Manufacturing and Logistics IT - March 2016

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MARCH 2016

The European magazine promoting the effective use of IT in supply chain applications

Special Technology Report: TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Interview: FERRARI

A clearer view of the logistics Cloud The TMS evolution Storage and order-picking – the added dimension

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Do w & n Lo lo gi a st d ics

Leveraging risk management throughout the supply chain

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Also in this issue:

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www.RetailTechnologyReview.com

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CONTENTS Manufacturing and Logistics IT March 2016

Interview 5

Editor: Ed Holden

Ferrari

Special Technology Report

Contributors:

10

Transportation Management Systems

18

Oracle: A clearer view of the logistics Cloud

Tim Fawkes, 3t Logistics Ltd. Terry Onica, QAD

Transportation Management

Craig Sears-Black, Manhattan Associates Tony Liddar, MACS Software

TimoCom case study: BĂśrjes Logistik & Spedition Isotrak empowers fleets to deliver with Aeris connectivity 3t Logistics Ltd.: The TMS evolution

Publisher: Dean Taylor

Elemica introduces track mobile app for logistics visibility Mad Capsule Media selects NetDespatch integration solution to drive seamless ecommerce

Designer: First Sight Graphics Ltd, www.firstsightgraphics.com

Fleet safety benchmarking tool launched to cut work-related road crashes GateHouse sees game changers ahead in logistics and transport markets

Production: Carolyn Pither

Supply Chain Management

30

Circulation: Carole Chiesa

QAD: Leveraging risk management throughout the supply chain

Warehouse Management

IT Manager: Ian Curtis

32

Vanderlande: The added dimension Haribo transforms its warehousing operations thanks to a new WMS solution from BEC

Accounts: Sarah Schofield

Manhattan Associates: What can retailers learn from millennials? MACS Software: How to help members of staff accept a new WMS

Published by: B2B Publishing Ltd PO Box 3575, Barnet, Herts, EN5 9QD UK

Printing & Labelling 38

Printed by: The Magazine Printing Company plc, www.magprint.co.uk

Brother: A flexible but robust labelling solution for expanding catering business Samsung Electronics' new smart printing apps enhance office productivity and cost efficiency

Tel: +44 (0) 1707 664200 Email (publishing): info@logisticsit.com Email (editorial): editor@ibcpub.com

Bixolon releases SPP-R200III Bluetooth and WiFi printer with NFC auto pairing technology

Voice 42

BCP’s Musgrave Centralisation Project establishes roots for omnichannel fulfilment John Lewis deploys Voiteq’s VoiceMan Screen-to-Voice technology across distribution centres BEC launches new eSmart Voice WMS for complete door-to-door Voice solutions

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publishers. No liability is accepted for any action arising from the contents of this publication; readers are advised to check any manufacturer’s or supplier’s claim for products. The publishers do not endorse opinions expressed in any article by an outside contributor. While every care is taken over photographs and illustrations, which are returned when requested, no liability can be assumed by the publishers for the loss of such materials.

Mobile Computing 45

Allot MobileTrends report reveals mobile business users incur highest malware risk SOTI: Retailers ‘must put mobile technology at the heart of their customer service strategy or risk losing out’ Ergonomic Solutions’ SafeGuard Dock & Charge tablet enclosure turns static workstations into mobile platforms House of Fraser takes control of price management with Datalogic

ISSN:1463-1172

4

IT

Mitel accelerates development in mobile enterprise with mobile and Cloud innovations

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Ferrari

Automotive

ICT in the fast lane Following on from the special profile in our March 2013 edition, Manufacturing & Logistics IT spoke again with Vittorio Boero, chief information officer at Ferrari, about how the sports and luxury car manufacture's intensive five-year IT re-structuring roadmap, first put in place in 2012, is progressing and the benefits it is bringing to the company.

A

s Ferrari is renowned for some of the finest high-performance automobiles in the world, its customers demand and expect a particularly high level of service. Faced with increased demands from relatively new markets such as China and the Middle East – where customers are much less willing to wait the standard 12 months for delivery of their vehicle – Ferrari realised that it had to increase production rates in terms of both quantity and speed to meet growing output demand, without compromising on quality.

This presented a profound challenge because each Ferrari is unique. Every customer can customise and tailor his or her new purchase; from unique paint colours to the materials that cover the seats and interior, as well as many other details. The result is that no two Ferrari cars are the same. Increasing customer expectations led Ferrari to realise it needed to put in place an even more responsive and flexible manufacturing and logistics setup,

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supported by agile business software that could help achieve targets for new production output, while also reducing IT complexity, reducing errors and saving cost.

implementation of its Infor LN ERP system. Ferrari's then-parent company, FCA (the company was spun-off from FCA in January 2016), had initially proposed a centralised IT policy whereby group companies were to

Vittorio Boero, Ferrari’s chief information officer, joined the company at the beginning of 2012, and during that year he and his team immediately began to put in place a wideranging five-year technology roadmap, which involved the replacement of many of Ferrari's legacy IT systems. Ferrari also implemented a custom development planning regime with its new IT partners in order to ensure the newly sourced solutions were the very best fit for the company's requirements.

ERP In terms of the five-year global IT roadmap Ferrari put in place during 2012, the company is currently at the stage 5 of one of the most critical components of the plan – the

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Automotive

Ferrari

individual custom configuration vehicles in sequence in conjunction with the MES (Manufacturing Execution System), while maintaining a high level of operating line efficiencies within the supply chain. With ION, Ferrari does not need to rely on multiple external sequencing, allowing for a decrease in complexity, risk, errors and cost. Ferrari uses Infor to raise efficiency throughout the organisation; from order taking and manufacturing to the supply chain involved in providing finished cars to customers. The process improvements allow Ferrari to obtain logistical supply chain efficiency at all stages of manufacturing.

standardise on SAP to run the business. However, with a view to facilitate faster production in order to capture and satisfy greater market share in fast-growing economies such as China and the Far East, Ferrari presented what it considered to be a compelling case in favour of the Infor solution. After the agreement to source Infor LN was ratified by FCA, the first implementation stage went live during 2012, with the second following at the beginning of 2013 which supported the launch of the New Engine Family (in strong integration with the MES). In 2014 Ferrari also launched the S&OP module (Sales Operation & Planning). Integrated within the ERP, S&OP collects the forecast from the network, and uses it as an input for the Supply Chain processes. During 2015 the company then saw a major leap forward with the completion of a stage of implementation that affected not only the broad Sales, After Sales and Technical Assistance processes within the company but also included an implementation rollout for Formula One too. “With this step we were able to switch off applications related to our legacy ERP,” explained Boero. During September 2015 Ferrari began the implementation of modules within LN to

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Ferrari uses ION to provide connectivity between both Infor and non-Infor applications, enabling integrated business processes such as order configuration, advanced planning and scheduling, assembly line scheduling and sequencing and asset maintenance and management. The solution also enables Ferrari to optimise the supply chain processes, supporting the increase of production of engines for other members of the FCA group such as Maserati.

complete the ERP implementation for Finance. Boero pointed out that this is now 50 per cent completed. Also, in October last year Ferrari began implementing the ERP modules to cover its entire revenue cycle. “This is due to be completed by January next year with three

“

As has been the case with ERP and MES, we do not take a ‘big bang’ approach to configuration and integration; it’s about ensuring that every part of the functionality is optimised for our specific needs. This is why we split the implementation roadmap into three main steps; each with very clear targets and objectives.”

separate go-live dates: July, September and January 2017, so the current status of our ERP implementation is much in line with the original expectations we had when we started the process in 2012,” said Boero.

Intelligent Open Network Another key component within the Ferrari fiveyear IT plan was the installation of Infor ION (Intelligent Open Network). This provides connectivity between Ferrari's software applications, and enables the company to build

“Infor ION is one of the most important components within our application landscape because every hour we run more than 200 processes and interfaces involving material requirements collected from our 3PL logistics partners to allow the material to be moved around the production line,” said Boero. “Infor has enabled us to reduce the number of anomalies in the system, further allowing us to streamline the production process further. Not only has Infor helped us to increase production, it also helped us to established better relationships between many business departments and IT.”

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Ferrari

Boero added that in order to further improve the interface between ION and LN, further communication layers or integration are being introduced in order to optimise the communication aspect of the systems. This improved communications component is expected to go live during the latter part of this year.

Sales & Operations Planning A further key component within LN, implemented during 2014, was Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP). “By adding S&OP we were able to integrate our demand forecasting data with scheduling in order to improve production capacity on the shop floor,” Boero explained. “S&OP was another process that we implemented within LN. This enabled us to replace what had previously been substantially manual operations managed by

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Automotive

our logistics, commercial and manufacturing departments. The legacy systems comprised a number of spreadsheet-based methodologies. The implementation of S&OP has resulted in faster, more agile decision making within the supply chain planning process.”

improve governance, the approval process and compliance. As a result, this enables Ferrari to respond quickly to changes and meet customer demand, due to the intelligent business support provided by S&OP.”

S&OP provided automated workflows to help Ferrari guarantee the flow of information across demand (from approximately 200 dealers) and supply (into production). “The improved accuracy of data, standardised planning and

Computational fluid dynamics A key IT ingredient that continues to command a dominant place within Ferrari’s solutions portfolio is its Ansys computational fluid

“

This has been a major transition for us, and reflects our commitment to becoming as efficient as possible both businesswise and operationally, reflecting the high esteem our products are held in throughout the world.”

information flow processes and enhanced functionality of S&OP enables comprehensive tracking of any changes in dealer demand and the subsequent changes to the Ferrari production plan,” said Boero. “It also helps to

dynamics (CFD) technology software package. Simulation technology helps Ferrari maintain best-in-class aerodynamic performance. Specifically, Ferrari leverages Ansys software to reduce overall drag, maximise downforce and

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optimise its complex brake cooling systems, all of which are essential to keeping the car running properly. To this end, Ferrari engineers have extensively automated the simulation process and run many design iterations to improve speed, reliability and safety. And, as Boero explains, Ansys is not only used for the Formula One side of the business; Ferrari’s world-class car production also benefits from the state-of-the-art fluid dynamics simulation processes provided by Ansys.

fully integrate the two platforms. The project will keep, in any case, the actual CAD solution for Engine (PTC) and Vehicles (CATIA) with the target to implement, for both solution, the more advanced and updated version (Creo 3.0 and CATIA V6). With this approach, a significant integration with the Enovia V6 layer will be also required; this area is one of the most interesting and advanced that will be managed through the implementation of the PLM.

“It’s a very reliable and consolidated solution that operates within our test centre 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Boero. “Nevertheless, we continually look very hard at the market to ensure we are using the very best simulation solution – this is critically important within such a competitive environment as Formula One. That said, we are currently very happy with the results Ansys provides.”

Boero explained that the core of the integration process took place during September 2015, with the first wave expected to go live during September of this year. This wave will be mainly focused on the R&D Department. The second wave will concentrate more on the virtual simulation, modelling and the first step of integration between the R&D and the other departments in the company; such as manufacturing, logistics and technology. The third and final step will be focused on the commercial integration between R&D and manufacturing and the implementation of the final stage of the unique, integrated BOM for all the departments.

Manufacturing Execution System At the beginning of 2013 a plan was put in place to utilise the same Siemens MES for all the Ferrari production lines, and to have in place one common platform between the ERP and MES systems. “This process hasn’t yet been completed as, in a similar fashion to our ERP system, we wanted to implement the MES in stages to ensure it was a perfect fit for each production line,” Boero pointed out. “The last remaining stages of implementation will be completed during this year with the replacement of the last two engine production lines – 8 and 12 cylinders – that are still utilising the old MES.”

any negative issues at all.”

Market focus

“These are the main steps that we need to go through before full implementation of the PLM,” said Boero. “As has been the case with ERP and MES, we do not take a ‘big bang’ approach to configuration and integration; it’s about ensuring that every part of the functionality is optimised for our specific needs. This is why we split the implementation roadmap into three main steps; each with very clear targets and objectives.”

Radio Frequency Identification Product Lifecycle Management Ferrari also sourced the new PLM systems in January 2013 which is Windchill FlexPLM from PTC. Once fully operational, the PTC system will be the main collector of the information and will be the official PLM for Ferrari GT. When two PLM systems are fully integrated Boero believes Ferrari will have a system that is unique in the market. To achieve this, Ferrari has been working with both vendors to

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RFID was also factored into the company’s fiveyear IT plan during 2012. “The implementation of Infor RFID was focused on managing the production of Maserati V6 engines produced on the company's production line introduced in 2012, as well as for related warehouse activities, and went live in February 2013,” Boero explained. “Our RFID implementation was related to the second step of the implementation of Infor LN. Over the past three years, our RFID solution has operated very efficiently, with hardly

In terms of core global markets, Boero points out that Ferrari is currently focusing on over 60 different territories around the world. “The breadth of our global presence and the increasing expectations of our customers in terms of quality product and speed of delivery is why we are introducing major manufacturing and logistics improvements through the implementation of our new IT estate as part of our five-year plan,” he said. “In particular, in order to collect orders speedily and deliver goods within a short timeframe to certain markets – particularly those that are not so familiar to us – we need the extra flexibility that the functionality within LN provides us with.” In addition to the functionality roadmap outlined above, Boero explained that Ferrari is also looking to go live with other features within LN by the end of this year; including revenue cycle management. “We expect this to provide us with the extra flexibility and capacity needed to improve business processes that we are currently unable to optimise due to the constraints present within our older applications that are yet to be phased out,” he said. With this in mind, Boero pointed out that there are around 60 custom legacy applications that are due to be phased out by the end of this year, following on from the 20 or so that have already been dismissed since the fiveyear plan was put in place and since key modules of the new IT systems went live. Then, between 30 and 40 legacy systems will be closed during 2017 and 2018.

Driver Boero concluded: “This has been a major transition for us, and reflects our commitment to becoming as efficient as possible both businesswise and operationally, reflecting the high esteem our products are held in throughout the world. We owe it to our customers – this is the main driver for us.”

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Empowered by innovation. And Infor.

Infor applications help Ferrari perfect the craft of manufacturing beautifully designed cars—with beautifully designed software. Great design inspires.

infor.com/ferrari Copyright 2016 Š Infor. www.infor.com. All rights reserved.

Special Technology Report

Transportation Management

Manufacturing & Logistics IT spoke with a number of the leading vendors and analysts about current key trends and discussion points within the field of transportation management systems and processes. his report will consider many

T

to appear on smartphones and tablets that

current key discussion points and

feed data into a TMS.”

System (TMS) space. However, to begin our

money is through good utilisation of their

decisions –

debate, Steve Twydell, CEO, 3t Group,

vehicles. “Shippers want the most cost-

a. Know which customers are costing you

provides some context and foundation to the

effective way of transporting their goods,

proceedings by offering a concise definition

whether by parcel, pallet, full or part truckload

of the term TMS, both from a carrier’s and

or any other form of transport that is around,”

shipper’s perspective: “To a carrier or fleet

he said. “For a common user carrier to be

owner, a TMS is a computing system to

effective there has to be synergy with other

manage the planning and routing of a fleet,

operations. Backhaul and primary move are

“In each of the above headings we are seeing

driver management and all the administration.

terms of the past; the aim is to keep the

a revolution in terms of the systems and

To a shipper, a TMS will is a system

vehicle moving 24 hours a day in a cost-

capabilities that are starting to appear on the

integrated into their ERP systems that at order

effective way.”

market,” said Twydell. “At 3t we

a. Staff reduction, better organised back office and subsequent cost reduction which leads on to profit or cheaper

recent and ongoing areas of innovation and development with

Twydell adds that the reality is carriers want

the Transportation Management

to make money and the way they make their

rates. 3. Information to make better business

more what drivers are performing better. b. Better business decision means more profit or cheaper rates.

predominately work with shippers; however,

level will work out what is the optimum mode

because of the lack of desire from carriers to

of shipment and the best carrier to use. In some cases, it will work out the volumetric for

Requirements

adopt new technology we are more and more

packing, routing and automation of carrier

Twydell considers that there are three main

creating systems for them so they can provide

communication. For some it is the automation

headings that cover what all TMS users want.

the shippers with the real-time information and

of the documentation required to go with the

These are:

visibility they are now demanding.”

1. Optimum vehicle utilisation –

In the view of Sathyanarayana Kabirdas,

shipments, the automation of the entire administration process such as the proof of delivery process, freight bill process and then the management information. On top of all this you now have the mobile applications starting

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a. Reduction of empty mileage resulting in profit or cheaper rates. 2. Automation of administration –

research manager, Frost & Sullivan, and J Sivan, industry manager, Frost & Sullivan, some of the current key talking points within

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Transportation Management

the world of TMS are:

Special Technology Report

management centres),� they said.

nearby carriers and owner-operators

Kabirdas and Sivan also recognise the

within their network

eco-systems able to ease the

benefits of augmented reality systems. They

in real time for

communication and data path for shippers,

explained that these systems deliver virtual

automatic dispatch.

end customers and carriers.

images and information that is projected onto

“Even in Europe

• Analytics.

the windscreen of the car, and adapts

companies like

• Telematics – how this type of solution has

automatically in real time to the objects in the

TGMatrix have

been further developed by the vendor

environment. They added that this technology

evolved based on

community over the recent past.

presents information such as current speed of

this new technology,�

• Web-based transportation management

!( () ( #) #)

the vehicle, the speed limit indicated by road

they said. “While

different technologies within one device

signs, road blocks and road bends, and

existing solutions

(including transportation-related

enhances safety while driving by sending out

look to eliminate

functionality): e.g. everything from phone,

alerts about obstacles to the driver.

inefficient load bidding system, the focus is

• The trend towards greater convergence of

expected to broaden to complete solutions

GPS/GPRS, Push-to-Talk capability in a Kabirdas and Sivan also spoke about web-

that include TMS, telematics, resource

based transportation management eco-

management and complete shipping tracking.

