Investing in Inventory Management Software

Inventory management software is undoubtedly a huge investment and most people speculate if it’s a good idea. Small scale to medium scale companies in particular enquire about the benefits of investment in the near future. It should be known that Inventory management software are available in the market easily and come in various configurations, depending upon the individual requirements. Some of these softwares are industry specific and the majority of them can be easily customized to put up with different requirements. The execution of any kind of software system involves a fair deal of investment in terms of cost as well as time. The returns on investment from connected systems, nevertheless, make the initial investment valuable. Inventory management software abides by the same fundamental. Here are some of the reasons why one should invest in this software:

One can achieve a more effectual and valuable tracking of entire Inventory management processes with the help of this software. Earlier these tasks were done manually, but now with the Inventory management software, one can save a lot of time and money for business. The warehouse management can help in decreasing the quantity of extra stock that is detained making sure that the accurate quantities of stocked products are available as and when required. As you purchase and execute Inventory management software, you can control stock levels, also track inventory which is being transported from once place to another. This helps in making a better decision when it comes to which products should be stocked at what places. The chances to inventory needing to be returned are highly decreased if the product sales are well-managed. 

The ROI from setting up inventory management software are ensured. In the first place, financial benefits are guaranteed. Enhanced customer satisfaction is another advantage. Cutting down additional stock can assist in economizing and help make more effective usage of warehouse storage areas. The digitally programmed enterprise processes consume lesser time in comparison to the similar tasks being accomplished physically. For the purchaser, an easy check on the system may possibly address any kind of questions concerning stock as a substitute for the employee having to make a trip to the storehouse to find out the same.

Diversify your business from your competing firms through the use of inventory management software as soon as possible.

For more information about Inventory Management Software, contact McLane Logistics Technology at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Technology Increasing Visibility Of Supply Chains

Supply chain management or SCM as it is commonly known, is the process of integrating the process of production of products into a single stream of activities, starting from the raw material to the complete finished goods. The key focus of a supply chain is to generate profits for the business through lowering of production costs and value addition to the products and services.

Any business today thrives on flexibility. The core competencies are handled by the company itself while certain specialized functions are outsourced to vendors who can perform them in a low-cost and efficient manner. This is where a supply chain comes into picture. SCM software is used to streamline all these processes and integrate them as one.

Visibility of a supply chain today demands that in the event of any emergencies or dynamic demands, one can easily analyze the stock of material that is present in the warehouses. It also includes ways to determine how the material is to be transported across various channels and within what time span.

Technology has a major role to play in ensuring effective visibility of a supply chain.

• Warehouse management systems help an organization to maintain a database of various items that have been stored in the warehouse. They also help in the optimization of storage facilities and maintenance of inventory of the materials available. 
• Then there is software available for the transportation management systems which help in deciding on the transport routes and rates to be used for the shipping of goods. All the transportation movements of goods are handled through software.
• Management software and systems provide a wholesome snapshot of supply chain data for an organization from all sectors that make up that supply chain. This allows the organization to gather and analyze data and get visibility from all quarters that form a part of the supply chain.
• Software helps in collaborating and sharing of the data among various organizations that link up together in a supply chain. This aspect is important to ensure that information flows through the communication channels in a streamlined flow without compromising on the security part. 
• Various point of sale and merchandising software are available that help in automating the transactions that take place as part of the supply chain. 

On the whole, SCM software helps in automating and increasing the visibility of all processes related to the customer, supplier, manufacturer, retailer and wholesaler that form an integral part of the supply chain. Another key benefit associated with the usage of such software is that it helps in forecasting the demand for various products and services in the future. Such predictive analysis helps in modifying the production processes in the supply chain accordingly.

Reasons For Keeping Inventory

Tracking and securing inventory is a major role that needs to be performed in any enterprise. This is equally valid in case of both unfinished as well as finished goods. A mismanaged unfinished goods inventory is bound to have a negative impact on the supply chain by bringing the manufacturing process to a halt. On the other hand, the unavailability of finished goods can result in customer dissatisfaction, affecting both the company’s goodwill as well as customer loyalty. Similarly, an overstocked inventory also leads to major losses for the business’ bottom line.

Contrary to common perception, companies dealing in the manufacturing and supply of goods are not the only ones that need to keep an inventory. Even service-oriented ones are sure to have some sort of inventory, even if it is for something as basic as office supplies. By keeping an inventory, companies can stock a cache of items, which comes in handy in case of unexpected supply chain hold-ups or any other time lag. This ensures that the business continues to function smoothly under all conditions.

Having a large-volume inventory helps to improve the efficiency of any enterprise significantly, since this is more economically-viable than purchasing single items only when needed. By having a dedicated inventory handling strategy in place, companies can save on both time and money, leading to better work productivity. Such a strategy also ensures business security in spite of unpredictable market conditions. In case of any uncertainties and fluctuations in demand, supply, and other statistics, a well-managed inventory serves as a foolproof back-up plan.

Inventory handling techniques are also needed at times of change-overs or transitional shutdowns, which are inevitable in every business. The buffer stock allows the functionality of the business to remain intact in crises, until normalcy is restored. In addition to this, applying the correct inventory handling strategies also ensures that inventory excess is utilized in the best possible way.

Inventory management systems are designed to automate the complete process of inventory handling, eliminating the need of a dedicated workforce for the purpose. These systems are essentially based on an IT solution, in which industry-specific software can be applied to handle the complete inventory. The user-friendly interface in such software makes it possible for employees at each stage of the supply chain to view the data, which is updated in real time. This leads to streamlined functionality, as well as minimized risk of errors. 

Functions Of Transport Management System

A robust Transport Management System (TMS) can be an asset for any company that runs an inventory and is involved in transporting goods from one source to another. Even though some companies, principally SMEs might view this as an unnecessary expense, taking into account the vast functions performed by such a system makes it easy to understand how a TMS offers a quick return on investment. The principal functions of a TMS are listed below:

• Carrier selection- Selecting the right carrier for each trip, taking into account factors like the distance to be travelled, the nature and amount of products, etc. is a critical decision which is made simpler with the use of a TMS. 
• Carrier scheduling- A delay in the availability of a carrier at the time of transportation can jeopardize the entire process. TMS avoids such incidences by laying out an elaborate schedule for all the carriers, ensuring that it is made clear from the get-go, where and when a particular carrier is needed, and for how long.
• Dispatching- The dispatching process is essentially the first major process involved in the transportation. A single error affects the entire process at times. TMS minimizes, and almost eliminates such errors, by using the latest data to ensure that the orders are dispatched with complete accuracy. 
• Document preparation- A key process involved in the transportation process is that of preparing necessary documents at the initial stage of dispatching the load. TMS prepares these documents as per the specifications of each trip, eliminating the possibility of human error, and also making all the important data available. 
• Performance measurement- By compiling all the important data involved during the transportation of each load, the TMS serves as a useful database, using which the managers can get ready information about the overall performance, and easily identify any loopholes. This helps to improve the company's bottom line, as well as increase customer satisfaction. 
• Shipment planning- The process of shipment planning involves a number of steps like consolidation, routing, rating, scheduling, and tracing, all of which are performed by the TMS. 
• Expediting vehicle loading- Finally, the TMS plays a major role in vehicle loading, by optimizing critical factors such as the equipment needed for loading,  personnel to be present at the time of loading, costs incurred, route to be followed, unloading schedule etc.

McLane Logistics Technology provides reliable and customized transportation software and transport management system to streamline your supply chain process. For more details visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call us at 1-800-989-7568.

