Nexterna Inc. has signed an agreement to provide Nexterna GoWareTM, including software, wireless middleware, hardware, professional and support services, and application hosting services, for the mobile workers and service fleet of more than 400 vehicles operated by Great Plains Locating Service Inc. (GPLS). A pilot implementation of 40 trucks has been completed. GPLS is a one-call utility locating and damage prevention service company that serves a 12,000-mile-radius area spanning seven states in the Midwest. GPLS provides a locating function to prevent damage to underground facilities of utilities and private firms. The Nexterna GoWare solution will give GPLS mobile technicians and its central dispatch personnel new capabilities such as two-way data communications and vehicle tracking information. Ruggedized NT-based computers mounted in each fleet vehicle are used to deploy the Nexterna GoWare suite of applications that enable wireless mobile computing. GPLS’s Nexterna GoWare solution includes wireless middleware that provides continuous coverage using least-cost routing, real-time GPS tracking information that documents vehicle utilization and location, and two-way messaging. The Nexterna GoWare solution implemented at GPLS includes the following: -- OptiPath™ connects multiple applications over multiple wireless networks, concurrently. -- OptiTrac™ is an advanced mobile resource management tool that allows GPLS to gather detailed information about the location, utilization and operation of each service truck. -- OptiMessage™ is a two-way text messaging application that provides data communications between mobile technicians and the central office. In addition, Nexterna will host and monitor the applications for GPLS, including providing 24-hour, seven-day support. The application service provider (ASP) model lowers up-front capital investment and IT staffing needs.