Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1531186
18 Pallet C e nt ral • Janu a r y -Fe b r u a r y 2 0 25 T he Pallet Design System™ (PDS) is the industry-leading software for designing, analyzing, and optimizing wooden pallets. With its powerful tools and ongoing enhancements, PDS enables pallet professionals to create efficient, sustainable, and cost- effective designs tailored to their customers' needs. To help users maximize their experience, NWPCA has expanded in-person PDS training (Mexico and the UK) in early 2025. Whether you're a new user or a seasoned professional, the training programs, webinars, and courses through e Packaging School will ensure you're up to date with the latest features and best practices. A new training module has been added to e Packaging School online that covers design and analysis of drum and pail pallets. A Spanish version is also in the works and will be available early next year. In 2024, we introduced several key enhancements to PDS, including the block customization and deletion capabilities, which are important to European markets. Expanded Block Customization Users can now customize the dimensions of an individual block without having to adjust an entire row or column. is provides greater flexibility and precision when designing pallets. Individual Block Deletion Blocks within a row or column can now be deleted independently of the others, simplifying adjustments and improving efficiency. Top Deckboard Enhancements Top deckboards can now be shortened, offset to create zipper designs, and split in half. is feature provides recyclers with new options for reusing leftover materials to create innovative pallet designs. It also can be used to provide "holes" in pallets for bottom dumping bulk bags or protruding equipment. Looking Ahead To 2025 Exciting developments are on the horizon for PDS in 2025! New web-based functionality is in progress, including: • A website for sharing, storing, and viewing designs • New user-facing license management capabilities • An environmental calculator to support sustainability efforts ese advancements will further empower pallet professionals to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and design with sustainability in mind. SOFTWARE 40 Years Of Innova on: The Pallet Design System™ (PDS) BY THE PDS TEAM Innova ons And What's Next