With live data transmission to the Internet, Ringway and their local authority clients can track the gulley vehicle fleet and access the asset information collected during each route.

The development by Masternaut rapidly provides gulley asset information for the maintenance register to be collected dynamically during scheduled maintenance. At each gulley, the system automatically pinpoints the location to within one metre and logs the time and date. The keypad, conveniently located on the vehicle's swing arm, has a series of buttons that operators press to record additional condition information associated with the gulley, such as cleaned and running, broken grid, or jammed grid etc. The web-based system, which replaces paper records, gives Ringway up-to-date records and locations that can be mapped. This comprehensive information will allow Ringway to improve route and maintenance planning for improved service performance. Crucially, the information will also provide a detailed and current asset register for the client; something that is otherwise difficult to keep accurately up to date.

"The development by Masternaut is giving us the detailed information to improve programming and efficiency. For the first time we have accurate locations plus up-to-date information on the condition of gulleys, catch pits and manholes. This means we can prioritize maintenance work, improve route planning and improve productivity," said Ian Kilburn, Contract Manager of Ringway Highway Services Limited. "Masternaut also provides a big boost in the service we provide to our clients. Being web-based, all parties can access live tracking and receive reports via e-mail. A big added bonus is an up-to-date and accurate asset register for the client that we are able to provide through Masternaut as our vehicle-tracking supplier on all vehicles — without having to go to a specialist and all the additional training and costs that would involve. This Client Service alone goes a long way to justify using Masternaut," continued Kilburn.