Microsoft Dynamics AX For Warehouse Management

Microsoft Dynamics AX provides a readymade solution for the warehouse management needs of a company, adhering to the simplicity and excellent standards that Microsoft is popular for. This coming-of-age interface has been designed with an aim of streamlining the functions of any warehouse, without running the risk of getting too complicated that most ERP solutions end up being. By employing this software, employees at each echelon of the supply chain, right from the manufacturers and distributors to the retailers, and finally the customers, can benefit from extensive planning and execution of their roles in the chain.

Any business that involves the use of an inventory can benefit from this software, as it helps making the movement as well as management of products in the inventory speedier, more accurate, and more efficient. The end result of employing Microsoft Dynamics AX for warehouse management is the positive impact on the bottom line. This results from the elimination of loopholes in the existing WMS, which helps by saving both time and resources. By automating the materials handling processes at each stage of the supply chain, the company benefits by saving on time and manpower involved, thereby leading to increased overall productivity.

Microsoft Dynamics AX relies upon a robust interface, making it more durable and easy to maintain as compared to conventional warehouse management solutions. The first and most basic function of this software is that it efficiently manages records of all the warehouse processes in real time, eliminating the need for elaborate paperwork. This simple database can be readily accessed by all the involved parties, leading to increased transparency and coordination, which lacks in a traditionally-run warehouse. This leads to a significant decrease in errors, making it easy to surpass the chance or incorrect deliveries.

In case of any confusion during the warehouse management process, Microsoft Dynamics AX improves the traceability at each step, making it possible to identify any missing links and rectifying them immediately. It becomes much easier to trace information on orders using features like ASN and EDI, in which this information can be updated in real time, eliminating the chance of wrong delivery. The major benefit of this software is to the warehouse workers, who can make use of a variety of tools to make the process more efficient. With Microsoft Dynamics AX as your solution for warehouse management, you can achieve better customer satisfaction, precise deliveries, shorter turnaround times, and boosted productivity.

To know more about the Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012, visit McLane Logistics Technology at 4001, Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Functions Of Warehouse Management System

The advent of warehouse management systems has completely revolutionized the functioning of warehouses like inventory control. Warehouses in modern SMEs are no longer reliant on cumbersome paperwork and thick registers, but have gone on to become a ready solution destination, where the required information is just a single click away. What's more, this information is easily accessible to all concerned persons in the supply chain, via a transparent interface, which streamlines the functions of the warehouse, leading to increased accuracy and productivity.

The major functions that are performed by a warehouse management system include-

• Scheduling and planning- The key to successful warehouse management lies in effective planning, which is made possible through modern warehouse management software. This software utilizes advanced technology to perform vital functions like reserving dock time for different trailers. This is done by taking into account important data such as the availability of the trailer, delivery time, availability of products, etc. 
• Supervision- One of the most important functions of a WMS is to supervise the products during material handling. In the absence of such a system, a large amount of manpower is required to effectively monitor in-process tasks. Not only does a WMS cut down on the cost required to employ these personnel, but it also eliminates the chance of human error. 
• Warehouse tracking- The task of tracking items in the warehouse is greatly simplified by the presence of modules in a WMS which make it possible to perform a quick search for the required item. This function can further be expanded by making use of features like multiple location search, and replenishment alerts. 
• Inventory picking- This is a function that needs to be performed with immense accuracy to ensure that there is no scope left for error. Inaccuracies during inventory picking can amount in great losses in the long run. Using a WMS makes sure that no scope is left for error, by ensuring that the amount of items picked at every stage of the supply chain are accurate. 
• Shelf-life alerts- A WMS is an invaluable asset for organizations dealing with perishable items. Features in the WMS enable it to keep track of the shelf-lives of different items, ensuring complete customer satisfaction and company goodwill. 

These are just some of the functions performed by a WMS. SMEs can choose from a wide range of additional features such as report generation, inventory counts, database updating, etc. depending on their requirements.

The Warehouse Management System provided McLane Logistics Technology allows you to manage your inventory in a more productive and economic manner. To order, visit them at Central Pointe, Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.

How Inventory Control Can Benefit Your Business?

Any company that involves the management of a supply chain as a part of its functioning can benefit greatly from inventory control. The benefits of inventory control start right from the supply of raw material, extending  to the shipping of the final product to the customers. Along with ensuring that every stage involved in this process is carried out smoothly, inventory control also streamlines other functions of the business such as accounting, manufacture, planning etc., resulting in an overall boost in the productivity.

The benefits of inventory control for business are listed below-

• Information on inventory level- By updating data related to the level of raw materials, new supplies, and other items, inventory control ensures that the purchase department is well-informed about the need to purchase materials at the right time. This helps in enhancing customer support in the long run. It is important to ensure that there is no imbalance in either way- less or more- to the inventory levels at which replenishment is required. 
• Functioning of retails sales- As a retail salesman, one’s efficiency greatly relies on the accuracy of the inventory database. An efficient inventory control system ensures that the data provided by this database is not just easily accessible to the sales personnel, but also accurate, and updated in time. It is only then that the salesmen can be sure that the product they are selling to the customers is available in the inventory.
• Accurate planning of production- A large part of production is the planning that is undertaken to determine the products that need to be manufactured on a daily basis. This is directly dependent on the information derived by inventory control, which involves the current status of the inventory, the items in stock, the expected demand, etc. 
• Keeping a tab on scrap data- Inventory control helps to minimize wastage by providing alerts to the management when the scrap levels exceed permissible limits. 
• Shipping and timely delivery- The final processes of shipping and delivery are also highly reliant on inventory control. Knowing the inventory counts of goods that are available for shipping helps to ensure that shipments are accurately completed. Similarly, inventory control also plays a major role in ensuring that the customers receive their orders in time. This is made possible by streamlining all the processes, including planning, manufacturing, and production. 

McLane Logistics Technology provides customized Inventory Management Software system for businesses to effectively manage their inventory functions. For more information, kindly visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call at 1-800-989-7568.

Managing Your Logistics As You Grow Your Business

Logistics management is central to the efficient and smooth functioning of any business. With every progress that you make in your organization, you must also ensure that you upgrade your logistics management simultaneously. Logistics starts from the very first stage of product flow, extending till the final delivery, spanning every step and process in this supply chain. The key to successful logistics lies in ensuring smooth progress at every step, by minimizing any sort of interruptions, while still being ready for unanticipated problems. The following tips guide you on how to manage the growing logistics needs of your business-

• Lay down a fool-proof plan- The biggest challenge of a logistics manager lies in ensuring that a sturdy plan is laid down well in time, to ensure that the entire process is streamlined beforehand. With an efficient plan in place, the risk of errors and delays is reduced significantly. 
• Have contingency plans- A common mistake made by logistics managers of expanding businesses is that of believing that they have mastered the skills of logistics management, and nothing can go wrong. As your business grows, so do its risks, and this is something that logistics managers must never overlook. It is important to have a clear perspective on the possible problems that might arise, and have a backup plan on how to tackle them. 
• Efficient communication- At the center of any logistics management strategy is the supply chain, and it is called a “chain” for a reason. All that it takes to jeopardize the entire process is one weak link in the supply chain. It is the role of the logistics manager to ensure that every person involved in the supply chain, right from the manufacturer to the customer, is a part of the communication loop.
• Proactive attitude- As you take on the role of managing the logistics requirements of a growing company, it becomes more important than ever to hone your managerial skills to the level where you are able to devise instant solutions in case of unforeseen circumstances. Keeping a cool head under all circumstances and remaining unflustered are benchmarks of an efficient logistics manager. 
• Make use of logistics management software- This helps you to maintain real-time records in a transparent interface, and also to involve top-level management in the basic proceedings of logistics management.

