Episode 61 – GreyOrange at MODEX 2020
In this episode I am joined by Samay Kohli of GreyOrange. Samay is the CEO & Co-Founder of GreyOrange and discusses the solutions they offer which include their GreyMatter software, Ranger line of robots, and new Command Center. One of the biggest themes throughout this discussion is how AI can help to adjust to our ever-changing environment. Key Takeaways GreyOrange focuses on combining piece picking with case picking for their robotics solutions. The majority of their customers, as Samay mentions, have an omnichannel fulfillment model. For GreyOrange, the big differentiator is their AI-driven software platform called GreyMatter. Samay explains the importance of having strong software to go along with their Ranger line of robots. When both the software and the hardware come together it helps for the whole operation to interact properly. GreyMatter allows for the robots to now interact with each other, the other systems in the warehouse, and everything that is changing within the environment. Samay makes very good points about how change is inevitable within your business and the supply chain environment overall. Predicting these changes is not done easily but what is important is being able to make the right decision when the change happens. GreyMatter allows for the right decisions to be made so that all systems and hardware can be optimized to handle whatever change or disruption is occurring. With capabilities to make 2 – 2.5 million decisions every second, GreyMatter is a truly robust system. Command Center was recently debuted at MODEX 2020 and is GreyOrange’s set of dashboards that allows users to view what is going on in their operation. The unique feature of the Command Center is that it utilizes AI to call out what things you should be looking at. Instead of displaying a ton of information in front of you, that can be distracting or confusing, it will call out what you should be looking at. The example that Samay gives is where a barcode is not working and GreyMatter is tracking how many times that issue is happening which is then called out on Command Center so it is something that can be addressed. Listen to this episode and view my interview with Samay at MODEX 2020 below. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 61: GreyOrange at MODEX 2020 In this episode, host Kevin Lawton talks to CEO & Co-founder of GreyOrange, Samay Kohli about GreyOrange’s solutions. They discuss GreyMatter, Ranger robots, and their new Command Center.
Episode 63 – ProShip at MODEX 2020
Episode 63 – ProShip at MODEX 2020 In this episode, I am joined by Justin Cramer of ProShip at MODEX 2020. Justin is the co-founder of ProShip and currently heads up their sales engineering department. ProShip is an automated multi-carrier shipping software that helps you to stay carrier compliant, ship faster, and optimize costs. We discuss what ProShip is, how it works, the benefits, and also how ProShip was founded. Key Takeaways ProShip multi-carrier shipping software comes into play after your WMS and will select the proper mode of transport based on classification of items, compliance with carriers, and also based on the best cost. This allows your operation to run more efficiently because there is no stop to make a decision for this. The software makes the decision for you and not only decides how to ship it but also helps to optimize on cost so that you get the best rate for the service needed. This is big as many different shipping options can have many different varying rates. Streamlining this can really help you to save on cost especially if you are shipping high volumes. Justin also explains to us the ability of their software to stay up to date with current shipping restrictions or rules to keep you from being penalized by carriers. Since the software is automated, it will automatically start to shift shipments for these cases. This is a big win for large shippers who can easily get close to certain carriers’ quotas. On the omnichannel fulfillment side, ProShip recognizes that many companies are now recognizing there are multiple channels to fulfill their orders from including their retail stores. Working with the different systems that are in your stack, ProShip is able to recognize where the opportunity to ship is and can shift based on where orders are at and also what is the best option to get the order out. What I like best about what Justin discusses here is that he says the system does not need to have a call out to the user because it is delivering the right answer or in this case the right label to you. Not having to look for a call out and take action yourself is a huge time saver and something that cannot get lost in the shuffle. When it comes to service levels, Justin explains how they can help improve on this as well. Automatically optimizing the best mode to ship allows for the best service level possible on each order. In the episode, you will hear Justin discuss a very impressive example of how they were able to help Kohl’s reduce their overall service level by half a day. If you think about the scale of orders and shipments that Kohl’s does that is a huge gain. For additional industry news, the ProShip blogs also update very frequently and can be found here. Check out the episode below and let us know your thoughts in the comments. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 63: ProShip at MODEX 2020
Episode 67 – Six15 Technologies at MODEX 2020
Episode 67 – Six15 Technologies at MODEX 2020 In this episode I was joined by Rich Ryan who is the CEO of Six15 Technologies. You may be familiar with the HD4000 heads up display from Zebra Technologies from previous episodes of the podcast (Episode 40) where we discussed the HD4000 and Fulfillment Edge, Six15 is the creator behind the heads up display technology. Rich and I discuss the background of Six15, how the partnership came about with Zebra, and the future of using their heads up display technology. Key Takeaways Similar to logistics, Six15 Technologies has its roots in military applications. They began to develop their HUD technology for the defense sector and as they looked to address some pain points of the most demanding environments they realized that the technology would apply well to the warehousing environment. When looking at applications for their technology, they were able to recognize how the HUD could increase productivity, reduce safety incidents, and give workers an overall improvement to their comfort level when picking. As I have previously mentioned about this technology, allowing the picker to be truly hands-free is a huge advantage to the improvement of workflow and allows the worker to be more focused on their task without having to pick up a device to verify the information. Bringing their ST1 Head-Up