff use the Work-Alone system for live monitoring of mobile engineers and their vehicles on computer screen. This gives complete information for each vehicle, including its duty status and a countdown to the engineer’s next update (check-in). This frees them from constantly contacting engineers by telephone or radio to find out if they are safe and how jobs are progressing.
Read more about how this new product helps with keeping mobile engineers safe: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23076.html

Home delivery / logistics / retail technology / Best Buy
Best Buy, a leading consumer electronics retailer, has selected Axida’s HDi home delivery software to support the company’s goal of providing customer service excellence to customers wherever they are. The Axida HDi software integrates with the retailer's business software system, SAP, and ensures flexible, reliable and successful first-time home deliveries.

Axida HDi is a proven software package that has been tailored to Best Buy's specific requirements by Axida, in association with Best Buy's logistics partner Wincanton.

The software facilitates the full end-to-end home delivery process by providing accurate and achievable delivery schedules to customers and Best Buy’s in-store team, the Blueshirts. As well as delivery date and time selection, the software offers other benefits, including multi-channel order capture, comprehensive order management and day of delivery tracking.

Read more about why Best Buy selected this advanced home delivery software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news23067.html

Logistics / supply chain / next day delivery / ecommerce
Yorkshire e-commerce company CNM Online is benefiting from APC Overnight’s “Handled with Care” next day deliveries. Before awarding its parcel courier work to the local depot – APC Direct Logistics – the company was suffering costly breakages. Now, reports company MD Carl Simpson, products are reaching customers intact, as despatched from CNM’s warehouse.

CNM sells a huge range of electric appliances, hygiene hardware products, garden equipment and outdoor games equipment to over 100,000 customers nationwide. Many customers place repeat business with CNM because of their satisfaction with the products and end-to-end supply chain service.

Orders are captured by CNM’s sophisticated website and these are batch-processed using NetDespatch web software. Read more about CNM’s approach to successful online business: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22837.html

Vehicle tracking / mobile computing / fleet management / telematics
A staggering 100 million fleet miles is tracked each month using Masternaut vehicle tracking! This results in fuel savings worth £4 million each month – that’s about 750,000 gallons of fuel. Masternaut reduces unnecessary fuel consumption through more efficient, safer and eco-friendly driving, saving an average of 10 per cent on fuel use.

“This is clear proof that vehicle tracking is an essential aid to reducing unnecessary fuel use and costs. Through better route planning, improving driving behaviour and removing waste the Masternaut service is slashing the cost of transport for our customers by more than £4 million a month. Few other technologies could claim to have such a positive impact. In addition, the decrease in fleet carbon footprints is good for society in general,” says Martin Port, the company’s MD.

Read more on how this system is aiding fleet operators: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22839.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / mobile computing / online maps / waste and environmental management
AXESS West Sussex, a partnership between County, District and Borough Councils, is using the latest technology combining online maps, SMS text messaging and handheld mobile devices to help tackle fly tipping and litter in Crawley. The National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) – the definitive land and property database for England and Wales is at the heart of this Award-winning project to transform street cleaning in West Sussex. Through improving communications between citizens and the council, tens of thousands of pounds worth of savings plus tangible improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery have been realised.

“The project is about improving business processes and using the technology we have where appropriate to make the interaction between customer and service provider fast, easy and accessible,” commented Michala Sterling, Project Manager, AXESS West Sussex. “From the citizen’s point of view that means getting hold of council information quickly and easily and for the Council it means maximising investments already made to achieve measurable savings, improvements in performance and an increase in customer satisfaction.”

Read more about this project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22836.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / transport optimisation
Paragon Software Systems reports that the automatic reporting features of its advanced logistics software eliminate time consuming data extraction and report creation. This enables transport operators to access important information quickly. They can use the information to streamline operations - boosting efficiency and save money.

The information is readily available via a central SQL database and gives an instant picture of costs per drop, miles per case, delivery time per case, average utilisation time per trailer, average miles per drop and average drops per vehicle. Using these reports, managers can quickly and easily review daily, weekly and monthly performance.

“The built in reporting features and functions of Paragon products allow companies to gain easy access to business critical data and give users the ability to produce a wide range of management reports within seconds. Data is readily configurable and can be customised to provide tailored reports using Crystal Reports developed by Business Objects, the software industry’s leading reporting tool,” says Phil Ingham, Paragon’s Support Director.

Read more on how Paragon’s reporting features can benefit transport operations: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22833.html

Waste management / waste collection
MAYRISE Trade Waste Management software from Mayrise Systems is helping Local Authorities smoothly manage their waste collections. It provides an easy to use solution for recording business customers, allocating waste containers and managing collection rounds. Designed to work with the Council’s centralised address database and Ordnance Survey mapping, the system can also be used to market waste collection services to other organisations.

"Using Mayrise, we can manage the provision of an effective and efficient service to the business community, meeting a diverse range of waste and recycling needs," commented Sue Daynes, Waste and Recycling Services Manager at North Lincolnshire Council. "The system provides instant access to detailed service records which means we can easily deal with enquiries or requests from existing or prospective customers and produce management reports."

Read more about this Mayrise innovation: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22834.html

Home delivery / logistics / retail technology
Do you know how much failed home deliveries cost? Around £1 billion a year according to the Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG) report “Valuing Home Delivery”. The report says the cost of delivery failure is almost a three-way split among carriers/logistics providers, consumers and retailers. The inefficiencies add £1.45 in total costs for each transaction.

Wayne Holgate, Director at home delivery software company Axida had this to say: “These statistics should signal a call to action for retailers, carriers and logistics providers. Efficient and effective home deliveries make customers happy and help build brand loyalty. Axida HDi provides a comprehensive solution that puts retailers and their transport partners in control of the entire home delivery process. The software also communicates with the customer, sending them a text message or email to confirm that their delivery is due, which ensures that they are at home to receive their goods.” Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22835.html

Ecommerce / fulfilment / logistics
Intelligent web technology from NetDespatch is cutting order fulfilment time for The Cheese Society. The Lincoln-based online retailer has recently relaunched its website to include a fully integrated automatic parcel shipping, label printing and tracking system. With the new system, the company can process orders ready for despatch to customers in a fraction of the time it took using its old manual methods.

“The NetDespatch solution has freed up our time to focus on customer service. It is easy to use and allows us to book collections and automatically print the labels at point of despatch with any personal messages and special delivery instructions. All the information is held centrally and there is no need to duplicate any of it. It is a logical and user-friendly solution that makes doing business online easy,” says Kate O’Meara, The Cheese Society’s Director.

Read more about how NetDespatch is helping The Cheese Society: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22840.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / planning application registration and tracking
The Welsh Assembly Government has chosen to license the NLPG (National Land and Property Gazetteer) as its source of property information for its forthcoming Planning Application registration and tracking system. The decision was taken as it was felt that only the NLPG could provide the accuracy and depth of national coverage as well as the reliability required.

Local Authorities have a statutory duty to inform the Welsh Assembly Government of any planning applications that could affect the trunk road network. The Assembly can then choose to make comments and recommendations on the application based on the perceived consequences. The Assembly has a steady stream of planning applications that need to be recorded, tracked and processed. These planning applications are, typically, referenced to an address and a National Grid reference but, to enable the identification of repeat or duplicate applications, they need to be normalised to a standard form of property address now provided by the NLPG. Read more about how the Assembly will utilise the NLPG: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22831.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / retail transportation
Paragon routing and scheduling software is helping streamline deliveries to over 140 Original Factory Shop stores throughout the UK. The system is being used by Original Factory Shop distributor McDowells and is providing efficiency improvements and savings in planning and administrative time, vehicles used and road miles.
McDowells delivers over 1,400 pallet loads of Original Factory Shop products plus hanging garments each week. Some of these are double deliveries. Between September and December, stock levels increase by 60 per cent. However, the software allows for the change in volume.

“We have been providing transport services to The Original Factory Shop for many years and the manual planning of deliveries was complex, particularly as the company is constantly opening new stores. Paragon simplifies the entire process and improves fleet resource management too. We have seen huge improvements in efficiency and we are making better use of available vehicles and reducing mileage,” says Joe Balmforth, McDowells’ Operations Director.

Read more on how Paragon helps with McDowells’ deliveries to the Original Factory Shop stores: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22838.html

Highway maintenance / computerised mapping and reporting / mobile computing
Hi-tech computerised mapping and reporting software from Mayrise Systems is helping Torbay Council deal with a pothole problem. The council is responding to nearly three times the number of defects usually experienced. Using a MAYRISE Highways system, reported potholes are logged before being automatically scheduled for inspection and, depending on severity, issued with a work order. Inspectors equipped with PDA’s pinpoint pothole locations, record defect details and create reports to update the central system.

Cabinet Member for Transport, Cllr Chris Lewis, said “Although Torbay is certainly not alone in experiencing this type of problem, the temperatures experienced last winter are far lower than those normally met. Given our traditionally mild climate we are only now meeting problems the rest of the country has to deal with far more frequently.”
The repeated freeze-thaw cycle experienced during the past two winters are being blamed for making the problem worse.

Read more on how Mayrise is helping Torbay is tackling its potholes: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22830.html

Laser mapping / 3D scanners / point cloud data / World Heritage
The heritage preservation specialist CyArk is using special Pointools software - which processes 3D measurements captured by lasers - to create animated videos, architectural drawings and 3D visualisations of sites. These include Mount Rushmore, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and an ancient Egyptian temple at Thebes (modern day Luxor). The Pointools generated models provide visually stunning content for educational and tourism materials and provide a foundation for conservation, restoration and management works.