Kabirdas and Sivan comment that Intelligent

systems able to ease the communication and

This will create and enhance business among

Transport Management Computing solutions –

data path for shippers, end customers and

carriers and shippers. Both private and large

for example regarding a collaboration of

carriers. “Mobile-based freight brokering is a

for-hire fleets will adopt this service to

advanced information and communication

platform which connects shippers and

optimise their operations by enlisting unused

systems, wireless technologies, advanced

carriers, eliminating middlemen – the brokers.

capacity in their own fleets to take on extra

electronics and evolving control and sensing

This is growing rapidly in not just mature

business.�

innovations when integrated into the transport

markets like North America and Europe but

infrastructure – are offering a powerful, yet

also in developing markets like India.

Kabirdas and Sivan comment that innovations

transformative opportunity for enhanced

Technology companies slowly shift away from

in mobile communications, Cloud computing

connectivity in the sector. Of the several

traditional freight brokering and developing

infrastructure and the mass adoption of the

technology areas of development, Kabirdas

these solutions to improve efficiency. As the

Internet are facilitating the development of

and Sivan believe Cloud-enabled

current freight movement market is

Intelligent Transport Management Systems,

transportation management systems and

considerably inefficient, ample opportunities

which will greatly enhance the urban travel

Augmented Reality are two key areas

exist for mobile based platforms and TMS.�

experience and efficiency, reduce

single device.

environmental impact, improve road safety

stakeholders have focused on in recent years.

and emergency response, and save time and They add that with the help of in-vehicle

Digitisation

energy. Kabirdas and Sivan add that the key

communication systems, on-board computing

Kabirdas and Sivan added that digitisation in

drivers that are facilitating development in this

facilities and Cloud computing, vehicles are

trucking will put pressure on traditional freight

space are:

becoming more capable now; especially from

brokers to move their business towards web

the ‘drive dynamics’ standpoint. “The

and mobile based freight brokering. “Thus,

“Reduce Cost – Advanced transportation

convergence of sensor networks, content

many traditional freight brokers will develop

systems will help to reduce cost by

distribution and consolidation of hosting

mobile based freight brokerage capabilities

decreasing the requirement for human

e enabled by Cloud is

that combine features from traditional freight

resources and through implementation of

c causing a paradigm

brokering, load boards and web-based freight

sensing technologies to monitor the traffic

s shift in the way traffic

brokering into one efficient solution for drivers

events. The convergence of computational

p patterns are

and fleets,� they said. “Frost & Sullivan

technologies such as sensing technologies,

a assessed, which

believes that by 2025, the market with grow

floating car data technologies, wireless

fu further enhances

from $100 million in 2014 to $26.4 billion in

technologies and computational technologies

m multimodal travel

2025.�

enable vehicles to automatically learn and

p planning '! '%'&' '%' ' $& '"#)&("('& '%' (&#)

respond to the traffic infrastructure in real time

a applications, thereby

Realising the market potential, Kabirdas and

d delivering more

Sivan point out that several innovative firms

p precise data to end

such as Cargomatic, Transfix, Coyote and

“Reduce Environmental Impact – Electric

u users – especially in

Keychain Logistics are working on mobile-

vehicles utilise natural resources that avoid

T TMC (traffic

based platforms that connect shippers to

the emission of harmful gases into the

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'& ( ) &$% "#) $( &( &("(%!'!$ (#

Transportation Management

atmosphere, thus a

efficiently being sold.�

TMS are continuing to evolve due to the

p providing a net

Frings adds that TimoCom’s second very

Software as a Service (SaaS) delivery model

positive p

efficient and practical type of interface is its

and the increased importance of the ‘platform’

e environmental

tracking solution TC eMap. “Already, over 170

capabilities required by shippers and logistics

impact than im

telematics providers are connected,� he said.

service providers. “As best-of-breed TMS

traditional ICE tr

“During a transport job our users can allow

applications and niche software providers

vvehicles. The

business partners access, so they can follow

gain traction in the market (replacing legacy

c continuous emission

the vehicle via the hauliers’ telematics

on-premise solutions and winning first time

m monitoring system

tracking and even without having to leave the

implementations), their functionality improves

(C (CEMS) attached in

TimoCom platform. In addition, multiple

as quickly as the markets changes,� he said.

in individual vehicles

vehicles even with different telematics

“SaaS allows for all shippers and logistics

m monitors the vehicle

systems can be displayed in one map.�

service providers to benefit from a single

c carbon emission

code base, as well as allowing them to

a and collectively

access the application from any web browser

stores the data in the cloud server to keep a

Streamlining

track on environmental pollution, thereby

Will Young, business development manager,

providing opportunity for better pollution

Transporeon, reflects that customers are now

Nickerson considers that the core functionality

control.

demanding more accurate details regarding

in a TMS is planning, optimisation, routing,

visibility of transport movements and greater

execution, in-transit visibility, settlement and

“Improve Safety – Real-time updates on traffic

functionality of gaining live PODs for example.

KPI reporting (data analytics). “A key to

information provide the opportunity for live

Young adds that there is also still the

implementing or maintaining an effective TMS

monitoring of people and vehicles, which can

continued drive towards great efficiency and

is well-defined and executed integration with

help reduce vehicle accidents and ensure

streamlining processes to make a more

internal and external systems,� he said.

safety.�

automated process for tendering, transport

“Because transportation touches so many

assignment, rate management, time slot

departments in and outside a company, it is

Marcel Frings, chief representative, TimoCom,

management, transport visibility and billing.

crucial that the systems trade data and

commented that, indeed, the optimisation of

“Hence, why we feel the Transporeon Group

documents very regularly. For example, the

processes in relation to the supply chain as

portfolio plays into all these key elements of

TMS should be integration with the ERP to

whole is of significant importance to stay cost-

communication from manufacturers to their

receive purchase, transfer, and sales order.

efficient and competitive. He added that

haulier partners,� he said.

Also, post-execution information like status

or mobile phone operating system.�

and invoice data should be passed back to

TimoCom’s work is exactly focused on this aspect. “We want to offer our users a platform

Young adds that there is a need for

the ERP. Carrier integration is also key –

on which they can close transport business

standardisation; whether the deliveries are

messages for tendering, in-transit information

deals securely, efficiently and process

done via own fleet or external sub-contractors

and invoices should be integrated. And then

supported,� he said. “This means that with the

– and with most 3PLs sub-contracting

non-EDI or XML connectivity through web-

support of our products, business partners

between 30 and 40 per cent, he considers

portals is becoming increasing popular to

within the transport chain are able to find

that this is a real challenge for them. “This is

support non-IT savvy providers or just remote

each other, are able to find ways to optimise

why we have seen such a fantastic reaction to

activity (from a cab or loading dock).�

the use of resources and to collaborate in the

Mobile Order Management (MOM), our smart

process.�

phone technology based solution for track

Mohsen Mohseninia,

and trace,� he remarked.

VP of market development,

Frings points out that this includes intelligent interfaces as TC Connect through which

Young makes the point that this type of state-

Europe, Aeris,

TimoCom, on customer request, can connect

of-the-art TMS functionality gives both hauliers

comments that the

customers’ transport management systems to

and external sub-contractors live visibility of

global trucking

TimoCom’s transport platform. “The big

what is happening with their own fleet and

industry is

advantage of this interface is that if these

develops a real pro-active dialogue to pre-

undergoing

offers cannot be placed intern to existing

determine late deliveries or damaged

enormous change.

companies, the freight offers from the

deliveries with the final customer delivery

He makes the point

customers’ system are directly transferred into

point.

that older vehicles are being replaced

the platform with just one click,� he explained. “And in the platform, the freight offers reach

Bill Nickerson, manager industry relations,

with ‘smart trucks’

out to 110,000 users and are quickly and

Panorama Consulting Solutions, observes that

using Internet of

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$ ) % #) "$%("" ( ( (%!) '%' (&#)

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Special Technology Report

Things (IoT) and Machine-to-Machine (M2M)

choice for fleet applications is cellular.

had reached US$5.7

systems and cellular communications

However, as Mohseninia explains, the cellular

billion in 2015.

technologies to transmit essential information

services offered may differ from region to

for management of the fleet operations.

region; what may be a successful product

Mohseninia also

and service in the US may have limitations in

comments that

Europe and vice-versa.

Cloud-based

Connectivity

IoT/M2M data

As commercial fleets begin to enjoy the

“Traditional cellular operators and cellular

management

benefits of IoT/M2M vehicle telematics,

service providers may burden deployments

platforms enable

Mohseninia points out that the fleet owners

with technical methods and business rules

trucking managers

and operators are seeking more reliable

designed for human handset and smartphone

to fine-tune their

connections, with flexible rate plans and

users,� said Mohseninia. “A simple example

operations. “They

seamless coverage across many geographic

illustrates this issue: most smartphone users

can access new

areas and remote locations. He comments

are small accounts with one – or perhaps a

applications in real-

that in Europe seamless cross-border

few – SIM cards in that account. Managing

time to determine reports on temperature,

operation for the trucks is an essential

the accounts for billing purposes, making

road safety, traffic congestion, weather,

requirement for these services to succeed.

payments, and monitoring usage is relatively

mileage, and fuel costs,� he said. “Multiple

easy for one (or even a few) SIMs. However, a

apps can be integrated, for example,

Mohseninia also observes that the commercial

company supporting the commercial fleet

combining weather and road safety to

fleet programs are also becoming more

owners, across their many fleets, may have

achieve a more precise picture of conditions

complex; from the simple need to manage

thousands of vehicles that are managed.

and save time.�

inventory, location, routing, and fuel costs, to

Requiring and managing a separate account

requirements for mission-critical reliability,

(and SIM) for each cellular device (in a truck)

In terms of managing driver behaviour,

connectivity for life and innovative market

is a prohibitively complex for the company

Mohseninia comments that new systems

differentiation.

providing the fleet telematics service and for

integrating information about weather, traffic,

"(%) "(%$%$'# ) ) '& (! ( ( (%!) & (#)

the individual operations managers of the

and other factors give the drivers instant

Mohseninia explains that Aeris’ customers –

fleets. Fleet managers must be able to

feedback on safe driving practices in an

i.e., the companies providing these solutions

manage group rates, billing systems,

effort to decrease driver error and achieve

to the fleet owners and operators – continue

reporting and analytics for process

better gas mileage. “Managers can create

to add new telematics applications. “These

improvements.�

detailed data-based plans to advise drivers on eliminating unsafe driving behaviours like

on-board applications are helping fleets overcome a variety of challenges above and

Mohseninia makes the point that when

speeding, fast cornering, and hard braking

beyond the projected cost reductions and

developing fleet applications using cellular

or acceleration,� he explained. “For example,

efficiency gains,� he said. “For example, new

technologies, the device certification

a driver might be able to receive information

legislative regulations, including tighter

requirements are sometimes daunting.

about recommended speed as he

carbon emissions and new standards for

“Companies developing products for

approaches dangerous sections of a

driver monitoring, require compliance from

operation in new regions must have experts in

roadway where a recent storm has left ice

fleet managers.�

IoT/M2M that have a thorough understanding

patches. This information could be

of the specific certification requirements in the

transmitted from a wide variety of methods,

region,� he said.

including from texts and voice, or displayed

Not surprisingly, adds Mohseninia, the market

on a console.�

for fleet solutions is crowded, particularly in Europe, and competition continues to grow. “The companies providing solutions to the

Big Data and analytics

Regarding sophisticated diagnostics,

fleet operators must compete on factors other

Mohseninia also considers how Big Data,

Mohseninia points out that IoT/M2M systems

than price: service reliability and availability,

and the analytics it enables, gives fleet

enable the development of applications that

rapid implementation of new value-added

management systems with telematics

can identify vehicle issues and instantly

services, improved customer experience,

capabilities the ability to provide much more

notify drivers about maintenance

etc.,� he said. “They must recognise any new

sophisticated information in the form of

requirements in order to avoid costly repairs

needs of the changing fleet industry or new

applications customised for individual

and roadside breakdowns. He explains that

legislation and quickly provide the solutions

companies. Mohseninia points out that ABI

drivers can receive updates on a variety of

that meet those requirements.�

Research confirmed the growing role of Big

truck performance metrics that can lead to

Data in IoT/M2M, estimating that integrating,

improved efficiency, safety and overall

storing, analysing, and presenting IoT data

condition of vehicles.

Often, the communications technology of

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Mohseninia also points to the benefits of

food, grocery, clothing, etc. At the same time,

system, Mona Moll said: “Manifold use cases

smart alerts. “Enhanced alerts management

competition in this space is increasing and

and extensions of CAR2SHARE cargo are

allows fleet customers to define custom alerts

providing a one-hour delivery service is

imaginable. Every company that works in

with an array of options in addition to

expensive, so the sustainability of this

delivery or courier services or operates a fleet

predefined system alerts,” he said. “Fleet

business model will be tested.”

of vans, can benefit from the features. In the future a cloud of drivers (e.g. students) will be

managers can define alerts and notify drivers about issues regarding engine performance,

But what of OEM mobility schemes? Muir

available for courier companies to operate

tire pressure or electrical malfunctions, and

states it is well-publicised that OEMs are

rides. Opening the platform for B2C, will give

thus reduce costs significantly.”

positioning themselves as mobility providers;

private customers the possibility to book a

From an insurance perspective, Mohseninia

perhaps most notably Ford, with its recent

van spontaneously while the courier company

highlights the fact that the ability of IoT/M2M

announcements at CES and the Detroit Auto

can reduce downtimes. An extension to the

systems to deliver instant driving data from a

show, and Daimler with schemes such as

management of other assets that need to be

variety of sources creates multiple insurance-

CAR2GO and CAR2SHARE. “Whilst the

bookable (e.g. cargo bikes, trucks) is also

related benefits for both truck owners and

focus has been on consumer mobility,

planned.”

insurers. “For truck owners, such systems can

Daimler has seen the value in adapting such

fast-track claims processing and more

models to the movement of goods with its

However, whilst this solution addresses some

efficiently help resolve claims,” he said. “For

recent announcement of CAR2SHARE cargo

of the fundamental challenges of delivery,

insurers, premiums can be calculated on

– a digital fleet and driver management

next-day or next possible day-delivery over

actual usage and driving behaviour to reduce

system that allows for vans to be booked

longer distances is a different ballgame,

costs and increase profitability.”

using the car sharing model,” said Muir.

believes Muir. He adds that a network like TNT’s European road network, which spans

He continued: “CAR2SHARE cargo offers a

over 40 countries, cannot be easily

Redefining final mile delivery

comprehensive solution for creating a more

duplicated; with a sweet spot in the 300 to

efficient transport process – from the

1500 km range.

Connectivity and all its subsets, namely

deployment planning of drivers and vehicles,

autonomy and mobility, are dramatically

the coordination of the route to the digital

But Muir explains that while networks such as

altering the fleet and logistics sector,

management and spontaneous bookings in

TNT’s allow it to effectively and profitably

according to Jamie Muir, project director, TU-

the event of bottlenecks.” Muir added that

function in the longer distance delivery, there

Automotive. In terms of some of the latest

Mona Moll, global communications Mercedes-

are moves to apply mobility models, into this

innovations making waves in these spaces,

Benz Cars – research, development and

challenging sector. One such organisation

Muir believes the focus of new mobility

environmental communications at Daimler AG,

cited by Muir is TGMatrix, a new player that

models has traditionally been on the

says the all-round planning tool consists of

operates a freight matching engine to match

movement of people. “However, things are

three modules that build on one another:

supply and demand (freight & assets) in the

changing, and the major mobility providers

Smart Van, Courier Assist and Virtual Fleet.

Intermodal freight marketplace (road, rail, short sea, coastal & inland waterways). “In

are turning their attention to the movement of goods,” he said. “One notable example is

Muir comments that the development of

essence, TGMatrix is applying the Uber

UberRush, currently being trialled in San

CAR2SHARE cargo was relatively simple,

made, to intermodal freight transportation,

Francisco, New York and Chicago, which

requiring only that a telematics control unit be

targeting – as TGMatrix’s founder, Brian

brings the concept of Uber to parcel

added to the vehicle to create a smart van

Bolam puts it, “empty trucks and modal shift

delivery.”

that is online, bookable and lockable via an

from road to rail/short sea and coastal,” said

app – and the whole fleet management

Muir.