Display hardware to the Zebra HD4000 is what allows Zebra to deliver such a fine-tuned, truly hands-free picking device. As Rich discusses in the episode, Zebra’s Fulfillment Edge platform allows for the HUD hardware to be fully optimized for the picking environment. Fulfillment Edge streamlines what the operator sees in the HUD optical while the ST1 projects the information clearly in the operator’s view and senses the operator’s movements. Rich also talks about the future of the technology which is already partly built into the device. There is a head tracker, microphone, and camera already built into the HD4000 which can allow the device to give you a true augmented reality experience through the optical. One of the really interesting applications that Rich discusses is how the device can be paired with a Zoom or GoToMeeting so that those on the other end of the conference line are able to view what the operator is seeing and pictures are able to be captured and sent back to other remotely. This is a great application for remote training or even remote guidance for technicians or other types of maintenance roles. Listen and watch the episode below. Let us know in the comments what you think about the future of this HUD technology. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 67: Six15 Technologies At MODEX 2020
Episode 71 – SnapFulfil at MODEX 2020
In this episode, I am joined by Don White who is the CEO of SnapFulfil. SnapFulfil is a cloud-based WMS provider that allows a lot of flexibility for operations that need a top tier WMS but also need a budget-friendly and quick implementation option. Don and I discuss SnapFulfil’s WMS, how it works, and their new SnapCart. Key Takeaways SnapFulfil is a software as a service (SaaS) product which makes the adoption of the system and implementation very easy. Don mentions that due to the way the software is built it is more configuration than custom coding so even the most complex customers can get up and running in under 80 days. When it comes to customer requests, Don tells us what they see from SnapFulfil’s customers is that they all have a unique situation. Even though warehousing is a standardized overall process throughout the industry, there is a lot of variabilities depending on the products you distribute and the customers you serve and SnapFulfil has taken all of this into consideration in order to make the most robust WMS possible so it can adapt to all these different needs. As mentioned in previous MODEX posts, partnerships are playing such a huge role in pushing our industry forward. SnapFulfil has partnered with Jitterbit which is a SaaS integrator that allows SnapFulfil’s WMS to better communicate with other systems and integrate with them more easily. This helps to increase the implementation time even more. Don also talks to us about their new innovation which is the SnapCart. The SnapCart is a new robotic picking cart that can hold up to 48 totes. Much like the cost differentiator on their WMS, the SnapCart costs 1/3 of some other robotic solutions. The cart utilizes pick to light technology to help pickers determine which tote their pick should be placed in. With the cart moving from picker to picker it creates higher efficiency in the warehouse and reduces fatigue on the pickers because of less walking time. At the time of MODEX, the SnapCart was just starting to be publicly displayed so stay tuned for more information as it becomes available. Listen to and watch the episode below. Let us know in the comments what some of your biggest pain points with your WMS are. The New Warehouse Podcast EP 71: SnapFulfil at MODEX 2020
Industrial Scientific introduces Lone Worker Monitoring Solution
Industrial Scientific, the global provider in gas detection and connected safety, has announced the expansion of its connected safety portfolio to include the new TGX™ Gateway. The TGX Gateway wirelessly connects lone workers in the field to safety contacts, ensuring that workers in the most remote locations always have a lifeline to safety. With dual cellular and satellite connectivity, the TGX Gateway is ideal for remote locations where wi-fi, Ethernet, or cellular alone cannot reliably connect workers to safety contacts. Having reliable connectivity, regardless of location, means managers know their people are safe and workers know someone can respond in an instant if an emergency occurs. The TGX Gateway makes it easy to monitor lone worker safety in real-time. The gateway transmits gas readings and alarm activity from Ventis® Pro5 Multi-Gas Monitors to iNet® Now Live Monitoring software. With iNet Now’s easy-to-use dashboard and optional text alerts, safety managers can see worker status, location, and current conditions, providing an instant view into remote worker safety. “When lone workers are in locations without cell coverage, they are truly alone. If something were to happen, the safety manager wouldn’t know to send help,” said Tae-Yeon Won, product manager at Industrial Scientific. “The TGX Gateway eliminates this challenge by seamlessly connecting lone workers via satellite to safety managers who can monitor, escalate, and respond to critical incidents in real-time.” The vehicle-installed TGX Gateway requires no maintenance or charging and automatically connects with nearby Ventis Pro5 Multi-Gas Monitors and Radius® BZ1 Area Monitors for simple, seamless connectivity in remote locations. Industrail_Scientific_TGX_Gateway_Final_V2
Zethcon celebrates 50 years in logistics software business
Zethcon, Inc. is celebrating its golden anniversary, the company’s 50th year serving the logistics software market. Founded in July 1970, Zethcon began providing customized software solutions, before launching its warehouse management system called Synapse WMS in 1999, specifically designed for the unique needs of third-party logistics (3PL) providers. “In an era where software companies come and go, we are proud to celebrate our 50th year in business,” said Christopher J. Oechsel, president and CEO, Zethcon. “We’ve worked hard to maintain a specialized focus, and much of the credit goes to our great relationships with customers and supporting organizations like the International Warehouse and Logistics Association (IWLA). We thank them for helping us achieve this special milestone.” Synapse WMS remains the company’s flagship offering, has since grown into an enterprise-level solution with the broad, deep functionality that 3PL and distribution operations require. The company continues to enhance the technology and support capabilities for Synapse WMS, collaborating with customers to develop solutions for specific business challenges. Most recently, Zethcon launched its Managed Integrations Services (MIS) division dedicated to helping Synapse WMS users with end-to-end data integration.
