ALK Technologies, acquired by Trimble, developed PC*Miler, a transportation management and route planning application for trucking entities needing geomapping and GIS information. The product is now offered under the Trimble MAPS brand.
It is VERY adept at creating solutions for single or multiple point collection or distribution scenarios. We have multiple customers with large, central DCs that utilize Appian for their regular route rationalization processes. We have had less success when analyzing "touring" fleets where only historical data was available. Without the flexibility to change/select new combinations, the solution quality is diminished.
Appian is excellent for use in both the analysis arena and ongoing operations support. The speed to solution and quality of solution is at the top of the market.
The configurability of the system gives the user the flexibility to address almost any route problem imaginable. Analysts have the ability to recreate the "world" to fit their customer's needs rather than forcing the customer into a predetermined framework.
The installation of the software is flexible and can be structured to fit any work group's format, from a centralized core to a distributed mobile analysis team.
Appian products have become an instrumental tool within the company, from a daily tactical standpoint building route plans, to a strategic standpoint in assisting with project analysis. Since the tool is able to interface with many different on-board computer vendors, it is something that could be used by the company long term.
We used to use TruckStops until we switched to Appian Direct Route. I was very happy with TruckStops mainly because it was a simple system that got the job done. There were no integration issues, no errors left and right, no hassle. Appian on the other hand, while it is a nice system, it needs a lot of work. During optimization, mileage is critical and I am afraid Appian fails in this aspect with the lack of proper integration with PC Miler which is industry standard.
