Going digital without breaking your budget
Going digital is a journey, not a light switch. You don’t have to convert to digital logistics in one big implementation step. And you don’t have to pay a lot upfront. A gradual and systematic process to go digital is less expensive, less risky and hassle-free. Here are 5 steps for doing digital logistics in a sustainable manner, without having to exceed your budget.
1. Identify your strategic business goals before going digital
Knowing what your strategic goals are will allow you to decide on your future key strategy, thus enabling you to make the best technology investment. Your goals describe what your company expects to accomplish over a specific period of time, giving your business direction and helping measure results. Goals can be reducing costs, increasing market shares and revenue, improving customer service, and so on.
It is important to get the strategic context right for your digital investments.
2. Favor solutions that can be integrated into existing systems
Every executive knows it: Disrupting or replacing existing systems can be an expensive hassle. But you don’t need to get rid of what you already have in order to do digital logistics. Instead, build on it. Go for solutions that can be implemented without disrupting any of your existing systems, allowing you to retain as much as possible of your previous investments.
3. Consider SaaS solutions
Cloud technology is leading the revolution in how supply chain services are provided. Unlike traditional software solutions, which usually require considerable initial investments, Software as a Service solutions allow you to “pay as you use”. This eliminates the upfront cost of purchase/installation, as well as ongoing costs like maintenance and upgrades. Implementing SaaS is affordable, easy … and practically risk free.
Besides, the pay-as-you-go-model allows SaaS solutions to be treated as an operating expenditure rather than an investment, which is one of the reasons why they are favored by small and medium-sized companies.
4. Look for solutions that connect you to a logistics network
In the business of logistics, developing digital integrations with all the companies you are working with can be extremely expensive. But solutions already exist that offer the capability to tap in and immediately connect to an extensive network. This will bring huge cost savings in the future.
5. Look for partners that can help you develop your digital logistics processes
The right partner can help you improve your business substantially, without going over budget. Having an agile technology partner onboard gives you instant access to highly-skilled expertise. What’s more, you get a trusted advisor that brings both operational and strategic insights to the table. Look for companies that can understand exactly what you need and then tailor solutions accordingly. It will pay off.