Squid Ink introduces new food grade ink for inkjet printing systems
Squid Ink Manufacturing, Inc., a manufacturer of coding and marking systems for product identification and traceability, introduces the addition of a food-grade ink to the growing Squid Ink fluids family. SI-CIJ9351 Food Grade Red Ink is approved for use in Squid Ink’s Streamline® 5 and JetStream™ CIJ printers and is ideal for use in facilities that require food grade ink. SI-CIJ9351 food grade ink is designed for printing quality codes directly onto food products, such as eggs, cheese, and other edible products, and works well for applications where the food package may not create an effective barrier against ink migration. SI-CIJ9351 complies with all FDA guidelines and is manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) specifications. Squid Ink’s food-grade ink utilizes the same simple quick-change cartridges as existing Squid Ink CIJ fluids. Clean cartridges of ink and make-up can be replaced in seconds without having to stop production. Also, no chips or RFID tags are used to lock users into a fluids hostage situation with the printer manufacturer. As a proven ink manufacturer, Squid Ink offers a comprehensive range of inks for a variety of applications and industry requirements.
Simio announces new Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Simio is pleased to announce that Howard Coltin will be joining the company as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, effective April 20, 2020. In this role, Mr. Coltin will be responsible for accelerating Simio’s worldwide revenue growth, while building awareness of the company’s game-changing portfolio of Industry 4.0 simulation and scheduling products. Mr. Coltin brings to Simio over two decades of experience in management, sales, marketing, operations, and manufacturing. He joins the company from Ansys, Inc., where he held senior leadership roles in sales and operations over his 11-year tenure. Prior to Ansys, he built an impressive track record of growing emerging software technology companies from the ground up. Mr. Coltin holds a B.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering from Northeastern University. “We’re excited to have Howard on board. Coupling his significant experience at both established and emerging technology companies with Simio’s seasoned executive team, positions us well to grow business through our direct sales force as well as an expanded partner eco-system,” said C. Dennis Pedgen, Simio’s founder and CEO. “Howard will be responsible for global sales and marketing of both our simulation and scheduling products. He will be a key member of our team as we pursue our vision of becoming the leading process Digital Twin solution for the design and operation of complex systems.” “I would also like to thank Richard Ritchie, a stalwart of Simio, for his 11-years of work helping Simio get off the ground and forged into the company that we are today,” says Mr. Pedgen. A co-founder of Simio, Mr. Ritchie will be retiring from his role as Vice President Simulation Sales on May 1, 2020. “Richard has been instrumental in Simio’s success. Although he is retiring from Simio, I am confident he will remain a valued and contributing member of our team.”
Cognex introduces world’s first Industrial Smart Camera Powered by Deep Learning
In-Sight® D900 provides an all-in-one solution for complex in-line inspection challenges Cognex Corporation, a provider in industrial machine vision, introduces the In-Sight® D900 embedded vision system. A first-of-its-kind solution, the In-Sight D900 features Cognex’s ViDi™ deep learning software inside an In-Sight industrial-grade smart camera. The self-contained system is designed to solve a broad range of complex in-line inspection applications including optical character recognition (OCR), assembly verification, and defect detection. “Sophisticated manufacturers are increasingly turning to deep learning vision to solve inspections that are too complicated, time-consuming, or costly to program using human or rule-based machine vision,” said Joerg Kuechen, Senior Vice President of Vision Products at Cognex. “By embedding our ViDi deep learning software in In-Sight, customers can solve even the most complex visual inspections quickly, easily, and more cost-effectively.” Combining the self-learning ability of a human inspector with the robustness and consistency of a vision system, the In-Sight D900 expands the limits of what can be inspected in factory automation. The system, which can be set up using a small number of image samples, leverages Cognex’s familiar and easy-to-use spreadsheet platform and does not require a PC or deep learning expertise to deploy. The In-Sight D900 is ideal for automating complex inspection applications across a range of industries including automotive, consumer electronics, consumer products, packaging, food and beverage, medical devices, and logistics.
