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Considering an ORTEC Alternative? Why Companies Choose Descartes

HGV Lorry on country road

Evaluating an ORTEC alternative?

Choose a proven, scalable delivery management platform complete with:

  • Modern mapping technology .
  • Real-time visibility and performance management .
  • Mobile integration .
  • A user-friendly interface. 

Descartes offers proven technology, a modern tech stack, integrated mobile capabilities, and robust customer support.  

In this article we discuss:

 

Is ORTEC Still the Right Fit for Your Growing Needs?

If you're evaluating an ORTEC alternative, you're likely questioning whether your current solution can keep up with evolving delivery management demands. Last-mile businesses are looking for: 

  • Modern user interfaces and reliable mapping experiences. 
  • Integrated mobile solutions to remove the need for additional third-party providers. 
  • Round-the-clock support, especially during periods of peak demand. 
  • Cloud-native platforms. 

With increasingly complex deliveries and customer expectations rising, relying on disconnected systems or slow support can introduce serious operational risk. Companies that are growing and evolving need a partner that can scale with them, not hold them back. 

 

urban logistics delivery van white

What Capabilities do Modern Final-Mile Delivery Operations Require?

Modern last-mile logistics demands more than just efficient routing, it requires real-time responsiveness, seamless technology integration, and a partner that understands how to turn complexity into clear business benefits.

At Descartes, we offer a comprehensive delivery management solution that brings routing, dispatch, mobile, customer communication, and analytics together in one place. 

Below, we explore how Descartes delivers the key capabilities essential for last-mile success. 

Advanced Route Planning and Optimisation

Many vendors emphasise continuous optimisation, while in reality their models involve periodic system checks.

In contrast, Descartes delivers true continuous optimisation, which runs in real time, adjusting plans dynamically as new orders are received, based on available capacity and factoring in operational constraints.

This allows planners to:

  • Gain visibility into delivery routes as they are being created, not just after a batch is processed.
  • Plan efficiently without waiting for all orders to be finalised, driving density and generating lower-cost routes.
  • Make decisions using real-time data, such as adding delivery capacity or modifying routes in response to disruptions.
  • Extend order cut-off times while still meeting service windows through wave picking.
  • Offer tighter delivery windows and same-day service with confidence.
  • Optimise simultaneously to meet time windows, minimise miles driven and reduce the number of routes, all while adhering to business constraints.
  • Compared to batch optimisation, continuous optimisation delivers better results, faster planning cycles, and more agility for last-minute adjustments, making it ideal for high-volume, fast-moving delivery operations.

Descartes uses powerful, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven optimisation algorithms refined over decades, providing you with reliable, cost-effective route plans.

Real-Time Execution and Tracking

Execution is where even the best plans can fall apart—especially in last-mile delivery. Descartes provides real-time visibility across your entire fleet, so your team can see exactly where drivers are, respond to disruptions as they happen, and keep customers informed with accurate ETAs.

Key features include:

  • Live vehicle tracking with GPS and telematics integration.
  • Real-time driver updates and exception alerts.
  • In-the-moment visibility into delivery progress and performance. 
  • Automated status updates for customers and internal teams.
  • Visibility of planned versus actual performance.

With integrated planning, execution and customer engagement, Descartes helps you go from planning to delivery optimisation.

Integrated Mobile Capabilities

Descartes’ mobile solution is developed in-house for smooth integration with routing, dispatch, and customer communication. This eliminates the complexity and risk of stitching together third-party solutions.

Key features include:

  • Configurable, enforceable workflows for drivers to follow.
  • Enforceable route sequences.
  • Auto arrive and depart notification based on geolocation.
  • Proof of delivery such as signature, photo capture and notes.

Appointment Booking and Time-Slot Management

Descartes offers dynamic appointment booking and time slot optimisation features to reduce friction in your ordering process.   

Coupled with continuous optimisation, Descartes Reservations™ allows you to present customers with time slots based on true available capacity. Customers can choose from delivery windows that are feasible, cost effective and fuel efficient, while the optimiser dynamically creates the most efficient routes.   

Businesses can highlight eco-friendly time slots and price them dynamically based on how much they cost to serve.  

Modern User Experience

  • A modern platform should offer more than just functionality; it should be intuitive and fast. Descartes offers:
  • Modern, easy-to-use interface.
  • Advanced map experiences with live traffic overlays.
  • Streamlined workflows that reduce clicks and training time.
  • Simplified, consolidated workspaces that eliminate flipping between applications or modules.

Innovation and Future-Proofing

Descartes focuses on applying data and analytics directly to operational performance.

With 15% of revenue reinvested annually into research and development, Descartes delivers continuous innovation and future-proof solutions that meet real-world logistics demands.

We work in partnership with our customers, market leaders, and partners to understand where the distribution space is headed and to meet the needs head on.

 

Why Distributors Are Switching to Descartes’ final-mile solution

Organisations have transitioned to Descartes because of:

  • Modern, integrated mobile capabilities.
  • Superior real-time tracking and visibility.
  • A robust support team with deep sector knowledge.
  • Continuous innovation and responsiveness to feedback.
  • Descartes’ scalable, integrated and broad solution portfolio to solve every last-mile challenge.

In addition, Descartes' team doesn't wait for customers to lead, we drive strategic conversations, bring new ideas to the table and offer tangible ways to achieve more efficient, resilient operations.

 

Why Wait? Risks of Staying with an Outdated Platform

If you’re considering an ORTEC alternative, now is the time to explore how Descartes can help you modernise your delivery operations with confidence.

Consider taking these initial steps:  

  1. Take our free  Routing Software Health Check to assess your current system’s strengths and uncover new opportunities for optimisation.  

  1. Speak with a Descartes solution expert to see how our integrated delivery management platform can help you streamline operations, reduce costs, and meet rising customer demand.  

Take control of your last-mile operations - and build a smarter, more resilient future.  

Get Started 

 

 

Let’s talk!

By filling out the form below, you'll be connecting directly with one of our expert consultants who specialise in optimising fleet operations.

Here's what you can expect once your submission is received:

  • Personalised Consultation: Our expert will take the time to understand the unique needs of your fleet or business.
  • Insight into Your Challenges: Share any roadblocks or pain points you're facing, and we'll provide actionable insights.
  • Solution Discussion: We'll talk next steps to explore potential strategies and solutions that could enhance your efficiency and performance.