IoT Strategies for a Holistic Transportation Management

The pandemic has transformed a lot if not all companies into a digital company, including those in the supply chain and logistics industry. Such a transformation shifted the traditional paradigm of the industry from being the siloed, independent, carrier from point A to point B, to one that looks at the journey more holistically, as part of a whole global system.

This shift in paradigm is further pushed by the emergence of cloud solutions and network-based platforms which has replaced the traditional client/server applications. It brought forward an approach the industry knew as “holistic transportation management”. The management approach is surely in the future for some logistics companies in 2021.

In order to manage your fleet holistically, users need to apply business intelligence to historical data in order to gain clear, actionable insights. These insights can then be used to predict a likely outcome of the company’s plans. Then, it’s all a matter of integrating the transportation strategy to all parts of the operations.

Sounds like a feat? Yes, it is. This holistic approach requires previously siloed departments like analytics in IT, business development, sales, and operations, to work in synchronized harmony. In order to make it work, some tech solutions are required to bridge the gap.

These are the three technologies you need:

1. Connected Partners in a Cloud Platform

Cloud platforms allow partners in a supply chain to be connected with each other, whether that be in integrated planning functions or as on-the-road monitoring. Having information on how every part is performing will add flexibility if problems or delays occurred. Merging planning functions can help lessen lead time and make every delivery as effective as possible.

2. Increased Goods Visibility with APM

When it comes to productivity in every delivery, an end-to-end solution like Asset Performance Management (APM) can provide companies with real-time data on the amount and condition of their shipments. This increased visibility helps lessen the risk of theft, damage, or loss. Therefore increasing the trust of customers in the company. The data gained through APM can be used as a business insight as well.

3. Control Performance with FleetSense

On the road performance of drivers can now be monitored visually through FleetSense. This solution uses AI based telematics camera which feeds real-time condition of the road and the driver’s status. It ensures a safe journey, sends alerts in conditions outside of the safety parameters, gives video evidence if an accident happens, and tracks the schedule adherence of your fleet.

Treat these technology as business solutions. They are more than just an enabler for efficient holistic operations, these are solutions that can also be monetized as a service to your customers or partners. It will add value to your business as well as open up a new stream of revenue. Strategize with your business development department in order to gain the highest ROI from these solutions.

A holistic approach to managing your transportation will increase the efficiency of your fleet, reduce lead time, maintain productivity, keep performances high, and add value to your business. If you’re interested in implementing any of the above solutions, consult with our IoT Experts here.