CyArk is working on projects to document the four missions of the San Antonio Missions National Park in Texas, USA. The organisation has also just completed a joint venture project with the US National Park Service and Scotland’s Centre for Digital Documentation and Visualisation (formed of Historic Scotland and the Glasgow School of Art) to fully document the sculpture and ground facilities of Mount Rushmore National Monument.

“Pointools gives us the best of both worlds,” commented Justin Barton, Production Manager at CyArk. “The superior rendering abilities enable us to create stunning 3D visualisations for education and outreach work while the highly accurate models, such as brick-by-brick elevation, provide information for conservators and restoration experts.”

Read more about this Pointools application: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22832.html

Aerial mapping / aerial photography / remote sensing / airborne surveys / solar energy maps / 3D maps
Aerial mapping company Bluesky is developing ground-breaking technology to pinpoint the best locations for solar panels automatically. Using aerial remote sensing technology including aircraft mounted lasers and digital aerial photography, the 3D solar energy maps will identify homes and other buildings with roofs that may be suitable for mounting solar panels to generate renewable energy.

Bluesky already has access to the raw aerial data for the whole of the UK and measurements such as the shape, pitch, size and aspect of building roofs are being extracted - information that is essential when considering the potential for solar energy installations.

“... We believe this is the first time this has been done in the UK and we are following in the footsteps of cities like New York, San Francisco and Boston,” commented Rachel Tidmarsh, Managing Director of Bluesky. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22236.html

Rugged mobile computers / mobile computers / tablet PC / Windows 7
JLT Mobile Computers AB is shipping a brand new version of its Swedish designed and built JLT8404 rugged tablet PC. The upgrade includes a new ultra-low voltage Intel® Atom™ 1.6 Ghz processor for higher performance and enhanced 3D graphic capabilities. This chip also powers JLT’s market leading in-vehicle PCs too.

This new version also features 2 gigabyte of RAM, and it is available with a choice of Microsoft® operating systems (OS) – Windows 7™ or Windows XP™. It is equipped with a high-performance Sierra Wireless™ wide area network (WAN) module (built-in high-speed wireless, easy to use and provides simple connectivity to wireless networks). Read more about the military standard (MIL STD 810F) JLT8404: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22232.html

NLPG / National Land and Property Gazetteer / DECC / Department of Energy and Climate Change
The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has chosen to license the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG). DECC will use the NLPG as part of its National Energy Efficiency Data framework (NEED). The NEED project aims to provide property level information on building energy use and performance.

DECC requires reliable data in order to provide advice in the right places, and know where the biggest and quickest energy savings can be made. The NEED initiative involves linking a number of major public sector datasets describing business and residential buildings with gas and electricity meter-points. NEED Phase 1 will be used by DECC for economic and statistical analysis relating to the drivers of energy consumption. Read more about this development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22227.html

Vehicle tracking / waste management / fleet management / refuse collection / telematics
North Lincolnshire Council and vehicle tracking company Masternaut Three X have developed an advanced web-based telematics solution to help maximise refuse collection and gulley cleansing performance. The system helps manage the Council’s fleet of 66 refuse and highways vehicles and the investment is largely self-funded through operational cost savings. Since going live, the Council and its stakeholders are benefiting from significant service improvements through more efficient use of resources and instant access to real-time information.

The system provides an up-to-the-minute view of activity. Live data is instantly accessible by managers and contact centre staff. Managers can also access the system using their Blackberry mobile phones when working remotely. Read more about how this Council is using technology to revolutionise its refuse collection and recycling: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22225.html

Rugged mobile computer / in vehicle computer / Windows 7
JLT Mobile Computers AB is shipping the latest version of its JLT1214 touch screen PC for in-vehicle and other fixed-mount applications. This Swedish designed and built computer features a new Intel® Atom™ 1.6 GHz processor, 2 GB RAM and Microsoft® Windows 7™. The new computer is also available with Windows XP™ if preferred.

The IP65-rated JLT1214 computer offers outstanding performance and energy efficiency in all environments, even in temperatures as low as -30C. It can be used for demanding forklift trucks, cranes, industrial vehicles, production lines and plant applications. The computer provides built-in wireless connectivity (WLAN, high-speed Wi-Fi and Bluetooth), an uninterruptible power supply and power stabilisation for voltages ranging from 9 to 72V DC. With these features, the computer provides a unique one-for-all mobile solution for rugged industrial environments. Read more about this advanced in-vehicle / fixed-mount computer: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22231.html

Laser scanning / 3D scanners / point cloud data / Be Together Conference
Point clouds – the 3D data points collected by laser scanning devices – were a hot topic at this year’s Be Together Conference in Philadelphia. During the technology keynote, Bhupinder Singh, SVP of Bentley Software, presented Bentley’s product vision for the adoption of the Pointools Vortex engine - for referencing point clouds inside Bentley applications. Afterwards, Tony Rogers, co-founder and Director of Pointools was joined by Paul DiGiacobbe of HNTB – a large Pointools user – and Bentley’s Product Director for MicroStation, Chris Bober, to share more detail. Both presentations highlighted the value users realize by incorporating point cloud models during the design and delivery of infrastructure projects.

The Pointools Vortex API (Application Programming Interface), selected for integration within Bentley MicroStation, is the engine that powers all Pointools products. It is ideally suited to the demanding requirements of MicroStation users in the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) sectors due to its unrivalled ability to handle even the largest point cloud datasets. The fully embedded Pointools Vortex engine will allow users to load, display, and analyse billions of points from virtually any scanning device. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22229.html

Logistics / supply chain / next day delivery / Depot of the Year
Norfolk-based APC Team C Couriers won the 2010 APC Overnight Depot of the Year Award. This is the biggest competition of its kind in the UK and recognises “above and beyond” service performance throughout the past year. Ivor Skinner, APC Overnight’s MD, presented the award to APC Team C Couriers at the organisation’s annual All Depot Day on 5 June.

“I am pleased to present the APC Overnight Depot of the Year award to APC Team C Couriers. The number of votes received shows the depot team is ready to go out of its way to provide above and beyond service. It is a proactive depot that is consistently helpful to other depots in the APC Overnight network,” said Ivor Skinner. Read more about this important award: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22233.html

Laser scanning / 3D scanners / point cloud data / NASA / Navajo Technical College / New Mexico Tech
Software from Pointools is being used to create 3D walk through models to explore the viability of laser scanning on the moon and mars. Researchers from Navajo Technical College together with representatives from NASA and New Mexico Tech laser scanned a volcanic formation in New Mexico gathering 240 million individual measurements. Using Pointools software the data was processed to create an immersive and interactive 3D computer model from which NASA scientists can assess the potential of laser scanning for future missions.

The survey party, using a Faro LS 120 laser scanner, mapped the four windows lava tube in the El Malpais National Park collecting eight individual scans each composed of 30 million points. The project was designed to understand the viability of laser scanning lava tubes and other formations on the moon and mars and to provide examples of the type of data laser scanning could collect and the information that could be interpreted from the laser mapping. Read more about how point cloud data will help space research: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22230.html

Logistics / supply chain / next day delivery
Bristol-based design agency, Fanatic, is ensuring time-critical branding materials are ‘Handled with Care’ and delivered on time with APC Overnight. Fanatic works with the local depot APC Priority Express to send a vast range of printed marketing products to customers and exhibition centres all over the UK using the next day delivery service.

Ian Collis-Smith, Fanatic’s Creative Director says: “We work to tight deadlines to produce often fragile items such as exhibition stands and so we need a next day service that we can trust. With APC Overnight we are confident that our time-sensitive materials arrive safely and on time. We also have the confidence that the couriers will deliver the packages to a responsible person. To back this up, the depot sends us an email proof of delivery and we also have traceability through the APC Overnight system.” Read more about how APC Overnight is helping this company: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22234.html

NLPG / National Land and Property Gazetteer / Blaby District Council
Blaby District Council has undertaken an award-winning project to revolutionise the quality and currency of address records within the Leicestershire based council. The annual comparison table shows that Blaby have worked exceptionally hard over the last year to be judged the ‘Most Improved Local Land and Property Gazetteer’ at a national Awards ceremony. The Council’s database contributes to the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG), the definitive property database for the whole of England and Wales.

Blaby recognised that their Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) was in need of some TLC. A Ministry of Justice Directive designed to transform the electoral process, whereby every entry in their Electoral Register has to be matched to their LLPG, gave Blaby the incentive they needed to address issues in the maintenance and application of the gazetteer. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22228.html

Aerial mapping / aerial photography / remote sensing / airborne surveys / 3D maps
Bluesky’s online collection of historically important aerial photographs has been boosted with the addition of approximately 200,000 more unique images. Dating back to the 1960’s the archive covers several county areas together with major engineering projects from this time including road construction, railway maintenance and mineral extraction. The addition of these images to www.oldaerialphotos.com has been made possible following an agreement between Bluesky and Cartographic Services Limited.

