Getting the timing right: by tracking a simple thing like time, producers are finding more ways to use database efficiently - concrete industry

Concrete Producer, The, August, 2003 by Rick Yelton

With a common database using time-stamped information, managers can easily monitor or analyze the status of a driver's accidents to the amount of materials delivered to other daily tasks.

And when things appear to be heading down a bad path, say after a unexpected rainstorm--when everyone wants to speak to the dispatcher--the system permits the drivers to notify the dispatcher that they would like to be contacted. This feature gives the dispatch operator leeway in responding to the driver, allowing the dispatcher to focus on more pressing needs before responding. This function also logs the call requests in the order in which they arrived, by using a time stamp.

The Trakit system used by the Utah producer requires just a cell phone and a computer with an Internet connection. By relying on Trakit's servers for the application, producers use those same phones and computers for their normal business practices as well. And all communication occurs in real time. In many circumstances producers opt for hooking in through a Nextel phone line since it provides added features of two-way radios and easy Web access.

Producers will find the set-up process rather simple. Plant operation managers establish the drivers' status. In most circumstances these match up to their existing batching control systems. Then the drivers, using their Web-enabled cell phones, connect to system's Web server. The cell phone is programmed to display the status, messages, and other information for the driver. As drivers change status (i.e. from at plant to loading) they select the corresponding phone status button sending that information to the server. The server immediately sends the status change to the main dispatching and batching system.

The time stamp and all other company information is stored in a Web-enabled set-up for each individual company and is password-protected for security.

For more information about Trakit's communication system, visit www.fmei.com /trakit, call 877-258-1771, or circle 2 on the reader service card.

Remote Timing

Even with the ease of using a phone for line data transfer and networking, there are those jobs that seem to be just too difficult to track. For example how do you account for the bulk cement delivery drivers' unloading time in the middle of the night? Then there's the roving mechanic/service crew that travels to several plants each evening. Or wouldn't you like to really know when the concrete technicians actually showed up on the pour?

Jobclock, a recently introduced attendance recording system that remotely records job time and attendance, may provide producers with a paperless timing solution. Developed by Exaktime Inc., Van Nuys, Calif., the system employs key tabs, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and management software to collect remote jobsite data and analyze attendance activity.

Managers place a small, construction-grade time clock at a secure spot at a remote location or jobsite. The unit is well-suited for tough jobsite conditions, as it is weatherproof, tamper-proof, and battery-powered. Once activated, workers clock in and out using personally assigned tabs, small enough to be carried on their key chains.