Five years ago Lucas Systems made a pivotal decision to run its software system on a more mobile platform. Today that move is paying off.

The Wexford firm, a leading provider of voice-directed warehouse solutions for open mobile computers, has reported more than 40 percent revenue growth and a sharp increase in profits in 2009. In addition, Lucas plans to add an additional 10 people to its 50 employee Pittsburgh operation in the areas of software development and sales.

Lucas will also add sales staff throughout North America and technical and support staff in its engineering office in Colorado.

"Voice directed warehousing is one of those sectors that finally is hitting its stride," says Chris Sweeney, senior vice president. "But other established players in the same space aren't doing as well. It's a combination of a process oriented approach and a very flexible software solution that's driving our success."

When Lucas goes into a distribution center or warehouse, it considers the whole system and works to improve the existing process, which provides a faster, more accurate solution and reduces errors,says Sweeney. A two-way conversation with Jennifer, the friendly voice behind the solution, keeps the work flow moving seamlessly.

New customers in 2009 included a leading healthcare distribution company that uses Jennifer at 40 distribution centers and a Fortune 500 manufacturer of industrial equipment that has incorporated the system at its largest global parts distribution center.

Lucas Systems has offices in North America, Canada and Mexico and plans to establish a presence in Europe in the coming year.

Writer: Debra Diamond Smit
Source: Chris Sweeney, Lucas Systems