' $() $&#) & ( ! $&( ! &#)

M points out that Muir

process works keyless. “The system will

J Jeroen Gehlen,

ultimately allow for organisations to reduce

He added that the organisations message of

d director pick-up &

their fixed capital along with reducing fixed

‘bringing freight transport into the Internet

d delivery innovation

and variable cost such as leasing instalments

age’ seems to be striking a chord with the

a optimisation, and

and fuel expenditure,” said Muir. “Combining

solution currently being run in Beta with the

T TNT Express,

the system with inner city next day delivery

world’s largest logic’s firm. “The potential of

c commented:

solutions, such as that of Tiramizoo, the

this model is vast, with Brian arguing that the

“U “UberRush is

system has the power to reduce delivery

impact of TGMatrix will be transformational,”

c certainly challenging

times, light running and therefore traffic in city

said Muir. “The cost and emissions

lo local courier

centres.”

implications, however, are dramatic with

s services. This may w work well for flowers,

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estimates of 15 per cent cost reduction from In terms of the future developments of the

shippers, 200 per cent margin improvement

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Transportation Management

Special Technology Report

for carriers (more loaded/paid kilometres per

these digital strategy requirements would

solutions to optimise

truck/train) and a 25 per cent reduction in

push roaming costs down and could result in

transport duration

CO2 emissions (from combination of filling

equality between domestic and international

and ensure safety of

empty space and modal shift).�

costs across Europe,� he said.

the shipments,

In terms of the technology needed for this

Twydell considers that legislation just keeps

human resources

solution. ‘multi-agent technology linked to

on becoming more complicated for the fleet

involved in

ontologies and powered with GPU

owner. “Shippers don’t see the issues; it’s the

transportation.

processors’ was required. Brian Bolam said:

carrier’s problem,� he said. “In the last 15

“It is a black box solution with EDI

years legislation issues are seen in the rate

Additionally,

connectivity to ERP/TMS/WMS and GPS

not in a shipper’s TMS, which is the opposite

Kabirdas and Sivan

connectivity to equipped trucks and GSM

for a carrier’s system. And, again, the distinct

consider that the

triangulation for T&T via our own smartphone

fear or dislike of IS systems by regional

impact of regulations

application.� In future, TGMatrix plans to

carriers has put cost pressure in the

such as SOLAS

enable the ability to file a route plan – like a

administration side of the business.�

(Safety of Life at Sea) container weight

transport mode and

flight plan and with the ability to re-route on

$ ) $ (&" %# '%' (&)$% "!& &( '!$ %"#)

verification requirement is tremendous. They

the fly based on real-time weather, traffic and

Kabirdas and Sivan make the point that

explain that the International Maritime

road conditions (this is phase 2 planned for

changes in legislations regarding surface

Organisation (IMO) approved the changes to

early 2017). Muir points out that, according to

transport, railways, airways or trade generates

the SOLAS convention regarding the weight

Bolam, there will also be massive Big Data

the need to capture required data, generate

verification requirement for shippers. The

mining opportunity to balance traffic flows by

compliant report documents, ensure

regulation necessitates the transmission of

managing the dispersion of traffic flow across

compliance and generate alerts in case of

critical information such as verified gross

the built infrastructure.

deviations and ensure compatibility with new

mass (VGM), date of weighing, authorised

devices if mandated by the policies such as

person identity and so on. Kabirdas and Sivan

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs).

point out that the onus of providing accurate

Regulations

Therefore, they add, policy changes are vital

information to the regulatory authorities often

In terms of regulatory considerations,

to track to ensure up-to-date solutions in the

falls on the LSPs. “Thus, the TMS solutions

Mohseninia comments that cost savings

market. Kabirdas and Sivan explained that the

should be able to track the information and

brought about by on-board telematics

US recently mandated the installation of ELDs

ensure the constituent data are collected from

solutions are needed to help truck fleets

in trucks by December 2017. “These devices

different sources such as carriers, forwarders

overcome a wide range of regulations

are synched with the engines to record the

and other stakeholders,� they said. This

threatening to inhibit cost-effective

driving time and hence HOS of the driver in

regulation is scheduled to be implemented

management. He believes new regulations –

order to ensure adherence to 34-hour restart

from 1 July 2016.

including tighter carbon emissions rules and

rule,� they said. “This compels the TMS

new standards for drivers in the US and the

solutions to capture the data from the ELDs

EU such as the rules regarding hours of

and generate alerts in case of deviations to

Integration

service (HOS) – are putting pressure on

reduce regulatory deviations.�

What have been some of the most notable recent developments in terms of integration

managers to comply. “Legislation can mandate new fleet standards that can force

Kabirdas and Sivan also comment that growth

between TMS and other systems? Mohseninia

companies to upgrade fleets or even replace

investment policies such as Horizon 2020 by

explains that legacy Transportation systems

vehicles,� said Mohseninia, who adds that

the European Union targets Intelligent

were mostly ‘point products’ and operated in

rising fuel costs continue to reduce margins.

Transport Systems to bring about enhanced

a standalone fashion. “There is a definite

green and competitive transport system.

trend towards integrating legacy and new

While US fleet managers have always enjoyed

Horizon 2020 is an initiative by the European

Transportation Solutions offerings with ERP

‘single market’ benefits of roaming,

Union to focus on ‘Mobility for Growth’ and

and Supply Chain Management providers

Mohseninia points out that fleet managers in

‘Automated Road Transport’. Kabirdas and

such as Oracle, SAP, etc. for full end-to-end

Europe have had to worry about high roaming

Sivan explain that the initiative includes plans

integration via web services, APIs etc.,� he

fees as they moved across country borders.

to revamp the tracking system for air, rail and

said.

But the European Commission has adopted a

road infrastructure. They add that, utilising the

‘Digital Single Market’, calling for, among

tracking technologies, the goal is to establish

In terms of customer integration, Mohseninia

other things, the end of all mobile roaming

better coordinated and modernised modes of

comments that enhanced IoT/M2M platforms

fees for voice calls, SMS, and data by 2017.

transport. These tracking technologies

enable the development of more

“Once put into place by member countries,

generate data that can be utilised by TMS

sophisticated ordering, tracking and supply

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chain systems that increasingly integrate truck

develop advanced solutions to meet this

added solutions built in the TMS solutions.

loads with customers in real-time. “For

concern and offering solutions for constant

“Solutions such as regulatory compliance

example, these systems enable real-time

monitoring of network-enabled devices,� they

documents support, GPS facilities to track

changes to orders, which maximise the

said. “Technologies like machine learning and

shipments, fleet management and analytics,

efficiency of deliveries,� he said. “With these

Big Data are slowly penetrating the security

distinguish future market leaders from the

new systems in place, the truck of the future

market and is playing vital role in enhancing

rest,� they explain. “The analytics tool utilises

will become a mobile network operating

such real-time security applications.�

vast amounts of data generated in the past to generate reports and provide better resource

centre for fleet managers, who can direct it to best advantage on a moment’s notice.�

Another issue affecting the security and

utilisation, optimised routes and networks, and

confidentiality of information exchanges,

customisable dashboards for Key

according to Kabirdas and Sivan, is the lack

Performance Indicator (KPI) tracking.�

Security

of standardisation policies for Transport

Are there any remaining security and/or

Management application development

Twydell maintains that there are few true end-

confidentiality concerns within the TMS

globally. “Most of the security and privacy

to-end systems available and in the past they

space? Nickerson believes security is always

policies for Connected Car are region-specific

been expensive and prohibitive for many mid-

a question as SaaS and mobile application

– this is hindering the adoption growth

size organisations. However, he adds that

use grows. However, he adds that Panorama

significantly,� they remarked.

there is a growth of companies who can provide specific modular elements of a TMS.

has not seen or heard of any incidence where

Some examples are tracking, sign on glass

customer or carrier data has been compromised. “Software providers are always

Differentiators

POD for smart phones, goods in/despatch

at risk of server penetration, so they use

What are some of the key differentiators within

control screens and multi carrier multimode

highly secure hosting providers to ensure

the world of today’s TMS? Kabirdas and Sivan

labelling systems. “This is where the

compliance,� he said.

believe the primary key differentiator among

companies that do not want to spend millions

the brands that offer TMS is the flexibility in

of pounds on a complete transportation

Will Young believes that, from Transporeon’s

terms of platform, on-premise, SaaS and

system are starting to use elements of what

point of view, the initial concerns regarding

Cloud based Solutions. The on-premise

used to be only in the big TMS systems,� said

security are pretty easily removed due to the

solutions are software installed on the client IT

Twydell.

measures the company has in place, but also

infrastructure whereas SaaS and Cloud-based

based on how most people now run their own

solutions are hosted by the TMS vendors.

Twydell believes there is no doubt that the

personal lives. “For example, online banking

“The flexibility provides Logistics Service

web and the visibility it provides through its

and ECOM shopping are two simple methods

Providers (LSPs) to choose solutions based

communication capability has had a

of Internet processes which are now seen as

on their existing Information Technology (IT)

fundamental impact on most transport

standard where there is a certain amount of

infrastructure, internal budgets and their

management operations. “Believe it or not, it

confidential detail shared trustingly,� he said.

suppliers compatibility,� they said. “Utilising

is rare to see a fax machine in most transport

“And I feel that Transportation Management

the technologies such as SaaS and Cloud

operations today because everything is done

would not be viewed any differently moving

computing, vendors can provide cost-

through some form of electronic

forward.�

effective solutions to LSPs since it eliminates

communication,� he said.

the need to invest in buyers’ IT infrastructure, Kabirdas and Sivan make the point that since

provides economical customised packages

However, Twydell adds that this doesn’t mean

the connected vehicle infrastructure heavily

based on budget and additionally provides

integration issues have disappeared. He

re relies on open

value add in the form of access to data via

points out that to have real efficient

in interface networks

mobile devices.�

communication the shipper’s TMS needs to

a radio signals for and

) $ '%#)$% "!& '%' (&#)

16

IT

Kabirdas and Sivan point out that, currently,

Twydell comments that getting two IS

b between various

the adoption rate for on-premise TMS

departments to work with each other can be a

d data sources with

Solutions is over 50 per cent. However, they

challenge. Twydell adds that there are also

d different data types,

believe low adoption rates for SaaS and

the many carrier TM systems which make

itit becomes

Cloud-based solutions coupled with

their money out of upselling additional

v vulnerable to cyber-

affordability will fuel the growth of SaaS and

programming work.

a attacks. “Companies

Cloud-based TMS solutions.

in the network

Although producing a multiple company

s security domain are

Another key differentiator in the market,

solution should bring the cost down, Twydell

c constantly trying to

according to Kabirdas and Sivan, is the value-

explains that 3t has dealt with many carrier

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integrate efficiently with the ERP system. Also,

e exchanging data

March 2016

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Transportation Management

Special Technology Report

TMS suppliers who do not want to share

of Deep Learning algorithms with natural

devices (due to imminent legislation) and

deals over multiple customers and also do

language processing technology will further

integration-as-a-service for APIs,” he said.

not want to collaborate as they believe it

enhance the capabilities of such systems.

“While innovations are happening right in front of

could lose them their customer relationship

“Deep Learning based Artificial Intelligence

us, large shippers and logistics service

(or have the customer completely rely on

(AI) is shaping up to be the next big

providers need time to understand, vet and

them).

technological development that could

implement these solutions. While the price point

One big problem, according to Twydell, is

penetrate the automotive industry,” they

on all of these solutions is dropping, they still

many companies have put substantial sums

said. “With the advent of AI, the future of

need to establish a near-term ROI to justify

of money into large CapEx projects around

cars has been on a trajectory of

making this change. Most changes will happen

PDA and robust laptop in cab type

transforming into fully automated intelligent

in the smaller, more nimble companies, and

solutions, only for them to be superseded by

smart cars that are smart enough to make

those who have innovation as part of their

the more cost-effective smartphone. “What

decisions on their own. AI combined with

culture and can take on the risk and change

used to cost £1000 two years ago is now

Big Data has the capability to serve the

management responsibilities associated.”

£10 – it is that dramatic,” he remarked.

futuristic need of a fully automated transportation system with real-time

Twydell adds that some organisations are

solutions.”

struggling to come to terms with the

Automating delivery If we are to believe the headlines then

prospect of having to discard something

autonomous delivery is an area that tech giants

functionality can now be produced on a

Multiple systems interfacing

example, recently patented what they term an

smartphone. “These systems are not just

Young points out that Transporeon is always

‘autonomous delivery platform’; an autonomous

that has cost millions of pounds because the

are taking a great interest in. “Google, for

applications for showing you where your

working with clients to continue to develop its

delivery truck featuring a delivery system familiar

vehicles or shipment is, they are being used

platform to create innovative developments and

to any user of Amazon Locker,” said Muir.

to replace what was considered

maintain its dominant position in the ‘software as

sacrosanct,” he said. “For example,

a service’ sector. Looking ahead, Young

Twydell also makes the point that several

telematics – for most smartphones there is

anticipates that the continued focus will be to

companies are developing an uber-type app for

the equivalent of two gyroscopes and the

further develop the connectivity part of

hauliers, which he believes should become a

actual smartphone itself can measure

communication via multiple systems interfacing

feature component of a TMS. “The biggest issue

breaking, control, vehicle management and

through single portals to not only streamline

here is about the control of service and the

all of these functions which you would think

processes but also to produce more user-

control of how people get paid and the financial

would need to be connected to the engines

friendly applications.

transaction and administration around it,” said

Frings explains that during 2016 TimoCom is

someone calling for a taxi as opposed to

preparing many small updates which in most

someone needing a multi-drop, just-in-time

cases are being done on request of customers

delivery into a production line.”

and systems within the truck. These can now be done on a smartphone without actually being connected.”

Twydell. “There is a big difference between

and their feedback. The offer-related Messenger

The future

in the exchange, which was launched last

Currently at 3t, Twydell explains that the

What might be the next

Autumn, is also in focus in 2016. Furthermore,

feedback from hauliers is they are looking

innovations/developments to look out for

Frings points out that the company is working on

for a single computer platform that allows all

over the next year or two? Kabirdas and

a simple and also secure solution which enables

the various devices and software to talk to

Sivan comment that with several advanced

customers to exchange documents within the

one another. “Many companies are

analytics and data management

TimoCom platform. He added: “There will be

developing their own applications for

technologies being brought to market in

many, smaller and practical improvements

tracking shipments and if you work for

recent years, and considering the fast

which are going to make the customer

several of these companies they each want

adoption rate of information and

experience and the customer use even better.

their app to be on the smartphone,” he said.

communication technologies, they expect

In other words: Pan-European; we are putting

“There is definitely a need for a software

that application developers will have

the pedal even harder to the metal, all for our

platform that allows for communication from

sufficient opportunities to bring in advanced

customers.”

all the various applications and can actually

feature sets to the existing solutions and

transmit to each of the customers or the

also introduce new products in the

Nickerson observes that, going forward, there

carrier’s customers the information they

transportation sector.

are many innovations in transportation

specifically require.”

technology. “There are uber-like capacity Kabirdas and Sivan add that the integration

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solutions, a proliferation in electronic logging

IT

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Event news

A clearer view of

the

logistics Cloud %$ %!( &$ * * ' &#(&!#* attended Oracle’s two-day Modern Supply Chain Experience event – held in London on 2nd and 3rd February – in order to learn about what Oracle sees as some of the key functionality sweet spots within state-of-the-art Cloud-based transportation management and warehouse management software solutions. and supply chain apps leader, Oracle UK, told Manufacturing & Logistics IT at the event. “In the case of transportation management, companies need to deliver the right goods to the right customers within the right timeframe while also remaining profitable and legally compliant. Similarly, warehouses need to ensure they have the flexibility to keeping inventory at an optimum level to avoid a shortfall in goods demand, while also avoiding overstock which could result in prohibitive storage costs or product obsolescence if goods are kept on the shelves for long periods.�

) '*". )(!%* . -'-.*'-."*( . -(- ),&.,+. * . . -#%+ )(!. %+ *&- .&+% ,)+(& .

O

racle’s Modern Supply Chain Experience event was held on 2 and 3 February at the Intercontinental London – The O2. At the event, delegates were able to watch product demonstrations of Oracle solutions, as well as collaborate and engage with the company’s industry leaders and gain from their insights during roundtable discussions. They were also able to hear from Oracle customers about how they are gaining a sustainable advantage and driving innovation by transforming their traditional supply chains into integrated value chains – impacting their top and bottom lines, reducing operational costs, and empowering their people.

Among the feature tracks were a number of presentations that addressed the themes of transportation management and warehouse management in the Cloud. “Logistics professionals have to confront many major day-to-day business and operational challenges,� Vikram Singla, product innovation

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In order to look to maximise the efficiency of transportation management and warehouse activities, presenters at the Oracle event commented that it is now more critical than ever that logistics companies put in place a reliable IT infrastructure that is able to optimise day-to-day business and operational processes.

Transportation management With regard to specific aspects of the ideal Cloud-based transportation management system, Oracle believes the solution should be designed to support both shippers and logistics service providers and to make their daily communication as clear and seamless as possible. According to Oracle, it should enable users to reduce freight costs, optimise service levels and automate processes so that they can run their logistics operations more efficiently and ultimately deliver the very best service to the end customer. With this in mind, Oracle believes some of the key features within the TMS should ideally include the following: Operational planning – To enable users to

create a more efficient and high velocity logistics network; planning and executing domestic and international shipments, lowering rates and manage equipment more efficiently, and optimise the cubic capacity of containers while consolidating orders and streamlining location flow and calendars. Visibility – To provide visibility into items, orders and shipments, so users can deliver the best possible service and plan with greater accuracy and confidence. Even if shippers outsource the physical shipment of the goods, they need to have complete control over the whereabouts of the goods. Transportation intelligence – Functionality for the whole enterprise that is able to track items, orders and shipments, make changes that improve servicing costs and receive proactive alerts when delivery milestones are approaching or have been missed. Global trade compliance and security – Helping companies to manage day-to-day communications with hauliers worldwide, while helping them to remain compliant regarding the different trading laws and regulations concerning imports and exports that exist in each country they operate within. Oracle stressed that enterprise managers involved in international transportation need to be able to

-%-!*,-&.(-, +' )(!.*,. '*$%- &.'-$-(,. + -'( ##% . *)(. #-')-($-.- -(,.)(. +( +( .

