February 20179 Cloud computing has been a part of the TMS product range for quite some time now and applications of the technology continue to evolve. Understandably, the idea of sensitive logistics data being held somewhere in a cloud-enabled database raises a number of security concerns. Service providers must demonstrate that they have the proper controls in place to protect their customers' data. Credentials such as Service Organization Control (SOC) reports are an important part of this effort.A TMS provider with a managed services model becomes an extension of your staff. They should have a complimentary organizational culture, mission, and values to yours so they can work side by side with you and your team to drive savings and service level improvements and deliver other important results across your transportation network. Because managed services can transform your organization, your provider should have a record of long-term client relationships and collaboration.Change Management and Successful ImplementationA successful implementation includes a cross-functional steering committee of supply chain and IT counterparts. By having both the C-suite and this team collaborating with the TMS provider, you can strengthen the change management process and help ensure a future process design that encompasses all key stakeholders.Key points to successfully implementing a TMS plus managed services solution include:· Top down support - Provides focus and ensures that corporate and transportation strategies are in sync· Face to face workshops - In-person change management meetings help resolve any issues and build relationships that underpin success of the solution· Define goals and expectations - Helps ensure quick responses when unexpected problems arise· Measure and improve - Measure logistics KPIs to drive performance and cost savingsDriving Ongoing SuccessYour steering committee should evaluate the program's success quarterly and prioritize improvement projects. As you evaluate the ROI from your provider, watch for key traits that can indicate whether or nor not your TMS provider can effectively drive savings year after year:· A proven set of management routines to evaluate data and bring solutions to improve carrier performance and supplier compliance· A culture of continuous improvement and best practice sharing· A proven plan for recruiting, training, and retaining talent· A roadmap for innovation and introduction of cutting-edge technologyGoing GlobalWith continued global population growth and economic expansion in emerging countries, the need for global TMS technology continues to expand. Global solutions are notoriously challenging to implement. Marrying the expertise of local transportation managers with advanced global TMS technology helps companies achieve a local/global balance across their supply chain. Keep in mind that starting out with a tailored single global TMS solution is generally easier than trying to create a new one by patching together existing systems that may be scattered across multiple countries.ConclusionThe value of TMS technology is directly proportional to the expertise of the people using it. A TMS on its own cannot be relied upon to drive continuous savings. Instead, look for a TMS provider that incorporates highly trained people and proven processes. As competition heats up, more companies are engaging with technology providers to gain that competitive edge. How are you leveraging talent and technology to drive results for your business? Founded in 1999, Chicago, USA based TMC is a third party logistics provider that has grown to $2.7 billion in freight under management and handling of 5.5 million shipments across 170 countries. A TMS selection should be seen as a long-term investment and relationship between your company and the providerJordan Kass
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