The Microlise DriveTab is a 7-inch ruggedised, Android-based, touchscreen driver communications tablet which can be fixed in-vehicle or used as a hand-held device via a dedicated charging bracket. As DriveTab shares the same core software as the SmartPOD mobile application, the device can be optionally removed from the cab to carry out hand-held e-POD with image & signature capture.
The new tablet facilitates driver ID, text and voice communications, trip sheet, integrated satellite navigation, task management and driving style coaching and debrief functionality.The Microlise DriveTab has voice communications with optional hands-free kit, allowing drivers to use the phone to dial fixed numbers which are either permanently stored in the device or downloaded as part of a trip.
Task management helps ensure that crucial information is captured during the driver’s shift or journey. Tasks could include vehicle inspection, health and safety checks or customer questionnaires, all configured within the system by the customer according to requirements. Site tasks (like product installation or packaging removal) or return to depot activities (like mileage capture) can also be added.
Commenting on the launch of the tablet, Matt Hague, product strategy director at Microlise, said: ‘We’ve seen great success in the couple of months since we launched our SmartPOD application for smartphones. Re-using this software but tailored for a new in-vehicle tablet, has helped us come to market with a cost effective, ruggedized, functionally rich and flexible in-vehicle communications solution for our customers.
‘We’ve tried to make our pricing flexible too. With the customer only paying for the features they require on the DriveTab. These are paid for on a monthly basis with no upfront licence fees – this builds on the success of our pay as you go solution we introduced with SmartPOD. Developments like SmartPOD and now DriveTab continue to illustrate our ability to adapt to changing market needs, offering a cost-effective and efficient proof of delivery and task management suite of solutions.'