For customized logistics management software for your business, visit McLane Logistics Technology at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Drive Your Business Forward With Microsoft Dynamics AX

The tag of “Microsoft” stands for reliability, perfection, and satisfaction, and that's just what you get when you invest in the company's latest offering for business, the Microsoft dynamics AX software. This software gives that cutting edge to your company, no matter what your industry is. It is an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solution which streamlines the most critical consideration for any business- connectivity. This could be in the form of data, employees, customers, ideas, processes, or just about anything! It is designed keeping the needs of businesses of all sizes in mind, and relies on a simple, user-friendly interface that focuses on minimal learning for maximum results.

Listed below is a summary of the benefits that you can derive by applying Microsoft Dynamics AX for your business-

• With most companies already using several Microsoft products, employees are likely to be familiar with the interface and basic layout, making it easy to adapt to the application of the software. 
• Along with being a solution that nearly every employee and department within the organization can benefit from, it allows each user to maintain his individuality by customizing the software as per their work style. 
• In most cases, using a new ERP software means compromising on productivity during the transition phase. However, with this software, that is not the case, since the user experience is familiar, it allows employees to focus on business instead of learning. 
• By eliminating the need for intensive training, Microsoft Dynamics AX helps you to get instant results, and hence a faster ROI. 
• The intuitive interface greatly boosts employee productivity, making it possible to manage multiple tasks through a single window. Organization, prioritization, information access, and other vital roles can be performed in a single go, saving on time and efficiency. 
• Business intelligence tools like dashboard KPIs, Microsoft Office Excel, Business Analytics, and Performance Point Server make help business owners in making important decisions. 
• Microsoft Dynamics AX is compatible with preexisting Microsoft programs, which makes it easier for users to incorporate it into their existing systems. 
• The tools in Microsoft Dynamics AX that are focused on unified communication go a long way in fostering relationships within the organization, as well as outside it, with customers, clients, business partners, etc. 

All in all, Microsoft Dynamics AX stands by its name, indeed emerging as a “dynamic” solution that contributes to your business' bottom line, along with serving as a solution to overcome business challenges at various levels of the organization.

To know more about the Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012, visit McLane Logistics Technology at 4001, Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Improving Flexibility And Reducing Risk In Supply Chain

Excess inventory, increased net debt, lowering share prices- these are every investor's worst nightmare, and the key to resolving them, in many SMEs, lies in having an effective supply chain management system in place. The significance of such a system to business growth in the dynamic market that exists in the business world cannot be emphasized enough. A single overlooked issue in the supply chain can be catastrophic to the success of your business, and in some cases, can even shake its very foundation. Key goal of supply chain experts remains to improve flexibility and reduce risk, ultimately leading to better performance and higher ROIs.

The principle concern posed by a rigid supply chain is its inability to adapt to the constantly changing market scenario, as well as the fluid legal requirements imposed on supply chains. By improving the flexibility in supply chain, it becomes easier to adhere by the stringent compliance laws, hence eliminating the risk that accompanies a failure to do so. The most efficient way to achieve this increase in flexibility is through a supply chain management system that helps to boost the structural as well as functional parameters of your supply chain, resulting in the mitigation of risks and optimal utilization of human resources.

The first area that needs to be modulated is the structural aspect of the supply chain. The most important consideration here is to ensure that the framework at each stage of the supply chain is designed in a manner that accommodates tentative changes. By ensuring that the supply chain is not constrained in its capacity, product availability is optimized, and the end result is satisfied customers. In the absence of a supply chain management system that actuates this, manufacturers may be forced to remodel their products and suppliers may suffer from product shortages, while distributors can be crippled by transportation and logistics challenges.

Talking of the technological aspects of a supply chain, companies can benefit greatly from web-based solutions which enable real-time updating of data, resulting in a more agile and accessible system. Supply chain management software powered by this seamless data transfer promotes communication at the different levels of the supply chain, resulting in a system that is flexible, responsive, intuitive, and result-oriented. By achieving a high level of structural and functional integrity in the supply chain, business owners can significantly cut down on labor costs, while also eliminating the high risk involved in a manual supply chain.

McLane Logistics Technology provides cost effective software solutions to improve flexibility and reduce risk in supply chain. To learn more about their services, visit them at 4001, Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. They can also be contacted at 1-800-989-7568.

Optimizing Global Supply Chain Management

With the globalization of businesses, it is becoming imperative for companies to work towards optimizing the global supply chain management for increased sustainability. Along with enhancing relations with business partners, this also gives the company a vital competitive edge in the industry. This becomes challenging owing to the dynamic global business environment and the complex global trading regulations. The following tips are handy for optimizing global supply chain management along with assessing risk management and cost control issues-

• Partner collaboration- The key factor in the success of a supply chain partnership is collaboration between partners. This must be ensured so as to avoid fragmental functionality which can be detrimental to the supply chain. 
• Correct IT solutions- A major mistake made by most supply chain managers is failing to choose the right IT solutions for their business needs. This can be avoided by carefully evaluating business needs and budget considerations to make the right decision while choosing IT solutions for global supply chain management. To make the most of these solutions, it is advisable to be in constant touch with your software vendor. 
• Common database- Having a common database where trading partners can access vital information regarding the supply chain processes helps to encourage concise communication in a compatible language, helping to streamline the global supply chain. 
• Set milestones- When working on global supply chain management, it is important to constantly re-evaluate targets, and make an effort to raise the bar of performance higher. This can be done by setting targets to be achieved over a set time period, and ensuring that the skills of the workers are also upgraded with quality-assured processes to meet these rising expectations. It is important to ensure that enough time is allocated to the achievement of these targets along with the upgrading of resources and technology. 
• Encourage customer participation- By keeping your customers involved, you shall be in a better position to understand their needs, and upgrade your resources to meet these needs. It is advisable to invest in an integrated IT application that serves as a platform where all trading partners can interact and exchange their views on the global supply chain. 
• Upgrade technology- Just investing in the right IT solutions is not enough. It is equally important to keep this technology upgraded on a regular basis, so as to avoid economic stagnation. Along with providing increased customer satisfaction, this also helps to increase the ROI by cutting costs and promoting your company’s growth. 

To know more about optimizing the global supply chain management, visit McLane Logistics Technology at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Warehouse 3g For Microsoft Dynamics

Warehouse management systems are being viewed as a critical component of modern businesses, as they play a key role in streamlining the processes involved in the supply chain. Warehouse 3g (W3g) is one such warehouse management solution, which integrates the key elements of warehouse management and transport management, for optimal warehouse distribution. This warehouse management system is being applied to various businesses across the globe, and has a tag of reliability attached to it.

The seamless integration of Microsoft Dynamics AX ERP and Warehouse 3g makes it easy for users to avail the benefits of both with a single installation. From the warehouse management point of view, one of the major benefits of W3g is to be able to have a clearer cash flow visibility. This makes each stage of the warehouse management process transparent, hence reducing the chance of human errors interfering in correct product transport and delivery.

Another key benefit of W3g is the optimization of warehouse receiving and put-away, which in turn helps in having better warehouse control, as well as ensuring paramount customer satisfaction. This works with a two-thronged approach, minimizing the time taken to fulfill orders, while also significantly reducing the work force required in the process. By using this warehouse management system, the original purchase orders can be tallied with the receipts of delivered goods, so as to automate the receiving as well as put-away process.

