Heavey RF's chief executive Ronan Clinton
Transport firm Johnston Logistics has signed a €100,000 contract with radio frequency specialist Heavey RF to install rugged mobile computers in its warehouse and second generation of wide area network computers across its transport fleet.
The haulier said the new technology will enable it to provide instant information to customers and eliminate paperwork across its entire business. This is the latest deal in a business partnership that dates back 16 years, to 1999, when Johnston Logistics moved from paper-based picking to a more streamlined process using handheld Psion 7035 radio frequency computers.
Three years later, when Psion introduced the 7535 model, Johnston Logistics migrated all of its pickers onto RF handhelds, removing the need for paper completely. Once the internal facilities were automated, Heavey RF worked with Johnston Logistics to align its transport business with the warehouses and go completely paperless across the board.
The latest deal sees the logistics company move to the third generation of rugged devices – Psion IKON and EP10 – and the second generation of WAN computers. Psion’s rugged IKON is designed specifically for a mobile workforce, as it has data capture, voice and data communication features in a single compact PDA.
Speaking about the latest contract, Johnston Logistics’ IT manager Carl Johnston said: “Productivity, efficiency and customer service have all been improved with the new system. In addition, we have won new business based on the fact that we have installed this technology – a real return on investment for us.”
According to Ronan Clinton, Heavey RF’s chief executive, using the devices in its business has led to improved processes and utilisation within its transport fleet. “Fully integrating voice and data communications eliminates the need for multiple devices – reducing capital expenditures as well as support costs,” he said.
Johnston Logistics is undertaking development work with Heavey RF through the end of this year for the implementation of voice-directed applications across its warehouses. “We have a number of upcoming contracts where voice will drive the efficiencies and productivity necessary for success. We know from experience that in working with Heavey RF we will develop an application that is the right fit,” added Johnston.
In 2006, Johnston Logistics used the release of Psion’s Workabout Pro to apply the new paperless processes to its remote sites. More recently, the company took delivery of the latest warehouse device, the Psion Omnii XT10.