The newly acquired collection of photographic images includes many county aerial surveys including Avon, Somerset and Shropshire together with Greater Manchester, South Yorkshire and the West Midlands and even the Channel Island of Guernsey. In addition to these Local Government administrative areas the collection also covers a wide range of construction and engineering projects from the 1960’s onwards including parts of the M4 Motorway, M5 Exeter Bypass, Drax Power Station, the Channel Tunnel Project and many waste sites. Read more about this valuable photographic resource: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22223.html
Laser mapping / laser scanning / mining
3D Laser Mapping, the international developer of laser scanning solutions, has appointed Francois Stroh to the position of Global Mining Product Manager. Stroh, an engineering surveyor with more than ten years experience of laser scanning sales, installation, training and support, will have responsibility for 3D Laser Mappings global mining division. Stroh will be based in South Africa close to the company’s existing client base and will oversee the continued growth of laser scanning hardware and software, including 3D Laser Mapping’s leading mine monitoring solution SiteMonitor.
Read more about Francois Stroh’s appointment: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22226.html

Vehicle tracking / mobile computing / fleet management / telematics / contract lifting / specialised transport / dynamic scheduling
Gatwick Group has implemented an advanced vehicle tracking and mobile computer system from Masternaut Three X. Gatwick Group provides transport services to private, commercial and industrial clients including the aviation, rail and construction industry sectors. Its services include moving, lifting, positioning, storage and warehousing of heavy plant, equipment and materials. The system will improve operational efficiencies and customer service with instant job status updates via email and text messages.

Running on PDAs, the Masternaut X Service system provides an end-to-end electronic solution that covers the entire operation from sending jobs to drivers to capturing customer signatures and site photographs for proof of delivery. The system maximises efficiency and customer service and supports the company’s ISO 14001 green credentials by eliminating a mass of paper-based service documentation. Read more about this vehicle tracking and mobile resource management innovation: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news22224.html

Mobile computing / in-vehicle, fixed-mount computer / weighing system CC Software Ltd (CCSL) is using JLT’s ultra rugged in-vehicle computer for its real-time LOAD2000 system for weighing loads without the need for a weighbridge.

The computer is supplied by JLT Mobile Computers' partner Rugged Mobile Systems Ltd.

The fixed-mount PC is installed within the cab of a front-end wheeled loader. The computer provides the mobile platform for CCSL’s advanced wireless weighing system that utilises state of the art onboard weigh scales from RDS Technology.

The LOAD2000 system will be used for British Sugar’s TOPSOIL business. It will provide a wireless live link between its topsoil site in Wissington, Norfolk, and its beet processing plant, situated 2 miles away.

Read more about this wireless weighing innovation: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21563.html

Home delivery / logistics / online retail / Internet Delivery is Safe / IMRG – Ever buy online? Transactions are instant but what about delivery of your purchases? Things are changing!

Online retailers can achieve the coveted IDIS (Internet Delivery Is Safe) Gold Standard for home deliveries helped by Axida’s delivery management software. The Axida HDi software will contribute substantially to enabling companies to meet the strict rules of the Standard. The Interactive Media in Retail Group (IMRG) is responsible for the IDIS Gold Standard for e-retailers. The Standard sets a benchmark for the achievement of 100 per cent first-time delivery success. It indicates those e-retailers who meet the Standard can offer exceptionally high standards of order fulfilment and home delivery.

With Axida HDi, online stores and their home delivery suppliers are able to offer customers the opportunity to select accurate delivery windows at point-of-sale, which increases first-time delivery success rates. Read more about how Axida HDi software is revolutionising home delivery: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21565.html

Logistics software / tachograph integration / routing and scheduling / resource management – Transport operators are keeping legal by utilising intelligent tachograph data with their Paragon logistics software to produce compliant, optimised routes and schedules. This automatically smoothes workloads, increases use of available fleet resources, reduces waste and improves productivity while adhering to the Working Time Directive.

The special Tachomaster interface within Paragon Resource Manager imports tachograph data direct into Paragon’s transport optimisation software. This adjusts the plan and assigns trips according to real driver availability. The software automatically produces accurate, practical schedules for each route and driver as well as ensures compliance to the Working Time Directive. This enhanced fleet resource intelligence also reduces the need for standby drivers by planning more closely to actual resource availability. Read more about this transport and resource planning breakthrough: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21566.html

Rugged mobile computers / in-vehicle computers / material handling / weighing systems - The ultra rugged JLT in-vehicle computer is providing the computing power for CC Software Ltd (CCSL)’s real-time LOAD2000 weighing system. This innovative touch-screen mobile system weighs loads without the need for a weighbridge.

The LOAD2000 system will be used for British Sugar’s TOPSOIL business. It will provide a wireless live link between its topsoil site in Wissington, Norfolk, and its beet processing plant, situated 2 miles away.

The JLT computer is installed in a front-end wheeled loader to provide the mobile platform for CCSL’s advanced wireless weighing system that utilises state of the art onboard weigh scales from RDS Technology. JLT Mobile Computers' partner Rugged Mobile Systems Ltd supplied the fixed-mount PC.

The system provides a range of efficiency and safety enhancements. These include the accurate and automatic recording of each bucket load as it is transferred to the truck and real-time communications of jobs to the loader operator, which reduces the amount of time spent out of the loader on a busy yard. Trucks do not need to travel to and from weighbridges – this normally entails driving to the weighbridge to weigh the empty truck, driving to the site to pick up the loads, and then travelling back to the weighbridge for final weighing – which reduces road miles, thereby improving fleet efficiency. Read more about this solution to weighty problems: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21563.html

3D computer modelling software / Laser scanning / 3D scanners / point cloud data - Pointools has launched the next generation of software for the processing of point cloud data – the millions of 3D measurements collected by laser scanning instruments. Pointools Edit now utilises the full power of 64-bit processing for greater speed and efficiency. Pointools Edit also offers tools for point cloud editing in layers, data segmentation together with simple RGB re-colouring and easy noise and obstruction cleaning.

“Laser scanning is being used for a huge variety of applications ranging from street level mapping from a moving vehicle to high accuracy 3D height models from a plane, even the fine tuning of engineering or manufacturing processes,” commented Tony Rogers, co-founder and Director of Pointools Ltd. Read more about this advancement for editing point cloud data: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21365.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / road safety / transport - David Blake a lorry driver for United Biscuits (UB) - makers of Jaffa Cakes and Hula Hoops - has won the national Drive For Life 2010 competition organised by vehicle tracking company Masternaut Three X. David drives a heavy goods vehicle for UB’s national distribution centre in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire, and beat four other finalists.

The safe driving competition is the largest of its kind worldwide. It is supported by road safety charity Brake and IAM Drive & Survive, the professional training division of the Institute of Advanced Motorists. David shares the first prize of £2,500 with Brake. Read more about Masternaut Three X’s safe driving initiative: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21364.html

Logistics software / transportation optimisation / routing and scheduling - Paragon Software Systems has developed special logistics software to help transport managers cut costs by optimising how they use their drivers. The Paragon Resource Manager software gives a bird’s eye view of company and agency drivers and vehicles with their availability and capabilities. By incorporating these details into the transport planning process, the software ensures the efficient use of all available resources, cuts overtime costs, and reduces the need for costly agency drivers.

The advanced resource-managed planning solution compiles data about all drivers and vehicles used by a company, including their availability and hours worked each day. Transport managers use this information to create Working Time Directive compliant schedules with even workloads that limit use of agency drivers and vehicles. By levelling driver workloads over a period, this reduces overtime costs and the need for extra agency drivers, as well as giving transport managers greater flexibility at peak times. Read more about how this Paragon development creates a clear view of the fleet and driver resources to reduce costs: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21139.html

Aerial thermal surveys / aerial mapping / airborne surveys - Aerial survey specialist Bluesky is developing a new service to map Britain’s cities and towns at night. Captured using specially developed aerial survey equipment Bluesky’s NightSky photomaps will accurately record the location street lights, illuminated road signs and other night-time sources of light. The light emission maps will also provide an accurate base for asset inventories, light pollution assessment and energy optimisation for electricity plants.

Using specially developed technology to capture night orthophotos (geometrically corrected aerial photographs) for the first time, Bluesky’s map accurate images can be used directly in a desktop mapping tool or geographical information system (GIS). Providing additional intelligence for Local Authorities and other organisations that are responsible for lighting infrastructure NightSky maps can be used as an aid for street lighting inventories and condition assessments and to assist with the identification of units for routine maintenance or fault repair. Read more about NightSky maps: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21138.html

Rugged mobile computers / mobile computing / partner programme - Rugged mobile computer manufacturer, JLT Mobile Computers AB, has launched its new JLT Partner Programme. The programme will offer JLT partners technical expertise and support so that they may offer world-class computer solutions to end-user customers in the warehouse / logistics, forestry, mining, automation, military and rescue vehicles markets.

“The JLT Partner Programme includes specialists who offer the end user a complete solution based on our PCs. The programme brings together our sales partners such as distributors, retailers, software providers, system integrators and consultants and gives them access to JLT’s expertise in rugged PCs. We are investing in tools, technical support, financial incentives and marketing to give our partners a competitive advantage and improve support to their end-user customers,” says Per Holmberg, CEO of JLT Mobile Computers.

Find out more about the JLT Partner Programme: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21078.html

Vehicle tracking / retail supply chain - SPAR stores distributor James Hall & Co is planning the introduction of a real-time customer service system with vehicle tracking company Masternaut Three X. The scope of the project is the design and implementation of an innovative web-based solution that will enable store owners and managers to gain access to real-time delivery information simply by logging on to the secure “WebSPAR” Intranet service. James Hall & Co hopes to make the system available to all 450+ SPAR stores operating in northern England.

“We are in the very early stages of developing the system, but we hope that the integration of Masternaut with WebSPAR will make a major enhancement to our customer services. Using the live Masternaut information, we will be able to keep our customers informed about the forecasted time of arrival of their deliveries. This could improve their in-store operations – preparing stock rooms, calling in additional staff and so on – and reduce the need for telephone calls between the stores and our transport office,” says Mark Clayden, Transport Manager, James Hall & Co.