The warehouse staff benefits immensely from such a system, as they can carry out the order-picking procedure in a systematic manner, knowing where and when resources need to be allocated. The W3g warehouse management system is a highly organized and easy-to-use one, thanks to its division into different modules, for tasks like receiving, shipping, scheduling, physical inventory, cycle counting, transportation, product integration, and mobile application. Users can choose from advanced options like optimized refilling and picking, perishable item receiving, container type variations, best door assignment calculation, etc., depending on their needs.

This warehouse management system hence utilizes its robust features and coming-of-age functionality to work towards the attainment of warehouse goals, which are- reduced cost, reduced time, and the delivery of the right product to the right customer. McLane Logistics Technology puts its century-long expertise in warehouse engineering to use, giving every business owner a chance to benefit from dramatically improved warehouse functionality. To know more, visit them at 4001 Central Ponte, Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.

How Microsoft Dynamics Can Ease The Supply Chain Process

Understanding the supply chain is becoming critical to business owners, owing to it being an integral part of any organization’s functioning. As simple as it might seem on the surface, the supply chain is indeed a highly intricate system that needs an efficient management system in place for its smooth functioning. Microsoft Dynamics, which is software catering to this very purpose, and is being used by entrepreneurs across the globe to make each stage of the supply chain process more organized.

The basic emphasis of this software lies on the four critical stages involved in any supply chain, which are production, purchase, distribution, and shipping. When Microsoft Dynamics is incorporated into a preexisting supply chain, it gives that much-needed boost to the process, by making the job of every employee involved, much easier. Not only does this enhance the productivity of the organization in terms of decreased workforce, time efficiency, cost-cutting, and customer satisfaction, but it also makes other functions like planning and coordination more systematic.

The major benefits of Microsoft Dynamics for the supply chain process are-

• User-friendly interface- You do not need to be techno-savvy to operate the software, since its easy-to-use and intuitive interface guides you through each stage. Much like other Microsoft products, it has highly applicable features like a business-role specific design, which makes it simple for employees to access the tools that are most relevant to their jobs in the supply chain process. 
• Flexibility- One of the most attractive features of Microsoft Dynamics from a business owner’s point of view is that its functionality is easily customizable, making it possible to tweak its usage as per the requirements of your company. If you plan for expansion of your supply chain in the future, Microsoft Dynamics will still be as relevant as a supply chain management software for you then, as it is now. 
• Better visibility- Effective communication and transparency at each stage is imperative for the efficiency of a supply chain. Microsoft Dynamics makes both these factors possible, with its insightful interface which makes it possible to view everything, right from changes in customer orders to shipping addresses in a single glance. This aids in making the right decisions at every stage, and taking instant action when required. In addition to this, features like automatic notifications help in inventory control, by alerting when reorder levels are reached. 

For more information on Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 and how it can be beneficial to your business, visit McLane Logistics Technology at 4001, Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call them at 1-800-989-7568.

The Role Of Transportation In Logistics Chain

Transportation is a key process in the logistics chain, which is involved at every stage, right from the manufacturing of the product, to its final delivery at the required location. The role that transportation has come to acquire in the recent times can be judged from the fact that freight transportation costs contributed to over 6% of the GDP of the United States in the past year. While the basic goal of transportation in the supply chain invariably remains ensuring that the good reaches the customer within the stipulated time, there are several subsidiary roles that are met with efficient transportation management. These range reduced inventory costs to better warehouse management.

The success of any supply chain can be judged from its transportation management. Wall-Mart is an ideal example of how the use of the simple technique of cross-dorking can make the entire transportation system responsive and streamlined. Another major role that efficient transportation plays in the logistics chain is the globalization of products. This is made possible by facilitating transportation of goods from countries with cheap labor like China and India, not just contributing to their economy, but also helping to create a channel of flow for these products.

There are various decisions that need to be made by both the carrier as well as the shipper for the proper functioning of any transportation system. The most important of these factors are those relating to cost. The carrier might need to incur a fixed operating cost in case of access to an operating facility, despite whether he is actually using the facility or not. Apart from that, the major cost incurred is trip-related, which covers labor and fuel costs. This can be minimized by strategizing on transportation routes, and minimizing labor by making use of advanced technologies like bar code reading and tagging.

When carefully planned, transportation can be a leading competitive strategy for a firm. The two most important factors that need to be optimized are transportation costs and customer responsiveness. Transportation managers are faced with various critical decisions, such as the ratio of outsourced transportation to company-owned transportation; whether or not to own and manage an independent transportation fleet; how to minimize the need for backup inventory by improving customer responsiveness, etc. This can be made possible with the use of information technology including satellite communication with on-road vehicles.

Mclanetech Logistics Technology provides reliable and customized transportation management software and systems for your business. For more details visit them at 4002 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.

Need For Distribution Management In Business

Distribution management is a wide-reaching term that encompasses the management of the events from the starting point of the distribution process, right up to their final delivery to the required destination. It can also be defined as the management of events from the point of production to the point of sale. Every person involved in the supply chain has an obligation to complete the process assigned to him, and since each process is interconnected to the other, one step going wrong could affect the entire chain of distribution.

By investing in a reliable distribution management system, a business owner can benefit with a higher ROI stemming from greater customer satisfaction, and hence increased customer loyalty. You might have the best products and a high demand for them, but if you do not have the resources to deliver them at the right destination, within the stipulated time, and in excellent condition, they are of no use to boost your revenues. A distribution management system ensures that all these aspects of distribution are taken care of, hence streamlining your business processes. This has a direct impact on your brand, giving it a stamp of reliability and integrity, hence making repeat orders flood in.

The role of distribution management does not simply end at delivering products to customers in time and in perfect condition. It also plays an important role in determining how far you can expand your business. For instance, say you own a cake shop in Birmingham, Alabama, and you sell the best cakes in town. With a reliable distribution management service in place, you can build an online presence for your business, and provide shipping for customized cakes across Memphis and Boston as well. Before you know it, you will be a household name miles away from where your brick-and-mortar business is sold.

With the special packaging and premium shipping required for most businesses, distribution management is the key to ensuring that your strategies to improve the visibility of your brand actually work. Depending on the industry that you are dealing in, distribution management can have a different definition for your business. For instance, while selling cupcakes, taking customized orders and streamlining deliveries is what you need to focus on; but in a business of HVAC installation and maintenance, the meaning of distribution can extend to selling your instruction, or maybe licenses for your franchise. It’s all about being exploratory and innovative!

McLane Logistics Technology provides a very reliable Distribution Management Software at a very affordable price. For more details contact them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.

Key Processes Of Transportation Management

Transportation management is a key element of logistics management, the key focus of which is on revenue generation and customer satisfaction. The three key goals of any transportation management strategy are to reduce cost, minimize time, and increase profit. Even though transportation management is a highly elaborated part of the supply chain, it can be better understood by dividing it into the following key processes that constitute it- 

• Generating a prospective report- The first step that needs to be undertaken in the process of transportation management is planning major aspects such as transport costs, routes to be followed, number of stops on each route, vehicle load, carrier selection, service quality, lead time, etc. You can make use of a transport management system to deduce the cost that shall be incurred by adopting different strategies in terms of these aspects. At the end of this step, you should generate a report of the final prospective schemes to be followed, and the cost that is expected to be involved in the process. 
• Up-to-the-minute customer communication- A key feature of an efficient transport management system is the ability to track on-road merchandise within seconds. If a customer wishes to know the status of his delivery, being able to provide an accurate answer without wasting any time can give you a significant competitive advantage. Making use of cutting-edge GPS navigation systems to track vehicles makes this a fully automated process. In addition to this, customer communication also includes sending alerts of transport delays, and viewing and acting upon customer feedback. 
• Detailed post-implementation analysis- Undertaking a follow up of the transportation strategies adopted by your business is just as important as doing the initial groundwork is. Once you have put your initial plan to action, you must generate a detailed report of how the process actually worked. Was everything executed as per the plan, or did any unexpected issues arise in the field? Looking into these details can help you to further tweak your transport management strategies, finally arriving at a dynamic plan that optimizes cost, time, and efficiency. 

