Just launched in the UK is E Transport Manager, billed as a complete computer-based management system for crane and heavy transport companies that can cut overheads and simplify administration.
ETM is already installed in several crane hire depots around the UK. The system is claimed to be the first of a breed of programs that are being ported to the internet to make them available from any location. System modules include: 4 sales and customer history 4 abnormal load request (ALR) management with automated faxing facilities 4 vehicle service management 4 staff management 4 automated printing, faxing and emailing of hire agreements 4 vehicle booking diary, viewable by multiple users 4 mobile version, available for 24-hour sales and support.
The modules run on NT-based servers running SQL server and are delivered as a total packaged solution with installation, training and telephone support. It is available in both a mobile and a local version.
ETM has been developed over the last four years by Strategies, a division of Rexonline plc. One of the first users of the system is Terranova Crane Hire of Reading which now has the completed mobile version. Terranova managing director Alex Glover said: ‘ETM has been instrumental in helping us grow. We are far more responsive to customer requests and can beat anyone with abnormal load requests. The system saves us at least two extra people on the admin[istration] team.’ Another crane rental company using the system is Bronzeshield.
The future for ETM is already in development. An internet version allowing customers to view diaries and history is already available as a demonstration and is undergoing beta test. The multi-depot version allowing online collaboration between depots will be available later this year and there are plans to take the system to English speaking countries worldwide.
