Paragon Software Systems Discusses How Last Mile Delivery Success Enables Competitive Differentiation

DALLAS, TX--(Marketwired - Aug 9, 2016) - Paragon Software Systems, Inc., a leader in vehicle routing and scheduling optimization solutions, discusses that utilizing best practices in Last Mile Delivery can help companies differentiate themselves against the competition by excelling in customer service and on-time performance. By using omni-channel fulfillment systems that provide full visibility across the supply chain, companies are empowered to take better control of their distribution processes, while offering more convenience and choice to customers.

"While many retailers, grocers, apparel and CPG companies provide the same products, they need ways to differentiate themselves, such as offering better, more reliable home delivery services," said William Salter, CEO and President, Paragon Software Systems. "If the delivery options for an order don't look attractive upfront, the buyer will go elsewhere. Offering accurate and timely delivery times, that can actually be achieved, positions delivery as part of your differentiated service -- and enables your business to stay ahead of the game."

A variety of Last Mile Delivery models have emerged, including shipping direct to homes, shipping to store for customer pick-up or shipping to Click-and-Collect boxes. Couple these options with fleet operations consisting of 3PL, company fleet, postal, courier or crowdshippers -- asset-light parcel deliverers -- and the model becomes even more complex, requiring a sophisticated fulfillment system. These systems help companies create optimal omni-channel fulfillment plans, which are achievable and realistic for this highly dynamic sector.

Last Mile Delivery success requires:

• Continual optimization of delivery times at the point of order, allowing businesses to offer tight time slots, while also optimizing route efficiency
• Integration with ERP and WMS solutions for accurate information about inventory availability
• Incorporation of actual constraints and resources at hand to improve asset utilization and delivery options
• The tools to continuously communicate with customers throughout the order fulfillment process
• The ability for customers to self-serve, selecting the most convenient delivery slots to improve the rate of first time delivery success

Based on over 10 years' experience in the home delivery market, Paragon has created Paragon HDX, a routing and scheduling optimization solution for home deliveries. Used by retailers, grocery stores, and home shopping companies to improve their customer service it allows these businesses to offer customers a choice of delivery options that are viable and cost effective, improving customer satisfaction while optimizing route efficiency. Dates and times for delivery can be offered at the point of purchase that satisfy the customer while also eliminating gaps in schedules, which increases fleet productivity.

About Paragon Software Systems:

Paragon Software Systems, Inc., based in Dallas, Texas, is a leading provider of truck routing and scheduling software solutions. Paragon's advanced planning systems have been proven to cut transportation costs and improve efficiency across a wide range of distribution operation types and industry sectors. Paragon's North American truck routing software clients include George's Inc., AgReliant Genetics, Linde, McLane, National Food Corporation, and many others. The software is used for the daily route optimization of transportation schedules; rationalizing fixed routes; managing transportation resources; strategic logistics planning; and managing home delivery orders with dynamic routing. Paragon Software Systems, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Paragon Software Systems plc, the UK's number one provider of transportation routing and scheduling software. Paragon has over 3,300 systems installed at more than 1,000 client sites in 50 countries worldwide. For more information visit http://www.paragontruckrouting.com.