With transportation being one of the most essential parts of logistics, managing your company’s transportation services efficiently will not just improve customer satisfaction, but will also significantly cut down on the cost incurred during transportation. The money thus saved can then be invested in other revenue-generating areas of your business for a higher ROI. 

McLane Logistics Technology provides reliable and customized transportation management software and transportation management systems to give your business an edge over competition. For more details visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Warehouse Receiving And Put-Away Process

Warehouse receiving and put-away refers to the processes that take place right from the receipt of the products in the warehouse to their final storage or usage. Effectively carrying out these processes plays an important role in maintaining the accuracy of the inventory. Not only does it improves control in the supply chain, but also helps in timely fulfillment of customer orders. The warehouse management system streamlines the process of inventory control, right from the point of warehouse receipt to the put-away, hence saving on both time and resources. Since such a system is web-based, it ensures accuracy in the process by matching orders with receipts.

To ensure the effective operation of this process, warehouse staff must be well-trained regarding the put-away process. They should be able to choose the right location for each product, as well as execute order-picking in time. The warehouse management system can be used to automatically allocate a location in the inventory for put-away, as well as update inventory records in real time each time a purchase is made. Along with this, it also makes it possible to view receipts in a single click by applying filters for customization.

Another essential feature in a warehouse management system is the provision to receive unanticipated orders. This is made possible either with the help of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), or manually. Not only does this enable immediate updating of stock levels in case of blind receiving or damage processing, but it also helps in easily dropping orders when required. Some warehouse management systems make use of advanced product-identification technologies like case tags and wireless devices to collect important information during the receiving process.

It is the role of warehouse management to choose the best put-away route to save on travelling time. Features like fast shipping and cross-dock locations make the put-away process more efficient. While most warehouse management systems choose the most-suitable location for each product during the put-away process, by taking into account factors like velocity and best fit, there is usually provision for manually overriding the suggested location, as per the discretion of the warehouse staff. All through the process, fully automated material handling systems like customized conveyor systems and automated guided vehicle systems should be used. Both warehouse receiving and put-away significantly affect the warehouse efficiency, making them critical aspects of warehouse management.

For customized warehouse management software form your businesses, visit McLane Logistics Technology at 4001 Central Ponte, Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Boost Service And Reduce Costs With Inventory Management

With an effectively managed inventory in place, business owners can experience a significant boost in their enterprise, both in the terms of efficiency as well as productivity. Efficient management and control of inventory practices results in a two-thronged benefit, with there being clearer visibility as well as better cost-efficiency and customer fulfillment. As far as cost-efficiency is concerned, inventory management works in two ways- firstly, it helps in reducing operating costs, and secondly, it increases repeat orders due to there being more satisfied customers.

With a well-managed inventory, business owners can steer away from both extremes of an inventory- under-stocking and over-stocking. Inventory managers are increasingly becoming aware of the need to increase inventory turnover ratio, and to clear old inventory periodically. These simple strategies are an efficient way of keeping the working capital flowing, and determining which items are worth investing in, when replenishing the inventory. On the other hand, having what your customers are looking for most of the times, is a sure-shot way to increase customer loyalty and satisfaction.

While it was previously sufficient to monitor the physical movement of materials in the inventory and maintain inventory balances, the definition of inventory management has changed for modern businesses. It now includes additional tasks like devising replenishment techniques, analyzing the projected inventory in relation to the current one, setting targets over specified term periods, and making necessary changes in the execution framework. These efforts help in creating a competitive edge in the market for the products being sold, hence contributing to enhanced productivity of the business.

Most businesses are now adopting computer-based inventory management systems, which can be integrated into the pre-existing system being used by the business. Such a system makes inventory data easily accessible, enabling employees to look into details of the inventory like reorder statuses, and the movement of various products, in just a single click. In order to make the most of inventory management, business owners should bear the following tips in mind-

• An accurate entry must be made for each stock receipt.
• The business should devise a replenishment strategy for each item in the inventory.
• Excess inventory and on-going dead stock should be efficiently handled with pre-decided strategies.
• Businesses should invest in a stock-analysis tool for instantly available information regarding the inventory.

A strong inventory management system is definitely crucial to the success of a business, and is critical to saving cost as well as boosting service.

McLane Logistics Technology provides reliable and customized inventory management software to give your business a competitive edge. For more details visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Create Cash Flow With Your Old Inventory

Two of the biggest dreads of any business owner are too little inventory and too much inventory. As bad as both these situations can be for your business, too much inventory is definitely the bigger dragon to look out for. By excessive inventory we do not mean an extra bulk of fast-moving merchandise that is likely to sell in a couple of months, but what we are talking about is those slow-moving products that have been lying on your top shelves for months, and refuse to budge.

Old inventory spells disaster for your business for two reasons- the first one is that it keeps your cash flow strapped, hence reducing your productivity; and the second is that it requires you to spend more money on its maintenance and the probable risks involved. To cut a long story short, the bottom line is that old inventory is best gotten rid of. When it comes to generating cash flow from an old inventory, a common mistake made by most business owners is not being willing to offer a significant discount on the products.

However, when you think of it logically, this is the simplest and most efficient way of clearing your inventory.
The benefits that you get from putting your slow-moving products on sale are as follows-

• You convert a liability into cash, and you can use this cash on a more productive venture, like say investing on more fast-moving merchandise. 
• This is a great way to draw prospective customers to your business, and while they shop for the discounted items, chances are that they shall also add a few of your best selling products into their shopping carts. 

The only deterrent to this approach, from the business owner’s point of view, could be the perceived loss of offering a huge discount on any of his merchandise. To understand how this is not actually a loss, consider this simple example- a product costs you $100, and you sell it for $200. In order to clear your inventory, you sell it at a 50% discount. If asked how much profit they generated from this deal, most business owners would say they ended up with zero. However, when you think of it, what you are getting is actually a $100 gain, since the cash and space that you have got from a product that was giving you zero cash, can now be used for a more profitable item.

McLane Logistics Technology provides customized Inventory Management Software system for businesses to effectively manage their inventory functions. You can contact them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Controlling Your Open-Stock Inventory

Inventory control, when well-organized, can be a streamlined process, in which all the records tally with each other, and the inventory manager can instantly give an account of any random product, if required. However, when we are talking of open-stock inventory, the tables turn, and it is no longer easy to maintain accurate records of consumed products versus available products. An open-stock inventory refers to an inventory that deals with a bulk of products that are usually difficult to count, and are mostly inexpensive, yet are part of product development process.

The products in an open-stock inventory could be anything from a nails to office stationery. These products have been a nightmare for inventory managers, as it is virtually impossible to determine reorder quantities for them, and maintain stock levels with the accuracy that is normally common place in an inventory. The flow of these products is determined by the frequency of their need by the user, and even though they might be seemingly unimportant individually, their shortage can halt the entire production.