Read more about this advanced web-based system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21082.html

Logistics / fresh food / next day delivery - J W Mettrick & Son has doubled online sales thanks to efficient “Handled with Care” next day deliveries from APC Overnight. Awarded Best Online Butcher by Good Housekeeping magazine, J W Mettrick & Son works closely with the local APC Overnight depot to ensure fresh, pristine delivery of locally sourced and produced meats for customers throughout the UK.

Through its website, J W Mettrick & Son can offer all the advantages of a local butcher supplying quality products while reaching the entire nation via the Internet and the APC Overnight network. Read more about this 50:50 relationship: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21083.html

Street works / highway maintenance/ utilities / LoPS / software - EDF Energy Networks has invested in the latest computer technology to reduce traffic disruption caused by road works. The advanced MAYRISE computer system is helping EDF Energy Networks to comply with new legislation designed to coordinate street works and reduce unnecessary disruption on London’s roads. The new London Permit Scheme for Road Works and Street Works (known as LoPS) was implemented earlier this year and allows the issue of permits that provide much tighter control of road works activities. MAYRISE Street Works helps EDF Energy Networks identify streets requiring permits and automates the application.

Christopher Perkins, Strategy Manager for EDF Energy Networks Street Works said, “Newly-introduced permit schemes like the ones in London and Kent take street works co-ordination to the next level. Designed to reduce the disruption caused by road and street works, the scheme places additional requirements on all undertakers to provide advanced notice of intended works, up to three months in the case of major works, and comply with specific conditions set by the transport authority. The Mayrise system enables us to identify streets requiring permits and then facilitates the application process.” Read more about this road congestion easing breakthrough in street works management: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21080.html

Vehicle tracking / utilities / public sector - Masternaut Three X has won £10 million of new business from the utilities and public sector. Major power and water companies and local authorities that have signed for Masternaut’s advanced tracking services include National Grid, Scottish Power, Scottish Water, Dumfries and Galloway Council and Renfrewshire Council.

The new business, won over the last three months, amounts to tracking contracts for over 7,000 individual vehicles – adding to the 60,000 already tracked with Masternaut over the web.
“...To gain £10 million of new business in such a short period of time is extraordinary and highlights the energy, water and public sectors’ eagerness to employ advanced vehicle tracking and it also shows our ability to deliver a superior solution, excellent customer service and expertise, said Martin Port, MD, Masternaut Three X.

Read more about how Masternaut Three X is leading the vehicle tracking market: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news21081.html

Mobile computing / work order management – Mobexx says that field service companies should stop wasting hundreds of thousands of pounds a year on costly manual work order administration. A new automated wireless real-time work order management system from the Runcorn-based company could save at least 20 minutes per job and boost efficiency throughout the business. With an average of three scheduled jobs to perform per day, Mobexx estimates at least one hour can be saved through the automatic work order creation and tracking system. For just a 40 strong field force, the savings are estimated at around £230,000 a year. Read more about this labour and cost saving innovation: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20482.html

Laser scanning / 3D scanners / point cloud data - Users of Topcon’s laser scanning solutions can now benefit from the most advanced processing and visualisation technology following the addition of Topcon Europe Positioning to the Pointools European Reseller Network.

Pointools is a suite of software specifically designed for the processing, visualisation, drawing and modelling of point cloud data, while Topcon offers a wide range of laser scanning solutions for a number of markets including surveying and construction.

Pointools is an independent technology company focussed on developing state of the art software solutions to maximise the potential of point cloud data – the millions of 3D measurements usually collected by laser scanning devices. Applications include design, manufacturing, construction, engineering, heritage and surveying. Read more about this beneficial partnership: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20480.html

Laser mapping / mobile mapping / LiDAR / StreetMapper Conference - 3D Laser Mapping and IGI have announced a StreetMapper 2010 International User Conference. Co-hosted with the European LiDAR Mapping Forum the StreetMapper Conference will take place on the 2nd December 2010 in The Hague, Netherlands. The StreetMapper Conference will feature a range of technical presentations detailing the latest developments in laser scanning and mobile data capture together with end user case studies. The StreetMapper User Conference will also provide the perfect opportunity for delegates to meet with laser scanning specialists and network with mobile mapping professionals from around the world. Read more about this groundbreaking conference: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20494.html

Vehicle tracking / utilities / public sector - Masternaut Three X has won £10 million of new business from the utilities and public sector for its advanced vehicle tracking services. Major power and water companies and local authorities named by the company include National Grid, Scottish Power, Scottish Water, Dumfries and Galloway Council and Renfrewshire Council.

The new business, won over the last three months, amounts to tracking contracts for over 7,000 individual vehicles – adding to the 60,000 already tracked with Masternaut over the web.
The company’s existing clients in these sectors include Amey, Balfour Beatty, Carillion, Ringway, United Utilities, and many Local Authorities and their strategic partners. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20485.html

Logistics software / transportation optimisation / routing and scheduling / food supply chain - L.R. Services is using map-based transport optimisation software from Paragon Software Systems to automate the distribution planning of 4000 weekly deliveries to McDonald’s restaurants throughout France. The logistics software is delivering major efficiencies by reducing planning time and saving road miles for an extremely complex operation.

L.R. Services has to operate under challenging constraints unique to McDonald’s France. These are variable order volumes, changeable time windows for different types of delivery – fresh foods or other products - and different delivery frequencies, making it essential to optimise routing and scheduling. By using a combination of Paragon Multi Period Planner and Paragon Multi Depot software, L.R. Services is able to streamline and simplify its planning processes. Read more about how this software speeds fast food delivery: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20481.html

Supply chain / out sourcing / web services / e-commerce / beverages - Genorel Soft Drinks has got off to a flying start thanks to a combination of intelligent NetDespatch web technology and outsourced warehousing from Surrey-based Streetwise Couriers. Genorel was established in July 2007 to sell Switzerland’s favourite soft drinks – Rivella and Ramseier – online and has already grown its customer base to almost 30,000 clients nationwide using the web logistics solution.

Alan Norris, Chairman and Founder of the unique soft drinks business says: “Genorel is a virtual business that harnesses the power of the Internet. Our customers come to our online store to buy our soft drinks and Streetwise Couriers quickly fulfils and despatches their orders. It is a cost-effective, hassle free arrangement that also pleases our customers.”

Read more about this innovative approach to supply chain outsourcing: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20478.html

GIS / geographic information systems / LLPG / OGC - GGP Systems has announced a cost saving innovation that gives councils the ability to save millions of pounds of public money.

Aimed at local authorities that deliver a wide range of services and are struggling to reduce spending, the latest version of GGP’s Geographic Information System (GIS) allows the use of centralised ‘datastores’. This cuts out data duplication and with it the administrative resources required to maintain multiple datasets, improves access to accurate and up to date information and will ultimately deliver significant improvements in operational efficiency.

The newly released GGP GIS software offers the ability to store complex layers of mapped information in an international standard format defined by the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC). Read more about this money saving development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20488.html

Home delivery / supply chain / Cool Vendor - Intelligent home delivery solutions company Axida has been included in the list of five “Cool Vendors” in the “Cool Vendors in Supply Chain Management, 2010” report by Gartner, Inc.1 The report analyzes Axida’s advanced home delivery software - Axida HDi – which is used by major retailers and third party logistics companies (3PL).

The software manages complex home deliveries where the product, service or proposition requires a customer to be present at the time of delivery. The system allows retailers to offer specific delivery time slots to their customers so that they can arrange to be at home to receive their goods. Read more about why Gartner selected Axida: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20491.html

Logistics / fresh food / supply chain / next day delivery - Efficient next day “Handled with Care” deliveries by APC Overnight are boosting Fruit-4U’s customer service and helping attract new clients. The innovative Stockport, Cheshire, ecommerce business supplies fruit baskets to customers throughout the UK, shipping thousands of products each year to corporate clients and the general public.

“We moved our delivery service contract to APC Nationwide Express Parcels two years ago and we’ve never looked back. Our business has grown from strength to strength, with the network of APC Overnight depots providing excellent service to our customers,” says Martin Unsworth, Director, Fruit-4U.

Read more about why Fruit-4U selected APC Overnight’s Handled with Care services: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20492.html

Laser mapping / laser scanning / mining - Anglo Platinum is deploying the latest laser scanning technology in South Africa to further improve safety and increase production. The latest Reigl LPM-321 laser scanner system supplied by 3D Laser Mapping is being used in the Mogalakwena Central Open Pit for continuous monitoring of the Western Highwall. Since installation, the laser monitoring systems have contributed toward the best four month period of safety across the company’s operations. The laser scanning system combines a highly accurate, long-range laser scanner with monitoring software specially developed for the mining environment.

Anglo Platinum is also using 3D Laser Mapping’s leading mine monitoring system SiteMonitor. SiteMonitor is used at diamond, gold, platinum, iron and coal mines across the world and automatically detects tiny movements in slopes and walls in open pit mines. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20489.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) / 2010 general election - Council held Electoral Registers are for the first time benefitting from their linkage with the single address register created by local government, the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG). All electors live somewhere but historically, this information has been maintained in different ways. Now, with thanks to the hard work and effort made by local authorities and a 2008 Directive from the Ministry of Justice, all entries in Electoral Registers are now associated with a property. Read more about this important project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20486.html

Mobile computing / vehicle tracking - An advanced wireless field service solution has been designed jointly between Trafford Council and Masternaut Three X to complement the ‘zonal’ based ‘Agile Service Intervention Model’ utilised for Street Cleaning and Grounds Maintenance activities across Trafford Council.

