Houston-based HCSS, the developer of HeavyBid estimating software launched an integrated GPS feature that significantly expands the capabilities of its resource management software, The Dispatcher. Managers can now make better decisions based on accurate information from the field, helping them utilize equipment more efficiently, lower fuel costs, reduce cycle times, minimize theft and identify underutilized rentals.

“There are dozens of GPS units in the marketplace that can be mounted on equipment and report locations, but our product is integrated with resource management software that knows where the equipment is supposed to be and on what jobs,” said Mike Rydin, HCSS president. “For example, since The Dispatcher software knows the location of all jobsites, an area can be defined around each of them called a ‘geo fence.’ When a truck moves into the area, that event is recorded and a trucking cycle-time report can be produced. That goes far beyond merely reporting equipment locations.”

In addition to cycle-time analysis, the integrated GPS feature shows where equipment is currently located, where it has been, how fast it’s been going and meter readings of how long the equipment has been running. The meter readings, coupled with The Dispatcher’s maintenance scheduling ability, help improve preventive maintenance on equipment.

Founded in 1986, HCSS provides estimating and field management and dispatching software for the infrastructure construction industry, with instant 24-hour technical support, on-site training by veteran contractors and annual user’s group meetings attended by hundreds of contractors.