Ideally, the controlling of an open-stock inventory should include a way to be able to record every material disbursement that takes place from the inventory, in order to be able to predict when the need for a fresh supply arises. However, considering how these materials are used in bulk and are individually of little value, it is nearly impossible to impose strict regulations to make sure that each of these materials that leave the store is accounted for. This would mean asking customers to record the accurate item number when buying nails in bulk, or asking workers to maintain a record of every nut and bolt that they use.

Since none of this is feasible, the most practical way of controlling an open-stock inventory, is to devise a way to track the rate at which the open stock needs to be replenished. This means dividing the supplies into on-hand quantity and container quantity, with the former being the amount of material available in bulk storage, and the latter being the open-stock material available in open containers for usage.

Each time a box of material is moved from bulk storage to open-stock, it should be accounted for, and hence the future demand for each item can be forecasted. The usage history for each product, which is the number of containers that were dispatched from bulk storage during a particular period, should be monitored. Also, any unexpected increases in replenishment should be looked into, to detect pilferage or any other problem in the inventory.

For customized inventory management systems for your business or to know more about stock inventory management, visit McLane Logistics Technology at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Why Is Inventory Turnover Important?

As a business owner, the biggest investment that you are probably going to make is that of your inventory. Inventory management plays a key role in streamlining the supply chain, as well as in gauging how successful your business is. One of the most efficient barometers of your business’ success is your inventory turnover. To put it in technical terms, the inventory turnover is the sales generated from goods over the past year, divided by the cost incurred in replenishing the inventory.

In simple words, the inventory turnover is the number of times your inventory was completely emptied, and re-filled. So how is this important for your business? Looking at it plainly and simply, it is evident that a higher turnover is what we are looking for in any business. A higher turnover means that the inventory is flowing, and customers are actually buying what you are stocking. On the flipside, a low turnover is a reason to worry, since it means that you have an overstocked, slow-moving inventory.

The concept of inventory turnover can be better understood with this simple example- Business owner A invested $15000 at the beginning of the year on his inventory. By the end of the year, he had generated sales worth $20000, amounting to a gross profit of $5000. On the other hand, business owner B invested $5000 at three different intervals over the entire year, refilling his inventory each time it got emptied, and also generated a gross profit of $5000 by the year’s end.

The inventory turnover for A is 1, while that for B is 3. Even though their profit might be the same, but B’s business is considered to be more successful, since for the first period of the year, when he had invested $5000, he still had $10000 in hand, which he could use for other profit-generating purposes. On the other hand, A had his entire capital amount tied up in inventory, which means that he ultimately generated lower profit than B.

Apart from this basic advantage of having a high inventory turnover, the other essential application of inventory turnover for any business is that it helps in identifying the slower moving products in an inventory. Inventory tracking software or spreadsheets can be used for a better understanding of your inventory, and hence in the reevaluation of business plans.

McLane Logistics Technology provides customized Inventory Management Software system for businesses to effectively manage their inventory functions. For more information visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Planning Your Warehouse Layout

The first step to designing an effective warehouse layout is clearly outlining the objectives. These objectives must be in sync with the overall supply chain strategy of the company. The two major considerations that should form the base while defining warehouse objectives are customer satisfaction and cost effectiveness. These objectives also need to be efficiency-centric, which means that they should help to make maximum possible utilization of the available space, attain optimal efficiency with the available resources, and accommodate enough scope for future expansion.

Once the objectives of the warehouse are laid down, the next thing that needs to be done is gathering all the necessary details about the warehouse. This includes referring to architectural drawings of the warehouse, with an aim of enlisting all details that might affect material handling and storage in any way. You might consider using a 3D design simulation tool to get a clear picture of what to expect from your warehouse layout. Before planning the layout, it is very important to have a clear picture of height restrictions, doorways, columns, storage racks, docks, etc. In addition to these design specifications, the external factors that are likely to affect shipment, receiving, etc., must also be carefully noted.

With the analysis of details completed, the warehouse plan should not be carefully created, highlighting the major changes that need to be brought about, and breaking them down into smaller tasks. Based on the availability of contractors to execute the plan, a time limit during which the layout is to be implemented should be decided. Ideally, the warehouse layout should be worked upon at a time when there is no additional movement of materials, such as on a weekend, or after the plant is shutdown. If the regular working of the warehouse must be carried out simultaneously, additional warehouse resources might need to be employed.

Once the plan is implemented, it is important to incorporate all changes that have been made into the warehouse management system, so as to facilitate easy location of all products when needed. It is also a good idea to carry out a physical inventory of the warehouse after the implementation of the warehouse plan, to make sure that the system accurately depicts the current warehouse.  Be sure to conduct regular post-implementation checks and follow-ups, to make sure that the warehouse is being operated as per the devised plan, and that there are no operational problems being caused by the new layout.

McLane Logistics Technology provides customized warehouse management software system for businesses to effectively control their warehouse processes. To know more about the services provided, visit them at 4001 Central Ponte, Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.

Importance Of Logistics Management In Today’s Business

Logistics is at the very core of modern businesses and can go a long way in achieving desired level of customer satisfaction. Competency in logistics management has gone on from being a desirable asset to an indispensable one. To put it simply, logistics is all about ensuring that the right thing arrives in the right condition, at the right time, and at the right place. However, when you get to it, you realize that this multifaceted process is anything but simple.

Logistics is an integral component of the supply chain management, which involves a series of multiple processes that run between the point of production of the goods or services, and the point of their consumption. There are several components included in the management of an effective logistics system, which include transportation, warehouse management, inventory control, packing, delivery, communication, and handling complaints.

The role of logistics management comes into play for the cost control at each stage, the adaptation of latest technological developments in logistics, and the continual devisal of new strategies to meet changing requirements. The first step in logistics management is laying down a well-defined plan, and discussing targets that are meant to be achieved through the supply chain cycle. As a logistics manager, one must be wary of “scope creep”, and remain focused on what the goals of the company are.

It is then imperative for various levels of the management to be involved in laying down a working approach to achieve these predetermined objectives. Logistics also plays a key role in globalization, by encouraging the maximum utilization of the geographical advantage of a region. Logistics has emerged as one of the most competitive strategies in the business world today, more so with the advent of online businesses.

It is no longer to merely have customer-centric goods and services on sale in your business enterprise, or even to engage in flamboyant marketing strategies. All this becomes insignificant without the backup of logistics management. Efficient logistics which delivers what it promises is the key to building customer loyalty as well as goodwill in the market. No wonder, the logistics department is being viewed as the most important department by SMEs across nations.

Newly established businesses are realizing that one of the most important steps of setting up a business is having a logistics managements system in place. Not only is this imperative to product efficiency and cost cutting, but it is also the single most powerful tools for customer gratification.

McLane Logistics Technology provides reliable and customized logistics management software to give your business a competitive edge. For more details visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call at 1-800-989-7568.

Logistics Management Information System - Supply Chain Management System

Tips To Avoid Warehousing Mistakes

The smallest mistakes in your warehouse management plan can cost you more heavily than you can imagine. If we had to point the single biggest mistake that you can make in managing the warehousing and logistics of your company, it would have to be not hiring a professional to guide you on the latest developments in logistics. Relying on guesswork or on past experiences will not suffice, especially considering the dynamic advancements being made in warehouse management technologies. 

A major faux pas committed by small businesses is overlooking the need to effectively streamline the inventory, and identify fast-moving products from slow-moving ones. If your inventory is overstuffed with products that have been lying for a long time, and are not expected to move anytime soon, you are losing on valuable space and need to take action immediately. Using upgraded technology to identify the goods that are taking up space can help you to boost the efficiency of your inventory up to 99%.

