The Descartes Systems Group, Waterloo, Ont., Canada, has introduced its Logistics Network Operating System, a computer platform that will enable integration of Descartes’ various logistics and operations solutions.

According to Bob Gordon, Descartes’ VP product development, the new platform is built around Microsoft technology and will integrate various Descartes carrier, shipper and logistics applications developed and acquired in recent years. Gordon said the platform will be able to communicate with customers of all sizes using almost any software operating system. The company said that Descartes’ applications now share a similar "look and feel."
The company also announced new partnerships with software giant Microsoft and wireless communications provider Nextel.
Descartes provides what it calls supply chain solutions -- logistics applications for manufacturers, retailers, third-party logistics providers, ocean carriers and trucking companies. Descartes solutions can be licensed to run on a customer’s system or purchased on an as-used basis over the Internet or other communications link.
Among Descartes’ customers are Roadway, Averitt Express, FedEx and Watkins Motor Lines. The company offers routing and optimization software and EDI services, but has recently added an LTL operations package that runs on Java-based Nextel phones and automated hours of service systems primarily for private fleets.
For more information visit www.descartes.com.