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Event news

TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

rely on an IT solution that ensures end-to-end visibility and control of customs and compliance processes, while enabling them to optimise and streamline business processes related to cross-border trade. Landed cost management – Helping companies to analyse different sourcing scenarios in order not just to help their buyers to understand product cost but also to gain a complete understanding of the total cost purchasing those goods – including handling fees, insurance, duties and taxes. Rates management – Helping companies to maintain and regularly update rates information within their TMS application.

Warehouse management A key part of any efficient logistics operation is the warehouse or distribution centre. Oracle believes it is critical that a company’s warehouse management IT system (WMS) is not just geared to optimise efficiencies concerning inventory management but is also part of a unified single suite of logistics solutions that serve the company’s entire supply chain – including transportation management and manufacturing. Oracle maintains the WMS should also be able to coordinate resource usage and material flows so users can improve labour and space utilisation within the warehouse, as well as help to optimise shipment accuracy. According to Oracle, other key features should include: Inventory management – Oracle believes the ideal WMS should be able to improve inventory visibility, reduce inventory levels and control inventory operations. More specifically, states the company, the WMS should be capable of supporting discrete inventory, process inventory, project inventory and spare parts management. It should also be able to manage restricted material transactions using user-defined status controls against locations, lots, serials and onhand material. Mobile supply chain – Oracle believes the functionality of the WMS should be accessible to authorised personnel within the four walls and in the field via complementary apps on their mobile devices. It added that staff should be able to perform common warehouse and shop-floor transactions through their handheld devices and truck-

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mounted scanners in order to improve inventory accuracy and reduce data entry errors with barcode scanning. Yard management – Oracle believes a WMS should be able to manage and track the flow of trailers and their contents into and out of the yard by managing yard operations such as dock scheduling, equipment check-in, unsealing, sealing and checkout.

Deployment models Organisations may already have in place software functionality that efficiently manages many of their TMS and/or WMS processes. However, Oracle points out that many of these companies may be considering adding extra functionality in order to maximise their business and operational efficiencies as well as enhance their compliance and security regime. Complementary/Incremental change – Vikram Singla commented that by discussing their requirements with the right provider, shippers and carriers should be able to gain a fully rounded view of the different ways they can consume solutions in the Cloud, and be able to pick and choose what they require. He added it is also important that the Cloud solutions the vendor recommends have the flexibility to be fully and seamlessly integrated within the user organisation’s existing IT suite; whether as a part on-premise and part-Cloud (hybrid) model or whether these solutions were sourced from the same provider or other vendor. Transformational change – If, on the other hand, logistics companies are currently

experiencing issues with their existing TMS and Warehouse Management System, have old legacy systems that they are looking to completely replace, or are looking to put in place a state-of-the-art IT backbone for a start-up company, Singla considers that a more ‘transformational’ Cloud-based IT model may be the best option. Singla continued: “There are many benefits to be had by deploying Cloud-based solutions. Unlike the implementation of on-premise solutions, there is no up-front capital expenditure (capex) involved in Cloudbased/Software as a Service-based (SaaS) solutions. Instead, users pay a monthly subscription fee determined by the size of the deployment and number of users. Another benefit is that the solutions can be up and running quickly (weeks rather than years), without the often protracted implementation process involved in preparing an on-premise system for go-live. Also, in the case of Oracle’s solutions, users will always be using the very latest iteration of the software, with round-the-clock online support available. Oracle’s Cloud solutions are also highly secure and only accessible by authorised personnel online from anywhere in the world.” Singla concluded: “If companies are considering investing in a new transportation management and/or warehouse management system, or are looking to enhance the functionality they already have, I believe it is important to source a solution that can optimise business and operational efficiencies, maximise profit and protect and enhance the company’s reputation through providing customers with a level of service that is second to none.”

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Success story

Keeping a finger on

the pulse for almost 70 years

B

örjes Logistik & Spedition was founded back in 1947 and has operated successfully on the market ever since. A reason for this: The company is always prepared to accept modern developments and to implement them.

A quick response and perseverance are a must Börjes Logistik & Spedition has already experienced a number of changes to the industry during its 68-year company history. It was and still is important to react to these changes, as managing director Roland Johansson commented: "The growth of the industry sector is continuing to accelerate. The biggest challenge is monitoring changes to ensure that we can adapt to them quickly. We make every effort to ensure that we stay one step ahead of future developments." But how can a company remain competitive with such changes? Johansson explains: "We stand firm against the competition by not giving up our focus on quality and the environment. We need to be able to adapt to environmental requirements and quickly change anything that is not beyond our control." Johansson is also happy to share his opinion on the sensitive subject of cabotage in Scandinavia: "It is important to stick to the rules and comply with all the laws and this also applies without exception to the cabotage." Johansson explained: "Cabotage, which has been implemented in accordance with the valid regulation, supports the environment through reduced emissions and enhances competition by increasing transport utilisation."

A satisfied TimoCom customer for over ten years Transport platforms such as TimoCom can now be used to stay competitive in the world of logistics. Börjes Logistik & Spedition has already been a customer for 11 years and was satisfied right from the start: "We immediately realised that TimoCom was offering an excellent basic product and had good ideas for the future. And

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we were right because TimoCom is currently the market leader among the European freight and vehicle exchanges with TC Truck&Cargo. Depending on the market situation, we enter 75 to 100 offers on the transport exchange each

definitely road freight transport in Europe. However, it also caters to another increasingly important niche, e-commerce logistics, within the 3PL segment and furthermore also transports dangerous goods with hazardous

“

Depending on the market situation, we enter 75 to 100 offers on the transport exchange each month. The product is also extremely reliable. We were also very satisfied with TimoCom's CashCare on the rare occasions we had to use it." – Roland Johansson, Börjes Logistik & Spedition.

month. The product is also extremely reliable. We were also very satisfied with TimoCom's CashCare on the rare occasions we had to use it," said Johansson.

Decade-long philosophy meets modern logistics services Börjes Logistik & Spedition was founded by Börje Johansson, father of the current managing director, 68 years ago and is a family-owned transport company. A total of 110 people are currently employed at the company headquarters in Nybro and at the German branch in Erfurt. Börjes Logistik & Spedition has its own modern vehicle fleet with 45 trucks and has generated turnover of 215 million Swedish krona over the past year. The company's main line of business is most

waste or ADR class 1. The special feature of freight forwarding is, however, the combination of 3PL and transport services to offer customers a ‘one stop shop’. In order to be able to achieve this, the employees increasingly focus on reliability, punctuality, quality, the environment, safety and efficiency. However, the following quotation from the founder most reflects the values and visions which are the base of the company today: "The customer is not somebody you need to impress or convince that you are right. The customer is a guest who you should treat how you like to be treated." Johansson added that TimoCom and Börjes Logistik & Spedition are the perfect match. He believes the reason for this is that “TimoCom makes every effort to further enhance product development to benefit the customer and Börjes Logistik & Spedition is always open to new developments which it effectively employs in everyday working situations”.

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Insight

TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

Assignment of transport orders with clever interfaces

T

he logistics sector is by now closely linked to the digital era. Against all predictions, along with the focus on automation, this era has now also reached communication. In comparison, this differs in the development into Logistics 4.0 as it is not only humans communicating with each other or with the machines. Now, machines can even communicate with other machines. One example of machine-to-machine connections is interfaces serving as communication in different systems. TimoCom, one of the leading IT providers of the logistic sector was ahead of the digital era and Logistics 4.0., as the company has been developing interfaces for the customers’ transport management systems in over a decade.

Connection advantages The most important advantage of these connections: The freight and vehicle orders from a transport company’s or a freight forwarder’s software is transferred through the interface TC Connect and into Europe’s largest transport platform. By just one click, this means that the endlessly entering can be skipped and the vehicle capacities are sold faster. The automatic transfer from machine-to-machine also minimises the possibility of mistakes which might occur when typing everything manually. Today, there are only a few companies within the transport and logistics sector who do not use transport management solutions or digital freight exchanges. TimoCom, one of Europe’s largest transport platforms, offers the possibility to connect these two. The platform links customers’ transport management systems with TimoCom‘s freight exchange. And through TC Connect

TimoCom users can offer their freight assignments and/or vehicle space directly from their company software and reach out to 110,000 international and potential users. 68.1 million offers were published into the transport platform in 2015 and, of this amount, some 13 per cent can be attributed to the interfaces. From the TimoCom customers’ point of view, these interfaces are beneficial in more ways which a representative from the logistics group Carreras emphasises: “Due to TC Connect we can publish even more offers and we also reach out to more potential business partners. It gives us an opportunity to close more deals and make our turnover increase.” The bundling also enables the company to maintain the overview of all activity within the business. The productivity becomes measurable and the business can develop even more in terms of efficiency.

1 4

2

Change your Chain with Europe’s largest transport platform! Manufacturing and trade can now handle all transport business through TimoCom: In Europe’s largest transport platform you can find up to 150,000 international vehicle capacity offers. You haven’t tried it yet?

Test TimoCom for up to 4 weeks free of charge:

www.timocom.co.uk/logistics

Customers, whom we have convinced:

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Success story

Isotrak empowers

fleets to deliver with Aeris connectivity )* '%" * #)* )%" (& )*&$()""& )$!)*(' #'" )*( %$# ' (%(&'$*&## )#* ) ' )*( ) )!' )*!'#(" * &#(% )#* Isotrak knows that the demands on delivery fleets are constantly evolving, and the market is more competitive than ever. That’s why Isotrak uses business intelligence data to provide retailers and manufacturers with ‘total vision’ of their transportation ecosystem.

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With 25 per cent of the world’s top food retailers using Isotrak products, Isotrak is the definitive leader in grocery retail and food distribution. Its integrated supply-chain solutions continue to expand around the world, demanding a flexible and reliable data network solution for customers, wherever they might be, and whatever systems they might use. Additionally, Isotrak wanted analytics for the complete IoT / M2M deployment – and all of this had to be delivered with speedy onboarding and at a low total cost of ownership.

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!'$$)!(& &( * &( *&$() %() * %(%*%$%" (&!#* Isotrak found that Aeris could provide a reliable mobile network optimized to meet the demands of worldwide fleet management systems, while providing actionable visibility into the IoT / M2M solution. Jason Price, sales and marketing director with Isotrak, commented: “Our fleet management system provides data for a total vision of a fleet manager’s transportation ecosystem. We wanted to ensure reliable connectivity services and data insights no matter where our customers are located. By leveraging Aeris’ expertise in IoT network solutions, we are able to quickly provide a robust, global

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Success story

TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

solution that goes well beyond improved connectivity and competitive rate plans to offer customers real-time, useful information at their fingertips to help improve their cost structure.� Aeris’ global support of major cellular technology standards, such as GSM, CDMA, and LTE, enables Isotrak to offer its customers flexibility and the potential for growth across the globe. In addition, Aeris’ flexible pricing models and minimal upfront commitment meant that Isotrak could move to Aeris without having the burden of an initial large financial outlay.

)* )# "(# * * '% &$ *#'" (&'$ *!' &$) * &( * ' *%$%" (&!# ( %(* ) !) *(& )*('* % )(* Powered by Aeris’ network, Aeris comments that Isotrak can now provide an unparalleled solution for telematics and fleet management customers who want to lower their data costs and improve operational efficiencies with data analytics. The security built into the Aeris system with a private virtual network gives Isotrak – and its customers – peace of mind to maintain a competitive advantage.

Isotrak Ltd. at a glance /1203 74/737.63-45*7&01#4-6071(7(.6627,353*6,6527/1(2 306 /1.)2415/735-7/%/26,/74526*0324157217/1,671(72'67.30*6/27 102)56 7+1,&3546/735-7217/4 71(72'6721&7 7.30*6/27(11-706234.60/ 10.- 4-6 7 42'72'67+1,&35% /73 30- 45545*72035/&102 ,353*6,6527/%/26,$7 ! 4$7")/456//6/7*3457063. 24,67#4/4"4.42%$ +15201.735-7,63/)06,65271(72'6407(.662 /7&60(10,35+672'01)*' 6'4+.67 7!034.607!03+ 45*$7 1"7 7 6/1)0+67 353*6,652 45+.)-45*7 .357#/ 7 +2)3. $7 .6+20154+7 011( 1( 6.4#60%7 6 $ 04#607 1,,)54+32415/$7 04#45*7 2%.67 353*6,652735 )/456//7 526..4*65+67 6&10245*

Analytics for Global Transport: Creating New Opportunities for Fleets

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Aeris 604/74/737&415660735-7.63-6074572'67,30 6271(72'67 526056271( !'45*/7 73/73571&60321071(765- 21 65-7 1!735-7 7/60#4+6/ 35-73/73726+'51.1*%7&01#4-607653".45*712'6071&603210/7217")4.&01(423".67 1!7")/456//6/ 7 ,15*742/7+)/21,60/730672'67,1/2 -6,35-45*7)/60/71(7 1!7/60#4+6/721-3%$745+.)-45*7 %)5-34$ +)03$7 35-7 + 3..%$7 64+3$735-7 &0452 7!'01)*'7 604/ 26+'51.1*%7&.32(10,735-7-6-4+326-7 1!735-7 7/60#4+6/$72'6 +1,&35%7/204#6/7217()5-3,6523..%74,&01#672'6407")/456//6/7 7"% -03,324+3..%706-)+45*7+1/2/$74,&01#45*71&60324153.76((4+465+%$ 06-)+45*724,6 21 ,30 62$735-7653".45*756 706#65)67/2063,/

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Bridging the widening analytics gap between raw telematics data and actionable nagers.

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FLEET MANAGEMENT ANALYTICS CAN MEET THE CHALLENGES FACING THE EU FLEET

COPYRIGHT Š 2015, AERIS COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

I

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The TMS

Opinion

evolution

Tim Fawkes, managing director of 3t Logistics Ltd., explains how transport management systems have evolved to meet the needs of demanding supply chains.

Key developments Up until 2010, transport was still managed manually; irrespective of whether it involved direct delivery of product to an end user, or delivery of product to build inventory levels. Although tracking systems have been in place decades, the visibility of consignments through the general haulage network has been all but non-existent. Over the past decade, the use of telematics to locate vehicles and set up geo-fences has become standard as the cost of installing such systems has fallen.

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W

hatever the product, transporting supplies and goods cost effectively is a key part of any supply chain. And just as many day to day business processes have become increasingly automated, from finance and HR to manufacturing and warehousing, so have logistics practices. This has been largely due to the creation of increasingly advanced transport management systems (TMS). These systems have been developed partly in response to industry’s changing needs. Demand for JIT deliveries rose throughout the 1990s and 2000s, while next-day deliveries are now expected as standard by many end users.

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However, these systems will become increasingly obsolete as the ubiquity of smartphones and other mobile devices has resulted in the development of easily accessible and cost-effective applications that are able to track consignments from departure to delivery. These systems are revolutionising the way in which vehicles are tracked and controlled, bringing with them some obvious and significant benefits: they are usually cheap to buy and operate; most people already have access to a smartphone or tablet, and they offer an unprecedented level of flexibility and mobility.

the time and money is invested upfront then the returns will not be realised. Accurate data is also critical to the success of any system, and the process of ensuring accurate data is maintained can be the single biggest success factor. There are two types of data required in a TMS: 1. Static or reference data which remains constant for a defined period of time; e.g. transport rates, product dimensions, type of container etc. 2. Dynamic data which is changeable and flows through the system on a daily basis; e.g. demand – orders and order lines. An effective TMS will utilise the static data, assess the demand, consider how it’s packed and, based on the combined information, choose the optimum method of shipping. Demand flows through to the TMS as orders are placed on the production ERP and a good TMS will dynamically figure out the optimum transport mode and routing. There are now transport apps emerging which can be used as a standalone option or part of a modular based transport system offering access to a whole range of facilities/operations in real time including:

Furthermore, the running and transmission of data using mobile over the networks costs a fraction of the price that companies currently pay to track vehicles. The transmission of mobile data also facilitates the centralisation of data transmitted in real time. This means that people can see their proof of delivery (PoD) almost immediately after delivery, which also saves the costly administration process of scanning PoDs when the vehicle returns to base.

• Booking collection slots online. • Live tracking of consignments. • Access to interactive delivery information, uploading any changes in schedule so that live information is always available. • Instant download of PoD. • Instant delivery of photographs and videos of damaged products. • Geo-fencing which automatically triggers a notification when pre-set boundaries are crossed.

Managing data

Using these applications, carriers and their customers can view and manage an entire delivery manifest, allowing instant access to a whole range of information previously unavailable.

Implementing a TMS won’t automatically reduce transport costs: as complex systems they can be difficult to implement, and unless

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Opinion

TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

integrate with an ERP system to receive orders and updates, but also with carrier systems to receive tracking information. It ultimately becomes a conduit of information flow providing visibility and control as the consignment moves through the supply chain.

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System integration By its very nature, a TMS is involved in managing the processes that are often outside of an organisation’s core competencies – processes controlled by the 3PLs once a product has been produced and is in stock, waiting for call off and through the delivery process. This fragmentation means that the integration of the TMS with a multitude of systems (including external systems and inputs) is important. Not only does the TMS need to

So how do you choose a TMS? One of the greatest pitfalls is assuming that once the system is selected then the hard work is over. At the end of the day, a TMS is only as good as the processes in place to manage transport within a supplier’s business. The benefits of a TMS are manifold and include: • Enhanced visibility – of deliveries through the transport process and also visibility of cost and issues – cost to serve for customers and the capture of issues that arise during the order fulfilment process. This results in improved customer services from a proactive approach to client communication.