If you are still among those companies that are relying on paper records to document various stages of the warehouse management process, it’s high time you made a switch to digital data. Replacing humans with machines will not just help you to cut down on labor costs and work force management, but will also boost the efficiency of your warehouse by several notches. You can track processes as they take place in real time, and can instantly tally data to identify any loopholes in your strategy.

Considering that transport and material handling figure among the top costs of the complete warehouse management system, you need to make an effort to cut down on these costs. The easiest way to do this is to ensure that the central warehouse and distribution center is as close to your main stores as possible. For this, it is important for the warehouse distribution center to have multiple locations, which shall translate into shorter shipping distances, and hence lower transportation costs.

Finally, not having sufficient inventory space can be detrimental to the growth of your business. This can happen due to the storage space being taken up by seasonal items, or due to the need for sudden expansion. In any case, a warehouse management company that is equipped with sufficient space resources to meet your needs will be an asset to your company. Even if you do not plan to expand any time in the future, this is a factor that you should consider right from the word- go.

For more tips contact McLane Logistics Technology. It is renowned to provide customized Warehouse Management Software solutions to various large as well as medium business firms. For more details visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.

Warehouse Management System - WMS For AX

Elements Of Logistics Management

Logistics management is a key factor in the supply chain processes of any business. It is that part of the supply chain that serves as its nucleus, ensuring that all the processes, right from manufacturing to delivery, are carried out with precision and utmost efficiency.

The major aim of any logistics management endeavor is the utmost satisfaction of the final customer. For this, it is essential for a link of communication to be effectively established at each stage of the process, to ensure that the right services are delivered to the right person at the right time.

An essential element of logistics management is inbound and outbound transport management. While inbound transportation is essential to lower the prices of the final goods by reducing the costs during the various processes, outbound transport is what is actually visible to the customer.

Another important element is fleet management, which is closely related to transport management. This refers to the management of the various vehicles that are used by the company, including vans, trucks, rail cars, and cars. Everything, right from the fuel and finance management to their maintenance and management of drivers falls under logistics management.

Logistics management also includes the key elements of warehousing and inventory management, both of which are critical to the efficiency of the supply chain. While warehousing involves all the factors that go into the storage of the goods, inventory management is the central process that determines how much of each product is needed when, and where.

A logistics management company must be able to devise a working logistics network, by keeping important considerations like security, space costs, labor rates, supplier and customer locations, etc. in mind. There must be a well-devised plan in place to take care of the ultimate aim of the whole process, which is order fulfillment. This process begins when the customer places an order, and goes on until it is delivered to him, and even after that, in case of any complaints.

Most companies are now opting for logistics automation, in which advances logistics management software is employed for various stages of the process. There is separate software available for each stage, such as transport, material handling, warehousing, etc.

A modern logistics management enterprise must be well-versed with important technological aspects of the process, such as bar coding, electronic data interchange, enterprise and differential resource planning, etc., all of which are pivotal to e-commerce.

McLane Logistic Technology can empower your business with effective logistic management system, designed to take huge and complex loads and to keep your logistic management process efficient and trouble free. For more information, visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call us at 1-800-989-7568.

Integrated Logistics Management System - Logistics Management Information System

Tips On Saving Costs In Supply Chain Management

Considering that the whole purpose of Supply Chain Management (SCM) is to effectively manage movement of products and to reduce the cost incurred by a company, it is logical for the SCM itself to be as cost-efficient as possible. In fact, research shows that cutting down on the costs of SCM is substantially more beneficial to the bottom line, than is a proportional increase in the sales. Saving costs at the first level of SCM is a relatively easy task, with simple strategies such as competitive bidding and strategic inventory limiting being sufficient.

However, when it comes to the second level of this process, it needs more expertise, and becomes increasingly challenging for supply managers to efficiently identify and achieve opportunities that would further lower the cost involved in the supply chain. With the margin of success at this level varying from a cost reduction of just 5% to up to 30%, it is imperative to identify the correct technique, and follow an organized approach to make these techniques work.

The following tips are effective in reducing supply chain management costs:

• Analyze the total cost components that are involved in obtaining a particular product.
• Tweak the various processes involved during the supply chain and see if any reduction in cost is possible.
• See how costs during transaction, which involves ordering, payment, requisition, etc., can be reduced.
• Replace existing materials with cost-effective ones, while still meeting quality regulations. 
• Improve the quality of materials and instruments, for greater efficiency.
• Outsource non-core activities related to purchasing and supply to contractors. 
• Effectively manage surplus material and equipment, with an effort to recover maximum possible cost.
• Standardize material variations and specifications, to cut down on inventory costs. 
• Establish a line of active communication between different teams, so as to share effective practices and coordinate programs, with an ultimate aim of reducing costs.
• Engage the fastest carrier to reduce delays in delivery, and hence expedite cash flow. 
• Identify and eliminate products that are causing monetary losses, and hence also cut down on “loser tax”.
• Engage valuable resources in the most critical areas, which include engineering, supply chain management, design and production.
• Make active efforts to increase labor productivity, and hence reducing production throughput and errors. 
• Do not engage in low bidding, and instead, use effective pre-selection techniques to find vendors who will help in design and development.

McLane Logistics Technology provides state-of-the-art supply chain management software solutions. For more details contact them at 4001 Central Pointe, Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call at 1-800-989-7568.

Distribution Management Software - Distribution Management Systems

Bar Coding And Inventory Management

Bar coding is an effective inventory management tool that can be incorporated into your company’s processes for increased levels of efficiency at all levels. Bar coding essentially consists of a bar coding device that is able to recognize and also create unique barcodes for different products. Most businesses these days are adopting bar coding as a method of professionalized inventory management as there is a decreased level of errors associated with bar coding as compared to manually entering in the products being received or sent for sale. Maintaining a count of inventory at all stages is an important component of inventory management systems and generally requires a significant amount of manpower. Bar coding thus serves as a good replacement to manual methods of record keeping as there are no chances of error in this automated technique.

There is a high level of accuracy associated with bar coding and you are able to exercise better control and supervision over all your products. The best part about bar coding is that it helps to automatically enter the appropriate information into inventory management software as soon as a product is scanned through a bar code sensor leading to an update of all your systems. This helps point out the exact location of your products which can prove to be quite useful whenever you need to find out where a certain item is in the supply chain.

There are several other benefits that accrue to companies using bar coding as a technique of inventory management. There is a significant decrease in the count of lost or pilfered goods as an effective track of inventory can be maintained in the supply chain. It also becomes easier to fix responsibility and accountability of the employees under whom such losses may have occurred. Before going in for a bar coding system, you should conduct a cost benefit analysis of whether the installation of such a system is going to be economically viable for your company in the long run or not. The quantity and kind of products that you deal in should be considered while making this decision. If the variety of goods that you deal in is quite large, a bar coding system can help alleviate many problems associated with handling and recording a massive inventory.

For more information about inventory management, visit McLane Logistics Technology, located at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Inventory Management Software - Inventory Management System

Supply Chain Management: Adds Value To Your Business

The supply chain is a key business process that helps to create and deliver value to your customer. If managed well, it offers enormous opportunities to improve an organization’s profitability. Good supply management helps a business to improve efficiency, customer service and cost effectiveness to compete in demanding markets and stand out from the competition. By streamlining work processes, forming stronger relationships with suppliers, and incorporating technology, you can significantly increase your company’s profitability.

