Their choice for dispatch technology at the time was a homegrown system running on an IBM System 36 (long before the PC was appearing on desktops in America). They became concerned that the stability of the system depended too much on their consultant. So it was a natural progression to the IBM AS/400 when they selected TL2000 in to replace the old system.

Steve McCormick, IS Manager at Cornhusker hired a consulting group and got the search for software down to two competitors. Steve was there when they selected TL2000 and managed the implementation. They now interface the system with Qualcomm satellite tracking, PCMiler, Rand McNally, EFS cash advances and fuel cards, and EDI.

With TMW Systems TL2000 product, Steve said what he appreciates most is the atmosphere of customer involvement they have created. “We sit on the Steering Committee and see the input they ask for from us,” said Steve. “The growth rate of the product is very impressive, and they’re guiding that direction with the feedback we’re giving them.”

With some very recent significant changes in the load planning and freight tracking process, Cornhusker has instituted a genuinely paper-free environment. “The changes being made to the system have greatly increased the efficiency of our operations staff. Now our people can actually be sick or take vacation without creating a crisis.

We’re not relying on having a single individual present because we have all necessary information available to everyone at any time,” Steve said. “Our staff really appreciates having that kind of flexibility.” He said a key benefit of TL2000 is that they were able to grow 150% (from 100 to 250 trucks) without having to add a single person in the back office, especially in the billing or settlements areas.

The biggest benefit of their TMW system are the customized reports and special care Cornhusker can now offer their customers. Becton Dickenson Pharmaceutical Supplies, one of their largest clients, demands highly specialized reports and needs very specific types of information tracking. “We can give back information any time our customers want it, in the format they prefer,” said Steve. “That makes for great customer service.”

Another item TMW helped them put into effect especially for Cornhusker is the ability to pay their owner/operators via direct deposit. “Our drivers are thrilled to be receiving their money much more quickly now,” said Steve. Cornhusker plans to implement structured growth for the future. “The day a million good drivers drop out of the sky is the day we’ll grow from 250 to 500,” said Steve. Until then, they’ll continue to give great service and grow, as resources become available.