The technology uses artificial intelligence to calculate future stock level requirements, updating parts suppliers to automate stock replenishment and helping to eliminate out-of-stock occurrences.
The new feature continually learns from historic data to create a more accurate predictive model, says Freeway. This includes identifying recurring trends and anomalies such as fluctuating seasonal demand and likely extra demand for particular vehicles scheduled for servicing.
“Fleet administration is a burden for operators, and managing stock and purchasing is a particular challenge especially for mixed fleets where there may be individual parts running into the thousands,” says Patrick Tandy, managing director of Freeway.
“The switch to alternative fuels is only going to add complexity to fleet maintenance so we are continually looking at ways to simplify work through automation and the elimination of paperwork.”
The new capability is part of Freeway’s aim to improve mobile device functionality. Using electronic job sheets, workshop technicians can immediately request parts with the central system while they are on a job, then updated on issue from stores. If a part is not held in stock, requisitions can also now be raised with one click to simplify and speed parts ordering.