The Logistics of Logistics The Optym Advantage: Smarter Routing, Planning, and Decision Making with Shaman Ahuja
In "The Optym Advantage: Smarter Routing, Planning, and Decision Making", Joe Lynch and Shaman Ahuja, Deputy CEO of Optym, discuss how applied AI and optimization maximize fleet utilization and driver profitability.
About Shaman AhujaShaman Ahuja is currently serving as the Deputy CEO of Optym, a company specializing in prepackaged software solutions. With a robust background in technology and product management, he has held various leadership positions within Optym, showcasing his ability to drive innovation and efficiency. He began his professional journey as an intern and has progressively climbed the ranks, demonstrating a strong commitment to his career growth. His educational foundation in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon University has equipped him with the skills necessary to excel in the competitive landscape of technology and his experience at firms like Goldman Sachs further underscores his capability and adaptability in high-pressure environments. He is passionate about leveraging technology to solve complex business challenges and is dedicated to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence within his teams.
About OptymOptym, Inc. is a global leader in optimization and applied AI solutions for the transportation and logistics industry. For more than two decades, Optym has partnered with some of the world's largest trucking, airline, and rail companies to solve their most complex operational challenges. Its flagship products—including LoadAi and RouteMax—empower carriers, brokers, and fleets to maximize efficiency, increase profitability, and make smarter, data-driven decisions. Backed by deep expertise in operations research, optimization science, and machine learning, Optym builds technology that turns real-world complexity into simple, actionable workflows.
Key Takeaways: The Optym Advantage: Smarter Routing, Planning, and Decision Making- In "The Optym Advantage: Smarter Routing, Planning, and Decision Making", Joe Lynch and Shaman Ahuja, Deputy CEO of Optym, discuss how applied AI and optimization maximize fleet utilization and driver profitability.
- Optimization vs. Standard Routing: Shaman clarifies that Optym is not a turn-by-turn navigation tool. While standard routing focuses on the best path from Point A to Point B, Optym's "Decision Support" focuses on load assignment. It determines which load a driver should take next, considering all drivers and constraints simultaneously to create a holistic weekly plan for the entire fleet.
- Targeting the "Enterprise" Complexity: The software is specifically designed for enterprise fleets, generally starting at 200 trucks. At this scale, manual planning on whiteboards becomes inefficient. Optym solves the "utilization problem"—ensuring trucks aren't sitting idle and drivers aren't wasting hours waiting at docks—by identifying "juice to squeeze" in large, complex networks.
- Strategy Pivot: From TMS to Integration: Originally, Optym built its own TMS (LoadOps) to ensure data quality. However, they realized large fleets are reluctant to switch TMS providers due to operational disruption. Optym pivoted to a "Killer App" layer that integrates directly with industry standards like Trimble and McLeod, acting as a specialized intelligence layer rather than a replacement for core systems.
- Advanced Operational Models: Relay and "Meet & Turn": A core feature of the software is optimizing complex maneuvers like Relays (handing off trailers between drivers) and Meet & Turns (two drivers meeting at a midpoint to swap loads). By automating these schedules, fleets can keep drivers within a specific radius, allowing them to be home every night while keeping the assets moving 24/7.
- Bridging the "Tribal Knowledge" Gap:The industry faces a crisis as veteran planners (who "know the network in their sleep") retire. Younger, tech-savvy employees expect modern interfaces. Optym's AI captures that "tribal knowledge" and turns it into data-driven suggestions, allowing a new hire to be as productive as a 30-year veteran within a week.
- Proven ROI and Efficiency Gains: Shaman shares a case study of a 900-truck fleet where Optym's pilot program covered the same amount of freight using 100 fewer drivers. This represents a nearly 20% reduction in driver costs. To lower the risk for new clients, Optym offers a 5x ROI guarantee, promising to generate $5 in value for every $1 spent.
- Enhancing Driver Lifestyle through Predictability: Beyond the math, the software addresses the "human" element of trucking. By using AI agents to reschedule appointments based on real-time ETAs and reducing wasted "dwell time" at shippers, Optym creates a more predictable schedule. This reduces the stress and sleep deprivation that contribute to the high health risks faced by long-haul drivers.
Optym Blog | Insights on Logistics & Technology
Customer Stories | Success with Optym
The Logistics of Logistics Podcast