Auto Driveaway, a vehicle relocation service provider, is using mobile SMS notifications to smooth out communication between fleet managers, administrative staff and leasing companies that manage pick-ups and deliveries.

The new product was developed by mobile Web, SMS and IVR provider Wessan Interactive and lets customers track all notes or status changes on a vehicle via text and email alerts. The notifications can go to more than one recipient and include links to registrations and the referenced move, along with dates for pick-up and en-route notifications.

"Auto Driveaway's strategy was to out-service the competition by keeping their customers constantly informed regarding the relocation of their vehicles," said Karen Westerfield, cofounder/president at Wessan Interactive, Omaha, NE. "Wessan's strategy was to find a cost-effective way to help Auto Driveaway accomplish that goal."

This offering from Auto Driveaway sets up a communication tool designed to let information flow quickly and efficiently to the people who need it so employees aren't waiting around for a vehicle to be delivered or picked up.

For companies, this encourages productivity out of employees who won't have to waste time waiting for a driver to contact them.

Message notifications are not only sent to the designated mobile phone, but can also be sent to a customer's Outlook email address or any other requested email address.

Wessan's Web-based software lets Auto Driveaway create customized profiles for each customer to accommodate a list of standard services and auto-fill service requests into the ordering process.

"The notification solution developed by Wessan addressed a number of challenges," Ms. Westerfield said. "First, it's easy to use, and because the notification system is integrated into Auto Driveaway's national operating system, it puts no additional burden on their staff.

"It's also economical in that text and email notifications are very cost effective, improving service without have to increase costs," she said. "Finally, notifications are informative - the shipper, the recipient of the vehicle and the fleet administrator are always knowledgeable of the status of the move."

This offering also includes the ability to import a company employee address book which allows Auto Driveaway to upload company directories.

Auto Driveaway claims that a huge benefit to these notifications is that they become a tool for fleet managers and administrators to streamline communications with their internal customers which makes everyone involved more productive.

Auto Driveaway revealed that this implementation was at the request of its customers.

"Mobile is a great platform for this initiative because it is informative without being intrusive," Ms. Westerfield said. "It provides a written confirmation of the level of service being provided and the location of the vehicle.

"The future of mobile will bring an increase in tailored communications to each individual for both products and services and an increase in productivity with both individuals and businesses," she said.