• Cost savings – reduction of administration costs as well as the opportunity to reduce transport inefficiency and waste in the transport process. • Cost control – capturing transport costs throughout transport processes, ensuring transport rates are applied correctly including surcharges e.g. fuel and transport is accurately accrued and unnecessary surprises are avoided. • A platform for continuous improvement – unless you can measure, it you can’t manage it. Measuring transport spend and activity is the only way to ensure compliance is maintained within your transport function – and that you are providing your client with a world class service. Technology enables us to do more than we ever have before. Over the coming year, many organisations will be investing in systems to ensure that their internal processes operate as efficiently as possible. However, they need to ensure that they are applying this strategy to all the links in their supply chain – including transport and management processes.

For more information or to schedule a demo + 44 (0) 116 2824 111

Integrated Transport Management Solutions. Designed by our customers for our customers. Key features of Solo: Multi Carrier Multi Mode Invoice Audit Track & Trace ePOD

Business Intelligence End to End Integration Dock Control Load and Route Optimisation Performance Management

+ 44 (0) 116 2824 111 | www.3t-europe.com 3T Group, 5 Smith Way, Grove Park, Enderby, Leicester, LE19 1SX

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TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

Product news

Elemica introduces

track

mobile app for logistics visibility Elemica, the supply chain operating network for the process industries, has introduced Elemica Track, a mobile application that provides visibility into shipments transacting through Elemica's Enhanced Transport Visibility solution.

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sers of the application can monitor shipments from anywhere, identifying where they are in the execution process with access to detailed information for shipments that need attention. "All of our customers are seeking the same level of shipment visibility that they have grown to expect in the B2C world," said Cindi Hane, vice president of logistics management at Elemica. "Giving them access to highquality data about current shipments enables them to manage by exception and address customer inquiries efficiently."

Simple navigation to make smarter decisions faster," said • Highlighted expected late shipments. Adrian Gonzalez, president of Adelante • Intuitive navigation of shipment list by Elemica Track gathers rich, quality data SCM. "Elemica Track helps transportation status. from across the network and presents it on professionals, without being tethered to • Stop-by-stop shipment information. mobile devices in an easy-to-view, easy-totheir office computer, answer the number • Filtering of shipments by reference use format. Users can search for shipments one question they get from customers -number, shipper or carrier. by status -- whether open, confirmed, inWhere's my shipment? -- as well as Current Elemica customers using Enhanced transit or delivered -- by order numbers, or Transport Visibility by company name. The download application provides All of our customers are seeking the same level of shipment visibility that can Elemica Track via simple navigation for Google Play and shipments as users can they have grown to expect in the B2C world. Giving them access to highApple iTunes. easily swipe through quality data about current shipments enables them to manage by exception Enhanced Transport pickup and delivery and address customer inquiries efficiently." Visibility enables stops, see products – Cindi Hane, Elemica. proactive alerts and and quantities indata visualisation transit, watch address exceptions and disruptions in a tools to complement Elemica's automation shipments progression, and specify more timely manner, which ultimately and collaboration solutions for transport desired timeframe from one week to results in lower costs and improved execution. Combined with Elemica Track, months out. customer service." Elemica Mobile Track customers can gain complete visibility into provides: shipments to power the real-time responses "There's been an uptick in the development to market events that lead to better of new supply chain mobile applications • Anytime, anywhere access to valuable business outcomes. over the past year, coinciding with the information. growing need for supply chain professionals to have 'anytime, anywhere' • Visibility of shipments tendered but not visibility to supply chain activities in order accepted.

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Success story

TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

Mad Capsule Media

selects NetDespatch integration solution to drive seamless ecommerce experience for its customers

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etDespatch, the parcel data management platform for postal and parcel carriers, has partnered with Mad Capsule Media, an independent software company specialising in ecommerce and shipping integration for e-tailers. The partnership has allowed Mad Capsule Media to rapidly offer their customers a broader portfolio of UK and international carriers, without any significant investment in development or testing.

simple and complex shipping rules. The shipping rules control the selection of the parcel carrier to be used for a particular order, based on weight, order value and destination, simplifying and automating what is generally a very time-consuming task for online retailers.

Broadened carrier portfolio Mad Capsule Media's partnership with NetDespatch has enabled them to offer seamless integration with APC Overnight and Yodel to their rapidly growing list of customers. This has instantly broadened the carrier portfolio available for Mad Capsule's customers, ensuring as always that their labels, manifests and data files are always compliant for each of their chosen carriers.

Founded in 2008, Mad Capsule Media provides specialist ecommerce fulfilment software that helps e-tailers streamline their order processing and warehouse management operations. Mad Capsule is the market leader for Magento, Brightpearl and Shopify shipping extensions. Last year Mad Capsule implemented a new 'SaaS' platform, 'Shiptheory'; an online flexible shipping rules engine that allows businesses to create both

Lead developer for Mad Capsule's Shiptheory

product, James Mikkelson, said: "We've been helping thousands of companies automate their shipping process since 2008. Our recent partnership with NetDespatch has allowed us to add an APC Overnight and a Yodel integration to Shiptheory with very little development time. We're looking forward to working with NetDespatch on additional projects in the future." Mad Capsule Media customers can now select even more carriers via the two integrated 'SaaS' platforms, so that all parcels are automatically despatched and passed to the correct carrier with the required labels and documentation and data files; all of these are produced without the need for manual intervention or any data re-entry. This new integration has allowed the team at Mad Capsule Media to concentrate on their core business, as it saves them approximately a month's worth of development time for each new carrier to be added.

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TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

Product news

Fleet safety benchmarking

tool

launched to cut work-related road crashes Crashes involving at-work drivers are forecast to reduce as employers benefit from a new online benchmarking tool launched with government support. The free to use Fleet Safety Benchmarking tool – www.fleetsafetybenchmarking.net – enables employers across the public, private and voluntary sectors to measure their at-work road safety performance against a wide-range of other organisations.

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easuring both processes and outcomes, the tool is suitable for use across a comprehensive range of vehicle types including company cars, motorcycles, light commercial vehicles, HGVs, minibuses, buses and 'grey fleet' vehicles – privately-owned cars driven on business trips. The tool uses 30 questions to examine an employer's current practices across six key areas: Road safety management policy; organisational leadership and culture; journey and mobility management; driver recruitment, induction, management and wellbeing; vehicle selection, safety, management and security; and corporate, community and supply chain road safety.

(DfBB) campaign with backing from the Department for Transport and in collaboration with a range of fleet-related organisations. Those organisations include the Freight Transport Association's Van Excellence programme, global provider of driver safety management solutions Interactive Driving Systems, RoSPA and TRL (Transport Research Laboratory) as well as Fleet Forum, an international interagency association whose focus includes sharing concerns about road safety and fleet efficiency. Support has also come from the Australian National Road Safety Partnership Programme. of currently almost 1400 participants providing an insight into the safety of an organiation's vehicles and drivers and how they rank against others.

Benchmarking Data analysis Having inputted data, a report will provide question by question responses and feedback including questions scored and reported against averages determined from other users' information, data tables and graphs based on each of the six sections of gap analysis. Data analysis will provide information on collision rates per vehicle and per one million kilometres driven as well as by vehicle and incident type and location. After analysing how a specific fleet compares with other tool users, registered participants will be able to access a wealth of resources to enable existing policies to be updated and new risk management solutions introduced. That includes links to best practice and case studies, surgery and good practice request processes and conference call discussions. The Fleet Safety Benchmarking tool is being delivered as a contribution to the work of the Occupational Road Safety Alliance (ORSA) by the team behind the Driving for Better Business

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Melvyn Hodgetts, DfBB campaign manager, said: "Fleet decision-makers will know the risk management solutions they have implemented and their outcomes. But is that performance good so momentum can be maintained or can results be improved? Benchmarking will provide the answers. Fleet safety is most likely to be improved by the introduction of an integrated set of measures based on the safety culture within an organisation and benchmarking is one of the most effective ways of achieving improvements to road safety in a corporate setting." DfBB calculates that of the 1775 people killed on Britain's roads in 2014, the most recent year for which Department for Transport data is available, 547 (30 per cent) died as a result of someone driving for work. Additionally, of the 22,807 road users seriously injured in 2014, 5168 (22 per cent) were at-work driving related. The new tool is a significant enhancement of Interactive Driving Systems' Fleet Safety Gap Analysis, an online 10question solution that allows fleets to benchmark their own responses against those

Interactive Driving Systems' data suggests that among the 12 most active benchmarking participants, representing 170,000 drivers and 80,000 vehicles, more than £11 million has been saved in direct cost reductions over three years as incident claim rates have reduced. Will Murray, research director at Interactive Driving Systems, said: "Benchmarking is the continuous process of measuring products, services or practices against industry leaders and others to gain new insights and identify improvements. It can focus on process – policies and procedures – and outcomes – key performance indicators on crash data and costs." He continued: "Using the tool will help make organisations aware of the business and operational benefits of good work-related road safety management and engage those which are not already committed through a mechanism to compare processes and performance and an awareness of the help, resources and advice available.”

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Insight

TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT

GateHouse sees

game changers ahead in logistics and transport markets Transport logistics integrator and technology unifier GateHouse expects 2016 will bring major changes in the way that logistics and transport companies operate in the supply chain. The company believes buyers will experience increasing pressures to control costs and streamline operations and the demand for faster, more accurate data in B2B and B2C deliveries will see the beginnings of the interoperable systems era. deliveries will be central to improved supply chain processes.

technology-agnostic alternatives that will simplify their operations.

Data sharing

Implications for technology suppliers to the logistics and transport industries

GateHouse sees transparent data sharing becoming widespread in the logistics and transport industries leading to more effective and efficient logistics operations.

Data security Visibility GateHouse sees transport buyers demanding greater visibility about delivery loads and access to real-time tracking data from logistics providers. It believes buyers will expect them to embrace customer-centric methodology tools covering rolling inventory and just-in-sequence processes.

Flexibility GateHouse anticipates that this year will see transport buyers becoming more selective in their choice of third party logistics (3Pl) partners and the GPS equipment they use. It believes 3Pl partners will need to use GPS products that allow key delivery data to be integrated into all types of business systems.

Efforts to ensure data security, integrity and authentication will be key trends during 2016, maintains GateHouse. It believes the industry will also see a substantial increase in the amount of data being developed and circulated about delivery loads. The company added that transport buyers will want to see data being encrypted and handled in a more secure and responsible manner. This, says GateHouse, also applies for suppliers of data (e.g. hauliers) who may be anxious about

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Internet of Things The number of active tracking devices deployed in cargo loading units including trailers, intermodal containers, cargo boxes and pallets reached 1.8 million worldwide.

“

We enter a technology-agnostic era where buyers' access to whatever platform being used by all their sub-contractor hauliers and shippers is primordial for business advantage.” – Michael Bondo Andersen, GateHouse.

sharing data. GateHouse believes both want to be sure that data is handled by independent data aggregators and received only by the intended audience.

GateHouse reports that this number will nearly triple by 2019 to 5.8 million and usher in progressively the era of interoperable systems to bring about a smarter, more efficient supply chain sector.

Implications for transport companies

“We enter a technology-agnostic era where buyers' access to whatever platform being used by all their sub-contractor hauliers and shippers is primordial for business advantage,” said GateHouse CEO, Michael Bondo Andersen. “The time for an interoperable systems approach in real-time delivery tracking is now urgent.”

Transparency According to GateHouse, this year will see all involved in the supply chain beginning to interact better and work more closely for better customer engagement and interface. This, says the company, will lead to improvements in competitive advantage. GateHouse added that transparency of logistics and anytime-anywhere knowledge of

GateHouse sees 2016 being the year that transport buyers and logistics managers will begin to choose agnostic-system technology over closed silo technology platforms. The company comments that demand for independency and data security will have to be met by the technology suppliers and they will have to act in an increasingly fragmented technology-driven market.

According to GateHouse, transport companies will strive to overcome the complex and often time consuming challenge of integrating multiple telematics systems into their operations and look for simpler

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Supply Chain

Opinion

Leveraging risk management throughout the supply chain By Terry Onica, director of automotive, QAD. German resin supplier to several years of severe Midwest US snowstorms, natural and manmade disasters pose a serious threat to automotive production across the globe. From unknown and uncontrollable disasters to the more predictable and controllable interruptions, automotive manufacturers could face a range of potential disruptions as described by a study by Ford/MIT, shown in Figure 1.

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wide range of business-critical risks face today’s automotive supplier. Typical risks include material shortages, catastrophic property losses from unforeseen events, supply chain interruptions, IT failures and more. For tier-one suppliers, the lack of transparency and control among sub suppliers adds to their risk equations. Now and into the future, smart planning is imperative, especially as the globalisation of automotive supply processes increases. Some automotive OEMs are already requiring suppliers to create risk management procedures, contingency plans and strategies. Standards and guidelines likewise have added risk management requirements: Materials Management Operations Guideline, Logistic Evaluation (MMOG/LE) now addresses risk management, ISO/9001:2015 introduced riskbased thinking and it is anticipated that ISO/TS 16949 will adopt as well in the next version. This article addresses the resources and tactics to put into place for an effective risk management strategy.

The risk that causes most OEM executives to lose sleep is the lack of visibility beyond tier-one suppliers. This is a key area that many OEMs want tier-one suppliers to focus on during risk assessment. Several of the risks noted in the Ford-MIT research revolve around sub-supplier risk management. It is critical for suppliers to understand their level of exposure to risk in the organisation’s supply base and to prepare for it. This should include tracking the location of all suppliers, and assessing financial and operational viability (e.g., quality and delivery). The ability to track all supplier locations is critical in the event of a disruption, such as a typhoon, snowstorm, or hurricane. It is important to know the location of the organisation’s sub-suppliers so that the organisation can assess the safety of all suppliers and identify any risk. Many automated solutions are available today to help suppliers be proactive and reduce risk in the area of operational visibility for both quality and

Unknown

Automotive supply chain risks The automotive supply chain grows longer and more complex each year, with regional events having an impact on global production. From 2011’s tsunami in Japan and 2012’s fire at a

Known

delivery, such as portals that track corrective actions, forecast and scheduling information, and vendor ratings (quality and delivery performance). These portals allow organisations to be proactive in reducing risk by avoiding material shortages and shipping disruptions.

The role of MMOG/LE assessments and the supply chain Materials Management Operations Guideline, Logistic Evaluation (MMOG/LE) is a guideline for assessing, improving and benchmarking materials management and logistics operations of suppliers. This assessment tool – created by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) and Odette in conjunction with the OEMs, suppliers, software vendors and consultants – helps manufacturers uncover critical areas where automation and systems can significantly increase plant efficiency, reduce supply chain risk and streamline processes. It serves as an assessment of delivery, just as ISO/TS-16949 relates to quality. Once suppliers complete the assessment, it scores them against best practices, with the goal of helping suppliers achieve Level A, world-class supplier status. The MMOG/LE Full assessment consists of an Excel spreadsheet, containing six chapters and 197 criteria. OEMs or customers ask sub suppliers to go through all 197 criteria and indicate if they meet each one. Many OEMs and tier-one suppliers typically require the submission of an MMOG/ LE assessment for all production suppliers. In the case of the OEMs, they also

Nautural disasters Geopolitical risks Epidemics Terrorist attacks Labor disruptions Raw material prices Currency volatility Material shortages Shipping disruptions Financial health of suppliers Supplier performance Quality issues

Uncontrollable

Controllable

Figure 1, Credit: Ford-MIT Alliance / Simchi-Levi Managing Supply Chain Risk.

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SUBCHAPTER

CRITERIA

Risk Assessment Process

• Define. • Prioritize. • Proactively reduce risk

Contingency Plans

• Documented • Reviewed, tested, validated, and trained • Lessons learned, documented • Communicated to sub suppliers

Supply chain risk should include all departments within the organisation, as each department has the ability to potentially impact or disrupt customer delivery. As an example, is the IT department involved in assessing potential EDI or planning system outages or cyber security threats? Any number of events could potentially affect the organisation. For example, if the organisation has a financially troubled supplier, is the organisation taking steps to:

Figure 2, Risk Assessment Requirements.

require it for aftersales/aftermarket suppliers. Following the initial assessment, OEMs generally require it on an annual basis. OEMs or customers may typically review MMOG/LE assessments with their suppliers in the cases of new business, new product launches or poor delivery performance. The MMOG/LE Basic assessment was introduced at Version 4 and has 106 criteria. The Basic assessment was developed so that the lower tier suppliers can complete assessments and have a meaningful roadmap of continuous improvement opportunities and therefore help reduce risk among the lower tiers in the supply chain. With the introduction of the Basic assessment, the industry is seeing an increase in the adoption of MMOG/LE with tier-one suppliers for this purpose.

Risk management introduced in MMOG/LE Version 4 With the introduction of MMOG/LE Version 4, the assessment now requires organisations to have processes in place for managing risk to achieve the status of world-class supplier. Figure 2 summarises the requirements for Risk Assessment and Contingency Planning and the MMOG/LE criteria.

• Actively replace the supplier. • Further develop the supplier. • Alert the OEM (in cases where the supplier provides a unique capability).

