When a recent DC Velocity survey 1 asked what performance metrics
mattered most to distribution center (DC) professionals, “on-time
shipments” once again topped the list. This year, companies are
seeking to boost operations with an intense focus on keeping
inventory flowing smoothly and quickly.
Of course, tracking, monitoring and measuring have long been
a critical part of the DC and transportation equation. With the surge
of connected devices, it’s becoming easier and more cost-effective
to keep tabs on just about everything across the supply chain.
Multiply the number of connected devices, and the possibilities—
and data—are virtually endless.
Shippers recognize the opportunity that big data offers, as they race
to translate it into actionable insights to help save both time and
money—and launch them ahead of the competition. In fact, over half the
respondents in a preliminary study review published in DC Velocity, 2 said
their organizations saw tremendous value in using big data.
TRANSLATING BIG DATA INTO BIGGER OPPORTUNITIES
So, what are shippers hoping to do with all this data? Recent surveys
indicate that gaining clearer visibility into orders, shipments and
inventory; improving transportation management planning; and
enhancing transportation management execution are top goals.
KEEPING OPERATIONS ON TRACK AND DELIVERIES ON TIME
All this collected data gives managers a more in-depth glimpse into
orders, stock and shipments to help reduce back orders and keep
deliveries on schedule. Real-time fleet data, for example, offers a
deeper level of visibility and control over what’s happening on the road.
DIGGING INTO BIG DATA TO
FINE-TUNE DC
OPERATIONS
THE FIRST STEP TOWARD ALL-KNOWING DECISIONS: SEEING DATA FROM ALL OVER
Companies seek to boost operations
with an intense focus on keeping
inventory flowing smoothly and quickly.
