Fuel increases, diminishing marginal returns and the turbulent markets are turning more and more logistics companies to real-time data – and more specifically, transport management solutions to help them make decisions, according to Tasveer Madhunlall, a project leader with Forte Transport Solutions.
“The value of real-time data cannot be underestimated in the modern day operational environment where change happens quickly and without much notice,” he told FTW.
The ability to view and analyse data while it is being collated is proving to be a major competitive advantage, allowing logistics companies to make real-time decisions that not only benefit their own operations but those of customers.
According to Madhunlall it improves planning and reporting capabilities.
“Transport companies need to start collecting and analysing data more rigorously because their competitors will start doing so if they have not done so already. The powerful companies of tomorrow are the ones that implement data-sensitive systems today.”
While technology was playing an increasingly critical role in the South African logistics environment, some transport companies were still afraid of new technology, said Madhunlall.
“The reason, we believe, comes down to project and change management. That is where we come in, bridging the gap by managing people, processes and systems.” There’s also the challenge of accessing real-time data at each stage of the business.
According to Madhunlall this can be addressed through the use of powerful transport management systems (TMS). “Forte Transport Solutions is responsible for the implementation of Datatim – one such TMS tool,” he said.
This South African-based software drives the collection and analysis of logistical data.
“During a recent implementation of this specific tool the customer realised significant benefits – including the ability to make precise logistical decisions, greater control and visibility throughout the supply chain, and greater control of fleet distribution which in turn allowed for improved planning,” he said. “Prior to the implementation of Datatim, management was analysing data a month later and then making decisions thereafter. This resulted in a major loss of control and lack of flexibility within their supply chain.”
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The ability to view and analyse data while it is being collated is proving to be a major competitive advantage. – Tasveer Madhunlall