Reviewing sub-suppliers and gauging risk appetite Most OEMs require their suppliers to complete MMOG/LE on an annual basis. It serves as a good reminder for organisations to review risk at least once a year. Reviewing all risk on an annual basis is important because something that may not be a risk one year may quickly become a risk the next year. Or it might become an item an organisation should review further.

Supply Chain

how will the supplier react if a sub supplier does not have the appropriate packaging at the time of shipment? Both risk and contingency planning should include a step for lessons learned. It is not uncommon, after evoking a plan, to uncover something that was not addressed in the original plan. The key response is to go back and be sure to update the plan with any findings after the debrief.

Resources available to assist in risk management Resources available to assist organisations in risk management and contingency planning include: • Business Continuity Planning for the Automotive Supply Chain (M-12) from the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG). This guide aids automotive suppliers in the development of business continuity programmes and can be adapted for small, medium and large organisations. • Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (PFMEA). PFMEA is a qualitative analysis that involves reviewing components, assemblies and subsystems to identify failure modes, causes and effects.

Risk appetite is another consideration. It is defined as “the amount and type of risk that an organisation is willing to take in order to meet strategic objectives”. An example in the automotive industry is sourcing to a lowcost supplier versus looking at the broader consideration of total cost of ownership. It is important that organisations align the metrics of the purchasing department with those of the supply chain department when trying to reduce risk.

• Insurance organisations and consultants offer services and advice for managing risk exposure.

Contingency plans

QAD’s role in risk management

The MMOG/LE section on contingency plans looks at the process for developing a robust set of emergency procedures. For example, organisations often have training in fire prevention and plant safety, but do not have training on other contingency planning areas, such as packaging and transportation.

QAD offers tools to help reduce risk and provides MMOG/LE support, consultation, and resources to help suppliers implement the required business systems and prepare for internal reviews and customer MMOG/LE audits. QAD provides effective support to customers around the world. Whether in mature or emerging markets, organisations leverage QAD’s products and services to achieve preferred supplier status, reduce risk and improve performance as an Effective Enterprise.

• Odette’s Supply Chain Risk Management Guidelines. These guidelines contain an explanation of the three key elements of supply chain risk management, including the identification and quantification of risk, the development of mitigation strategies and supply chain design to reduce risk.

Risk assessment process The first section on risk management in the MMOG/ LE looks at the risk assessment process and how the organisation defines it. The organisation needs a process that outlines how the organisation assesses and addresses risk within the supply chain. The plan should: • Address the step-by-step process for reviewing and defining risk. • Name who is responsible for managing the process. • Identify how often the process is reviewed and updated.

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Lastly, it is important that the organisation provide its suppliers with any customerdirected contingency plans. As an example,

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Warehouse Management

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Interview

The added dimension Manufacturing & Logistics IT spoke with Jan Van der Velden, market director at Vanderlande, about the benefits of three-dimensional storage and order-picking systems for optimal scalability and flexibility in the parts & components distribution centre.

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ompanies in the parts & components industry offer a broad range of products, varying from fasteners and electronic components to installation equipment and spare parts. The one thing they all have always had in common is that they distribute a high volume of smaller articles, often delivered individually or in small packaged units.

The Internet effect However, something that has noticeably changed in recent times is the way customers search for products and place their orders, as Vanderlande’s Jan Van der Velden explained: “Within the consumer goods marketplace, people have become comfortable with ecommerce; the process of ordering goods from the Internet. Therefore, people come to take this level of convenience as a given, and now increasingly expect a similar level of service and range of goods when ordering goods within the business environment. So, this scenario has raised greater customer expectations in terms of availability, delivery times and price.� However, as Van der Velden pointed out, this naturally can lead to increasing stock level requirements and/or increased numbers of SKUs in the warehouse or distribution centre. This in

turn has led to some considerable challenges that are amplified by other trends, such as ongoing pressure to keep costs low and the increasing complexity of logistical operations. Because of this, Van der Velden believes companies need a standard order fulfilment system that is able to process every order as efficiently and effectively as possible, regardless of size, delivery time and quality. In his view, this system must also be exceptional in its scalability and flexibility, allowing for quick and easy adjustments to meet changing needs. What is required, according to Van der Velden, is an intelligent system with an operating facility capable of translating every customer-specific request into standard processes carried out by a single machine.

Shuttle systems A new generation of storage and order-picking systems has been created over the past few years to meet today’s demands. Some of the most crucial parts of these systems are the shuttles – small, quick vehicles for the storage and retrieval of totes on shelves. Van der Velden makes the point that the performance of each shuttle system varies significantly, depending on the number of

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dimensions in which the shuttle can move. He explained that one-dimensional shuttles are limited to a single aisle and level and are only able to retrieve the correct tote from the rack, transport it forward and place it onto a lift, which then provides vertical transport. This captive system requires each level of every aisle to be equipped with a shuttle in order to serve all storage locations. In the case of a two-dimensional shuttle system, Van der Velden explained that this is limited to a single aisle and can move horizontally as well as vertically. These aisle-captive shuttles do not transport a tote to a lift, but enter into the lift together with the tote. This means that not only the tote, but also the shuttle can be transported and change levels. One shuttle can therefore serve all of the storage locations in one aisle.

Three-dimensional advantage A three-dimensional system, on the other hand, is designed so that shuttles can travel across all aisles and levels. “These fullroaming shuttles can move vertically with the help of lifts, similar to the aisle-captive shuttles, but can also move between the aisles on every level due to specially designed cross rails,� said Van der Velden. “That means that one shuttle is sufficient to serve all storage locations in the system. Van der Velden added that another key advantage of a 3-dimensional system is that storage and order-processing capacities can be scaled up or down independently of each other. “Distributors that need to extend their

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Easier control Three-dimensional shuttles also afford easier control, according to Van der Velden. He elaborated: “In systems with captive or aislecaptive shuttles, complex algorithms are needed to divide the workload optimally across the aisles and achieve maximum processing capacity. In a full-roaming shuttle system, these algorithms are almost entirely unnecessary. Even if that leads to several shuttles operating in the same aisle, the wide selection of alternate routes means that there is very little congestion or delay in transporting totes to order-picking stations.” range of parts and components, or levels of SKUs, can simply add more racks without the need to put extra shuttles in place, while companies who are seeing an increase in their order numbers can simply add more shuttles,” he said. In terms of other benefits, Van der Velden explained that there are no conveyors involved, and extra buffers are not necessary in a three-dimensional system due to the countless possibilities the cross rails offer for reaching the order-picking stations.

Also, as Van der Velden explained, fewer shuttles are needed with the three-dimensional model. “In a one-dimensional system where each level of every aisle requires its own shuttle, it is inevitable that these vehicles will sometimes be stationary due to a lack of orders,” he said. “In a three-dimensional system, however, the ability to tailor shuttle capacity to the required order-processing capacity is greatly enhanced. This equates to a 30 to 40 per cent reduction in the number of shuttles required.”

And due to the scalability, flexibility and modular design, Van der Velden pointed out that the initial investment in a three-dimensional system is lower than with other systems. He concluded: “All these benefits result in a storage and orderpicking system that can be implemented more quickly, and easily expanded, adjusted and improved in accordance with the distribution centre’s changing requirements. Flexibility to changing requirements is the key in today’s distribution centre environment.”

Reliable partner for value-added warehouse automation

Vanderlande is a major player in the warehouse automation market and specialises in solutions for food retail, fashion, parts and components and e-commerce. It cooperates closely with its customers to optimise their supply chain and enhance the efficiency of the processes in their distribution centres. The company is a one-stop shop for innovative systems, intelligent software and life-cycle support. This integrated approach results in an optimum performance throughout the system‘s lifetime. Curious to find out how your warehouse processes can be optimised? Contact Vanderlande today. Email: info@vanderlande.com. > vanderlande.com

Warehouse Management

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Success story

Haribo transforms its warehousing operations thanks to a new WMS solution from BEC

F

ounded in 1920 as a family business and now run by the third generation of the Riegel family, Haribo is one of the most recognised and enjoyed confectionary brands in the world. With multiple manufacturing locations throughout Europe and employing almost 7000 people worldwide, Haribo entered the UK market in 1972 and now employs over 700 people. Due to continuous growth, which has seen Haribo reinforce its position as the UK’s leading gums and jellies brand, a new 30,700m² factory in Castleford has recently been opened by Haribo to complement the company’s existing factory in Pontefract.

The problem Haribo was previously using a paper-based system to record stock movement and stock levels, which was time consuming and difficult to manage efficiently. When it became clear that the company needed to improve upon its stock administration processes and introduce enhanced functionality such as real-time reporting, it started to look for an alternative solution.

Walker continues: “Having seen BEC’s software solutions in operation, it quickly became clear to us that we had chosen the right partner. The solutions team whom we were dealing with from BEC was experienced, professional and keen to get involved, which convinced us to start working on fully integrating the new software into our existing Infor M3 ERP system.”

The solution

Joe Walker, business Systems development manager at Haribo, comments: “Having worked with BEC within previous projects, I was aware of their capabilities and also what they could offer in terms of a viable solution to a business such as ours. I made contact with them as well as several other providers, however BEC proved to be the right partner for Haribo.”

After completing a thorough data capture audit of its warehousing facility, which included gaining a full understanding of all of HARIBO’s operational processes, BEC deployed its eSmart Warehouse software in combination with Honeywell CK3X mobile computing devices.

After performing an initial feasibility study in order to determine exactly how Haribo could benefit from automation, BEC also facilitated reference site visits for Haribo to witness first-hand what could be achieved from a fully automated warehouse management system.

Philip Jarrett, director of sales and marketing at BEC, explains: “Our eSmart Warehouse software solution offers a whole host of benefits to businesses who are looking to improve all or part of their warehousing operations. From inventory control and increased stock availability to

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paperwork elimination and real-time validation of all transaction data, eSmart Warehouse is designed to seamlessly integrate into any ERP system, helping businesses to manage their warehouses more effectivity. “With additional support for performance monitoring, warehouse managers can further scrutinise efficiency, utilisation and productivity across the entire warehouse. In terms of hardware, the Honeywell CK3X device ticked all the boxes for Haribo, as it is highly robust and durable whilst offering intuitive operation and minimal training due mainly to its user-friendly screen options.” The new solution delivers put-away, stock movement, two stage picking, stock counting and QC functions to Haribo’s warehouse, allowing for real-time visibility of the location of each pallet containing raw materials, as well as the full complement of packaging, including film and cartons. When pallets of product arrive at the warehouse, they are put away using the CK3X devices, making sure that they are in the correct location to make them fully available to the business.

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Warehouse Management

I

Success story

The result The results of the new system have been far reaching. The amount of paper-based administration has been significantly reduced, while real-time stock visibility and reporting have now been introduced, allowing for a reduction in administration hours, faster stock counting at the end of each month and an upto-date overview of stock levels and placement. Walker concludes: “The new solution from BEC has been a real game changer for us. Everything is now much faster and simpler in terms of our stock operations. Our paper trail has been virtually eliminated and all stock information is now instantly available at the touch of a button. “In terms of ease of use, the warehouse staff who are using the devices loaded with BEC’s software have welcomed the change, as they were quickly comfortable and happy with using the new system and recognise its benefits. “In terms of how BEC has performed

throughout this entire process, from initial testing through to completion, we really couldn’t be happier. With regard to the deployment of the new solution, eSmart Warehouse is a very adaptable platform. BEC’s technical team was able to quickly customise the workflows to suit our processes and best practices, rather than

insisting that Haribo needed to make changes in order to adapt to the software. As a company, BEC has been very flexible in order to make things work for us and the team was constantly offering alternate adjustments to the solution for the benefit of the users and our business as a whole.”

BEC eSmart® Voice WMS Enabling Complete Door-to-Door Voice Solutions 9 Increase worker productivity by up to 35% 9 Reduction in picking errors by up to 50% 9 ROI typically within 6-12 months 9 Built with voice technology at its core, not as an add-on 9 Based on our proven eSmart Warehouse platform 9 Real-time dashboard reporting & status updates 9 Seamless integration into any host ERP system 9 %HQH¿WV WKH IXOO FRPSOHPHQW RI ZDUHKRXVLQJ SURFHVVHV

VOICE WMS

Call BEC today and speak to the experts: March 2016 www.logisticsit.com +44 (0)1254 688 088 or visit www.becsi.co.uk

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Warehouse Management

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Opinion

What can retailers learn from millennials? Much has been written about the rise of millennials recently, with many alluding to what marketers and advertisers can learn from this generation. But what about retailers? Known for their eagerness to learn, their openness to change and their desire to get exactly what they want, Craig Sears-Black, managing director of Manhattan Associates, advises retailers on how they can not only learn from millennials, but also implement strategies to ensure they stay onside.

R

ecent research from Manhattan Associates has revealed 66 per cent of millennials still feel they know more than store assistants in terms of product availability, price and offers. However, with one in two millennials still rating the store assistant as important to their overall shopping experience, now is the time to ensure your store assistants are equipped with, at the very least, the same information already available to the consumer. So, what does this mean in practice? In reality, there should be no need for the store assistant to ever leave the customer's side. Checking stock and managing returns should be 1. Done on the shop floor using a tablet or such like and 2. A seamless experience that combines inventory, product and customer information to present the sales assistant with a range of customer specific options. This process should also include being able to reallocate stock from a nearby store or the ability to offer free delivery – all to ensure the sale is saved and the customer leaves satisfied.

Retailers should be using information about a customer's online shopping habits – including products browsed but not bought – as well as a single view of available stock across the business, to deliver a far more personal and truly engaging in-store shopping experience. And with 45 per cent of millennials shopping both in-store and online, retailers need to be prepared, and equip themselves with the technology to offer the same personalised experience across every channel.

Keep it personal The anonymous shopping experience has had its day. More than half (56 per cent) of millennials stated they would interact more with a store assistant if their experience was tailored; showing that the personalised, relevant and timely experience that retailers are successfully implementing online must now also be delivered in-store. However, as the same methods used to capture and track every interaction online do not always apply in-store, this is not as simple as it may seem. A one-size fits all approach will not work here; the model, therefore, must be customer led. 36

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Make your store network work harder We've all experienced the disappointment of going to purchase an item in-store only to find it's not available in our size. The system says there is one in stock, the store assistant tells you there is but they can't locate it. Hugely frustrating and, indeed, largely unacceptable when you consider 41 per cent of millennials surveyed claimed the ability to check stock availability is the most important aspect of the service provided by the store assistant. They are a generation that craves helpful,

personal interactions and they want the store assistants they interact with to not only deliver that but also be equipped to go one step further. Not only do they expect the store assistant to check stock across the entire network before advising on whether they have the item, but also arrange its delivery – either in the form of home delivery or click-andcollect – or at least suggest a feasible alternative, if not. Or one step further, use predetermined preferences and previous buying history to know which method of delivery they prefer, and which location they would be inclined to choose.

So, what next? The statistics are clear; these millennials know what they want and they expect to receive it. The store assistant must go further than they ever have before, and the technologies are already available to make this a reality; it's now just a case of retailers adopting these new innovations quickly or they risk being left behind. This tech-savvy generation will wait for no one.

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Warehouse Management

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Opinion

How to help members of staff accept a new WMS Installing a new Warehouse Management System represents a significant investment in both money and time, so it can be frustrating when some members of the workforce reject change before it is even introduced. Tony Liddar from MACS Software looks at how companies can help their staff embrace new technology.

S

ome people tend to be nervous of computers, they don't trust them; they are frustrated by them. If a new system is introduced they might be unwilling to accept it, finding unnecessary fault or even being deliberately obtuse in the hope of demonstrating that the 'old ways' were better. When managing change within a corporate hierarchy, employees in relatively junior positions, brought up on a diet of Xbox, PS4 and social media, could overnight become the 'go to' people for advice on how to use a new system. Change for them will be natural, intuitive. This can undermine more experienced people's authority and demoralise their morale. Similarly, having a more transparent system removes the need for 'local knowledge', something that would have been jealously guarded by staff members with longer service. That said, experienced people provide the stability, loyalty, sensibility and solid structure that companies need, especially those that are growing rapidly. Managed properly, they can be encouraged to embrace change, to see the value of technology for both themselves and the company and to use their experience to ensure the most constructive blend of the new and the old.

Preventing resistance to change Companies need to take an holistic view when introducing new systems. There is no point in imposing a system from on high with little or no consultation; this is bound to cause resentment. Instead, by involving people from all areas of the business right from the concept stage, it is possible to achieve full buy-in throughout the process. Senior staff

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members are likely to respond well to this approach as it demonstrates that their position within the organisation is respected. During a period of significant change it might be necessary to take a more dynamic approach to the typical job functions in a business to make the best use of the talent employed. It must not be assumed, for example, that managers are the most appropriate trainers, they may not be. Very often the impression a manager has of the way things are done, for example, might be very different from the practice on the shop floor. Trainers will need to be trained anyway so the people who are selected as trainers need to be those who are most able to fulfil the role. It might not be a manager but someone in an operational role who is easily accessible, available and happy to help on a day-to-day basis. If more senior people have been part of the selection process they will be happy to receive instruction from someone who, in other respects, is junior to them. It should be acknowledged also that different people learn in different ways. Some might prefer classroom instruction, some a more hands-on approach. Some will be happy to follow written instructions while others might prefer to be taught in a more visual way. A person who is dyslexic will need appropriate help to ensure that the information is presented to them in the best way. Older people might need a little extra time as some do not have such a natural affinity with technology as youngsters. However, that time will be well spent when the person is able fully to embrace the new system and have the background knowledge, gained over many years, to provide additional depth of experience.

