The Take Aways
Keeping it simple while ensuring a easy user experience.
Right level of automation ensures better user adoption avoiding manual processes.
Improved efficiency and reduced errors in shipments.
Ensures better change management and user training reducing the impact of high churn rates.
Problem Statement
One of our customers from Automotive sub-assembly manufacturing segment was facing critical challenges in the overall time they had to spend with packing and shipping processes despite having an implementation done with bar-code scanner-based solutions for these activities. The customer was facing major challenges in ensuring the timely arrangement of the shipments and had instances of missing the shipper readiness on time resulting in penalties, loss of performance scores etc with their customers. The logistics team wanted to have an optimized and robust process implemented to overcome these challenges. Time taken to complete the process was to factor the higher volume of shipment transactions, process controls and ensure timely release of the truck.
The Challenge
The OU is a Unit with high volume of shipments which need to be addressed using optimal resources in terms of Individuals and Time while also adhering to process controls. User had to navigate through multiple menu options to process a shipment thereby increasing the probability of errors.
Solution
In collaboration with the business team and customer’s IT team, we reviewed the process and chalked out an approach to merge processes and enable simultaneous processing of tasks. The shipment process / solution was re-designed to reduce the overall number of activities and steps to be performed by end users from 10 steps to 6 steps thus improving the overall efficiency.
Key Features of the Solution :
The solution was designed keeping in mind the existing tailor-made solution’s architecture and it fit in perfectly with the definition of the existing solution.
Post the success of the implementation in one site, the solution is now being rolled out to other distribution facilities.
The solution also facilitates the determination of no of packages (Boxes) and Pallets needed for the shipment as per the customer requirement. This was instrumental in eliminating a manual step.
Merging processes while retaining the integrity of the business processes helped to achieve higher efficiency.
Benefits
Global Best Practices:
The implementation of Customers Core Process Models and a global unified way of working.
Enhanced Efficiency:
A finely tuned in-house developed logistics management solution and right levels of controls in the processes has enabled increased efficiency in the operational usage of the ERP systems.
Consistency and Compliance:
Following guiding principles of business functions for Automotive Suppliers during the core model refinements has made the customer directly compliant for certifications and compliance.
Real-Time Visibility:
Requirement detailing reports enabled the customer to identify inventory lots to be picked for shipment along with the packaging material requirement as per the specifications.
Time Savings:
The re-designed solution approach has reduced the total process time from 14 mins to 5 mins. The roll outs at 2 additional sites are being planned to ensure sufficient attention to bring in efficiency and accuracy in the overall process.
Conclusion
Our tailored solution has transformed the shipment process and highlights the power of automation in enhancing accuracy, efficiency, and process control.
Partner with us to transform your redundant processes to achieve greater value, efficiency, accuracy, and control. Our innovative and smart approach to QAD implementations and roll outs helps businesses reduce overheads, improve operational process management, and enhance overall efficiency.