The performance of a company depends on the vendors that supply goods to it, as well as the customers that buy products and services from it. They are linked through their transfer of information, materials and funds.  The collaboration amongst these entities to satisfy customer needs and reward all members of the supply chain is what is referred to as supply chain management. Today, it is a leading process-improvement, cost-saving and revenue-enhancing business strategy.

Key elements of effective supply chain management

• Delivering quality products, on time and within the budget.
• Planning ahead and executing the business deals as per the plan.
• Conducting the business in a professional and ethical manner and charging a fair price for the products and services.
• Focusing on best practices and continuous improvements.
• Using technology to improve services.

Reliability and performance are critical to adding value to your business through supply chain management. High reliability will result in decreased inventories, reduced labor costs, better cash flow, improved lead times, and better reputation. All these factors are crucial at maintaining an edge over other businesses and standing out of the crowd.

The following are important steps in reducing the supply chain costs:

• Order management: It involves keeping track of the product availability. Shipping accuracy, lead times and invoice accuracy,
• Electronic commerce: This involves using standardized computer codes, barcodes, standard numbering system etc.
• Inventory management: It comprises of keeping a tab on obsolescence of goods, price change, vendor managed inventory and communication of inventory optimization schemes.
• Logistics management: Within its purview come products return rates due to shipping damage, cycle time for delivery, proof of delivery etc.
• Sales productivity: This involves pre-sales support, post-sales support, marketing support, and business support.

For more details about supply chain management, contact McLane Logistics Technology. They are located at 4001 Central Pointe, Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Supply Chain Management System - Supply Chain Management Software

Simplify Logistics With Transport Management

Transportation is an important aspect of logistics. An effective transport management system is crucial in addressing and supporting your specific business goals, objectives and challenges. It’s a mandatory element for effective logistics management and it helps keep your logistics more organized and accurate. Transportation management is the backbone of the whole supply chain that helps to deliver the right product in the right quantity, at the right place, at the right time, to the right consumer.

A transport management system helps you plan your logistics business effectively. It involves cutting down on the transport cost, having less lead-time, fewer stops etc. With the help of such a system, businesses can calculate the transport cost and adjust the routes so as to decrease the transportation costs. One can easily find out which routes yield better profit margins and which stops are harming your profit ratio. In addition to this, you are sure to increase your goodwill as customers will enjoy timely delivery of products due to your effective transportation.

An intrinsic part of transport management systems are detailed and customized analytics reports. These reports help you understand your business better and find out the areas that need improvements. You can also compare the performance of various months to see where you stand. An important tool of transport management is the GPS vehicle tracking facility which helps you track your fleet of vehicles with the help of satellites. This facility enables you to give your customers an idea as to when they’ll receive the goods and helps in effective billing and accurate report generation. It also makes it easy to communicate critical data and shipments in real time through a web based portal for collaboration with your logistics suppliers and carriers.

Companies are increasingly switching over to the use of transportation management software to keep their customers happy globally. This software is of immense help in keeping a business organized, efficient and profitable. One can easily keep a tab on the logistics and avoid any chances of confusion, mistakes and miscalculations that can cost you a reliable customer. Whether you operate your own fleet or procure outside carrier services, a transport management system is required to simplify, optimize, and reduce the costs of managing a complex transportation logistics management network. It provides in-depth insight, control and visibility into all the details of your transportation operations.

McLane Logistics Technology provides reliable and customized distribution management/ supply chain management/ logistics management software to give your business an edge over competition. For more details visit them at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504 or call us at 1-800-989-7568.

Supply Chain Management System - Supply Chain Management Software

Supply Chain Management: The Backbone Of Service Industries

Supply chain management is a central component of every business chain, which involves delivering the right goods to the right person, at the right time. Even though this might sound as an easy task, when considered at a small level, it is actually a complex multi-step process, which requires perfection and strategy at each stage. The basic objective of any supply chain is to synchronize supply with demand, along with focusing on net value. The importance of supply chain management can be understood by taking into account the different functions performed by this component of the business chain. These function are as follows:

1. Configuration of the business network- This includes ascertaining the number and location of different people involved throughout the process. It starts from the suppliers and producers, extending to the distributers, warehouse managers, and finally the consumers.
2. Devising a strategy for distribution- This step includes various stages, which start from determining whether the operating control shall be centralized, decentralized, or shared. The next step is analyzing the best mode for delivery. Direct shipment is a practical option for most businesses. Others include cross docking, pool point shipping, and direct store delivery. The supply chain management also needs to determine the best mode of transportation to suit the company’s needs as well as budget. 
3. Proper coordination for low logistics cost- It is the duty of the SCM to ensure that all the above mentioned processes are carried out at the lowest possible cost. The key in this step is trade-offs, which are vital for optimizing logistics costs. Making choices like Full Truckload versus Low Than Truckload shipments, is the role of the SCM, and can have a significant effect on the end-process net cost.
4. Effective inter-process communication- Considering the various entities involved in the complete process, it is essential to have a binding link between each process. This role is played by the SCM. All potential collaboration is taken care of, and vital information about factors like demand signals, transportation, and forecasts, is effectively communicated to the concerned persons. Timely cash flow throughout the process is also taken care of by the SCM.
5. Inventory management- The final, yet probably most important role of the SCM is managing the inventory. With the inventory not in order, none of the aforementioned processes can be carried out smoothly.

Considering all the roles played by the Supply Chain Management in any business enterprise, it would not be an overstatement to term it as the backbone of the service industries.

For more details about supply chain management, visit Mclane Logistics Technology located at 4001 Central Pointe, Parkway, Temple , TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Supply Chain Management System - Supply Chain Management Software

Planning Your Warehouse Layout

Planning a layout for your warehouse is a task that requires skillful planning. A lot has to be kept in mind when chalking out a warehouse layout. The final layout has to conform to accepted warehouse standards. One must adhere to the local fire code and the working areas should be kept clear. The design of the warehouse is also very important as it will determine the success or failure of the warehouse. A warehouse may be a company’s largest capital investment. While deciding its layout, one must be very clear about the goals and objectives to be achieved by the warehouse. The layout should be such that will help in minimizing the overall costs and maximizing the productivity.

The steps involved in planning the layout are:

• Collect all the necessary information that may be relevant to this project.
• Conduct interviews with the staff dedicated to major functional areas.
• While designing the layout, ensure that there should be no building constraints.
• Collect relevant product information pertaining to the stock and their dimensional measurements, weights and order history.
• Next create a project plan including the major projects to be undertaken, the resources needed and the time required for implementation.
• Follow the implementation of the plan. This is when the layout is converted into reality. The delivery of the products is coordinated so as to arrive at the right time on completion of the project.
• The last and most crucial step is to schedule a close out meeting. This includes a discussion with the implementation team as to whether the final layout was implemented as planned. It’s an important step for future project planning.

While sizing the warehouse, size it from the inside. This will ensure that all the space is used and you are not paying for unused space. Your space requirements depend on the forecasts, previous usage patterns and projected changes. You have to consider short and long range sizing of the racks, shelves, automated systems, docks, staging, offices and support. Also keep in mind the workflow requirements.

The warehouse should be planned in such a way that there is minimal product handling and minimal resource requirements while moving the products to the consumer. Check on your warehouse layout on a regular basis. This will prevent work related injuries, product losses and decreased efficiency. A warehouse layout that works for your business will definitely contribute to your success.

For more information about warehouse layout, designing and management, visit McLane Logistics Technology, located at 4001 Central Pointe Parkway, Temple, TX 76504. You can also call them at 1-800-989-7568.

Warehouse Management System - WMS For AX