The efficiency of a logistic company's ability to deliver packages on time becomes a critical factor in its ability to retain a positive reputation among both retailers and customers. This, however, is easier said than done. There are a significant number of roadblocks and obstacles that companies in the industry currently face. The logistics industry currently faces obstacles in terms of delivery costs, supply chain visibility, internal processes, and even driver shortages. Above these, problems with package tracking remain a consistent complaint among trucking companies and other businesses in the industry.
Various platforms have introduced supply chain management software, and a large focus on some is to help provide better package tracking. Currently, Microsoft Dynamics 365 remains a popular choice among both larger and small logistics companies. In this post, we take a look at this digital system and help you understand how your business can utilize its features.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a complete suite of business applications that have been made from scratch by one of the biggest software developers in the world. Microsoft made an effort to create business software options that can suit companies in various industries, with a primary focus on enhancing efficiency and helping a company grow. The software solutions also offer seamless integration features, which makes it easier to move from one system to the next without losing valuable data or the need for manual data entry.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is also integrated with the Microsoft Teams platform. This makes it easier to get multiple employees on board - which is a driving force between the efficiency offered by the apps that are part of the suite. The applications are divided into multiple categories to suit specific departments of your business.
When it comes to logistic management and supply chain operations, there is one particular software option that truly stands out. This is the Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management software. This cloud-based system makes it exceptionally easy to manage, track, and modify current operations within your logistics system. In turn, this focuses on helping you make better decisions when it comes to getting packages delivered to the customer.
The software was developed specifically for companies that focus on the distribution of products. Both big and small companies are able to utilize the functions provided by the system. Many companies that have their own distribution departments also take advantage of the tracking and management features that can be accessed in the Supply Chain software.
Before taking a closer look at how you can get Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management software configured for your business, it is important to take note of the features offered. This will give you a better idea of what the software can and can't do for your logistics company. It also allows you to determine where the software will fit in with your current systems.
There are three primary benefits that the software focuses on providing. These include:
When you decide to move to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, it is important to note that the system does not only focus on the package tracking. This is a complete suite that focuses on planning, asset performance, and enhancing the critical processes within the organization. With this in mind, it's generally a better idea to move your entire supply chain management system to this platform - this will ensure you do not have to pay for two separate subscriptions while allowing you to pull information related to different departments into one singular dashboard.
The entire process starts with a demo. This is because Microsoft focuses on providing a more customized solution when setting up its Supply Chain Management system for logistics companies. You'll need to fill out a form in order to request an official demo from a Microsoft representative. On this page, you have two options. You can get in touch with an authorized Microsoft Partner, who will give you access to a live demo of the system. They can also provide you with advice and more information and answer any questions that you have before making a decision.
If you feel more confident in your abilities, then you can immediately sign up for a 30-day free trial. This will give you access to the system. There is no payment information needed to sign up for the trial - which means no worries about charges to your account if you decide not to use the Supply Chain Management Software. Additionally, the trial allows you to choose between loading sample data or using real data from your business. The sample data can help you get a better view of how the system will look once you have loaded a sufficient amount of data.
To get started with the trial, you’ll need a Microsoft account - which is free. The process starts by filling out a few details about you, as well as your business. It is important to note that at this part of the process, you do need to use an official “work” email address. This means a Gmail, Yahoo, or even Outlook email address may not be sufficient. Use an email that is connected to your company’s official domain to proceed.
The great thing about the Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management suite is the fact that Microsoft does not leave you in the dark. Apart from giving you access to the free trial, you'll also be presented with a range of educational resources that will help you get to know the system better.
The official training module for this system consists of multiple modules that will help you learn how to perform the following functions:
To fully utilize these lessons, you should also take note of the current operations used to provide distribution services. For example, try to set up a list of your current rates. Get a list of customers and retailers you work with as well. This will help you set up the appropriate sections of the system, which allows you to take full advantage of the 30-day free trial. There are many scenarios in which transportation management and package tracking can be used - you need to ensure you understand all of the factors that account for your particular case.
This ensures you can configure the system to effectively identify vendors, route out deliveries, and distribute packages to the right drivers - while also providing efficient and live tracking data.
Ineffective package tracking can result in problems at the retailer, shipping supplier, and the customer. This process can also result in delays in terms of delivery, which leads to further dissatisfaction from the customer's point of view. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management is a digital software suite that provides a complete integrated solution to assist with the management of fleets and the distribution of packages. The solution can also make the process of tracking packages from pickup to delivery more efficient.
At Integratz, we have helped multiple logistics companies configure Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management, along with a large number of other software solutions, to improve efficiency in various internal departments. We can help your business achieve improved productivity and efficiency in all operations too. To get started or to learn more, schedule an appointment, and one of our experts will be in touch with you.
https://fleetroot.com/blog/top-10-challenges-facing-logistics-companies-in-2019/
https://dynamics.microsoft.com/en-us/supply-chain-management/overview/