Digitisation of the supply chain – technologies and solutions

Why is digitalization of the supply network necessary?

Digitalization of the supply chain is essential if you want to move with the times. After all, classic logistics relating to individual organizations, based on transport, transshipment, or warehousing, has long ceased to be relevant and has evolved into modern Supply Chain Management, which extends far beyond the boundaries of a single company. It is the digitalization of the supply network that maximizes the integration of processes between the different actors in the chain. It allows activities to be carried out as smoothly as possible, creating optimal conditions for all stakeholders. As a result, they are no longer in competition with each other and the performance of the entire network becomes competitive. With this in mind, it is clear why the digitalization of the supply network is necessary. However, the question arises as to which technologies and solutions to use to achieve the best benefits for your business.

Read also: Cyfryzacja logistyki – mniejsze firmy muszą przyspieszyć          Digitisation of logistics – smaller companies need to speed up

How to implement supply chain digitalization?

Digitalization in logistics is taking place using a variety of technologies:

Digitalization of the supply chain – Blockchain

Blockchain technology is gaining popularity because it allows real benefits to be realized from the digitalization of the supply chain. Above all, it excludes the possibility of deleting once recorded data or making modifications, which translates into maximum security. It also ensures transparency, as the recording of individual information simultaneously occurs in all nodes belonging to the network. As data verification is done automatically through various devices, blockchain technology also means better efficiency. This is because it eliminates the need for employees to wait for authorization.

Digitisation of the supply chain –Artificial intelligence

Digitisation in the supply network is directly linked to the concept of artificial intelligence, which enables companies to change from a “reactive” approach, based on adapting activities to current demand, to a “proactive” attitude. It involves taking action on the basis of collected data to predict customer behavior and market trends. How to implement supply chain digitalization with artificial intelligence? Machines that can function autonomously without human intervention are ideal for operating warehouses, analyzing and optimizing the flow of goods, or controlling the flow of information within a given logistics network.

The Freights module, available on the CargoON platform, fits perfectly into the concept of artificial intelligence. It allows the automated assignment of loads to carriers based on contractual arrangements and defined preference scenarios. It allows you to make the most of your capacity and go for the best possible rate. Arrange a demo and try out CargoON Freights today!

Digitalization of the supply chain – Big Data

The digitalization of the supply chain also applies to Big Data. Nowadays, the software is available and capable of processing any type and amount of data, and the results can be used to manage various processes within the company. Big Data has huge potential if only for customer service. It gives a full picture of the needs of buyers and, in addition, allows the demand for goods to be estimated, based on data from realised sales. It is also a range of opportunities in stock management. Information on the flow of products in the warehouse is worth using to improve the efficiency of storage and handling operations. Advanced Big Data analytics technology will furthermore prove useful for planning shipping routes. It will allow the optimal route to be selected, minimizing the cost of the operation being carried out and reducing the time it takes to get the load to its destination.

Digitalization of the supply chain – Internet of Things

The digitalization of the delivery network also includes the Internet of Things (IoT). It is a technology by which different devices can be linked together to exchange data over the internet and made available on platforms dedicated to analysis. Its advantages, seen from a supply chain management perspective, do not have to be sought far. Digitalization in logistics using the Internet of Things translates, among other things, into increased efficiency and productivity in the warehouse. After all, seamless communication between machines and people means better optimization of the logistics processes taking place and cost savings.

Digitalization of the supply chain – Cloud computing

Digitalization in logistics has made classic solutions obsolete. This is particularly true of servers, which today, instead of their traditional form, take the form of cloud computing. Businesses focused on collecting data or using analytics will not find a better solution for them. Indeed, applications available in the virtual space are much easier to implement in a company due to their availability practically “immediately”. In addition, the use of cloud computing offers many financial advantages. Building, expanding, or maintaining an in-house IT infrastructure involves additional costs. Meanwhile, the cloud makes it possible to increase resources as required and, in addition, guarantees security. Indeed, the protection provided by the providers of this solution is of a very high standard.

Digitalization in the delivery network – the CargoON platform

The importance of digitalization in improving supply chains is undeniable. The use of modern technology is facilitation, especially for transport management, which in terms of the organization is one of the most demanding logistics processes. The CargoON platform was created with the aim of improving the conditions for stakeholder collaboration. It allows us to gain maximum control over the supply chain and save on freight costs precisely through automation. It is a cloud-based solution that can be integrated into TMS or ERP systems in just a few weeks. It enables the digitalization of the supply network at the last stages of the chain. Implementing CargoON is quick and easy, and the benefits in terms of increased company productivity and improved relationships with the various stakeholders can be seen very quickly.

Digitalization in logistics on the CargoON platform takes place via several functionalities:

• CargoON Freights -automatic data analysis and efficient management of time windows. With this function, it is possible to plan the warehouse up to several days in advance, creating a friendly loading and unloading area for the haulers with whom you work.
• Visibility – access to location data and freight status in real-time. It makes it possible to extract current information about delays, for example, and to respond in advance to any problems.
• Dock Scheduler – automatic data analysis and efficient management of time windows. With this function, it is possible to plan the warehouse up to several days in advance, creating a friendly loading and unloading area for the haulers with whom you work.
• Simple Tenders – quick tenders on the best terms with their carriers or verified transport companies from the Trans.eu network. A wide choice of contractors makes it possible to obtain attractive freight rates and choose the offer that best meets expectations.
• Reports – analysis of anonymized data from millions of freight movements. Access to information on current rates translates into the ability to better tailor the offer to the needs of the market. Combined with internal reports, it gives a complete insight into the company’s performance and allows forecasting of future activities.

Benefits of digitalization the supply chain

Digitalization of the supply chain has never been so simple or offered so many benefits. With CargoON, you can optimally assign your freight, establish partnerships with trustworthy hauliers and gain insight into real-time freight performance data. You will therefore manage the warehouse as efficiently as possible and avoid paying penalties for downtime. All in a sustainable manner. Indeed, digitisation in logistics will enable you to carry out transport more consciously.

Read also: Green logistics – łańcuchy dostaw czeka rewolucja            Green logistics – supply chains facing a revolution