The system has been designed to address the following specific issues: the reliance on paper based systems; daily manual data input into the back end systems; and time issues in redirection of front line teams. Read more about Trafford Council’s Masternaut-based system, its benefits and how it works: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20484.html

Association for Geographic Information (AGI) / Opportunities in a Changing World conference - The Association for Geographic Information (AGI) has released a Call for Papers for the largest and most comprehensive, independent conference in the UK location and geographic information calendar. The ‘Opportunities in a Changing World’ conference takes place from 28 to 30 September in Stratford-upon-Avon and will showcase how geographic information and geospatial solutions are being used to best effect in the current challenging economic and political climates. For more information see: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20490.html and http://www.agi.org.uk.

3D modelling / aerial imaging / Google SketchUp - A detailed 3D computer model of Dundee’s historic waterfront area is helping planners, architects and the public visualise its multi million pound transformation. Actor Stephen Fry describes Dundee as “… about as ideal, ludicrously ideal, as a city setting could be,” has a population of over 142,000 and acts as regional centre on the East Coast of Scotland with a large catchment area and sphere of influence. In an ambitious plan to reconnect the city centre with the riverside area, Dundee City Council is using the model created by aerial imaging company Bluesky, to map out possible developments along the river Tay. Read more about how 3D modelling is helping Dundee’s development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20493.html

Aerial thermal surveys / aerial mapping / airborne surveys / managing carbon emissions - Leicester City Council is targeting energy inefficiency and reduce carbon emissions with the help of Bluesky’s thermal mapping.

The Council’s ‘Hot Lofts’ scheme aims to deliver free loft and cavity wall insulation for all private homes. The Bluesky colour-coded and property-matched map helps the Council to identify home owners needing assistance with reducing energy loss and lowering their homes’ carbon footprint. The Council then writes to home owners with the details of the scheme.

To date the project has helped nearly 6,300 properties reduce their energy consumption contributing to a reduction in CO2 emissions of approximately 6,000 Tonnes per annum – an estimated annual energy saving of more than 32,700 Gigawatt hours (gas). Read more about Leicester’s innovative Hot Lofts scheme: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20266.html

Software / highways / asset inventory / civil engineering - MAYRISE Highways software was used to prepare for a £1bn project set to transform the Isle of Wight’s highway infrastructure. Following recent approval of the Council’s outline business case for the Highways Private Finance Initiative (PFI), the Government has allocated an initial £364.6 million of grant money to the project. The software was used to create a detailed highways asset inventory with detailed and up to date information about the road network and related infrastructure. This information will also assist potential PFI partners to bid for the project.

In 2008, the Isle of Wight Council became one of only three areas nationwide to qualify for a Highways PFI. This document set out the scope of the project and included information derived from the Council’s Highway Inventory. This database integrates data captured in the field with Ordnance Survey mapping and the Councils Local Street Gazetteer (LSG). Read more about how Mayrise Systems’ software provides accurate, detailed asset inventories: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20264.html

National Land and Property Gazetteer / NLPG / computerised mapping - Canterbury City Council is using computerised mapping for allocating allotments. The council used an intelligent database of properties – part of the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) - to create a new Allotment Strategy based on location, accessibility, and current provision. The exercise was so successful that it won the Council a national award – the NLPG Exemplar Award for Most Innovative Use.

The NLPG provides Local Authorities with a master list and precise location of all properties in England and Wales. Using the system, the Council was able to plot addresses and ensure the allocation of allotments was undertaken in a fair and equitable way. Read more about how the NLPG streamlined the process: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20265.html

Long range laser scanning / aerial photography from UAVs - Laser scanning and remote controlled aircraft technology will be used to monitor glaciers, where unstable slopes and rock falls are a continual threat. 3D Laser Mapping will supply the Riegl LMS-Z620 long range scanner (that can measure tiny movements over a 2-km range) for the research by the University of Northumbria. Scan data will be used to help create 3D maps using low level aerial photographs captured by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The laser scanner will be used on a range of projects including the monitoring of retreating glaciers in the European Alps and the investigation of rock falls in the Southern Alps of New Zealand.

The Riegl scanner will also be used to support ongoing research into the use of UAVs for low level aerial photography of active river systems. Read more about this technology and the work of the University of Northumbria: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20102.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling / automotive logistics - Fergusons Transport has is using Paragon software to automate the planning of its automotive logistics services for Nissan. The software produces optimised routes and schedules in minutes! When Fergusons used manual planning techniques it took weeks to complete the work.

“Paragon was a natural choice for Fergusons Transport. Nissan’s logistics partners favour the software and it came highly recommended. I am over the moon with the software. It saves us so much time by delivering the information we need in minutes – no more weeks and weeks of poring over spreadsheets. We can quickly run the plan, assign the routes to the drivers and get on with the business of Nissan’s logistics,” says George Mallaby, the Fergusons Group IT Support Controller. Read more about how intelligent logistics software has revolutionised Fergusons’ services to Nissan: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20103.html

Fresh produce / next day deliveries / logistics - The wild food forager Anne Misselbrook sends thousands of kilos of leaves and berries from Cornwall through the APC Overnight network to pioneering chefs and restaurants. Customers include Heston Blumenthal, Fifteen Cornwall (part of the global social enterprise set up by Jamie Oliver) and Nathan Outlaw. Anne Misselbrook also supplies Miles Irving, a leading light in wild foods for London’s top hotels and restaurants such as The Ivy, The Goring Hotel and Paternoster Chop House.

“Demand for wild foods is growing...APC Overnight is able to deal with the variety of the wild foods I send through the network and customers are pleased with the prompt next-day service,” says Anne Misselbrook. Read more about how APC Overnight’s fresh produce services and Anne Misselbrook: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20104.html

Outsourcing / cloud computing / Web 2.0 / logistics - NetDespatch’s clever web-based software is making it much easier for retailers to outsource warehousing to third party logistics partners (3PL). By outsourcing the warehouse, retailers can improve customer service by reducing the number of links in their supply chain, while freeing their own time to concentrate on sales and removing the running costs of warehouse staff, specialist equipment and expensive IT.

Retailers’ customers order their products in the usual way and the order and delivery details are transferred electronically to the NetDespatch Velocity on-line system. These order details are then made available to the retailer's logistics partner and consignment tracking labels are produced automatically at point of despatch for the selected carrier. This is a useful feature as different carriers have expertise in handling different types of consignment. Read more about this fantastic development that turns traditional warehousing on its head: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20105.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics - The effective deployment of Welsh Assembly Traffic Officers in South Wales to respond to road traffic incidents has been greatly assisted following the introduction of a new vehicle tracking and navigation system from Masternaut Three X.

A fleet of specialist Traffic Officer vehicles are monitored using the web-based system. The always on system constantly feeds back live data, displaying vehicle locations on a large panoramic screen located in the Control Room of the South Wales Traffic Management Centre, giving a bird’s eye view of operations at all times.
On notification of an incident, the SWTRA Control Room Team can quickly locate the nearest Traffic Officer on screen to dispatch to the scene. The system tracks vehicle location, movements and if stationary, whether the engine is idling or switched off. Read more about how the Masternaut system is helping to make the highway safer: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20112.html

National Street Gazetteer (NSG) - Intelligent Addressing has developed a new conversion service for users of the National Street Gazetteer (NSG). This will benefit users of the street information who are unable to import the latest format of the NSG, which from 6th April 2010 is being published in Data Transfer Format (DTF) 7.1 only.

This new format offers a number of advantages over the old format: it is compliant with BS 7666:2006, the latest format of the National Standard ‘Spatial datasets for geographic referencing’; it allows the incorporation of Additional Street Data such as height, width and weight restrictions, and one way exemptions; it includes direction of travel information; it enables the incorporation of dual languages in support of the Welsh Language Act. Read more about this development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news20106.html

Logistics / supply chain - APC Overnight is helping the UK wine supply chain with its special “Handled with Care” delivery services. Berry Bros. & Rudd, Slurp, Tanners and The Colchester Wine Company, use the next day Wine Delivery Service to carefully ship tens of thousands of bottles each night to customers via the APC Overnight nationwide network. The Wine Delivery Service is one APC Overnight’s Handled with Care portfolio of services offered for transporting fragile items from the vendor to the customer. This unique service uses cages and a separate sortation technique for careful, fast sorting of liquids and other fragile items. Read what some of the customers have to say: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19781.html

National Street Gazetteer / Web 2.0 / Intelligent mapping - An intelligent map of Blackpool’s roads is at the heart of an award-winning project that is transforming highways maintenance and street works in the popular seaside resort. The computer system captures and presents information about day-to-day changes that may affect Blackpool’s roads and delivers the information via an easy to use web mapping tool to support essential decision making. Residents and visitors to Blackpool can now obtain information about the location, duration and impact of both current and planned road maintenance and improvement projects in and around the resort. Read more about this fascinating innovation that is engaging Blackpool Council’s stakeholders: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19774.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics / road safety - Romec, one of the UK’s largest facilities management companies, has improved the safety of its mobile workers after equipping 1000 service vehicles with Masternaut satellite tracking. The Masternaut Three X real-time service is part of Romec’s health and safety measures for its workforce. It has already reduced speeding by 82 per cent and fines by 26 per cent, with a 28 per cent reduction in road traffic accidents (RTA) involving Romec staff. Read more about Romec’s Masternaut system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19776.html

