The Logistics of Logistics Upgrading to One Integrated Suite for all Logistics Operations with Naval Sabharwal
Naval Sabharwal and Joe Lynch discuss why using one integrated suite for all logistics operations is the best approach for driving logistics and supply chain efficiency and effectiveness. Utilizing fragmented systems limits logistics companies from fully leveraging the data in their systems. Data equals dollars and the 3PLs that best harvest the data (dollars) in their systems will be the most profitable.
About Naval SabharwalNaval is Global Head of Supply Chain and Logistics at Ramco Systems, where he leads a team that is building a logistics software platform that meets the end to end needs of transportation and logistics providers. Prior to joining Ramco, Naval held leadership positions at a variety of companies including Safexpress, Reliance Logistics, Reliance Retail, Unipart Logistics and Hexaware Technologies. Naval has a Postgraduate in Material Management from the National Defense Academy. He served the Logistics stream of the Indian Air Force for 20 years before taking pre-mature retirement in September 2004 as a Wing Commander.
About RamcoRamco's Logistics Software is a unified cloud-based software covering the end to end needs of third-party logistics, freight forwarders, and parcel/courier service providers who are seeking a high-performance logistics software. Ramco Logistics Software will not only help you manage your business with ease but also swiftly respond to evolving imperatives of business, regulatory changes, market conditions, etc. without having to go through the pains of integration again and again.
Noteworthy Questions- [7:45] Logistics companies don't necessarily have the talent in-house to manage information systems.
- [20:10] Trying to integrate systems from different suppliers is where the problems begin.
- [28:30] Why do we need an integrated solution for all of our logistics operations?
- Most transportation and logistics companies have purchased stand-alone, single-function software like TMS, WMS, CRM, HR, tracking, and fleet management to better manage their business.
- The problem with this hodge-podge approach to software is that each system is disconnected, and the data created is not easy to share between software systems. Some companies integrate their disparate software, which is time-consuming and costly – and with uncertain results.
- Fragmentation of software systems and data causes a lack of visibility and data that is too old to act on. Real-time data enables real-time decision making.
- As logistics companies push for additional efficiencies, business intelligence, and real-time insights, the fragmented systems can not deliver.
- Customer (shippers) expectations are rising, they need a fully integrated suite for all logistics operations. The platform seamlessly connects every function from the CRM through freight claims.
- The integrated suite eliminates silos, enables continuous innovation, and provides real-time data and insights that can help improve service and lower costs.
- An integrated suite for all logistics operations (like Ramco's solution) is a platform that is completely configurable by operations people – no IT people required.
- By utilizing a completely integrated platform, logistics companies can take advantage of artificial intelligence/machine learning, which will take their business to the next level
- Most 3PLs do not have the internal expertise required to compete with the best 3PL software development teams.
- To stay competitive, 3PL should consider partnering with a 3PL software company that can build and support a comprehensive, end-to-end software suite that includes CRM, freight rating, billing, operations, WMS, cross-docking, profitability, claims, finance, and HR.
- When selecting a 3PL software partner, logistics companies should look for three things: 1. Design capabilities, 2. Flexibility and 3. Investment capabilities.
- Technology is advancing quickly and companies need to invest to stay ahead of the curve. 3PLs must look to the future and make lasting technological and digital partnerships that will ensure their competitive advantage.