Despite the crisis triggered by the pandemic, data show that the logistics sector has not suffered major impacts — such is its relevance in the country. Undoubtedly, performing good logistics management is essential for any business.
As it is responsible for the fluidity and optimization of the flow of processes, it plays a fundamental role in achieving the goals defined by the managers and in maintaining the relevance of the enterprise in the market. As a result, it is interesting to check out tips that help maximize the efficiency of the operation.
Contrary to what many think, such practices are not restricted to improving internal performance. It is worth noting other elements that surround the sector, such as the relationship with suppliers and consumers. In this article, we will talk about these and more points. Good reading!
1. Control and integrate Processes:
Logistics is almost synonymous with optimization. After all, it seeks to organize the progress of a company’s operations in a flow that brings the best returns, right? However, the digital age has brought new meaning to optimization. Today, it walks with the concept of automation. That is, the use of innovative devices to control and execute processes.
In view of this, logistics management needs to innovate. It is necessary to have systems that integrate the use of data with management, encouraging decision-making based on facts – not on guesswork. Integrating is another important practice, that is, allowing managers and leaders to access the entire supply chain flow from one place, making it easier to delegate tasks and monitor performance. Here are some tips to choose forklift
2. Ensure Cargo Tracking:
Lost, diverted, stolen or misplaced cargo is a common problem. However, they are far from normal. They bring financial challenges, impact customer satisfaction and can tarnish the image of the enterprise. As a result, it is recommended to invest in tracking.
There are hundreds of systems dedicated just to this activity. They increase security not only for the financial aspect of the business, but also for the delivery people and everyone involved in the process. In addition, they provide delivery status to managers, who initiate a new cargo flow as soon as possible.
Finally, the real-time tracking acts as a great bridge of the good relationship between the organization and the buyer. It allows tracking of every minute of delivery, which raises expectations and tends to translate into better results.
3. Reduce order Cycle Time:
In logistics management, time really is money. Every extra hour spent on out-of-scope activities can mean a delay in customer delivery, team communication issues, inventory management challenges, among other obstacles. Therefore, prioritizing the minimization of the order cycle is essential.
At this time, it is recommended to map both the team’s and the customer’s journey. By understanding the first, it will be simpler to identify bottlenecks and mitigate them before they cause problems. In the case of the second, the manager will understand, in practice, that the purchase does not start at the moment the customer checks out in the cart, but much earlier.
In the same way, it ends not when the consumer receives the purchase, but after the sale. Given that public satisfaction directly impacts the way in which logistics are conducted, aligning the journey with the company’s internal process can make all the difference in results.
4. Monitor supplier Performance:
In addition to the team, there are other professionals whose work reflects on the quality of logistics management: suppliers and distributors. Depending on the relationship between them and the company, it is possible to:
- Demand forecast;
- Stock organization;
- Delegation of tasks;
- Flow optimization;
- Customer relationship management etc.
After all, without knowing when a new shipment will arrive, the manager is unable to organize, for example, promotions that clean up excess stock. Or will not deliver on time, due to lack of products. Do you understand how the relationship with these professionals is imperative for a good logistical result?
Again, technology plays an excellent role as a good ally in this regard. It automates the relationship with suppliers, enabling managers to make early decisions, something capable of preventing external errors from impacting the smooth running of flows.
He can schedule notices that a shipment has left and will be delivered. If this does not happen in the expected time, the supplier is called to try to identify what happened and how to solve the mishap.
5. Monitor customer satisfaction:
As mentioned, the reaction of consumers is an excellent thermometer when it comes to proving the quality of logistics management. As a rule, dissatisfied customers show that something needs to be changed—which often includes industry processes. Knowing this, invest in monitoring customer opinions about the business.
You can do this through social media, the business website, looking for personal feedback or forums. Conducting satisfaction surveys represents another very viable option. In any case, centralizing the user in operations, including logistics, indicates an intelligent strategy capable of bringing great insights to managers and leaders.
6. Provide staff Training:
Consumer behavior changes fast. With the technology in hand, he accesses several services in a matter of seconds. So he becomes demanding—and makes his point clear.
When monitoring and trying to meet new market demands, managers may need to make constant changes to the company’s logistics, and the team must be prepared.
Therefore, investing in ongoing training is important. They allow employees to understand the reasons behind the new requirements. On top of that, by keeping professionals up to date with the public’s needs, they themselves will be encouraged to bring in valuable suggestions for improving operations. Train the team constantly!
It is not difficult to see that all the suggestions brought in this article relate directly to technology, right? The term “logistics 4.0” is on the rise, and it refers precisely to the innovation of the sector. Therefore, it is essential to modernize processes, using a high standard converged data network infrastructure. Only in this way can the flows remain stable, resulting in good results.
With logistics management aligned with market demands, it will be much easier to ensure the relevance of the business. So, put the above tips into practice and optimize your company’s entire supply chain!