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Mutual benefits Whilst all employees have their own interests at heart, most also understand the fundamental relationship between the company's success and their own. They know that by achieving greater efficiency and improving customer service they will be helping the company grow; as long as they can see that there are also benefits to them, in the form of better working conditions, better remuneration or career enhancement, they will be happy to accept new technology. Most people will blossom with new technology. With a little extra planning to keep everyone engaged from the beginning it's possible to make the transition smooth, keep staff happy and, ultimately, ensure the future prosperity of the organisation for the benefit of all concerned.

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Printing & Labelling

Success story

A flexible but robust # ) &' !% (&%'* %$*) #' &' * #()$&' * !&')!!*

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lackpool-based fresh and cooked meat supplier Choice Meats delivers around 160 orders per day to its book of over 400 trade customers across North-West England, from Penrith to Manchester. Running this operation efficiently requires a well-run order management and labelling system. Previously, the business had been labelling orders using printers attached to two large weighing scales, which was creating a bottleneck.

Bulky machines meant wasted time Paul Fleetwood, office manager at Choice Meats, said: “The previous solution wasn’t ideal as the scales we were using as labelling machines are advanced, expensive pieces of equipment, so not a cost-effective solution. They were also big, bulky machines that couldn’t easily be moved around the warehouse, so constant trips were being made back and forth between the goods for dispatch and the printer, again costing a lot of time. “As we continue to expand, it became clear that we needed to upgrade our capabilities

to keep pace with the number of orders we were handling each day.�

encoded packing date and our logo. While they operate independently most of the time, which was a key concern for us, they also work hand-in-glove with our PC-based customer database, so adding new customers or updating details is a quick and simple operation.

A lightweight, portable solution To address these issues, the business upgraded to four Brother TD-2120N professional industrial label printers. The units weigh just 1.3kg and can print 5.6cmwide adhesive labels at speeds of up to 15cm per second. Fleetwood added: “The Brother units have solved both of the issues we had when using

“Secondly, they are highly portable and battery powered, so our people can take them with them to whichever part of the building they are working in at that time. This has significantly streamlined the process and made us more productive as a result. As well as being light and portable, the units are also well-built and will be able to stand up to

")*") *#' *! %$(* )*$) )& ) * $% * $%(")$* )#'(*(")

($#'!&(&%'*(%*(")*') *! !() * #!*! %%(" *#' *(")* '&(!*"# ) $% ) *) ($) ) *$) &# )*&'*(")*("$))* %'("!*(") *"# )* ))'* #' *$ ''&' *!%* #$ * the scales. Firstly, they are able to store all of our customer information, so operators can simply type a four-digit code into the touchscreen display and the printer will prepare a label including the customer’s name and address along with the order date, a Julian 38

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the everyday demands of the shop floor. “The help and support we received from Brother meant the transition to the new system was smooth, and the units have proved extremely reliable in the three months they have been up and running so far.�

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£50 Cashback or Free 3 Year Warranty on the TD-2020 desktop label printer* Create professional labels, whatever the job, with the TD-2020 desktop label and receipt printer Designed for ease of use and efficiency: • Print from various operating systems/software for easy seamless integration into new and existing solutions, using Brother ESC/P, P-touch template (including ZPL® II emulation) printer languages • Store up to 99 label templates in the memory • P-touch Editor 5 software – simple to design customised labels and barcodes.

Applications for the TD-2020 include: • pricing labels

• food labelling • shelf edge labels • barcoding • shipping labels • pallets • shelving

Buy online now from

*While stocks last. 1st December - 31st March 2016

Printing & Labelling

Product news

Samsung Electronics' new smart printing # !*)'"#' )*% & )* $% (& &( *#' * %!(*) & &)'

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amsung Electronics Co., Ltd. has launched two new printing apps, Dynamic Workflow and RemoteCall, designed to enhance productivity and save operational costs for end users and engineers. Dynamic Workflow and RemoteCall are the newest app additions for the Smart UX Centre, Samsung's Android-based user interface for the Smart MultiXpress multifunction printers. These new tools save users time by running multiple document handling tasks in one step and connecting their printers to an engineer for remote service. "Modern mobile technologies have much to offer in the business environment, and we're creating a new printing ecosystem around this concept," said David SW Song, senior vice president of printing solutions business at Samsung Electronics. "The Smart UX Centre and all of the apps that we develop for it will make the printer compatible with Android, offering users greater mobility and connectivity."

representatives through mobile chat. • Simple Connection: Simply enter 6-digit code provided by support representative for connection.

user's PC for troubleshooting. Remote service saves time and cost for both end users and Samsung's partners by minimising service visits. Key features of

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Customised workflow Dynamic Workflow app enables users to create and customise their own workflow with multiple apps. For example, using this app, users can integrate multiple tasks such as scanning, optical character recognition and document distribution into a single workflow, which can then be saved as a one-touch shortcut for future use. RemoteCall is a paid app that remotely connects a user's printer to an engineer's service system for diagnosis and troubleshooting. With the remote connection, the engineer can control the user's Smart UX Centre screen and guide the user through the troubleshooting process. Engineers can also connect to the

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&("* ' $%& *% )$&' * !)$!* $)#()$* % & &( *#' * %'') (& &( * Dynamic Workflow and RemoteCall include: Dynamic workflow • App Combination: Integration of multiple app functions into a single workflow. • Increased Productivity: Time-saving shortcuts boost office productivity. RemoteCall • Screen Control: Real-time control and diagnosis via remote access. • On-Screen Drawing: Marking important areas on customers' screens for clearer communication. • Text Chat: Communication with support

Each month, Samsung releases new apps and widgets for the Smart UX Centre. The Smart UX Centre is one of Samsung's Internet of Things (IoT) projects, converging mobile technologies for an improved office experience. It completes the office printing ecosystem, allowing users to work seamlessly from one device to the next. "We're bringing the Smart UX Centre experience to users' mobile devices, to suit their BYOD work life in an increasingly mobile world," Song said. "Printing doesn't have to happen in the office anymore. It can happen anywhere you are.�

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Product news

Printing & Labelling

Bixolon releases SPP-R200III )(%%(" #' * & &* $&'()$* &("* *# (%* #&$&' *() "'% % *

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ixolon Co, Ltd. Global POS printer manufacturer, has launched the SPP-R200III 2inch, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Printer with NFC for POS, Payments and Auto-ID markets. Supporting NFC tagging technology for Auto-Bluetooth pairing with Android, iOS & Windows devices, alongside additional Apple MFi certification. New Auto-Switch function provides automatic switching between iOS mode and standard Bluetooth modes. The SPP-R200III is designed for dual purpose 58-50mm receipt and labelling with a linerless label option. It is claimed to be able to produce print speeds of 100mm/sec, with 203dpi print quality and 58mm media width (50mm option). The SPP-R200III creates high quality text, graphics and barcodes.

Featuring an IP43 dust protected and splash proof design (IP54 rated certification with Bixolon protective case) and 2.1m drop test reliability. Alongside a battery life that provides continuous printing of 145 metres and a 24 hour standby once fully charged, the SPP-R200III is an ideal solution for printing on the move.

Global market recognition Identifying the need for a lightweight, compact printing solution, Bixolon first entered the mobile printer market in 2007 with the launch of the SPP-R200 series compact mobile printers. Securing a reputation for high quality and reliability, the SPP-R200 series is claimed to have gained global market recognition.

"With extensive market experience and listening to customer feedback, Bixolon has developed the SPP-R200III with its two-year warranty (including print head) in response to the ever changing requirements of mPOS market," said John Kim, marketing director of Bixolon Co., Ltd. "It joins our comprehensive portfolio of mPOS solutions, from Bluetooth and WiFi printers to mPOS hub solutions which are tailored to fit the customer's POS environment and budget."

Mead & Co releases $& ( * * %$*(%(# * $&'(&' * %'($% *

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ead & Co has launched ScriptX 7.7, the latest version of its add-on for controlling the printing of browser-hosted content. ScriptX 7.7 introduces licence validation that does not rely on keeping root certificate authorities up to date, as well as providing full support for older versions of Internet Explorer (up to IE10) and Windows XP. It also features updates to the PDF printing library and a number of improvements driven by user requests.

ScriptX is claimed to provide total control when printing html and PDF documents, labels or barcodes from client and server computers running Microsoft Windows. It ensures that printed formatting and appearance is consistent, whatever the actual browser settings on the individual computer. Over 2 million licensed users print more than 2 billion documents that use the advanced features of ScriptX every year. Millions more use the basic free version. At the beginning of 2016 Microsoft changed

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the way in which Windows enforces Authenticode code signing, meaning that it will not trust any code signed with a SHA-1 code signing certificate timestamped after 1 January 2016. Mead & Co has been codesigning all of the component DLLs in ScriptX for many years, and those in Script 7.7 have been signed and time stamped with an SHA1 certificate dated prior to 1 January 2016. This means that the version will be valid until at least 2020. This simplifies license validation for customers – subsequent ScriptX releases will be signed with a new SHA-2 certificate. ScriptX 7.7 is also claimed to be the last major release to provide full support for Windows XP and Internet Explorer up to and including IE10, ahead of Microsoft discontinuing security updates and technical support on Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 for IE10 and earlier browsers on 12 January 2016. Mead & Co will continue to provide bug fixes for ScriptX 7.7 to assist customers not yet ready to move to IE11 due to the browser's use in legacy applications.

Support "As we move into 2016, companies who rely on older versions of Internet Explorer within their applications face a loss of Microsoft support," said Jerry Mead, CEO of Mead & Co. "While they manage the change to IE11, ScriptX 7.7 will continue to provide them with full support and functionality, helping to ensure that they remain in control when it comes to the printing of mission-critical documentation across their organisations. Combined with our new license validation feature, this will help improve efficiency and reduce the time needed to manage browserbased printing." Script 7.7 also incorporates a number of hotfixes, based on user feedback. These include updates to the PDF printing library, improvements to the License Manager application screen layout and changes to the correct selection of paper size when there are multiple matches for the requested size name and longer size names are listed first.

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V OICE technology

Success story

BCP’s Musgrave Centralisation Project establishes roots for omnichannel fulfilment s part of a major reorganisation of

A

its facilities to optimise customer service and operational efficiencies in a changing marketplace, Musgrave

Wholesale Partners (MWP), supported by IT partner, the business software specialist BCP, has successfully completed a centralisation project which sees all delivered orders managed via the Accord IT system, fulfilled from two key depots and the foundations laid for successful multi-channel fulfilment. MWP is the wholesale division of Ireland’s largest

food and drink distributor, the Musgrave Group, offering both delivered and cash & carry

While the Accord system could handle the new

successfully in January 2016. All delivered

services for independent retailers and

centralised operating model, migrating to it

orders are now processed through the central

foodservice professionals across Ireland.

required detailed planning to manage the

Accord system at head office. Chilled and

complex movement of both physical stock and

ambient orders go direct to the CDC while

Prior to the Centralisation project delivered

system data. BCP was, therefore, involved from

orders for frozen goods go to Tallaght for

services primarily operated out of warehouses in

the outset to help develop the most effective

picking separately and are then trunked to the

Ballymun, Robinhood, Tallaght and Cork, with

transition procedures. The two depots

CDC for consolidated invoicing and onward

supporting delivery services from an additional

designated as dedicated Delivered facilities,

distribution.

four Marketplace depots. The foodservice-

both on the outskirts of Dublin, were

focused warehouses at Ballymun and Tallaght

Blanchardstown (to operate as the CDC and

Delivered customers can now choose from over

were the only depots using Voice technologies,

stock ambient and chilled) and Tallaght, to stock

10,000 SKUs, more than double the previous

with all other depots paper-based. The new

frozen goods.

range, and Telesales is centralised at head office, utilising Accord’s telesales system to

centralised distribution model has all customers serviced using the same distribution network,

Close liaison

effectively manage schedules. All orders –

utilising system-driven processes, including

A 12-month phased migration was planned to

online and Telesales – are handled by Voice

Voice picking, to ensure a best-in-class service

ensure service to customers was not disrupted,

throughout the warehouse, ensuring accuracy

to all customers in retail and foodservice.

BCP working closely with Musgrave throughout,

and productivity are optimised. A new Just in

developing interim programmes where

Time Multi-order Voice Picking process

The project was initiated to improve customer

necessary to ensure customer orders could

facilitates the efficient batching and picking of

service and increase operational efficiencies by

always be fulfilled even when stock from their

multiple orders by route, enabling optimum

centralising all delivered operations at two

current supplying depot was being relocated to

stock collection per trip around the pick walk.

depots, freeing others to focus on C&C. Barry

the new depots and their data to the central

Large store orders can be easily handled

Minnock, IT director at MWP, said: “It was clear

Accord server at the Ballymun head office.

alongside smaller foodservice orders – a key requirement in fulfilling the needs of a multi-

that by centralising our delivered operations we would be able to offer delivered customers a

Phase One involved the movement of Accord

much wider product range than was possible

Voice systems to the new depots and the

channel customer base.

when they were serviced from individual C&Cs

migration of stock from existing foodservice

Peter Slevin, head of IT strategic projects at

and increase consistency and accuracy of

depots, together with stock information and

MWP, commented: “BCP worked closely with

service using Voice technology and system

customer data, sales ledger accounts, call

us to ensure the success of the project and I

driven processes. Centralisation would also

schedules, routes etc. This was followed by a

feel we now have the foundations necessary

enable us to drive efficiencies by leveraging

phased migration of stock and data, depot by

for operating successfully and delivering first-

economies of scale to maximise utilisation of our

depot, from the C&C depots to the new

class customer service focussed on an

supply chain network.�

centralised operation. The project completed

omnichannel marketplace.�

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Success story

V OICE technology

John Lewis deploys Voiteq’s VoiceMan Screento-Voice technology across distribution centres Leading UK retailer, John Lewis, has implemented Voiteq’s VoiceMan Screen-to-Voice solution. As volumes in omnichannel continue to grow and productivity demands increase. John Lewis has, in a bid to improve ergonomics and efficiency among its partners, extended its use of Voice to its distribution centre loading and marshalling areas.

n existing Voiteq customer for

A

many years, John Lewis approached Voiteq in late 2014 with a need to improve the ergonomics of loading for their

partners, making it safer for them to load. William Armitage, development manager at John Lewis commented: "Our Partners in loading and marshalling are at the coalface of the business and there is a strong need for them to maintain accuracy when loading.” He continued: “Errors in delivery of goods to stores that have technically not been shipped, and therefore are un-receivable have been a reasonably frequent occurrence – we can only put that down to the process of having to hold devices for scanning, or interacting with screens and keyboards. We wanted a solution enables employees working within the

Cost-effective solution

productivity, increased accuracy and hands-

loading environment to be completely hands-

Armitage concluded: "Voiteq has given us a

free, eyes-free benefits of the voice-directed

free, allowing a more natural approach to

cost-effective solution that has been quickly

system we already successfully use for

their task.

implemented and is allowing our partners to

that offered our partners the same

picking."

Seamless integration VoiceMan Screen-to-Voice enabled Voiteq to seamlessly integrate with John Lewis' existing JDA warehouse management system and to rapidly Voice-enable the existing loading screens. The full solution

work more easily while helping our business

“

We wanted a solution that offered our partners the same productivity, increased accuracy and hands-free, eyes-free benefits of the voice-directed system we already successfully use for picking.” – William Armitage, John Lewis.

went live in February 2015 in its Northampton site and the company plans to implement the

Isabel McCabe, managing director at Voiteq

improve its accuracy and productivity, which

Voice application across its additional sites

UK, commented: "Voice is known to improve

in turn benefits our store colleagues and our

over the coming months.

accuracy, as well as overall productivity and

customers. Alternative bespoke adaptions to

its use in warehouse processes other than

our existing WMS would have been costly

VoiceMan Screen-to-Voice takes the text

picking is becoming more common place.

and time consuming. We are delighted with

prompts displayed on the screen, translates

John Lewis is truly pioneering a technology

the results and hope to get our remaining

these into voice and then enters the user's

that will allow partners a more comfortable

sites up and running on the new system as

spoken responses back into the screen. This

way of working."

soon as possible."

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V OICE technology

Product news

BEC launches new eSmart Voice WMS for complete door-to-door Voice solutions BEC (Systems Integrat Integration) a ion) Ltd., L d., a leading UK-based supplier of data Lt dat a a capture solutions for f r supply fo chain logistics and manufacturing, has recently launched its new e eSmart Vo V Voice ice WMS Solution.

reated with fast-paced,

As well as producing an impressive return on

customer-centric enterprises in

investment (ROI) within fast-moving

mind, the solution enables

warehousing environments with broad SKU

everything within the

lists, Voice-directed technology can also help

warehouse to be controlled by

businesses increase worker productivity by up

C

voice technology, helping warehouses to be

to 35 per cent, whilst reducing errors by up to

managed more efficiently and effectively.

50 per cent.

