Many logistics management teams still use excel sheets and boards to manage their fleet and delivery routes, because it’s a system that logistics managers know in depth, as they have been working this way since the very start of their companies. It’s familiar.
However, the logistics industry is getting more and more complex, and companies have better chances to compete, and have several advantages if they adopt technology as a partner for the logistics business.
The main goal of this course is to provide the knowledge and the skills to manage any kind of vehicle fleet through all its activities and key aspects. The course is aimed to executives, middle managers, fleet managers and any professional related to fleet management.
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As we explained in a previous post, route optimization software solutions, scheduling routes, vehicle tracking, warehouse and shipping management, amongst other issues, have become indispensable because they help companies identify their weak points and the growth opportunities.
In order to properly implement these tools, Logistics Managers first need to adopt a new information management culture. Cloud-based solutions are the milestone of that whole new process. Let’s look into the main benefits of this huge data management service.
Full connectivity
“These platforms provide direct connectivity with networks of diverse trading partners –Supply Chain Digital says-, through any-to-any data exchange and online web portals. The resulting virtual communities enable shipment track and trace, streamline routine transactional workflow, and optimize the flow of equipment to maximize asset utilization. SaaS users readily connect with a network of equipment maintenance and repair providers on the web to manage container equipment and chassis repair estimates and service requests. Further, advancements in visibility technology allow companies to track equipment as it moves through the supply chain.”
Integration
On the cloud, companies can gather different pieces of information, located in different places and formats, under one big umbrella that helps to cross over and to discover new useful data. Supply Chain 24/7 explains.
Customization
The cloud allows you to adapt solutions for your own company’s reality and needs. “The cloud’s ability to coordinate information with a specific solution can prevent any delays that might be caused by miscommunication or missed savings that might come from obfuscated data,” says Supply Chain 24/7.
Internal communication
Thanks to the cloud, a company can gather all data in a safe environment, and share this info with people inside your business. “In the traditional on-premise software model, not only would you need to procure or build the software at great capital expense, you would also need to build and maintain the infrastructure and employ personnel to operate it.
However, with a SaaS solutions, there is no upfront capital required for the software and you don’t have to worry about building and maintaining the infrastructure. Instead, the software is available on the web, and the SaaS provider, in exchange for your subscription fee, handlng all the heavy lifting on the back end, Supply Chain Digital says.
Real time (pricing and inventory)
The cloud provides relevant, reliable and fast information about the KPI´s of your business’ and immediately stores this data in servers. According to Supply Chain 24/7, “quickly understanding the price associated with every logistics element of your supply chain allows you to control your costs with finesse. Pricing elements within transportation and warehousing can fluctuate based on any number of factors: weather, market conditions, or demand.”
On the other hand, Real time inventory “allows you to maximize your ability to respond to demand fluctuations while holding onto your buffer against emergencies. Data flow from the cloud gives you infinitely more precise control over your inventory levels.”
Are you currently using any cloud-based solutions? What is your opinion of them?
Written by Francisca Howard
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The audit is a key tool to know the overall status and provide the analysis, the assessment, the advice, the suggestions and the actions to take in order to cut costs and increase the efficiency and efficacy of the fleet management. We propose the following fleet management audit.
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