A new telematics technology center of excellence at the GE Global Research Center will lead "an enormous initiative across the entire company," according to Dr. Joseph Salvo, manager of the pervasive decisioning laboratory at the Niskayuna, NY, R&D facility, according to FleetOwner magazine. Announcing the telematics push, Dr. Salvo said: “This technology has the potential to completely change the way businesses manage their assets and supply chains.” Among the telematics products and service already offered by GE is the VeriWise trailer tracking system marketed by GE Trailer Fleet Services. According to Scott Nelson, GE Trailer Fleet Services VP of national accounts, the new telematics center includes representatives from every GE business unit and represents the first step in creating a new operating business. According to the FleetOwner article, the GE Trailer Fleet Services, which recently changed its name from GE TIP, has also announced the creation of a client advisory board to help it understand the business issues and needs facing it trucking customers. Charter fleet members of the board include Arnold Transportation, Arrow Trucking, National Freight, Schneider National, and Swift Transportation.