Features introduction
The introduction of Solvo.TOS appeared to be one of the main factors that enabled FCT to considerably increase the volume of processed containers. Moreover, the return on investment for Solvo.TOS was achieved in as little as 9 months.
Later, the system underwent a number of enhancements and upgrades. Much of the work was done through close collaboration between SOLVO and FCT engineers. The result yielded a comprehensive, robust and high-performance management system for container terminals and a system that does not lose ground by any means to its competitors, while even surpassing them in certain features and capabilities. For example, the system is able to handle customs operations – a feature that is not included in similar Western products. Moreover, Solvo.TOS complies with international standards and is recognized by all line operators working at the Saint Petersburg Sea Port.
Solution
In 1999, the terminal undertook its own project to develop a management system to handle container terminal business processes. In this regard, a third party software development company was invited to develop an operations management system for the terminal. After analyzing the market for potential candidates, the decision was made to select SOLVO, which specializes in the development of real-time warehouse and container terminal management systems. Solvo.TOS went into operation in 2001.
Result
The system automates all technological container-handling operations at the terminal. An additional system module was also designed to manage container placement during handling operations and to record container moves in real time. This reduces the number of container moves through a more optimized approach to container placement. A GPS-based positioning system is used to pinpoint RTGs and containers within the terminal and to eliminate any possibility of container loss. In addition, the system uses data exchange mechanisms based on the EDIFACT protocol. Perhaps one of the most important factors for the successful completion of the project was the seamless integration of Solvo.TOS with the terminal's proprietary technological and document management system.
