Harbor Development Group, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation specializes in providing EDI based system and technology integration services to the real estate industry, has just released its new universal electronic receive software package known as the Universal Delivery Station. It is designed to link real estate appraisers, lenders and appraisal management companies by utilizing the PDF file format by Adobe and ultimately eliminating the need for proprietary delivery stations.

This 32-bit Windows 95 based program offers an open receive architecture which supports the automated receipt of files via three different connectivity methods: internet dial-up, LAN connection, and direct modem to modem. Therefore, anyone possessing the ability to produce a file in the PDF format with either e-mail capabilities or simply Windows 95 and a modem, has the immediate ability to send to UDS without purchasing any additional software or relying on a VAN (value-added network) for delivery.

According to Eric Taylor, Director of Corporate Technologies, many lending institutions are currently utilizing various proprietary receive modules, which limits them to the electronic receipt of reports from only approximately 20 to 25% of the available national appraiser base.

"For years, the industry has been patiently awaiting a universally accepted EDI protocol, but recent movement indicates that the major players are heading in opposite directions. In utilizing the PDF file format, you sacrifice data extraction, but gain a streamlined delivery process and reduce overall product turnaround times", explains Taylor. "In a nutshell, the open delivery architecture of the Universal Delivery Station answers the industry plea for an immediate electronic delivery solution."

HDG is offering a free 15-day trial version that can either be requested by phone at (888) 690-6161 or downloaded directly from the Web at the company's Web site located at http://www.hdgroup.com.