S+S Example #1: Ford Work Solutions
Computers and software can do lots of interesting things, and more every day. While I love websites -- I don't want to be completely constrained to them. For example, i like having things like Zune, my smartphone, Windows Live Writer, etc. as part of my life even though (actually, because) the experiences are not completely contained within a browser. The Tao of S+S is that all platforms should work together.
One of the most recent examples of how this S+S ethos can transform users expectations and experiences comes from Ford Motor Company, the folks who brought you the Ford SYNC, and is called "Ford Work Solutions". More here, including this video:
Aside: did Ford hire the away Microsoft's naming strategy people!? Name aside, Ford Work Solutions is pretty cool -- claiming 4 industry firsts:
- An in-dash, center stack computer with built-in broadband wireless from Sprint, based on the Microsoft Auto software platform (Windows CE-based). Hardware includes 2 GB memory, an SD card slot, USB port, Bluetooth, SYNC-like features for hands-free calling and texting, 6.5 inch touch screen. It has GPS and navigation system augmented by real time traffic, points of interest, AND gas prices. You also get a keyboard, mouse, stylus and a Ford-certified bluetooth inkjet printer. There is of course a web browser. No word yet on .NET Compact Framework. Built by Magneti Marelli.
- An RFID tool tracking system developed with DEWALT and ThingMagic so you can tag your tools and your in dash computer can tell you if you have everything you need for a job when you head out, and also tell you if you're taking all your tools home when you're done. Uses a scanner in the bed of the truck to light up the passive RFID tags.
- Crew Chief - a telematics and diagnostics system for small fleets to dispatch workers, manage vehicle fleets, and ease maintenance tracking. In this scenario, the Ford Work Solutions delivers a software application in the vehicle and also is a data source for a more "conventional" SaaS application, too -- with fleet managers able to manage their vehicle fleets based on data sent from the truck up to Ford.
- Cable Lock system, developed with Master Lock to help you lock tools securely in an open truck bed. Ok -- this one's not even computer-related. Still, quite handy!
Adding it up, this solution provides a software platform (Microsoft Auto), local RFID, texting, and hands-free phone services, is a data source for conventional SaaS application (e.g., the diagnostic and location data for fleet management), and is a consumer for cloud services (e.g., the gas prices and real time traffic)! Nice! Can't wait to try it. :-) BTW, might be "interesting sport" to compare the Ford Work Solutions offering with my "free advice" here. :-)
This one is hot off the presses -- I'll post additional details as they surface.
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About john.mullinax
John Mullinax is a Platform Strategy Advisor with Microsoft's DPE Team. Before joining Microsoft in 2006, John held a vartiety of positions at Ford Motor Company, most recently leading IT services strategy to support explosive business growth in China. Other positions included: Enterprise Architect, Application Portfolio Management, Technology Governance, and Product Manager. Prior to joining Ford, John earned his MBA at the University of Washington. Before that, he was Director of Elections for Douglas County, Washington, where he conducted the first Federal mail-ballot election in the USA. Subsequently, he joined the Secretary of State's office as a consultant working with county election officials in Washington state to improve operational effectiveness, integrity, and security (aka, to prevent the kind of debacle we saw in Florida in 2000).