Intelligent Transportation System / highway management and maintenance - Up to date street works information provided via a hi-tech Mayrise system is improving traffic control in Oxfordshire. Helping to power the Council’s Urban Traffic Management Control system, road works data sits alongside other information, such as car park occupancy, CCTV and journey times, and is used to actively manage the road network. The combined Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) provides up to the minute information helping traffic controllers to make informed decisions about traffic signal timings, messages on electronic signs as well as updating travel news channels. Read more about this amazing development based on MAYRISE Street Works software: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19775.html

GIS / Local Land and Property Gazetteer - Blaby District Council now has up to date address records following the implementation of gazetteer management software from GGP Systems. Since the introduction of GGP NGz the Council has leapt a staggering 273 places in performance ratings and was recently presented with an award for ‘Most Improved’ at a prestigious national awards ceremony. The database – the Local Land and Property Gazetteer (LLPG) - will now be used to provide an up to date, accurate and consistent address for every household in the Leicestershire authority helping improve the delivery of a range of frontline services. Read more On Blaby’s breakthrough: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19778.html

Laser scanning / gold mining - 3D Laser Mapping has delivered an advanced laser scanning system to help monitor the construction of a new gold mine in the Dominican Republic. The Pueblo Viejo Dominicana Corporation will use the Riegl VZ-400 laser scanner to record construction in the process plant, calculate volumes of material displaced during land clearance and monitor civil structures for subsidence and deformation. The laser scanner is also expected to be used for high precision monitoring of slopes and mining activity to optimise site safety. The VZ-400 can achieve accuracies of 5mm at ranges of up to 500 metres, measure up to 125,000 points per second all with a 360-degree field of view. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19777.html

E-commerce / logistics / Web 2.0 - NetDespatch is streamlining sales and delivery processes for online retailers and catalogue sales and mail order companies with its advanced web software – Velocity Connector. This automated online system connects to NetDespatch’s real-time web booking and tracking service so that companies can process more orders and provide customers with rapid turnaround. Hundreds of E-commerce companies have integrated Velocity Connector with their online shopping cart and warehouse systems to automatically print the correct shipping labels and request a collection from their carrier. With this elegant automated solution, there is no need to transfer order data and delivery details into a separate shipping system. Read more about it: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19779.html

Logistics software / routing and scheduling - Gas and engineering company Linde Group is using advanced logistics software from Paragon Software Systems to optimise gas deliveries across the world. Linde uses Paragon for daily dynamic routing and transport planning for a wide range of industrial and therapeutic gas customers in its global operations. The software has improved customer service levels particularly with critical deliveries and this has enabled operational savings.

Linde uses Paragon planning daily deliveries in Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and France, with customers placing orders right up to 5pm each afternoon for next day delivery. Eventually, Linde will use Paragon worldwide for managing deliveries globally and optimising its use of a combined worldwide fleet of 4,500 vehicles. Read more detail about this development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19780.html

Laser mapping / long range laser scanner / volcano monitoring - 3D Laser Mapping has supplied a long range laser scanner to monitor volcanic lava flows on Mount Etna in Sicily. The scanner will be used to measure lava flow dynamics as part of a NERC (Natural Environment Research Council) funded research project at the Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, UK.

“This particular project will assist with the understanding of flow processes in lava eruptions and therefore help with the management of associated hazards. Being able to track changes in lava effusion rate relatively closely will enable us to look for clues as to when flows may suddenly increase their rate of advance or eruptions cease,” commented Dr Mike James, RCUK Fellow in Environmental Informatics and Project Supervisor. Read more about this exciting development: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19272.html

Mobile computing / rapid application development / .NET - Mobexx is offering user-friendly off-the-shelf software for easy mobile application development on any .NET enabled device. Using the pre-designed templates that come with the software, anyone can benefit from real-time paperless data collection and communication without the need for specialist programming skills or third party support. The software utilises the latest .NET, MIIS, Web Services, and XML standards. Using this standard programming architecture enables wide-ranging compatibility with existing application servers, networks, and application programs from companies such as Microsoft, Oracle, Sybase and Sun. More information available: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19277.html

Vehicle routing / public transport - Mobexx has an introduced an advanced real-time electronic fixed-route system for public transport. The Google^TM Map based and paperless Mentor Transit ITS solution enables bus operators to capture and use live data to create accurate schedules, optimise routes and monitor fleet activities, as well as provide real-time updates to customers. The visual intelligent transport system reduces running costs by making better use of available buses and drivers, improve fuel efficiency and deliver a real-world view of bus fleet performance to managers and despatchers. The US is benefiting from this technology; now it’s time for the UK. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19276.html

GIS / Fire and Rescue Services / Data management - Data management professionals converged on Warwick Castle in the heart of England to learn about the latest developments in the use and management of geographic information by UK Emergency Services. The ‘Addressing Issues’ seminar was sponsored by geographic information specialists GGP Systems and is the latest in a series of educational events targeted at the Fire and Rescue Service, Police and Local Government communities. Representing more than 15 organisations, the delegates learned about the development of the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and its adoption by UK Emergency Services and shared the real life highs and lows of using gazetteer data. Read more about the conference: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19283.html

Vehicle tracking / mobile resource management - Nottinghamshire County Council is keeping a live 24 hour watch over its vehicles, plant and personnel in the field with a personal ‘resource management’ system from Masternaut Three X. This advanced system gives the Council a global real-time view of its fleet, plant and mobile staff, enabling it to enhance customer service levels, improve safety and reduce costs. The new fully-integrated system utilises Masternaut’s renowned vehicle tracking, Lokate lone-worker personal communication and discrete Asset Track plant security devices to track more than 200 vehicles, ensure lone worker safety and mobile plant. Track along this link to find out more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19273.html

GIS / geospatial conference / GEO-10 - The organisers of GEO-10, the UK’s No 1 geo-event, have announced an exciting two-day conference programme. Grounded in the three m’s – measuring, modelling and managing (and applying) geospatial information the m3 conference will feature daily keynote presentations from respected geostrategy consultant and former MD of MapInfo UK Steven Feldman and Michael Nicholson, Chairman of Intelligent Addressing and the driving force behind the commercial development of the National Land and Property Gazetteer. The m3 conference programme will also feature papers on ‘3D Mapping and GIS’, ‘Open Systems and Open Data’ and ‘ GIS and other desperate measures that save lives’. Get the overview on this important event by following the link: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19287.html

Educational resources / school supplies / Geography Association - Wildgoose is offering a 10 per cent discount to holders of the Geographical Association’s Geography Quality Mark. The Geography Quality Mark is awarded to schools that wish to achieve recognition for quality and progress in curriculum development, learning and teaching in their school. This latest offer from Wildgoose is available across their entire range of educational products, not just those designed to support the teaching of geography. Wildgoose will be also exhibiting at the forthcoming Geographical Association’s Annual Conference, 08 – 10 April 2010 at the University of Derby. Read more about what Wildgoose has on offer for geographers: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19269.html

Aerial photography / airborne surveys - Aerial survey specialist Bluesky has signed a reseller agreement with Landmark, Britain’s leading supplier of land and property search information. The deal will see the UK’s largest collection of historically important commercial aerial photographs being made available through the Envirocheck website further helping professional users to make informed decisions based on comprehensive environmental site assessment information. The million plus photographs, from Bluesky’s Old Aerial Photos archive, date back as far as 1917 and include some of the earliest commercial survey images, military photography and many national archives. Read more about this Landmark deal for Bluesky: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19281.html

Street lighting / mobile computing software - Gwynedd Council are using HP IPAQ pocket PCs, loaded with MAYRISE Street Lighting mobile software, to identify and record faulty street lighting units. The intelligent software includes a fully integrated mapping module, making it easier for council electricians undertaking night patrols to report back. The reports are then downloaded to the Council’s Mayrise server, generating a works order for the repair which is in turn uploaded to the pocket PC. The handheld devices also enable electricians responding to the problem to access detailed maintenance information and service history for the faulty unit. Read more about this advanced street lighting management system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19278.html

Vehicle tracking / mobile resource management / Sport Relief - Masternaut Three X is the official tracking supplier for UK Sport Relief’s Million Pound Bike Ride. The company’s GPS tracking system is being used to track seven celebrities during their gruelling 1000 mile charity cycling challenge which began 01 March and will see them go from John O’Groats in Scotland to Lands End in England. The Sport Relief cyclists are carrying special Masternaut GPS tracking devices allowing everyone to track the riders live during their 4 day event. The team includes Little Britain star David Walliams, Radio 1 DJ Fearne Cotton, Big Brother host Davina McCall and comedians Jimmy Carr, Miranda Hart, Russell Howard and Patrick Kielty. Read more about Masternaut and Sport Relief: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19279.html

Mobile computing - JLT Mobile Computers is reporting a significant boost in sales for 2009. An increase of 50 per cent reflects the demand for the company’s rugged mobile computers. Sales of JLT fixed-mount touch screen and tablet PC have been driven by reseller activity, in particular Rugged Mobile Systems Ltd and Mobexx Ltd, two of the UK’s leading specialist rugged mobile computing VARs.

“... we are extremely pleased with the level of activity of our leading VARs who have developed some groundbreaking applications using our rugged mobile PCs. These companies have been instrumental in spreading the word about our advanced products and we are expecting great things for 2010,” said Mark Muslek, MD, JLT Mobile Computers. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19271.html

Next day delivery / fresh produce / Slow Food - Kernowsashimi is using APC Overnight for delivering fresh locally caught fish, including sashimi-grade produce for Japanese restaurants, based on the Slow Food principles, throughout the UK.