U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders increased in February 2020: Covid-19 Pandemic upends U.S. Economy and Manufacturing Industry
U.S. manufacturing technology orders increased 3 percent in February from the previous month to $277.9 million, according to the latest U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders report published by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology. New orders were 16.5 percent lower than in February 2019. Total orders through February 2020 are $547 million, 26.2 percent lower than YTD 2019 orders. “Before the pandemic hit, we had predicted lower manufacturing technology orders in the first half of the year with a pickup in the second half,” said Douglas K. Woods, president of AMT. “Clearly the downturn will be much more severe than could have been anticipated. While we still expect a rebound later this year, this recovery is likely to take an extended period of time to get to pre-crisis levels as the global economy, the U.S. economy, and the manufacturing industry slowly regain their momentum.” “While all industries are being affected, and some more than others, with cancellations of orders or postponement of expected orders, due to long lead times of some industrial equipment and urgent retooling to meet crisis-related production some pockets of investment are continuing. As we progress out of this crisis the manufacturing technology industry will be critical in scaling up the products and equipment our economy needs going forward such as air filtration equipment, laboratory and medical equipment, automation, pharmaceuticals, PPE, defense and other products. These opportunities will create momentum in the manufacturing technology industry well into 2021 and beyond supplying both domestic and global needs.” “The pandemic has clearly exposed the risks of excessive reliance on non-diversified, global supply chains to produce the necessary products and equipment in a time of crisis—be it an outbreak of a disease, an economic crisis, or a large military conflict. Centralized supply chains in foreign countries have proved to be detrimental to the ability of the U.S. to effectively react to a global crisis. Revitalizing America’s manufacturing sector would provide the U.S. with “self-manufacturing-sufficient” supply chains to support our industrial base in a crisis.”
HARTING Americas announces launch of breakthrough Single Pair Ethernet technology
HARTING Americas announced their North American launch of their Single Pair Ethernet technologies. The company has been driving the creation of a Single Pair Ethernet standard for the Industrial marketplace since 2015 along with other industrial companies and global standards bodies, such as IEC and IEEE. Single Pair Ethernet communicates across the common industrial Ethernet protocols available today (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, EtherCAT, etc.) but instead of using 4 or 8 total wires, it accomplishes communication across just two wires, a single twisted pair. Also, it is utilizing Power over Data Line (PoDL) technology to not only bring communication to the device but also the voltage and amperage needed to power the device itself. This is hugely beneficial for three reasons. First, space and number of connections are reduced on the device. Second, the need for an external power supply is eliminated. Finally, devices on the plant floor that have traditionally communicated over Fieldbus protocols can now join the same IP-based network that the rest of the devices on the network are using. This enables peer-to-peer communication, open-loop feedback of all devices, and smart functionality all the way from the main control room down to the individual device. HARTING will contribute several components to the SPE Ecosystem, with the core product being the T1 connector system. The T1 was selected as the standard mating face for Industrial Single Pair Ethernet. The product ranges from IP20 to IP67, and currently, there are metric variants (M8 and M12), with further variants on the product roadmap. To fit all applications and truly be the standard for industrial applications, the mating interface was designed to be the same and interoperable across all IP-ratings. The T1 connector series is scheduled to be released later this year.
Qimarox strengthens grip on the chain with Tradecloud platform
Qimarox has strengthened its collaboration with suppliers by implementing the Tradecloud Supply Chain platform. Through this platform, Qimarox communicates with suppliers about the rapidly growing number of orders and deliveries. Because Qimarox expects to continue to grow, digitalization of the supply chain was an important wish. Purchasing manager Hendri de Ruiter: ‘We can only maintain our high level of delivery reliability if our suppliers also maintain a high level of delivery reliability’. Tradecloud is a digital platform that supports buyers and their suppliers by increasing speed and flexibility and wasting less time and resources. The standard platform is specially developed for the manufacturing industry, runs in the cloud and communicates with any ERP system. Qimarox has been using the platform since January of this year to automatically share orders from its own ERP system with eleven suppliers. They, in turn, send an order confirmation directly from their own ERP system or via the platform. ‘Our suppliers see it immediately when a new purchase order is ready and can import it directly into their own ERP system without having to enter any data manually. That makes for a much more efficient process, both at Qimarox’s end as well as of the suppliers,’ says purchasing manager Hendri de Ruiter of Qimarox. He mentions the following advantages: more insight into deliveries and better calculations of material requirements. Full chain integration Qimarox signed the contract with Tradecloud in February 2019. One month later the project started, after which the platform was implemented in six months. Qimarox connected the first supplier to the platform in September. The platform has been fully live since January 2020 and eleven suppliers are now connected. For them, connection to the platform is free, while they also benefit from full chain integration thanks to the standard ERP connectors. Because the manual procurement tasks such as processing order confirmations are now automated, Qimarox spends half the time on order administration. Automation also leads to more speed and fewer errors. Because Qimarox’s purchasing staff can now concentrate only on the orders that require attention, supplier delivery reliability has increased. ‘We now have fewer rush orders as well as less problems with orders. We are now all on the same page.’ Everything in one place All communication between Qimarox and suppliers is now in one place. Not only De Ruiter but also other parties within Qimarox and the suppliers can easily see what has been agreed. ‘Our goal is to capture as much knowledge as possible in systems. We go quite far in defining the specifications with which the purchased parts must comply. This prevents mistakes and misunderstandings. Especially in these times with a shortage of technical personnel, it is important to communicate clearly and efficiently, so that companies are able to make optimal use of the competencies of their employees’, says De Ruiter. Qimarox is currently using the Tradecloud modules Orders, Workflow, Communication, and Basic Supply Chain Analytics. De Ruiter: ‘This year we want to connect even more suppliers. We are also thinking about expanding the processes we want to facilitate with Tradecloud. Consider, for example, the modules Forecasts and Article management.’