Combining BEC’s proven industry-leading

In terms of functionality, operators use a

eSmart Warehouse software platform with

wireless wearable computer with a headset

Honeywell Vocollect voice technology, eSmart

and microphone, through which prompts are

Voice WMS delivers a powerful, scalable,

delivered and responses are provided verbally.

flexible and dynamic Voice solution designed

This allows them to communicate directly with

‘Gold Total Solution Provider’ status

to eliminate inefficiencies within the

the warehouse management system (WMS)

Having achieved ‘Gold Total Solution Provider’

warehouse.

whilst working ‘hands-and-eyes-free’ unlike

status with leading Voice-enabled technology

paper-based systems or RF terminals.

solutions provider, Honeywell Vocollect, BEC’s

Seamless integration

solution has been designed with best-of-breed

Philip Jarrett, director of sales & marketing at

With a proven and trusted track record in

Honeywell Vocollect Voice at its core, rather

BEC, commented: “Our eSmart Voice WMS

supplying and implementing voice technology

than as an add-on.

solution is built entirely around Voice

within a range of warehousing and distribution

technology and has been designed to

centre applications, BEC is a specialist

This means that users can enjoy a fully-

streamline mission-critical applications,

provider of Voice and WMS solutions designed

optimised Voice experience throughout their

maximise throughput and provide real-time,

to integrate seamlessly into any host ERP

warehousing facility, helping them to enhance

accurate information on all warehouse

system to fulfil business and commercial

and improve upon their mission-critical

processes. With the ability to seamlessly

requirements.

processes and applications.

integrate with any host business system, it allows users to experience the benefits of

BEC (Systems Integration) Ltd.

voice within every aspect of their warehouse,

/-*/'/* .&-'#-*+/ (, -$.(/,!/ %+, '+.$/ '+'/ ' +%(./*,#%+-,)*/!,(/%*./-)/+"./*% # &"'-)/')$/ ')%!'&+%(-) /-)$%*+( / -+"/+"./'- /,!/(. , -) /&,*+*/!(, / ,%(/ %*-).**.* /,!!.(*/'/&, (.".)*- ./*.+/,!/*.( -&.*/!(, /-)-+-'#/&,)*%#+'+-,) /'$ -&./')$/$.*- ) +"(,% "/+,/$.#- .( /- #. .)+'+-,)/')$/'!+.( *'#.*/*% ,(+ / !!.(-) /'&&.**/+,/'/(') ./,! &%++-) .$ ./$'+'/&,##.&+-,)/ (,$%&+* /-)&#%$-) / ,-&. $-(.&+.$/+.&"),#, -.* / * !%+%(. (,,!/*,#%+-,)*/-)+. ('+./*.' #.**# /-)+,/') /",*+/* *+. /+,/!%#!-#/ %*-).**/')$ &, .(&-'#/(. %-(. .)+*

including receiving, picking, cross-docking, put-away, stock movements and dispatch.� Offering a host of advantages over traditional RF scanning and paper-based picking, Voicedirected technology is becoming increasingly popular within warehouses due to its proven ability to enhance the complete spectrum of warehousing processes.

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' -) /$.#- .(.$/+"./!-(*+/-)+. ('+.$/ ,-&. $-(.&+.$/ -& -) /*,#%+-,)/!,(/ ' *,) )!,(/ /"'*/'#*,/'&"-. .$/ ,+'#/ ,#%+-,)*/ (, -$.(/ /*+'+%*/ -+"/ ,). .##/ ,&,##.&+ /+". ,-&. '*.$/*,#%+-,)*/ (, -$.(/!,(/ , -#./ ,( .(* / "(,% "/+"./$. .#, .)+/,!/-)), '+- . (,$%&+/"')$#-) /*,#%+-,)*/ -+"/ ,-&./+.&"),#, /'+/+".-(/&,(. / /"'*/".# .$ %*-).**.*/ -+"-)/+"./!,,$/')$/ . .(' . / ')%!'&+%(-) /')$/.) -)..(-) /-)$%*+(-.* - (, ./% ,)/+".-(/'&&%('& / (,$%&+- -+ /')$/&%*+, .(/*.( -&.

www.logisticsit.com sttic

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obile Computing

Allot MobileTrends

report reveals mobile business users incur highest malware risk

A

llot Communications Ltd., the

that safeguarding users at the network

global provider of security

level would be the most effective method

and monetisation solutions

for protecting against multiple types of

that enable service providers

mobile threats, as the security measures

to protect and personalise the

can provide a protective umbrella for all

digital experience, together with Kaspersky

online activity,” said Yaniv Sulkes, AVP

Lab, have announced the release of Allot

marketing at Allot Communications.

MobileTrends Report H1 2016, Mobile

“Moreover, mobile operators are perfectly

Users at Risk.

positioned to provide protection to consumers and businesses. We see a

Using a range of behavioural profiles, the

golden opportunity for mobile operators to

report analyses the correlation between

identify and reach out to customers at risk,

mobile Apps and URLs usage and user

targeting them with personalised Security-

potential for malware risk. Findings show

as-a-Service from their network or Cloud.”

that individual behaviour is a significant and even decisive indicator of malware risk. The report goes on to suggest that

Widened partnership

communication service providers (CSPs)

Alexander Karpitsky, head of technology

are uniquely positioned to safeguard

licensing at Kaspersky Lab, added: “We

mobile users at risk with targeted Security-

partnered with Allot Communications over a

as-a-Service delivered from their network or

year ago to ensure the cybersecurity of the

Cloud. Some of the key findings were:

mobile sector. The partnership started when we provided Allot with Kaspersky

users during a seven-day period, and

Anti-Virus SDK to filter and protect mobile

included Android, iOS and Windows Phone

the online behaviour of the user and by

traffic from malware and other cyber

operating systems. The malware experts at

the App or URL itself. In other words, it is

threats. We are now pleased to widen our

Kaspersky Lab assigned categories to the

not just the app; it is how you use it.

partnership and highlight to companies in

top 500 URLs, while Allot categorised the

the sector the potential mobile users' risky

top 500 apps in the sample and also

• Potential Malware risk is affected both by

• Business users display the riskiest online

classified each App

behaviour. Some 79 per cent of businessmen and 67 per cent of businesswomen use potentially risky Apps every day.

“

Our MobileTrends findings clearly show that safeguarding users at the network level would be the most effective method for protecting against multiple types of mobile threats, as the security measures can provide a protective umbrella for all online activity.” – Yaniv Sulkes, Allot Communications.

and URL sample as ‘safe’ or ‘risky’. To determine the potential for malware risk, we correlated the online behavioural profiles

• Youth and Millennials

that we identified in

are also at high risk, with 65 per cent of them using potentially

behaviours – especially as mobile devices

our previous Allot MobileTrends Report

risky apps every day.

are the main Internet access points for

(5+1 Touch-Point Triggers for Smart

many users, while only about half of users

Customer Engagement) with the apps and

protected, their ongoing use is not

use security solutions on their mobile

URLs that they use on a daily basis.

protected, making users vulnerable to

devices.”

• While mobile App downloads are often

malware threats. The research analysed mobile data records “Our MobileTrends findings clearly show

45

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from a random sample of 500,000 mobile

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obile Computing

Retailers ‘must put mobile technology at the heart of their customer service strategy or risk losing out’ The presence of mobile technology in brick-and-mortar retail outlets is having a direct impact on customer experience. SOTI is warning retailers they must ensure they place mobile at the very heart of their strategy. he research reveals shoppers

T

regard instore mobile technology as key for an enjoyable shopping experience, with 73 per cent of respondents stating those

retailers which provide the technology offer superior customer service. The study conducted by enterprise mobility management expert, SOTI, also found 94 per cent of those surveyed would like to see an increase in the amount of mobile solutions, including interactive kiosks and barcode scanners. The convenience of these instore mobile technologies bring together data from different touch points, in order to provide better customer service and relationships and enable consumers to have a more informed, more efficient and stress free shopping Customers want to feel important, they want

online retailers has been discussed at length,

to feel as though retailers are catering for

with online retailers having the distinct

Gary Marshall, director of operations at high

them, and mobile technologies are a key way

advantage of direct access to its customers

street retailer Lakeland, has seen the distinct

of doing this. These important technologies

at any given time. Although web based

benefits of instore mobile technology first

can be rolled out to help with assisted selling,

merchants hold this advantage, consumers

experience, resulting in critical brand loyalty.

hand, “As a retailer, ensuring our customers have the best shopping experience is paramount. Retail is an extremely competitive and dense market, so making the most of consumers time is a top priority. We have

“

found the key to this is to bring the personalised experience shoppers get while online to our high street stores. For example, our staff are equipped with tablets to provide a more interactive and personal shopping

2016 is set to be dedicated to enhancing the customer experience. Brands need to connect with their customers in a natural, yet personalised way. Customers want to feel important, they want to feel as though retailers are catering for them, and mobile technologies are a key way of doing this. These important technologies can be rolled out to help with assisted selling, customer self-service as well as staff training.” – Nassar Hussain, SOTI.

customer self-service as well as staff training.

do still enjoy physically visiting stores, as they

These trends are enabling enterprise mobility

offer the chance for consumers to view the

Nassar Hussain, managing director Europe

management companies such as SOTI, to

goods for themselves. It is therefore

and Africa at SOTI, said: “2016 is set to be

unify all retail endpoints, whether consumer-

imperative these stores adapt to the way they

dedicated to enhancing the customer

facing or behind the scenes.”

run their business, to bridge the gap between

experience.”

the personalised online shopping experience

experience. Brands need to connect with their customers in a natural, yet personalised way.

www.logisticsit.com sttic

The battle between brick-and-mortar and

and the high street store visit.

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M

obile Computing

Ergonomic Solutions’ SafeGuard Dock & Charge tablet enclosure turns static workstations into mobile platforms rgonomic Solutions, the designer

E

and supplier of technology mounting, mobility and security solutions, has launched the SafeGuard Dock & Charge flexible

tablet enclosure for both static and mobile applications. In today’s culture of enterprise mobility, growth is such that the number of consumer grade tablets that will be deployed to support these applications will reach 17.5 million by 2018. Indeed, tablets are stealing the show in the business environment, enabling increased customer value – but how can that investment deliver, day-in, day-out?

iPads and the Galaxy Tab S, A, the S2, and

connectivity, protection and aesthetic looks

Tab 4. The tablet is locked into the enclosure,

delivers mounting technology that supports

Actually, few enterprise mobility applications

which itself can be undocked from its

both static and mobile applications.�

are solely mobile. A tablet enclosure that

charging base, making it ideal for mixed

protects on the move and connects when

static and mobile applications.

Crysell added: “Enterprise wide, an increasingly mobile workforce needs

static, optimises the automated workflow process. Users need a lightÂŹweight but

When mobile, Dock & Charge can be

technology that provides ease of operation,

durable enclosure, which can quickly be

combined with the Ergonomic Solutions

user comfort and accessibility, whilst at the

docked and charged at a workstation. This

OpenSpace range of accessories, to

same time still providing a stable connectivity

suits each user’s personal enterprise mobility

maximise the tablet’s use within an enterprise

and stationary workplace platform. Dock &

requirements – from fixed uses to mobile

mobility application.

charge delivers that all in one device – the best of both worlds.�

applications, and back again. Mark Crysell, product marketing director at Dock & Charge brings connectivity, mobility

Ergonomic Solutions, commented: “Dock &

and tablet security across the store.

Charge, with its huge flexibility, in-built

Integrated power management with a choice of mounting options provide stability for charging and network connecÂŹtion. Uniquely,

Ergonomic Solutions at a glance

Dock & Charge allows full integration with a

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

mobile payment terminal whether the application is static or mobile, and while docked, provides simultaneous charge for both tablet and payment terminal, alike.

Maximum usability Dock & Charge, with its integrated intelligent charging capability, is a hard wearing tablet enclosure designed for Apple Air generation

47

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obile Computing

House of Fraser

takes control of price management with Datalogic Datalogic – the Automatic Data Capture and Industrial Automation solutions provider, and producer of barcode readers, mobile computers, sensors, vision systems and laser marking equipment – has announced that premium UK department store, House of Fraser, is using Skorpio X3 mobile computers to improve price management processes. ouse of Fraser, owned by

H

The Skorpio devices incorporate Datalogic's patented 'Green Spot' technology, providing

Store Co. Ltd., a leading chain of

Price management improvement

Chinese department stores,

The primary function for the mobile computers

area noise may interfere with audible

purchased 290 Skorpio X3

is to aid and improve price management

confirmation of the scanning 'beep'. In addition

devices following an extensive pilot programme

processes. Paired with a mobile label printer

to increasing throughput, this functionality also

run in its Glasgow and Bristol stores with

via the integrated Bluetooth communications

helps to reduce errors and improve the

Datalogic business partner Capgemini.

on the Skorpio device, employees can price

accuracy of pricing on the shop floor.

Nanjing Xinjiekou Department

additional visual good-read confirmation, when

check items and then print accurate "We reviewed a number of options before

clearance labels on the shop floor, affixing

Mike Doyle, regional director UK and Ireland

selecting the Datalogic Skorpio X3 mobile

them to items within seconds. "The ability to

for Datalogic, said, "As a supplier to over a

computers to replace the legacy handheld

price-check and print on the spot

terminals that were operating in our 61 stores

enables us to more accurately and

is committed to developing technology that

across the UK," commented Fred Jefferiss,

efficiently prepare for sale periods

improves the shopping experience, while

commercial finance controller at House of

and provides our customers with a

also driving operational efficiency. It has

Fraser. "The ergonomics of the Skorpio X3

clear and professional presentation of

been a pleasure to work with our partners

product together with its alphanumeric

the item price that minimises queries and

keypad and large QVGA screen make

reduces checkout times," continued

operation easy and efficient for all members

Jefferiss.

third of the world's leading retailers, Datalogic

to deliver an integrated solution that will allow House of Fraser to more accurately manage pricing."

of our in-store teams."

M

obile Computing

Mitel accelerates development

in mobile

enterprise with mobile and Cloud developments itel has launched what it

product from the Mitel Accelerator initiative

on-the-go screen sharing, content

describes as a disruptive

targets the highly mobile field service

collaboration, real-time voice and video

series of new solutions that

industry. It embeds Mitel's real-time,

meetings and seamlessly extend them to

accelerates its development

enterprise-class communications and contact

participants outside of the work environment

in the mobile enterprise

centre capabilities into mobile field service-

including partners, vendors and customers.

market. The announcements reflect rapid

scheduling software from FieldAware. The

MiTeam is a workflow-oriented application

implementation of the company's strategic

result is the integration of location-based

with project and topic-based workstreams

vision of the Cloud-based mobile enterprise

technology, CRM tools and real-time

and is embedded into existing Mitel

designed to address the evolving needs of a

communications that turn multiple service

technology.

mobile-first world for enterprises, workers and

calls into one, enhancing the customer

consumers.

experience, creating operational efficiencies

Global Cloud Expansion: Mitel MiCloud

and providing valuable business intelligence.

expands in Europe with launches in Germany

M

and France. Mitel enters 2016 with the fastest

This latest wave of Mitel developments is aimed at eliminating legacy barriers and

MiTeam: A mobile-first, team collaboration

growing Cloud communications business in

enabling seamless, real-time communications

solution with real-time, native integration that

the world and number one market share

and collaboration including:

supports the way teams work today. With

position based on total cloud users globally,

Mitel Embedded Communications: The first

instant collaboration, work teams can initiate

according to Synergy Research Group.

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obile Computing

Mitel accelerates development in mobile enterprise with mobile and Cloud innovations Mitel has announced what it describes as a disruptive series of new solutions that accelerates its development in the mobile enterprise market. The company comments that the new solutions reflect rapid implementation of the company's strategic vision of the Cloud-based mobile enterprise designed to address the evolving needs of a mobile-first world for enterprises, workers and consumers.

T

his latest wave of Mitel

collaboration, real-time voice and video

developments is aimed at

meetings and seamlessly extend them to

eliminating legacy barriers and

participants outside of the work

enabling seamless, real-time

environment including partners, vendors

communications and

and customers. MiTeam is a workflow-

collaboration including:

oriented application with project and topicbased workstreams and is embedded into

Embedded communications: The first

existing Mitel technology.

product from the Mitel Accelerator initiative targets the highly mobile field service

Global Cloud expansion: Mitel MiCloud

industry. It embeds Mitel's real-time,

expands in Europe with launches in

enterprise-class communications and

Germany and France. Mitel enters 2016

contact center capabilities into mobile field

with the fastest growing Cloud

service-scheduling software from

communications business in the world and

FieldAware. The result is the integration of

number one market share position based

location-based technology, CRM tools and

on total cloud users globally, according to

of industrial needs. We were excited to co-

real-time communications that turn multiple

Synergy Research Group.

ideate and develop a solution with Mitel. We expect it to improve customer service and

service calls into one, enhancing the customer experience, creating operational

“Market-leading field service organisations

efficiencies and providing valuable

need professional grade, mobile

business intelligence.

communications applications to drive

increase revenue for our customers.� “The influence of mobile and Cloud applications is rapidly seeping into

“

everyday enterprise communications in a

The influence of mobile and Cloud applications is rapidly seeping into everyday enterprise communications in a way that is reshaping how, when and on what device work gets done. Mitel understands that, and over the past year has taken steps to address that transformation. Their developments recognise the need for real-time communication services and the impact M2M and the IoT are having on everyday workplace workflows.� – Diane Myers, IHS.

way that is reshaping how, when and on what device work gets done,� said Diane Myers, senior research director, VoIP, UC and IMS at IHS. “Mitel understands that, and over the past year has taken steps to address that transformation. Their developments recognise the need for realtime communication services and the impact M2M and the IoT are having on

MiTeam: A mobile-first, team collaboration

business growth and profitability,� said

solution with real-time, native integration

Charles Jackson, CEO, FieldAware. “Many

everyday workplace workflows.�

that supports the way teams work today.

of the communications capabilities we

With instant collaboration, work teams can

looked at were limited to only one mode of

initiate on-the-go screen sharing, content

communication and didn't scale to the level

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