Take a moment to observe the sky and its formations, hovering above us, because they will have a lasting impact on your business and revenue. But I'm just kidding - I'm actually referring to cloud computing or, more specifically, cloud-based solutions, which are ubiquitous nowadays. 

The question remains: is it advantageous to migrate your supply chain to a cloud-based solution? Would it be beneficial for logistics operations?

How does cloud computing work? 

Instead of buying and maintaining physical data centers and servers, you can access technology services delivered over the Internet. Consequently, you will get the required computing power, storage, databases, and even fully functional software products, directly from cloud providers. In a model, you often pay for what you need/use. 

This may sound too technical for you. Let me explain by giving the example of the Proof of Condition documentation. 

It’s time-consuming to collect data about cargo day in and day out, but it is also very time-consuming to sort it and store it in folders, files, and emails. Then that data needs to be maintained, backed up, and secured.

With a cloud-based solution, you break away from the paradigm where information is stored on your server(s). Instead it becomes easily available to any internet-connected device without a hassle. Worry-free and easy. 

You and your team can access cargo logistics information from anywhere at any time - no more paper files, stacks of checklists on desks, or untraceable folders in your systems. All of the data is available in real-time for everyone when needed, from co-workers and customers to suppliers. 

Why are leaders moving their Supply Chain management software to the cloud?

More businesses are realizing the full potential of cloud-based solutions globally, especially in supply chain operations. As your cargo is already moving around the globe, so should the data related to this cargo. Cloud-based solutions have proven to increase efficiency and profitability. 

Allow me to give you four solid reasons why you should move your WMS (Warehouse Management System) or TMS (Transportation Management System) to the cloud:

Cost Efficiency  

Cloud-based services can offer many advantages, such as low (or no) investments and subscription-based pricing with free upgrades. The cost is usually far less than an internal IT solution, especially as you add-in the cost to maintain all these services. Plus, you are always up to date, using the latest features. 

The cloud also enables easy integration with your WMS or TMS system, providing insights to improve your operations and reduce costs while speeding up automation of repetitive tasks. 

Flexibility

When you operate using a service delivered from the cloud, the accessibility of your cargo data is a lot more scalable, especially when your business has multiple locations and communication needs to be aligned. Office locations can be apart from the warehouse. Managers have real-time, visual insights in their operations without being there. So, during this pandemic with lockdowns, every organization that was already using cloud-based solutions could directly start working from home. 

Within minutes your team can share terms, cargo images, checklists with anyone regardless of the location; they only need an internet connection - easy-peasy. 

Speed and Accessibility
 

Real-time visibility: cloud-based SCM (Supply Chain Management) solutions can provide visibility of shipments and improve your logistics tracking. 

Imagine this. 

A container inspection is required and performed in China, but the checklist reports are needed in the Netherlands as soon as possible to proceed with the shipment. Many stakeholders need to be involved, from the shipper to the surveyor to the consignee. 

With a supply chain management system living in the cloud, this wouldn’t even be a hassle and may take only minutes from inspection creation to approval.

Shape your Business Outcomes
 

I assume you did your research. So, if your supply chain is not on its way toward cloud-based implementation, you can bet your horses that your competitors’ supply chains are on their way to it or are already using similar solutions. 

Cargosnap provides a plug-and-play cloud solution that allows you to store and share details of your shipments in the blink of an eye. 

The pace of change and innovation in Supply Chain businesses continues to accelerate, and visibility is essential for managing risk, ensuring profitability, reducing costs, and getting more efficient.

 
Want to create visibility and have everything your operations need in one place?