New i-PRO Extreme U-Series Network Cameras deliver Outstanding Performance at entry level prices
Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions, formerly Panasonic Security Group, is announcing its new line of economically priced U-Series Network Cameras. Designed for SMB, schools, and numerous other applications, the new U-Series cameras offer high-quality imaging performance and many of the features found in the company’s flagship i-PRO Extreme Series Cameras at economical price points. “There are many surveillance projects where budget dictates the level of imaging performance, which can compromise security. Our new U-Series Network Cameras are designed to meet the needs and expectations of myriad users who need the added protection and peace of mind from a top brand in the industry, at an affordable price,” said Bill Brennan, President, Panasonic i-PRO Sensing Solutions Corporation of America. The U-Series includes thirteen (13) models in an indoor and outdoor dome and bullet camera configurations with fixed or varifocal lenses, 2MP and 4MP models. Features include H.265 compression and smart coding to increase bandwidth efficiency and reduce storage requirements; color night vision for use in low-light conditions; and iA (Intelligent Auto) and Super Dynamic functions for enhanced dynamic range in scenes with varying lighting conditions. Additionally, U-Series Cameras are bundled with i-PRO Video Insight 7.6 VMS software and feature a five-year warranty, which positions them to aggressively compete in a price-sensitive market category when it comes to the total cost of ownership. The new eight (8) varifocal camera models will be released in March, May, and June, and five (5) fixed lens models available in August.
AT&T and Comcast lifting data caps or introductory fees amid the coronavirus outbreak
Two major internet service providers are making changes to their home internet broadband plans and services as a result of the impacts of coronavirus concerns in the US that’s leading millions of Americans to work and learn from home. AT&T is reportedly lifting overage fees and data caps when many Americans are being told by their employers, schools, and institutions to stay home, according to Motherboard. AT&T confirmed Motherboard’s report, specifying that many of its customers “already have unlimited home internet access, and we are waiving home internet data overage for the remaining customers.” Not all internet service providers have data caps or charge overage fees for their home broadband internet services. Comcast told Business Insider that it is offering its Essentials internet service designed for low-income families free for 60 days for new qualifying customers where Comcast internet is available in response to the effects that coronavirus is having on Americans’ daily lives. “As schools and businesses close and families are encouraged, or even mandated, to stay home, Internet connectivity becomes even more important,” Comcast’s Dana Strong said in a statement. The typical price for Comcast’s Essential service is $9.95 per month. Comcast also told Business Insider that will increase the speeds of its Essential internet service from 15/2 Mbps to 25/3 Mbps for all new and existing customers. These new speeds will remain the standard moving forward, the company said. So far, internet service provides and telcos haven’t shown that their networks and infrastructure are being overloaded, or even significantly affected, by a shift from offices and schools to homes. Spectrum told Business Insider in a statement that its network “is built to sustain maximum capacity during peak usage, which is typically in the evenings, so a surge during the day would be well within our capabilities to manage.” Altice sent Business Insider a statement saying the company has “been investing in technology and increasing network capacity to meet the growing demands of our “always online” culture, and this includes having in place proper contingency plans to ensure service continuity for our customers.”
