A new PeopleNet Automated Workflow integration with TMWSuite from TMW Systems was designed specifically to boost efficiency throughout crude/tanker fleet operations.

The new PeopleNet tailored workflow application reflects this segment’s unique information needs in custom forms that integrate with TMWSuite. Dispatchers populate order/load information into forms that prompt drivers through a queue designed to gather required data, minimizing driver interaction and ensuring collection of accurate information.

“Drivers no longer have to sift through books and make calculations,” explains John Erik Albrechtsen, operations manager for Paul’s Hauling in Winnipeg, one of the first users. “It’s all done by the system, which automates updates, so drivers don’t have to search for the most current data. All drivers will have to do is fill in beginning and ending dip information. We’re tying dip charts tied into site plans integrated with the workflow, so site plans (and dip charts) automatically display.”

Among the benefits claimed, there’s improved flow to the back-office billing and payroll, and reduced back-office errors that come from multiple points of data entry.

PeopleNet’s first application in its Crude Hauler Suite, introduced last year, incorporates oilfield regulations for hours of service and sleeper berth into PeopleNet’s electronic logs application eDriver Logs. As a result, all wait and sleeper berth times are eliminated from the 14-hour on-duty, so drivers don’t log wait times at a natural gas or oil well site or sleeper berth times, regardless of whether or not it’s a valid split.

The new integration follows other integrations between TMWSuite and PeopleNet, including customizable looping and branching for embedded decision-tree forms; customizable arrive/depart stop profiles for complete monitoring of terminal stop behavior; ‘load offer’ screen editing that allows dispatchers to select or deselect stops and send an updated dispatch that reflects changes; and signature capture acceptance into TMWSuite for automating and expediting billing immediately after a customer receives a load to improve cash flow.