Definitions and Terminology
There are many different definitions of the phrases Vehicle Scheduling, Vehicle Routing, Route Scheduling and Route Planning.
DPS does them all!
But, to define our terminology:
- Vehicle Scheduling - Vehicle Routing - Route Scheduling involves optimisation of resources i.e. given a logistics DEMAND (orders) the software will optimise the resources to satisfy that demand.
- Route Planning is the calculation of detailed itineries for specific routes. This may also involve optimisation of call sequence but not optimising which calls follow a particular route.
The following goes into more detail about how various modules of our LogiX software system can be used in different ways to optimise the logistics process.
Route Planning Technology
Given a list of placenames, postcodes, addresses or coordinates, the user is given a map of the route and a detailed itinerary. The system contains a digital map that can also show customers, orders, tourist information etc.. This is what is normally called a 'Route Planning System'.
DPS have several software systems available, each is optimised to meet a specific target group. Excellent system design gives the user fast and accurate route planning within an extremely user-friendly environment that requires no or very little training.
All systems below have one common limitation; this level of technology handles planning of ONE route/vehicle at a time.
For more advanced planning, a vehicle scheduling software system is the correct solution.
Vehicle Scheduling
Most vehicle scheduling software systems are known to be inflexible and theoretical. If they are useful they can be used strategically but not operationally.
This is what we call the DPS Challenge: To apply the most advanced optimisation algorithms available into a package that can be used by ordinary transport planners in their daily situation but still use the most advanced technology available. To create technology that works for people and not against them. This also meets the economical demands from the management.
How do DPS achieve this?
Plan LogiX is the manual vehicle scheduling software system that handles all necessary parameters and a vast array of manual and semi-manual planning methods.
Plan LogiX ( www.dps-int.com/vehicle_scheduling_plan_logix.shtml ) is seamlessly integrated with Auto LogiX ( www.dps-int.com/vehicle_scheduling_optimisation_auto_logix.shtml ) that is the most advanced optimisation system available. Auto LogiX meets high demands of optimisation effectiveness and contains the unique Tramping algorithm (optional) that allows detailed collect/delivery scenarios.
Why choose DPS and LogiX?
DPS are market leaders in effective optimisation, but to meet the demand from operational situations, Auto LogiX is constructed to allow user controlled 'NON OPTIMAL' planning. i.e. the software can handle necessary restrictions - even at individual order level. This is controlled by a vast array of different methods, like 'Locked Cluster' and 'Sequence Control'.
LogiX is also the most open software system from a technical standpoint - all data is always available in an open format fully readable and writeable. Full integration is done with the same flexible system. Both for large-scale SAP installations and for PC-based Microsoft Access database solutions. To support the customer, DPS can supply documentation and implementation skills in several languages.
DPS have various different deployment options to suit your IT interface ranging from PC Windows Desktop solutions through to web-based online solutions.
Look at our long list of users. We are well known in our segment for our success at the market and for our well-designed and straightforward products. DPS is recognised as global market leader in vehicle scheduling. We have met and solved a lot of problems for our customers and we look forward to meeting your requirements (info@dps-int.com).
