Dispatching software is a powerful tool that can help businesses manage their logistics and dispatch operations. It provides real-time visibility into operations, automates routine tasks, and streamlines communication between drivers, dispatchers, and customers.
Let’s look at some of the essential features of dispatching software and how they work.
Real-Time Tracking
Real-time tracking probably remains one of the most critical features of dispatch software. This functionality will grant dispatchers the ability to instantly highlight the areas of potential problems, such as traffic congestion or accidents, and undertake proactive, timely measures to resolve them.
Real-time tracking works by using GPS technology to track the location of drivers and vehicles. Once this information is forwarded to the dispatching software, it is then highlighted in real time on a mapping display.
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Thus, the dispatcher can thereby use the same to instruct a new nearest driver to come by re-route drivers so that there is less traffic congestion, or can let the customers have more precise estimated time of delivery.
Automated Workflows
With automated workflows, organizations can automate much of the regular activities of the operation management, reduce manual errors, and save hours of manpower. For example, the driver gets assigned to a particular task based on availability and proximity through automated workflows.
Automation of workflows works by establishing rules and conditions that will trigger an action. For example, if a driver is within a certain distance of a delivery location, the dispatching software can automatically assign the task to that driver. This feature enables businesses to scale their operations more smoothly, save costs, and enhance efficiency.
Communication Tools
Communication tools are great features in any dispatching software, enabling the dispatcher to have real-time communication with drivers and customers. These may include messaging, voice communication, and in-app notifications.
In-app messaging will enable dispatchers to send messages to the driver and customer, thus informing them either about delivery times or a change in delivery location.
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Voice communication will allow dispatchers to communicate directly with the drivers, updating them on the latest information and giving them instructions. In-app notifications can alert drivers to new tasks or changes to existing ones.
Data Analytics
Data analytics is a salient feature of the dispatching software that helps enterprises gather data on their operations and analyze it. It gives a very nice insight into how the company is performing and pinpoints areas where the business needs to improve, thus enabling businesses to make informed decisions.
These data are drawn from sources such as GPS tracking data, customer feedback, or the time taken to complete a particular task. Such data is analyzed using powerful algorithms and machine learning techniques that provide insight into business operations.
For example, it may be used to find which drivers are always late in making deliveries or which routes have heavy traffic congestion.
Integration with other business systems
Integration with other business systems is an essential feature of dispatching software, as it allows businesses to streamline their operations and improve data accuracy.
Dispatching software can integrate with other business systems, such as CRM, accounting, and fleet management systems.
The integration allows the dispatching software to share data with other business systems. For example, if a customer orders through a CRM system, the dispatching software can automatically generate a task for the driver, assign the job to the nearest available driver, and update the customer’s record with the delivery status.
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