The company has cameras throughout its premises and a satellite radio communications system linking all its branches. Its national service, which is time- and security-specific, is never sub-contracted to third party sub-contractors or agents outside of RAM. RAM operates a 'dedicated national secure network'.
 
According to Graeme Lazarus, RAMs joint MD, efficiency, reliability, real time information and security are extremely important elements of the companys services. For this reason, we decided to invest in mobile technology that would not only give us the edge in the industry today, but would also take care of our needs into the future. We required greater mobility in the field which led us to investing in the latest technology.
 
ProScan Systems, a distributor of barcoding, RFID, data collection, wireless networking and mobile technologies, provided RAM with a total wireless mobile solution, comprising over 50 Intermec 751 series mobile computers with 802.11b/g WLAN radio communication and Cisco wireless access points for the companys sortation hub in Isando.
 
Lazarus comments: We decided to invest in a single platform for our mobile strategy that we could install in all our hubs and then roll out into the field. The Intermec 700 Series,  which is a rugged mobile computer running Microsoft Pocket PC Operating System with multiple radio options and a barcode scanner, is the perfect device, as it automates our total logistics process and controls the parcels in and out of the sortation centre.
 
On the successful completion of the first phase in the sortation centre, we will roll out the technology into the field for proof of delivery signature capture in our courier vehicles using GPRS communications.
 
The Intermec 751 Series Colour mobile computer is designed to integrate three wireless communication options in a single device, aiming to bring true enterprise mobility to the workplace. These include a wireless local area network (802.11b/g) radio for in-premise applications; a GSM/GPRS wide area network radio for remote applications; and a fully integrated power-managed Bluetooth radio for short range communication to peripheral devices. 
 
RAM will use all of the features of this advanced data collection and communications device, starting with the scanning of parcels at the warehouse, matching the parcels and waybills, tracking and tracing en route, to proof of delivery capture at destination.
 
The device, which features a large colour display, is designed to capture signatures for proof of delivery, and withstands repeated drops from over 1,5 metres, aiming to ensure that it handles the challenges of real-time daily work.