Press Release
July 23, 2001
BostonCoach Expands Wireless Data Solution On the Cingular Interactive Intelligent Wireless NetworkSM
Leading ground transportation provider rolling out new, more flexible Cingular Wireless developed application to more than 700 drivers
Woodbridge, NJ - BostonCoach, a leading global provider of ground transportation and travel services, will expand its wireless data services enabled for the Cingular Interactive Intelligent Wireless NetworkSM to ensure that the company's internal communications network remains on the cutting-edge.
"Technology has always been a key differentiator for BostonCoach," said BostonCoach President Russ Cooke. "This new Cingular solution will enable BostonCoach to continue to provide our customers with unprecedented quality and service."
The new wireless data solution, which was developed by Cingular specifically for BostonCoach, includes a customized, integrated software application that directly ties into BostonCoach's existing dispatch and reservation systems. The solution utilizes the RIM 957 Wireless Handheld™, a portable wireless two-way interactive communications device that will enable BostonCoach drivers to receive and send vital information wherever they are, inside or outside of the vehicle. The previous system, which was implemented in 1998, utilized a fixed data screen installed in each vehicle. Because the new system utilizes handheld devices, drivers will now be able to access critical information while waiting to greet travelers in airport terminals, while in the vehicle, or at any other time. Additionally, since data is sent over the Cingular Interactive Intelligent Wireless Network to each driver's RIM 957 handheld, the information being exchanged is always current, reflecting any last minute changes that may have occurred.
"Timely, accurate communication is critical to achieving the levels of service and quality BostonCoach provides," said Todd Stephens, Vice President, Operations. "Our primary goal is to provide our customers with superior service. This next-generation solution from Cingular is the communications technology that will enable BostonCoach to continue to meet and surpass our customers' expectations."
"BostonCoach is a great example of how successful companies use wireless solutions to enhance the uniqueness of their business," said Stephen Krom, Vice President, Marketing, Data and Internet Services for Cingular Wireless. "BostonCoach needed to evolve its wireless solution to continue improving its efficiency of operations to serve its customers even better. With Cingular, BostonCoach had the flexibility in terms of application and devices so that it can communicate wirelessly in the way that best fits its needs and the needs of its employees and customers. This is extremely important in today's highly competitive marketplace."
The system, which is already in limited use in Washington, D.C., will be rolled out in BostonCoach's six remaining U.S. owned-locations (Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis, Newark, New York, and Philadelphia) by year-end. In total, the company expects to deploy the solution in more than 700 BostonCoach-owned vehicles.
About BostonCoach
BostonCoach is a global provider of ground transportation solutions and travel services. More than 700 company-owned sedans, limousines, vans, minibuses and buses serve Boston, Chicago, Minneapolis Newark, New York, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. And through the BostonCoach Connection, a network of carefully selected affiliates, the company services more than 450 cities around the globe. BostonCoach is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fidelity Investments, one of the world's leading investment companies. BostonCoach can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.bostoncoach.com.
About Cingular Interactive
Cingular Interactive, headquartered in Woodbridge, N.J., is an expert in providing proven wireless data communications solutions that eliminate the barriers between critical information and mobile users; it also provides telemetry and transactions applications. Cingular Interactive operates its wireless data service throughout the United States, covering more than 93 percent of the urban business population located in 492 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) and non-MSAs with a total population of 200 million people. Recognized as the industry leader, the company was the recipient of several major awards from such entities as Microsoft, Smart Business, FedEx, PC Computing, Frost & Sullivan, Wireless Week and Mobile Insights. Web site address: www.cingularinteractive.com.
Cingular Interactive is a business unit of Cingular Wireless. Cingular Wireless is the second largest wireless carrier in the U. S., and is dedicated to self-expression and customer-friendly service. As a leader in mobile voice and data communications, Cingular, a joint venture between SBC Communications and BellSouth, currently serves more than 20 million customers nationwide. Cingular offers customers advanced technologies in simple, cost-effective ways that permit them to tap the creative potential of wireless through their own self-expression. Details of the company are available at www.cingular.com.
