How many apps and software tools does your small business utilize? You might have a tool for every job, but does each one increase staff productivity or increase corporate turnover? Maybe not.
The collection of tools and applications that your organization employs on a daily basis is known as its tech stack. And it’s crucial to optimize this tech stack so that your staff members spend more time on their actual task and less time juggling various tools.
Types of digital tools available ;
- Supply Chain Management Software – A crucial modern technology that can help you with this is supply chain management software, or SCM. Operators can gather all the crucial actions and procedures that occur along the supply chain with the use of a good SCM. For companies seeking a quick return on their investment, a good SCM is the most effective way to streamline logistics procedures.
- GPS & Tracking tools – Customers now have higher expectations than ever before for tracking and updates. Real-time and live tracking used to be nothing more than an impossible pipe dream for any corporation to implement on a large scale throughout the business processes. Real-time tracking is now feasible for businesses of all sizes thanks to GPS and tracking systems, giving a level of transparency to the logistics sector that is a true game-changer for operators of all kinds.
- Drones – About ten years ago, drones were novelty items for children (and kids at heart). However, drones are undoubtedly gaining ground as industrial goods that can benefit storage and logistics companies in a variety of ways. Today’s commercial and industrial drones are equipped with camera and software systems that have a wide range of uses, including surveying, observation, and even warehouse management. The insights that drones may give can be useful to logistics operators throughout the supply chain.
Let’s look at the steps needed to build a tech stack
- Identify workflows to automate – Look for company procedures or workflows that can be computerized.
- Look for similar workflows – Locate related processes that a shared technology can serve
- Selection of the right software tools – To fulfill both present and future needs, choose the appropriate software tools for your tech stacks.
- Evaluate your tech stack regularly – Check your IT stack’s effectiveness, utilization, and ROI on a frequent basis.
Why do freight forwarders need tech stacks?
According to a recent IAG Cargo poll, 81% of freight forwarders believe technology innovation will have a positive impact on their business, and 70% of forwarders expect the rate of technical change to rise in the coming year compared to last year.
Customers frequently desire real-time driver tracking and individualized notifications for their orders, and they have high expectations for delivery. To boost efficiency and satisfy customers, delivery companies must optimize and automate their last-mile logistics.
Consumer expectations are at an all-time high, despite problems with the supply chain and rising prices for petrol and commodities. Despite escalating expenses, customers are still prepared to pay more for delivery convenience as long as it fits their on-demand requirements. They want to be able to keep an eye on the drivers, follow the routes, and plan an on-time delivery. Unfortunately, if shops don’t have streamlined and automated delivery technologies, this will cause problems and a lot of work for them. Spreadsheets can’t provide clients with an accurate ETA for their orders because they aren’t sophisticated enough.
Why are technology stacks important?
Leading internet organizations use a variety of data sources and software stacks, including Facebook, Amazon, Google, and Netflix. They can use it to promote data-based decision making, develop cutting-edge goods, and spearhead the digital revolution. Technology stacks are used to make life easier for corporations and engineers. They also make it simple for businesses to create products that are simple to use, browse, and learn how to utilize, as well as to provide clients with a comprehensive experience.
- The ability to build, deploy, and improve systems while launching goods on time, under budget, and according to your schedule is made possible by a comprehensive and flexible stack that aids in managing software applications.
- Stacks are useful for organizing ideas; they can assist you in controlling the inherent complexity of your current technology and guiding future decisions. They can aid in establishing clear rules and budgets, setting priorities for the company, and prioritizing technology solutions.
- Early-stage startups can get off the ground quickly and save money and time when bringing their products to market if they have the correct technological stack in place.
Freight forwarders offering tech solutions with a competitive edge in the market
What gives your business the competitive edge?
1. One platform
Having access to a single mobile/web application that allows clients to monitor shipping details and communicate with their clients on a continuous basis without having to worry about emailing back and forth can be a time saving benefit. A platform that allows your clients to inquire about shipments and compare multiple sailing schedules gives any freight forwarder an advantage over their competitors.
2. Go mobile
Many mobile-driven operations can be automated, making it possible for fresh data and cargo movements to appear almost instantly. Freight forwarders can gain competitive edge in the industry by providing their clients’ a Mobile App Solution to manage their shipment operations.
Having access to shipment information real-time allows customers to independently keep track of their shipments and analytics that will enhance the transparency and efficiency of the business.Increased shipment visibility on mobile further helps businesses to optimize their workflows and gives clients the convenience to easily track and trace shipments without having to wait for constant updates from stakeholders.
- Real time access to data
- Digital document management
- Improved transparency
- Inventory management
- Analytics
- Increased visibility
- Stay with updated with news driven content
This will help freight forwarders enhance the relationships they have with their clients since the availability of real time data will increase the trust they have on their freight forwarder.
How can a shipment visibility solution help freight forwarders to overcome carrier entering threats
Freight forwarders all over the world say they require a supply chain that can prepare ahead of time and is very flexible and coordinated. They require better data access to illustrate not only where shipments are in real time during their trip, but also their safety and integrity. Without it, businesses are unable to respond to problems as they arise or prevent them from recurring in the future.
According to a recent study, shippers believe shipment visibility is an important factor in evaluating a freight forwarder’s product. Shipment visibility is critical for shippers since it aids in the acquisition of new customers, the expansion of margins, and the reduction of churn. Some shippers are even ready to pay a premium to deal with a freight forwarder that offers superior technology, visibility, and control. As a result, real-time cargo visibility has become an essential component of freight forwarding, as it aids in the streamlining and management of complex procedures.
Carriers can report any delays as soon as they occur, and every step is documented. Shippers utilize this information to improve customer service, measure performance, and evaluate suppliers, while carriers use it as proof of delivery.
What is SFL Insights and how can your business benefit from it?
SFL Insights is a white label web/mobile application solution for CargoWise Powered freight forwarders to provide your clients increased shipment visibility from anywhere with any device.
With SFL Insights real time shipment visibility your client can;
1. Reduce phone calls and emails
employees constantly have to inquire with shipment inquiries with phone calls, messages, and emails. SFL Insights White Labeled Web/Mobile Application will empower your customers.
2. Your employees don’t spend time on mundane tasks
Planning and assigning responsibilities to your teams play an important role in the overall efficiency of the firm. Client Support staff spend endless hours calling, mailing couriers, and warehouse management to find out where the shipment is and then update the customer. By enabling real-time shipment visibility, your staff will be kept up to date on any changes in shipping status and will be able to enable customers to find out the required information for themselves. This frees up staff’ time to focus on other revenue-generating activities.
Reach out to SFL Insights for a free demo & start your shipment visibility journey with us today!
