The need for sophisticated supply chain management software To cope with the e-commerce supply chain’s complexity and dynamism, transport and logistics providers need to leverage the power of technology and data. This is especially true for retailers who operate across multiple channels, such as online, offline, and mobile. These retailers need to seamlessly integrate their inventory, order, and delivery systems to ensure that their customers have a consistent and satisfying shopping experience across all touchpoints. Therefore, the need for sophisticated supply chain management software is paramount. Such software can help transport and logistics providers automate and streamline their processes, enhance their visibility and control, and improve their decision-making and planning. For instance, software like SAP Integrated Business Planning and Oracle Logistics for larger entities or CartonCloud for smaller businesses using Xero can help forecast demand and supply patterns, allocate resources and capacity, track and trace shipments, manage inventory and the warehouse, and analyse performance and customer feedback.
The need for collaboration and innovation Another implication of the e-commerce boom is the need for collaboration and innovation in the transport and logistics industry. As the supply chain becomes more fragmented and diverse, involving multiple stakeholders, such as manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, retailers, carriers, and customers, coordination and communication are essential. This can help reduce friction and inefficiencies in the supply chain and create value and synergy for all parties. Therefore, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation, both internally and externally is important. Internally, they need to break the silos and the barriers between different departments and functions and to encourage the sharing of information and ideas. Externally, they must establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and partners and leverage their capabilities and expertise. For instance, they can use platforms and networks that facilitate the exchange of data and the integration of systems, or they can adopt new business models and practices that enhance the flexibility and scalability of the supply chain.
The future of logistics in the digital age As technology and data become more advanced and accessible, the supply chain will become more intelligent and responsive, and customer expectations will become more demanding and diverse. One of the key trends that will shape the future of logistics is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big data. These technologies can help transport and logistics providers to analyse and process large amounts of data, generate insights and predictions, and automate and optimise their operations. For instance, AI and big data can help to enhance demand and supply forecasting, improve routing and scheduling, detect and prevent risks and anomalies, and personalise customer service and delivery options. To succeed in this competitive and dynamic environment, transport and logistics providers must embrace the change and the disruption and leverage the technology and data to create value and differentiation for their customers and themselves. Please reach out to Simon or a member of our team to see how we can support you by calling 0330 058 6559 or by emailing hello@scruttonbland.co.uk
TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS | SCRUTTON BLAND | 7
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