These operational challenges probably apply to many transportation and logistics companies: the need to increase productivity, improve warehouse efficiency, improve mobile connectivity, reduce security breaches, labor and fuel costs. Before introducing the Getac solution, the company used ruggedized tablets from another manufacturer mounted on each forklift truck. The devices were quite bulky, weighing just over 3 kilograms, and required numerous security updates and additional software installations, which slowed down the system and made the forklift drivers' work more difficult. The result was reduced work efficiency and increased fuel consumption, which led to budget overruns. Boot times were around 15 minutes. There were unplanned downtimes and therefore productivity losses. The costs for the operating system licenses for each tablet also had a negative impact. It was also difficult to manage updates and ensure reliable functionality.

The company wanted to find a new, stable solution to eliminate these negative effects. The aim was to reduce avoidable costs due to downtime, ensure secure connections and eliminate security vulnerabilities. The choice fell on the fully robust Android 10-inch ZX10 from Getac. This device solution stands for reliability and flexibility with an intuitive operating concept. Getac scored points with its responsiveness and dedicated customer service for a proof of concept (PoC) and was able to impress in terms of device performance, technical support and long-term benefits.

10,000 devices - plus installation and support included

The user-friendly interface of the ZX10, for example, enables quick switching between touch, glove or pen operation. Numerous connectivity options including 7511 modem, wireless solutions and dual SIM provide strategic flexibility that prevents downtime and supports efficiencies. Getac was able to deploy more than 10,000 Android-powered ZX10 tablets to 400 locations in the U.S. alone by the third quarter of 2023. The tablet deployment also included installing docking stations with customized mounting solution and hub to eliminate device replacement and calibration costs. Deploy Xpress for device configuration and management was also included in the solution package, as well as Android migration support, MDM engineering customization and Getac's exclusive support as a recommended Android enterprise vendor. The deployment services team managed the installation process on all the different forklift models used.

The company expects to recoup the investment of switching to ZX10 tablets in less than a year - not least thanks to shorter boot times of around one minute and Getac's bumper-to-bumper guarantee. The solution package includes strategic connectivity versatility, including an integrated wireless modem, and has been specifically designed to set new performance benchmarks in LTE speed, bandwidth and network performance, as well as offering uninterrupted connectivity with dual SIM. Ultra-fast boot-up, easy, flexible use of the surface depending on needs and weather conditions increase efficiency and ultimately user productivity.

Robust technology for mobile fleets

It is estimated that the reduction in lost working hours alone will offset the total cost of the ZX10 investment within a year. With the advanced technology and ruggedness of the devices, companies can customize their mobile fleets; standardized features provide uninterrupted and consistent device management throughout. The successful introduction and integration of the devices into the company's processes has earned Getac a seat on the customer's technology council as well as options for intensified cooperation in the future.