Delmar International Inc. deploys Tecsys Software to improve 3PL Warehouse Operations and Value-added Services
Tecsys Inc., an industry supply chain management software company, just announced that Delmar International Inc. has introduced operational and functional improvements to their 3PL warehousing and distribution business through deployment of Tecsys software and business intelligence solutions. The company is leveraging Tecsys’ warehouse management platform and extended capabilities across its two largest fulfillment centers. Founded in 1965, Delmar International is now Canada’s largest logistics service provider, offering cargo management and supply chain services locally and around the world. In order to grow their business and provide value-added services to their 3PL customers, the company has invested in top-tier technology that improves operational efficiency, streamlines information systems, and preserves Delmar’s world-class customer service. Following Delmar’s 2016 acquisition of a 3PL business running legacy software, the company identified an opportunity to outfit its warehouses with Tecsys’ modern software system and integrated platform to improve operations and be able to scale with Delmar’s growth trajectory. Implementation of the Tecsys solution enabled Delmar to provide comprehensive 3PL services to their warehousing and distribution customers while offering unique value-added services to attract new business. “This is an important and expanding business unit for Delmar International, and we are focused on delivering warehousing and distribution services that rise above the fray,” explained Managing Director of Delmar Logistics Jamie McLoughlin. “In Tecsys, we find a reliable software partner with a platform that can scale and adapt to the 3PL market and to our business needs.” “In a fiercely competitive 3PL market, providers are being challenged to run razor-sharp operations that are nimble and connected,” said Bill King, chief revenue officer at Tecsys. “It is in that environment that Delmar continues to outpace their competition and win customers. We are impressed by Delmar’s attention to customer service and an enviable reputation, and we are delighted to serve as a critical piece of that puzzle in their 3PL operations.”
BluJay Solutions drives growth and innovation as company marks milestone
Three years since introducing BluJay brand, the company continues growth streak, expands network and drives double-digit increase in bookings BluJay Solutions, a leading provider of supply chain software and services, today highlighted key achievements that have primed the global company for continued success in helping customers achieve excellence in logistics and trade compliance. “Our momentum is evidence of a focus on strategy, innovation, and customer priorities, which includes the introduction of the BluJay Way and DNA platform,” said Andrew Kirkwood, CEO, BluJay Solutions. “The past year has been a remarkable one for BluJay, from product innovation and strong financial performance to customer successes and strategic partnerships that further the Frictionless Supply Chain. As we celebrate ‘BluJay Day’ and look ahead, we’re approaching our continued evolution with a growth mindset – not just in revenue, but in empowering our people to deliver the highest level of service possible. Our team is constantly striving for new and better ways to innovate and get closer to our customers’ needs and priorities to get them where they want to be, faster.” BluJay’s DNA is the unique blend of Data, Networks, and Applications designed to help shippers, LSPs, forwarders, customs brokers, carriers, and other organizations build high-performance supply chains. BluJay’s developments over the past year include: Company Growth and Customer Engagement Financial strength: In 2019, BluJay saw the strong financial performance with 20 percent year-over-year growth in SaaS bookings. Software as a Service (SaaS) platform revenues grew by double digits and recurring revenues today represent more than 75 percent of the company’s $175 million revenue base. Global footprint: As further proof of its strong market position, BluJay also expanded its global presence in new and existing markets including a modern upgrade to a new office for 300 employees in Hyderabad, India, and new space in Denmark. In the past week, BluJay strengthened its presence in Melbourne, Australia, and Asia-Pacific via the acquisition of Expedient Software. Supply chain network milestones: Billions of miles and global trade transactions flow through BluJay’s networks and applications each year. Over $18 billion in annualized freight under management or about 2.5 percent of all trucking spend in the U.S., transacts through BluJay’s Transportation Management for Shipper’s platform. In 2019, over 10 billion miles were managed by BluJay’s TMS – enough to travel to the sun and back 55 times. BluJay’s Transportation Management for Forwarders solution surpassed the 100 marks for a number of countries in which is it deployed. For trade compliance in 2019, BluJay saw 80 percent growth in transactions filed through its Customs Management-Global platform, and $450 billion in U.S. imports were processed by BluJay’s Customs Management-US solution. Customer engagement: At BluJay, stakeholder feedback is critical not only to the product development process but also across the organization to providing value and fostering customer success. BluJay’s largest events, SOAR and SOAR Summit, saw record attendance and participation in Customer Advisory Boards, where users collaborate with product teams on roadmap priorities. The company embarked on the Frictionless Tour, a first-of-its-kind multi-stop event that took the BluJay experience on the road to customers and partners across a dozen U.S. states in just under three months. BluJay’s emphasis has been on delivering excellence across all areas of the business to get closer to its customers’ priorities and deliver on their most pressing business needs. Executive leadership: In the first full year under the leadership of CEO Andrew Kirkwood, BluJay expanded its executive leadership suite to drive the company’s strategic vision. New appointments include David Landau, Chief Product Officer; Chris Timmer, Chief Revenue Officer; Michael Hunt, Chief Financial Officer; and Jan-Paul Boos, SVP EMEA. Innovations in Data, Networks, and Applications New data solution: BluJay launched the industry-first Freight Market Index (FMI). The monthly report provides subscribers with data-driven intelligence derived from the over $18B in annualized freight under management transacting within the BluJay Global Trade Network. The FMI’s extensive set of transportation KPIs and quartiles provides users with benchmarks and context to better understand opportunities or trade-offs between cost and service, for informed decision-making. Network partners: BluJay forged several strategic alliances with industry-leading organizations including Convoy, SleekFleet, Loadsmart, Raven Logistics, and project44. Through these partnerships and others, the company continues to enhance its network, reach new markets, and add new services that drive value for customers. Product innovation: The introduction of BluJay’s DNA platform was accompanied by an enhanced product roadmap, investments in R&D and development, and several new products or modules to be unveiled in 2020. BluJay held multiple hackathons for its development teams around the world, resulting in product innovations that moved forward into development, including a new solution that will be released in the second quarter of 2020. Chief Product Officer David Landau adds, “We’ve made amazing progress over the past year, but 2020 looks even brighter. During the next nine months, expect to see BluJay launch multiple new products, announce new partnerships, and introduce some exciting new technologies.”