“... As soon as we know the day’s catch, we contact our customers to confirm their orders and pack and despatch each consignment. These are collected by APC Carn Logistics and then fed into the APC Overnight network for morning delivery. Speedy delivery works extremely well for us and ensures freshness,” says Dylan Bean, co-owner, Kernowsashimi. Read more about this fresh food delivery solution: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news19286.html

Waste management / software integration - To help with frontline service delivery, Preston City Council has integrated waste management software from Mayrise with its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. This has specially developed service forms to log customer calls to report missed bin collections, fly tipping and so on. This information is automatically linked to the MAYRISE waste management software where a new job is raised and monitored through to completion. Read more:
http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18474.html

Gazetteer management software - Tandridge Council is using GGP Systems' advanced Gazetteer Management Software - GGP NGz - to transform the electoral process. Giving voters a choice in the way they exercise their vote and helping to reduce electoral fraud, the new government directive controls the way electors’ details are stored ensuring a consistent standard with prescribed formatting of names, dates of birth and addresses. Using GGP NGz, Tandridge Council is one of the first councils to obtain a 100 percent adoption of the new standards, thereby maintaining compatibility between their National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and their Electoral Register. More about this local government breakthrough can be found at: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18477.html

Delivery services for e-commerce firms - Electro Music is planning rapid expansion of its burgeoning online business thanks to new web technology linked to a nationwide parcel delivery network operated by APC Overnight. The Doncaster-based music store has been operating its online store since 2000. With thousands of items shipped nationwide each year, the company has launched a new website with integrated booking and tracking to boost customer service. Read more about how APC Overnight is helping Electro Music deliver the goods: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18476.html

Waste management software - Waste management software from Mayrise has been integrated with Preston City Council’s Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system (Front Office from Northgate)to help the council with delivering frontline services. Customer requests, such as notification of missed bins or reporting of fly tipping, are keyed into specially developed service forms within the CRM. Using unique property record numbers (UPRNs) from the Council’s centralised address database this information is automatically linked to the MAYRISE waste management software where a new job is raised and monitored through to completion. Read more about this smart integration: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18474.html

Software for commercial vehicle operators - Paragon Software Systems is exhibiting at the Commercial Vehicle Operator Show, running from 13 to 15 April 2010 at the NEC in Birmingham (stand number 5970). Paragon will demonstrate the latest versions of its user-friendly Single Depot and Multi Depot map-based routing and scheduling products. The company will also exhibit Paragon Resource Manager, which gives a bird’s eye view of all drivers and vehicles with their availability and capabilities. Read more about what will be on show: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18419.html

Mobile computing for utilities engineers - Mobexx has introduced an innovative vehicle tracking and job management system for utilities companies. The Mentor Streets Enterprise mobile resource management solution has already made its mark in the US. Companies such as American Electric Power – one of the largest US power companies that has a fleet of 4,500 service vehicles – is using the system to improve worker safety and reaction time, reduce the time taken to rectify power cuts and reduce fleet fuel usage. This is a fully integrated real-time system and promises to provide a lot of benefits to UK utilities companies. Read more about it: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18413.html

Web services for couriers - NetDespatch has developed a smart mobile web service that allows manifests to be created dynamically when scanning-in parcels. Through the NetDespatch Agility mobile application, manifests are created on the fly as parcels are scanned on collection. These replace conventional pre-built manifests and ensure 100 per cent manifest accuracy eliminating discrepancies and improving delivery performance. More benefits can be found in the full story: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18416.html

National Street Gazetteer (NSG) - Highway authorities across England and Wales are facing huge challenges in repairing newly formed potholes on our roads following the recent snow and ice. The rich information held within the National Street Gazetteer (NSG),has greatly simplified this task by assisting the scheduling and communication of necessary repairs. Read more about how this is helping highways authorities: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18404.html

Mobile computing - gas and oil industries - Mobexx has launched a fully automated oil and gas mobile workforce system. A new introduction to the UK, the Mentor Oil and Gas Technology Solution improves operational efficiency by integrating electronic work orders with vehicle navigation and tracking. This gives engineering team managers and customer service staff a live view of field engineers. Mobile workers are also equipped with personal tracking and communication devices for added security. The system has been designed and developed by Mentor Engineering in the USA and is believed to be the first of its kind on the UK market. Read more about this revolutionary system: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18412.html

Resources for schools - Keystages 1 through to 5 - Wildgoose has published its 2010 catalogues – Early Years, Primary Humanities, Modern Foreign Languages, Music, Numeracy and Secondary Geography – featuring the widest range of teaching resources ever. The six catalogues feature thousands of products specifically chosen to support the National Curriculum including more than 400 brand new products for 2010. The new catalogues have already been sent out to nearly 70,000 nurseries and schools and all products featured are available to purchase online. Read more by following the link: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18399.html

Augmented reality - Continually at the leading edge in vehicle tracking and mobile resource management technology, Masternaut Three X has launched an advanced camera phone application that enables digital images to be displayed together with associated business data. The Augmented Reality solution is the first of its kind within the vehicle tracking and mobile resource management sector to use Layar Browser 3.0 technology, bringing point and shoot simplicity to accessing important data. This innovation will have broad appeal and application, read about it now: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18408.html

Laser scanning the highways - The State Enterprise Transport and Road Research Institute in Lithuania has taken delivery of the latest StreetMapper system. This uses laser scanning technology to achieve sub centimetre accurate measurements at normal traffic speeds and will be used by the Institute’s Road Survey Division to help evaluate the condition of the road network, plan road repair and reconstruction projects and provide additional information for economic justification of proposed works. The StreetMapper system, developed by 3D Laser Mapping, was supplied by Vilnius based Nota Bene distributors of StreetMapper for the Baltic region. More on this: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18398.html

Mobile computers - Mobexx now offers the Xenon flash-equipped 2T Hydrus Luna. This innovative and standard-setting rugged hand held computer uses its flash gun to light up poorly lit areas to give clear, sharp image capture using the built-in 5 Megapixel imager/camera. This is a wireless hand held rated IP67/IP68 that can be used in the harshest of environments and like others in the Hydrus range can be customised to suit the user's application. Read more about the features and benefits of this revolutionary device: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18411.html

Logistics software for food and drink transporters - Paragon Software Systems will present the features and benefits of optimisation solutions for routing and scheduling, resource management and transport execution at the Food & Drink Logistics Show (stand AB039, 21 to 24 March 2010, NEC, Birmingham. Many food and drink transport and distribution organisations already use Paragon’s software and are benefiting from reduced operational costs while providing enhanced service to their customers. Read more about what Paragon will exhibit: ttp://www.themarketingedge.org/news18418.html

Software for road works permits - Mayrise software is being used by Kent County Council to manage the introduction of a new road works permit scheme. Kent is the first council outside of London to introduce the Department for Transport approved scheme. The permits give the council more power to control and coordinate works and are set to revolutionise the way local authorities control street works. The software automates the permit application process, maps and schedules proposed works, monitors works, and helps in communicating planned works to road users. More about this here: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18409.html

Online services for UK local authorities - UK local authorities are to benefit from a new online service that makes their local land and property data available in a European Union compliant format. The National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) can now be produced to the format required by the European Union (EU) INSPIRE Directive directly from the central NLPG online hub. This will significantly reduce the burden on local government who would otherwise have to provide this information individually. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18403.html

Transport - A new type of trailer called the "Eco Urban" has been bought by APC Overnight’s local depot in Burry Port, South Wales. Yorkshire-based W Trailer Co built and supplied the aerodynamically designed trailer, which includes a double deck in its front section allowing greater carrying capacity, but with reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions. APC Celtic Couriers will use the 10-metre trailer for deliveries throughout the SA (Swansea) postcode region as well as for trunking to the APC Overnight national hub in Wolverhampton. See more about this unique 30-metre trailer: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18395.html

SaaS / Cloud computing solutions for couriers - Nightline Delivers in Ireland is offering NetDespatch Velocity SaaS web services to existing and new customers that ship up to 20 parcels per night. The system automates booking, labelling and tracking parcels all over Ireland as well as international deliveries to the United Kingdom. The web services are integrated with Nightline's consignment tracking services - providing full on-line proof of delivery. This advanced technology has enabled Nightline Delivers to significantly reduce its use of manual consignment notes and it has improved data accuracy. This in turn has increased delivery efficiency and boosted customer service levels. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news18415.html

Mobile computing / hand held computers - If you are looking for a pocket-size rugged computer that you can customise to suit your needs, then the 2T Safari from Mobexx could be the answer. The hand held weighs in at less than 400 gm, offers a host of features that set the standard for a true in-field mobile computer - connectivity, GPS, GPRS, etc - as well as an optional 40-hour battery. Take a look at the story in greater detail: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news17169.html

Digital mapping / laser mapping - China is revolutionising its highway surveying with a mobile vehicle-based mapping system from 3D Laser Mapping. This highly advanced StreetMapper 360 system provides accurate sub-centimetre measurements of every detail on and along the highway, all scanned and captured at normal traffic speeds. This is a powerful tool for giving a high resolution 3D view for modelling and surveying. Read more about this:
http://www.themarketingedge.org/news17170.html

