Nowadays we have a communal expectation that we can get online and find something we’re interested in and it will be at our doorstep by the next day or in just a “dash.” We might possibly even become impatient if we can’t snap our fingers and see it appear like a genie out of a bottle.
While we may have to curb some of our expectations about speed and accuracy of delivery, when we receive that just-in-time delivery it is very satisfying.
Seldom, however, do we think about what it takes to make that happen. It’s not really our job. But it is someone’s job and that is the logistics firm’s.
And to accomplish the amazing results that they achieve day in and day out requires visualization into what is going on at any given moment. That’s where digital dashboards come in.
Digital dashboards are an absolutely critical tool for logistics companies in order to optimize operations and make informed decisions. They help with a variety of tasks, including:
- Route planning–Use data on traffic patterns, time sensitivity, and shipping to schedule deliveries
- Supply chain models–Provide real-time business intelligence to help schedule tasks and improve customer satisfaction
- Cost-effective practices–Use predictive analysis to identify which vehicles need servicing
- Decision-making–Provide access to accurate, real-time information from all areas of the supply chain
Some important components of a logistics dashboard include:
- Key performance indicators (KPIs)–Metrics that directly relate to the success of logistics operations, such as on-time delivery rates, inventory accuracy, and warehouse capacity
- Data visualizations–Charts, graphs, and maps can help users quickly understand complex information
- Trends–Track historical data to identify patterns that can inform operational strategies
- Forecasting–Use predictive analytics to anticipate market shifts and operational needs
- Alerts–Proactive notifications for events like critical inventory levels or SLA (Service Level Agreement) breaches *
When choosing visualization methods for logistics data, it’s important to consider the data type, visualization goals, audience, and available tools.
Dashboards also play a vital role in inventory management for firms that want to work in a Just-in-Time fashion. Through predictive analytics, companies can anticipate demand and help manage inventory levels efficiently, avoiding overstocking or stockouts. This leads to lower holding costs and improved customer satisfaction.
The Logic Connection
Logic has worked with logistics firms moving items from point A to B to Z, both locally and across the ocean. Our sweet spot is collaborating with the logistics firm’s IT team by adding resources and expertise to solve the complex problems they are facing in a timely manner.
In our work together we not only build out software solutions that manage dispatch and delivery of freight but integrate operational pieces like invoicing, settlement, and configuration that can tie into an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system.
If you’re a logistics firm that needs a breakthrough in your digital dashboard, dispatch us a message, we’ll deliver.
*Content developed with the help of Google Generative AI and years of Logic client experience.