JLT Mobile Computers expands partnership and becomes exclusive U.S.reseller of Winmate products
The agreement deepens the existing relationship between the companies with the aim to provide complete rugged computing solutions for enhanced operational efficiency in the warehouse, ports and other demanding application environments JLT Mobile Computers, a supplier of reliable computers for demanding environments, announces that it has signed a distribution agreement with rugged computing and embedded solutions provider Winmate Inc. Under the terms of the new agreement, JLT will exclusively distribute Winmate’s portfolio of rugged mobile computers, rugged tablets, and vehicle-mount computers in the United States. Strengthening the existing relationship between the two companies, the agreement marks another step in JLT’s growth strategy centering on an expanded product, service, and solution offerings and strategic partnerships to address customers’ business needs. Recognizing the increasing complexity of customers’ planning, acquisition, implementation, and management processes as a result of digitization, IoT, Cloud and Industry 4.0 trends, JLT’s vision is to ensure trouble-free business operations for its customers. To realize this vision, JLT is gradually transforming itself into a provider of end-to-end rugged IT solutions, with a strengthened commitment to customers through the sale of complementary products, services, and consultancy besides the leverage of a growing number of strategic partnerships. “JLT has been a pioneer and leader in the rugged computing industry for more than 25 years and today owns a long-standing presence in the U.S., especially within the warehousing, transportation and ports segments”, said Allan Lin, COO of Winmate. “By combining the JLT offering with Winmate products and expertise, we will together provide the best possible enterprise mobility solutions and services in the U.S. market.” “Our strategy to become a provider of end-to-end rugged IT solutions is an ongoing transformation that has been underway for a while”, explained Per Holmberg, CEO at JLT Mobile Computers Group. “JLT is transforming from predominantly being a traditional hardware vendor to becoming a business partner and trusted advisor to our customers, providing the best combination of rugged hardware, software, services, and solutions.” “Leveraging the strength of JLT’s products, deep expertise in system integration and proactive customer support, in combination with Winmate’s rugged enterprise mobility offering, we will bring outstanding products and solutions to the growing industrial-grade enterprise mobility industry in the United States,” says Eric Miller, CEO at JLT Mobile Computers USA.
JLT Mobile Computers joins Ivanti Supply Chain Partner Program to improve worker productivity
JLT Mobile Computers Joins Ivanti Supply Chain Partner Program to Improve Worker Productivity JLT Mobile Computers, a supplier of reliable computers for demanding environments, has announced the company has joined the Ivanti Supply Chain Partner Program. Moving forward, JLT customers will have access to supply chain efficiency improvements and worker productivity enhancements available through a variety of Ivanti’s enterprise mobility solutions. As a trailblazer in the field of rugged computers for over 25 years, JLT offers a broad range of high-performance vehicle-mount terminals, tablets, and handheld computers as well as comprehensive support, maintenance, and solution services. JLT rugged computers are used in industries such as warehousing, manufacturing, transportation, ports, agriculture, mining, and other demanding environments. Ivanti Supply Chain has delivered mobile-enablement solutions to improve supply-chain efficiency and worker productivity for three decades. A pioneering innovator in mission-critical device management, wireless infrastructure management, terminal emulation, voice, and mobile application development software, Ivanti Supply Chain helps organizations leverage modern technology in the warehouse and across the supply chain to improve delivery without modifying the backend systems. “The Ivanti Supply Chain terminal emulation telnet client is used on more mobile devices than any other,” said Eric Miller, CEO at JLT Mobile Computers USA. “With customers moving from legacy systems to modern operating platforms on JLT computers, Ivanti Supply Chain solutions make it easy to migrate existing telnet screens or web applications to Windows 10 or Android. Field-proven screens get a great new look, work much better, and users love the familiar, intuitive software interface.” JLT’s participation in the Ivanti Supply Chain Partner Program helps customers take full advantage of their investment in advanced JLT vehicle mounts and mobile computers by migrating and modernizing their applications and software management systems. Ivanti Velocity TE and Industrial Browser make it easy to bring existing telnet screens or web apps to modern mobile platforms. Ivanti Speakeasy provides a fast, easy way to add voice to any application. Ivanti Avalanche is a proven mobile device management system. And its Session Persistence Server prevents dropped telnet connections in areas with weak coverage. JLT customers will be able to select from Ivanti’s many management, migration and productivity-enhancement solutions for their Ivanti Supply Chain certified JLT hardware. This helps JLT customers meet their business objectives, migration plans, and commitments to provide their workforce with clean, modern, ergonomic and easy-to-use apps that require minimal re-training.
