“Everything You Should tick off when looking into a Transport Management System”
Finding the best Transport Management System to fit your business can be a challenge. This is more than just buying a software package, it’s about understanding why you need it, how it will work for you, and making the most of the programme to ensure it makes your business operate more efficiently.
Implementing the right Transport Management System can reduce your overall transport spend, reduce the amount of paper in the process, and make your whole business way more efficient.
Here’s 10 things to consider.
- Keep It Simple
Don’t try and re-design the world. Find someone that’s done it before, talk to your competitors, listen to recommendations both positive and negative. What’s right for someone else isn’t necessarily right for you. It needs to be simple for you to use. You want something that’s going to enhance your business, not be a noose around your neck.
- Research the programme
Look for a system that has been designed specifically with Transport Management in mind. If they’ve not consulted with or been part of the industry, steer clear. It needs to be simple & practical for your type of business.
If your system is going to add value, it needs to also seamlessly integrate with your accounting system. Also consider how well your accounting system is working for you, this might be the perfect time for a change.
- Is it Cost Effective
What are you looking to save? The right Transport Management Programme will certainly save you time and money in the long run, but you need to be prepared to spend some time learning about the programme and what it can do for you.
Be sure to ask what the setup cost is, and are there ongoing costs for help and support?
- Don’t fear Technology
Don’t be scared of technology. It is the way of the future and it can be simple to use, and will certainly make your life way easier. Sit down for 5 minutes and have a play with your ipad or phone, you will be surprised how easy it can be.
- Cloud
Cloud?! Yes it does sound scary. What it really means is that your information is available to anyone at any time. You can effectively manage your business from anywhere. You can be overseas, or even out on your boat fishing.
- One data entry
It is important to know that one data entry into your transport management system will flow on to do the various things you want it to do, rather than re-entering the details a number of times. Ask the question, does one data entry flow right through to invoicing?
- Mobile App
Is there a mobile application? A mobile app ensures your drivers have the correct job information at all times. Ensure the mobile app is applicable to both apple and android devices.
- Paperless
With Cloud Storage, everything is saved online so therefore paperless. Contacts, Daysheets, Pricing, Invoicing, and reporting. Your Transport Management System will remove the hassle of endless paperwork, & again is accessible anytime, anywhere.
- Multiple Users
Are the number of users unlimited, or do you pay per user? Be sure to check this one out. It is very handy to be able to have multiple dispatchers or users being able to use the same information at the same time. But, do check your users can have different access levels so they can’t see all information.
- Support
Support is key, especially in the early stages of learning how to use your Transport Management system. You want to ensure you have the ability to contact someone at all times to assist you with your questions.
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