POP (Press Optimization Planner), is the very first enterprise solution we built. Today, eight years later, it’s the leading distribution system for free newspapers in Europe. We usually mention this solution because it uses all of the concepts we offer in all our solutions:
- Fully web based, accessible using a simple browser
- Centralized data, using one single SQL database
- Multi-level role based security allows partners and subcontractors to access the data they need:
o Transport companies log in to print out tour lists and report newspaper returns
o Printing plants log in to report print data
o Workshops use their cell phone to take a picture of a damaged rack, create an error report that is instantly viewed by the newspaper. The newspaper can, with a click of a button, create a work order that is sent out to the correct employee’s cell phone (based on required competence and geographical location of the employee).
- Web services utilization. POP communicates with hardware built in to the actual newspaper rack. It allows for the “refill car” to monitor a rack on his cell phone, and take the appropriate action when it’s empty.
Another use of web services is the “recommend circulation based on weather” service. POP communicates with Yahoo weather services, analyzes earlier return numbers versus weather, and calculates the recommended circulation.
- Reporting services. As the data is centralized, every aspect of the system can be queried and analyzed. There is even an iPad application that offers enterprise data, only a few finger swipes away!
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