DHL Worldwide Express is investing US$25 million to provide real-time shipment-tracking for customers in Asia with the introduction of its next-generation mobile wireless data scanner, the CatsEye. The scanner, which is being introduced in Singapore, is a handheld computer that allows couriers to scan shipment airwaybills and transmit the data in real time from the customers' premises directly to DHL's global data network. 'CatsEye is designed to be an evolving product with plans already in place to introduce features such as multi-language capability, credit- or smart-card payment facilities and on-site label printing,' said Rob McDougall, services director for DHL Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. The company plans to launch the scanner in Hong Kong, Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, South Korea and Indonesia by the end of the year. The introduction of the scanner will mean that customers and recipients worldwide can log on to DHL's Web site at www.dhl.com and, within 15 minutes from the time the courier has scanned the shipment information into the system, check the status of their package. 'The CatsEye courier scanner is a next-generation Asian solution that has been designed to meet the needs of our customers and couriers in Asia,' Mr McDougall said. He said that in response to customer demand, DHL was providing an 'export adviser' to explain to customers the correct way to follow customs procedures and fill in customs documentation. The scanner had a built-in service directory which would enable the courier to provide information and advice on procedures to customers instantly, Mr McDougall said. Couriers would no longer have to carry bulky directories to assist customers as in the past. As many of DHL couriers in Asia were 'foot couriers', spending much of their time delivering parcels on foot, often in high-rise buildings, the scanner would enable them to be in communication with their station no matter where they were, Mr McDougall said. This would save considerable time in processing information and receiving shipment pick-up requests, he said. The scanner weighs less than 350 grams and measures just 6.5 centimetres by 16cm wide and 4.5cm deep. It includes real-time wireless dispatch of customers' pick-up requests to couriers no matter where the courier is situated, allowing for quicker courier response time. DHL, a firm believer and user of information technology, was continually researching and investing in IT applications that would speed up processes and staff productivity, Mr McDougall said.