EDI and Big Data

Most executives of third-party logistics companies (3PLs) and transportation and shipping organizations believe data-driven decision-making is essential to supply chain activities.  This means logistics providers realized having information available in a timely fashion will help them transform the way they operate and become more competitive in the long run.

While big data is an opportunity, it presents significant challenges for the logistics industry. First of all, the industry needs to overcome its legacy mentalities, like manual paper-based processes, lack of collaboration and lack of visibility into operations, as well as they need to find ways to overcome the roadblocks of legacy technologies. Change management will also be crucial if they want to compete with the Amazons of the industry.

 A few other concerns regarding better utilization of big data are the data silos and the lack of connectivity among stakeholders, the low-quality data, the lack of data integration and data analytics experts, as well as security concerns.

When we hear supply chain, we immediately think of logistics as it impacts and facilitates value creation between companies, for both electronic information and physical goods. Professional logistics service providers have become indispensable to the consumer goods industry and many other industries. From handling special products such as frozen or fresh goods to taking care of a retailer’s or manufacturer’s entire inventory management: it’s all about logistics.

More than for any other service provider, logistics service providers must abide by the “time is money“ principle. They need to process large amounts of information swiftly and efficiently in order to deliver the right goods to the right place at the right time. Key success factors include cost-efficiency, swift reaction times and flexibility regarding technical requirements.

Saying “yes” could be your newest capability.

Whether you’re a new logistics service provider or a seasoned freight carrier, 3PL or 4PL, meeting customer demands is critical.  An end-to-end EDI logistics solution that mobilizes market-based implementation teams with the proven processes of an award-winning EDI logistics technology company is required to be successful.

The benefits of EDI

• High degree of process automation
• No more need for manual entry; avoidance of any resulting errors
• Shorter reaction time for client orders
• Better planning security

The harmonization of data exchange makes processes much easier, especially given the diverse nature of the industry. A standardized “language” (i.e. data formats) via a standardized communication platform ensures Big or Little Data moves smoothly between logistics service providers and their business partners.

How Can Effective Data Help?

ED offers logistic solutions that support a document’s lifecycle through integrations with existing applications and systems.  Whether it is freight, transportation, supply chain, logistics, procurement or suppliers, ED Connect will get you started with the most flexible, scalable and comprehensive logistics eCommerce solution available today.

Learn more about our Logistic EDI solutions, simply by contacting us today.