IT solutions must improve process-flow

Clearing and forwarding agents are increasingly looking beyond the mere submission of EDI messages to the significant efficiencies that appropriate software can provide. That’s the view of Core Freight Systems’ Sydney Ramoorthy who says the CoreFreight system was designed with this in mind. “It has the express intent of providing improved internal processes, enhanced management control, comprehensive client reporting and reliable user support coupled with robust interface capability in order to make a positive contribution to any supply chain in which it is used,” Ramoorthy told FTW. “We believe that good electronic solutions leverage information technology as part of the overall business process and this is not optimised if its use is restricted to the generation of a bill of entry.” According to Ramoorthy, a lot of new business comes through users who have previously worked on the CoreFreight application and who have subsequently recommended the application to a new employer. “This seems to go beyond simply wanting a system with which they are familiar but a genuine belief that the overall processflow will be improved, with the benefits accruing not only to the staff member but to the company as a whole.” As a result, Core Freight has developed a fairly diverse customer base, he added. “And this provides insight into the different work procedures in our industry and is useful as input into the ongoing development necessary to keep the software relevant.” The company’s commitment to ongoing product development has resulted in additional functionality available within CoreFreight which provides inter alia for integrated electronic document storage and online process tracking facilities, in addition to the standard features. “Players in the SA forwarding and clearing industry should make sure that they are getting the most out of their IT spend, ensuring the best cost-to-function ratio from their electronic solutions,” he added.