Vehicle tracking / telematics - Big news from Masternaut Three X. The company has been acquired by Masternaut International, a subsidiary of Hub Telecom owned by Europe’s second largest Airport group, Aéroports de Paris. This creates Europe’s largest fully integrated telematics, mobile resource and fleet management solutions organisation. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news17010.html

Software / local authority data management - Blaby District Council, Tandridge District Council, Blackpool Council and Ribble Valley Borough Council - all users of GGP NGz software - have been recognised as leading lights in the 2009 National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG) and National Street Gazetteer (NSG) Exemplar Awards. The awards recognise leading local authorities, police and fire services input in the creation, maintenance and utilisation of these essential information resources. Read the full story: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news17012.html

Logistics software - DHL Supply Chain “Non Food Retail” is looking for substantial annual operational savings from its Paragon routing and scheduling optimisation software. The system from Paragon Software Systems optimises DHL’s routing and scheduling for its Staples office products operation. Read more about how you can improve fleet and delivery management: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news17013.html

Environmental management- Bluesky's aerial thermal imagery is helping Peterborough City Council with its "The Green Backyard" project. This important energy efficiency project promotes sustainable lifestyles and raises awareness of environmental issues through practical demonstration and community involvement. Read more about this groundbreaking project: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news17009.html

Cloud computing / postal technology - New Zealand Post has implemented a web-based innovation from NetDespatch called RedClick. This automates and simplifies international postal operations. With RedClick, complex documentation is made easy - all done on line and generated automatically, saving New Zealand Post customers hours of paperwork every day. This is fascinating application of on demand software, see: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news17011.html

Telematics and fleet management - Nationwide logistics company Pollock (Scotrans)will use advanced vehicle tracking from Masternaut Three X for its entire fleet. This will give real-time information on vehicle and driver locations as they make deliveries throughout the UK. The integrated Masternaut GreenerFleet module will provide environmental and driver performance management. More information at: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16736.html

Aerial mapping - LiDAR - Bluesky will provide engineering consultancy Buro Happold with a LiDAR (light detection and ranging) survey of Bere Regis using airborne lasers. This is a key part of a feasibility study for Dorset County Council. The Council is looking at bypass options to aleviate traffic congestion around Bere Regis. get the full picture: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16724.html

Information management - The National Land and Property Gazetter (NLPG) is the definitive national address list that provides unique identification of properties across England and Wales. A new license from NLPG custodian Intelligent Addressing is now available to enable Housing Associations and Primary Care Trusts gain access to this unique resource. Interested? Read more about it here: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16725.html

3D digital mapping - The aerial surveyor Bluesky has launched a brand new digital map layer showing the location and extent of trees and their proximity to buildings. This is called ProximiTREE and provides the spatial location and height of individual trees together with canopy circumference. Using these details you can also determine the extent of root systems and their potential impact on either existing or proposed properties. Want more information? See: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16567.html

Mobile computing - Calling all mobile computer VARs; JLT UK is looking for more resellers and systems integrators to resell its vehicle mount computers. The company's JLT 1214 should be of interest to the channel, in particular to those companies engaged in industrial / warehousing applications. Read more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16568.html

Mobile computing - This vehicle mounted computer from Mobexx is ideal for coldstore environments - in fact it works in virtually any temperature range, high or low. The high performance system is based on the ultra-rugged JLT 1214 touch screen computer and can handle sub -30 degrees Celsius conditions. Should be on the list for any company looking to renew and upgrade their fixed-mount computers. Read more about it: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16537.html

Crime fighting - A vehicle tracking system from Masternaut Three X has helped Nottinghamshire County Council recover a stolen vehicle. Using the system to help guide Police forces from South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire took just 30 minutes to intercept and recover the pick-up truck. Learn more: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16536.html

Route planning software - Flooring specialist Interfloor has cut costs by centralising its route planning with special software from Paragon Software Systems. The software is reducing transportation administrative time by 35 per cent and cutting transport operating costs. Interfloor supplies Carpetright, B&Q and the John Lewis Partnership. Have a read of the full story
http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16538.html

Geographic information systems - Local authorities can now make use of a new web-based GIS from GGP Systems. eGGP 2009 makes up to the minute local authority service information readily accessible via the Internet - no more searching various systems for information as the system pulls together information from the spatial databases already in use by a council. Read more about this bottleneck clearing technology: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16535.html

Software - How does a local authority manage its street lighting? Answer: with Mayrise software. Cartledge (street lighting division of May Gurney) uses advanced management software from Mayrise Systems to help deliver street lighting maintenance services and improvement programmes worth £millions to the London Boroughs of Waltham Forest and Tower Hamlets. Read more here http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16430.html

Aerial thermal surveys - Bluesky has produced a property level thermal map together with high-resolution aerial photography, which home owners in West Yorkshire will be able to access thanks to Calderdale Council's website. If only all council's had the foresight to do this -
http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16426.html

Logistics - PHOENIX Healthcare Distribution is managing its deliveries using advanced logistics software from Paragon Software Systems. The route planning software helps PHOENIX manage its time critical deliveries of medicines and medical supplies to pharmacies, GP surgeries and hospitals located throughout the UK. See http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16429.html

Telematics - Ever wonder how gritting operations can proactively manage jobs so that we don't get caught out by ice and snow? GRITiT can show the rest what the best does with Masternaut's real-time vehicle tracking and data management system. Read more here http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16427.html

Green transport - APC Overnight has bought award winning EURO 5 DAF tractor units. These greener vehicles will be put into action with its midlands fleet. The story continues: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16428.html

Mobile computing - web based applications - NetDespatch says its innovative Agility multifunctional mobile web platform is the commercial equivalent of the iPhone for the parcel courier industry. NetDespatch Agility brings together all the useful applications for managing courier and parcel deliveries - users can scan barcode labels, capture signatures and provide real-time Proof of Delivery (POD). Users connect their mobile devices wirelessly to NetDespatch web servers to access live data for instant updating of consignment tracking websites. Read all about it: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16228.html

Mobile computing - route planning software - GGP Systems new route planner for UK fire and rescue services aims to reduce travelling times and costs and maximise the number of building inspections. GGP Routing combines up to date street maps with user defined options, road network characteristics and other variables. It can also be used for performance related planning and reporting. Any emergency service people out there looking for a way to boost performance and reduce administration will find this interesting: http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16227.html

Vehicle tracking - In 1954 a world record was set at Bonneville Salt Flats for driving a Healey car for 24 hours at 132.8 mph. This year, using a recreation of the original vehicle, the Healey Endurance Car team from Staffordshire will attempt to break the 55-year old record. During testing the team will use live data from an advanced vehicle tracking system called Masternaut. This will enable the team to analyse vehicle and driving performance before the official FIA test. Have a read http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16111.html

Charity work - Everyone needs to be aware of a new BBC campaign launched by Blue Peter. It's called the Send a Smile Appeal and the objective is to raise money to help the Operation Smile charity provide free reconstructive surgery to repair cleft pallets and lips in children. Blue Peter has set a challenge to children to turn unwanted T-shirts into colourful hospital gowns for Operation Smile patients. 20,000 gowns are needed – each worth approx £3 – saving £60,000 which will pay for over 300 operations. The finished gowns will be dropped off at convenient collection points – including local APC Overnight depots, Currys, Currys Digital, PC World and Access Storage - for delivery by APC Overnight to Operation Smile in London. You can read a bit more about it here http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16112.html or go straight to the Charity's website http://www.operationsmile.org.uk/bluepeterappeal

Aerial imaging - Heat loss from buildings is being mapped from the sky! The company leading the way in this advanced energy and environmental monitoring breakthrough is Bluesky and the technology is called HELIOS or in long form Heat Loss Investigation System. Read all about it http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16086.html

Mobile computing - Balfour Beatty Workplace is using a new PDA-based field computing and communication innovation from Mayrise Systems across its PFI street lighting contracts. Balfour Beatty looks after a staggering 115,000 street lights and signs, so little wonder the organisation chose MAYRISE Mobile for Street Lighting to lighten the administration workload! There's a lot more to this; read the full story http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16085.html

Logistics software - DHL Supply Chain is using a clever combination of Paragon's routing and scheduling software with integrated satellite tracking to cut emissions and improve customer services. This not only improved efficiencies it also enhances security and improves driver health and safety. Read more about it by following this link http://www.themarketingedge.org/news16055.html

Logistics software - I see that Croatian FMCG distribution company AWT International is using advanced routing and scheduling software to save at least 10 per cent of its distribution costs. That’s a major saving achieved with Paragon’s transportation optimization software. Read more about it by following this link http://www.themarketingedge.org/news15965.html

Hand held computers - The rugged mobile computing specialist Mobexx is offering an easily customisable hand held computer called the 2T Hydrus. No more long waiting times to get a keyboard made to match specific applications – and a wide range of colours too. Find out more about this flexible piece of kit by reading this story http://www.themarketingedge.org/news15967.html

Computer modelling - 3D visualisation is an extremely powerful and useful tool for assessing environmental impact of redeveloping sites. The Bluesky Digital Surface Model provides digital terrain data for such projects. Find out how URS Corporation used this for an Environmental Impact Assessment by following this link http://www.themarketingedge.org/news15929.html

Satellite vehicle tracking systems - Vehicle tracking has become much more than watching dots on screen. It is now a strategic tool for many companies. I thought that this was an interesting story as it highlights how the benefits of Masternaut Three X’s advanced system helped MITIE win an important award. Have a read – especially if you want to learn a bit more about how to save money on fleet operations. Follow this link to the story http://www.themarketingedge.org/news15933.html