Business has also grown steadily positively during this time for Dynamic Parcel Distribution GmbH & Co. KG (DPD) in Germany. As one of the leading suppliers of parcel delivery services in Germany, the DPD operates 75 hubs across the country, where shipments are collected and distributed to deliverers.
At peak times, some of these centers handle up to 100,000 shipments a day. In order to be able to handle these shipments efficiently, the hubs are equipped with the latest technology, such as automated parcel conveyor and scanning systems. Since reliability and security are among the most important quality criteria in the parcel logistics industry, DPD has been deploying video-based systems for some time so it can be able to track individual parcel movements within the hubs at all times.
As part of the modernization of its hub in Heilbronn, DPD decided to install a video solution for documenting, sorting and handover processes. Initially, planning consisted of a specification document drawn up by DPD for earlier projects. This was, to a large extent, oriented around analog video technology capabilities. However, it became clear quite rapidly that modern, IP-based video systems (for example, those using cameras with HD resolution) could better support distribution center processes.
Based on this, a new list of requirements was put together, including simple and user-friendly shipment tracking for clarification in case of lost or missing parcels. Additionally, to optimize organizational processes, the solution needed to be able to monitor the site, including loading bays and access roads.
For DPD, the responsible use of resources plays an important role. The fact that this aspect could be taken into account as part of the introduction of an innovative IP video system to support our business processes makes it even better!
For DPD, the responsible use of resources plays an important role. The fact that this aspect could be taken into account as part of the introduction of an innovative IP video system to support our business processes makes it even better!
During discussions between DPD and M.N.O. Stühler GmbH & Co. KG, which has been providing DPD hubs with video management systems for years and has extensive experience in this area, the focus turned to us.
Octave, with one of its development hubs in the Karlsruhe technology region, not only offers scalable and extremely powerful VMS software, together with M.N.O. it has developed an industry-specific video solution, tailored specifically to the needs and processes of parcel logistics companies. Those responsible for deciding on the right were particularly impressed by the system-concept for equipping DPD locations. The Octave logistics solution uses only one server for the complete system, which reduces energy costs by up to 50% compared to a recorder-based system.
Thanks to its flexible architecture, the system can be extended at any time through the addition of new modules, e.g., if intelligent image analysis needs to be deployed to secure a perimeter fence or if vehicles driving onto the site need to have their number plates automatically identified and recorded.
Manfred Gügel, managing director at M.N.O. pointed out a further benefit, saying, “By separating hardware and software, system components can be exchanged or extended independently of each other. This way, technological innovations, such as more powerful servers, can be taken into account at any time, which makes the investment sustainable going forward.”