JLT Mobile Computers addresses Wireless Connectivity challenges
Partnership with the industry provider of mobile connection management solutions will improve mobile device performance, productivity and security JLT Mobile Computers, a supplier of reliable computers for demanding environments, announced a technology alliance with NetMotion, a provider of dynamic Wi-Fi and cellular connection management solutions designed to improve the productivity of today’s mobile workforce. The partnership will make NetMotion available to JLT’s range of rugged mobile devices. As a trailblazer in the field of rugged computers for over 25 years, JLT offers a broad range of high-performance vehicle-mount terminals, tablets, and handheld computers as well as comprehensive support, maintenance, and solution services. JLT rugged computers are used in industries such as warehousing, manufacturing, transportation, ports, agriculture, mining, and other demanding environments. NetMotion is a privately held, Seattle based software company specializing in managing mobile performance by helping connected devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets operate more smoothly, seamlessly and productively even in poor network environments. NetMotion tools include network monitoring, diagnostics, and analytics to improve mobile device performance, troubleshooting and security; policy management to prioritize mission-critical applications; and data encryption, compression, and split tunneling functionality to facilitate reliable and seamless connectivity. “Our customers demand reliable, flawless connectivity, even in the most challenging environments. JLT’s partnership with NetMotion will make available industry-leading connectivity management tools that enable seamless, secure, and optimized wireless data service to all devices, no matter where they are,” said Eric Miller, CEO at JLT Mobile Computers USA. “With NetMotion, JLT devices avoid network slowdowns, bandwidth costs go down, and IT has the tools it needs to keep track of everything.” JLT’s partnership with NetMotion not only helps JLT customers take full advantage of their JLT hardware but by enhancing device connectivity and operation, remote device management, updates, diagnostics and content delivery all also become faster and simpler. The NetMotion client-server system tools transparently monitor, analyze and optimize the application, network, device, server and API performance, elevating connection management to the same high standards of productivity and reliability as JLT’s rugged computing hardware.
ECCO Safety Group and HAAS Alert announce launch of “Connected Safety” for public and commercial vehicles
ECCO Safety Group (ESG), a global manufacturer of safety solutions for public safety and commercial vehicles, announces the official market launch of its innovative Connected Safety Solution powered by the HAAS Alert Safety Cloud. HAAS Alert’s collision prevention technology, paired with ECCO’s lineup of reliable lighting and safety solutions, sends digital alerts that warn drivers of nearby commercial and public service vehicles operating in the roadway. Drivers are notified through the Waze™ app on their mobile devices, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or compatible vehicle infotainment systems. Today, warning lights alone are not enough to get the attention of distracted drivers. With innovations in mobile and cloud technology, motorists now have enhanced capabilities to receive advanced alerts and urgent road hazard information. ECCO and HAAS Alert are committed to saving lives and minimizing the risks that drivers face daily. Doug Phillips, president and CEO of ESG, commented, “Our mission is to protect people with leading innovative safety solutions. ECCO has a long history of providing solutions that help commercial vehicle operators increase safety in and around the vehicle. By bundling HAAS Alert technology with our market-leading vehicle lighting and back-up alarm solutions, ECCO fleet operators can now utilize digital alerting technology to provide advance warning to civilians, providing an extended layer of safety and security.” Co-founder and CEO of HAAS Alert Cory Hohs believes ESG is a vital partner in his mission to improve drivers’ situational awareness. He emphasized, “The number of roadside worker fatalities and injuries in 2019 due to collisions with other vehicles is alarming and shows no signs of slowing down.” Hohs added, “As a company committed to making our roads safer for everyone, we are excited to work with an innovator like ECCO to bring HAAS Alert’s digital safety service to more work crews operating in or alongside the roadway.” On Thursday, February 20th, ECCO and HAAS Alert will host a live webinar to introduce the new safety technology to fleet managers, operators and public service professionals across the United States. This webinar will demonstrate how ECCO’s warning systems integrate with HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud to reduce collisions. Another opportunity to learn about the breakthrough technology will be at the NTEA Show, March 4th – 6th at the Indianapolis Convention Center. Stop by booth #4575 and ECCO’s safety experts will answer your questions about Connected Safety and digital alerting.