More than 100 lorry drivers at the Danish logistics specialist, SGS, have been successfully using Nokia's WAP-enabled mobile phones and WAP infrastructure for logistics management and shipment registration since October 1999. The solution is based on the Nokia Activ Server Platform and the AS400-based software platform from Danish software developer, Soft Design A/S. The lorry drivers are using the solution for logistics management when collecting and delivering shipments for customers and business associates throughout Scandinavia.
"Nokia's WAP solution represents a technological revolution, which totally fulfils the complex needs for easy-to-use professional management tools", notes Kurt Nielsen, IT Director at SGS.
"When we receive new packages, they are automatically scanned into the SGS system, giving us easy access to updated information on the location of any shipment. During their breaks, our lorry drivers are able to log on to the SGS platform and acquire detailed information about our customers and their individual shipments. As soon as the shipments are delivered to our customers, the lorry driver enters the initials of the recipient into his WAP-enabled handset and sends the confirmation of delivery directly to our application server and to our track-and-trace website", he explains.
SGS developed their new registration system in co-operation with software developer, Soft Design A/S, who used their Cool:Plex and Websydian™ development tool. Their access to the Nokia Activ Server allowed the company to deploy the world's first WAP logistics management solution 14 months ago.
SGS hires lorry drivers to distribute clothing and other types of garments to retailers all over Scandinavia. Thanks to Nokia's WAP technology, both SGS as well as their customers can locate the nearest lorry driver around the clock. As a result, high priority customers and emergency shipments get faster and more efficient service. While on the move, customers can also monitor their shipments around Scandinavia on SGS’ track-and-trace website, providing them with exact information about the shipment, from the expected time of delivery to costs.
According to Kurt Nielsen, the availability of relevant, interactive information and services has made both the drivers and customers of SGS happier and more satisfied.
"Lorry drivers within SGS are very excited about the freedom and mobility that the Nokia WAP solution provides. Our initial target was to teach all lorry drivers to use the system before January 1st 2001. This goal was achieved long before that. It takes us no more than two to five minutes to instruct a lorry driver in how the solution is used. The Nokia Activ Server, combined with Soft Design’s software platform, truly demonstrates the enormous potential and the many possibilities of the WAP technology, including real-time updates on the Internet. We could have spent millions of Danish kroner on buying a satellite based solution, but I do not think it would have proven itself as flexible and easy-to-use as Nokia’s solution."
About the Nokia Activ Server
The Nokia Activ Server allows mission critical Internet-based information to be available on mobile devices. It connects WAP enabled mobile handsets to content and services hosted by Web servers or any other Intranet or Internet server securely and cost-effectively. The Nokia Activ Server converts HTML to WML automatically, adapts WAP content to match the characteristics of the end-user terminals, and provides powerful facilities to integrate or develop customized content filters. Automatic terminal adaptation relieves application developers from tailoring content for different devices separately.
The Nokia Activ Server is used, resold, or co-marketed by software industry leaders such as BEA Systems, Brokat, Lotus Development, SAP, Siebel, SAS Institute and Tibco. The Nokia Activ Server's global distribution partners include HP, IBM and Compaq, and it is represented in most territories by regional distribution channel. More information at www.nokia.com/corporate/wap
About Nokia
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges
Further information:
Nokia Internet Communications Europe
Tel. +358 40 830 1108 and +44 7788 145460
www.nokia.com