Delivery Management SaaS Platform
Single-handedly architected, developed, and maintained a comprehensive shipping and delivery management platform for nearly seven years, resulting in a patent and eventual acquisition by Reynolds & Reynolds.
The Challenge
The client needed a modern, comprehensive solution to manage their delivery network operations. Existing tools were inadequate for their specialized industry requirements:
- Fragmented systems: No unified platform for shipping, CRM, and reporting
- Manual processes: Time-consuming manifesting and returns handling
- Limited visibility: Lack of real-time tracking and analytics
- Scalability concerns: Existing solutions couldn’t grow with the business
- Industry-specific needs: Generic tools didn’t address delivery network workflows
The Solution
As a solo consultant, I took complete ownership of the project from concept to deployment, managing every aspect of development over nearly seven years.
Comprehensive Platform Features
Built a full-featured SaaS solution addressing all operational needs:
- Shipping & delivery management with real-time tracking
- Customer relationship management (CRM) for client data
- Manifesting system for efficient route planning
- Returns handling with streamlined workflows
- Advanced reporting with actionable insights
End-to-End Ownership
I single-handedly managed every facet of the platform:
- Architecture & design: Scalable, future-proof system design
- Full-stack development: All coding from database to UI
- UI/UX design: Intuitive interfaces crafted with industry input
- Hosting & infrastructure: Complete deployment and server management
- Ongoing maintenance: Nearly seven years of updates and support
Industry-Driven Development
Collaborated closely with experienced parts managers to ensure the platform delivered field-tested, industry-specific solutions:
- Deep domain learning: Invested time understanding the delivery business
- Iterative refinement: Continuous improvement based on real-world feedback
- Practical features: Every capability designed for actual operational needs
The Results
DDS Track became a transformative success story:
- Patent awarded: Named inventor on U.S. Patent 9,286,591 for shipping and delivery management systems
- SaaS evolution: Platform matured into a relicensable solution for other delivery networks
- Acquisition: Project acquired by Reynolds & Reynolds
- Operational transformation: Fundamentally improved the client’s business operations
- Industry interest: Drew attention from other networks seeking similar technology
Technical Approach
Built for reliability, scalability, and long-term maintainability:
- Full-stack web application architecture
- Secure multi-tenant SaaS design
- RESTful API for integrations
- Comprehensive database design for complex logistics data
- Responsive interface for office and field use
A Career Highlight
Watching DDS Track flourish from initial concept to acquisition by Reynolds & Reynolds stands as a defining achievement in my career. This project demonstrates my ability to own every facet of full-stack development while delivering innovative, efficiency-boosting solutions that create real business value.
The lessons learned from building DDS Track inform my approach to startup consulting today, particularly around MVP development and understanding what to build first versus what can wait.
"Shawn took it upon himself to learn our business so that the end-product would be better. On-time production and creative ideas were offered. The end product came out better than we envisioned."
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