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Many companies have found that automation systems intended to save time on the route have also led to increased revenue, because route drivers are able to spend more time with customers when they are freed from tedious data entry, billing, and report preparation. In DSD operations, time savings allows drivers to spend more time on merchandising and sales. Efficient DSD operators spend slightly less time printing invoices than average performers, but significantly more time merchandising according to Driving DSD Supply Chain Efficiencies and Profitability, a study by the Grocery Manufacturers of America (GMA). The study found that some DSD drivers spent as much as six percent of their time in stores preparing invoices, while others spent as little as 2.1 percent of their time on the task. Mobile computers also give route sales professionals access to enterprise applications and valuable customer information. Armed with more time and more information, route sales agents can encourage additional customer purchases by suggesting complementary items and reviewing new products. They can also access records to quickly settle discrepancies and reduce returns.

Receipts, invoices, and other outputs from mobile printers help DSD drivers and other route professionals and their customers get transactions right the first time, which raises quality, efficiency, and profitability throughout the enterprise. Route accounting impacts sales, billing, inventory, distribution, and customer service operations. Typically, companies that have automated have increased their service area and customer base without adding personnel.

Mobile computers and printers begin providing benefits even before they go out on the route. Drivers arriving at the distribution center can automatically receive their daily route assignments on their mobile computers over a wireless network connection to the host computer system. Wireless networking eliminates the need to wait in line to check in with a dispatcher, and helps drivers begin their routes earlier. The wireless network connection also can be used at the end of the shift to receive daily records and orders from returning drivers.