Cut the Sheet: Using a TMS vs. spreadsheets to manage your supply chain

Microsoft Excel turned 30 this year and while it’s still one of the most widely used programs in corporations to this day, it’s nothing more than a blank template waiting for numbers to be calculated. The program was not designed to integrate with other systems, run routine auditing, solve complex processes, or serve as a multidimensional database.

If you are using Excel as a sole solution in your logistics management operations, then it may be time to question your visibility, efficiency, actionable data, and the timeliness of that information; all of which is critical to driving success in your organization’s supply chain.

The right transportation management system (TMS) brings technology into the supply chain, driving efficiency and offering shippers a 360-degree view of their network, on demand and in real-time. Business intelligence (BI) tools within your TMS make it possible to analyze data quickly and accurately, allowing your team to make data-driven decisions.  This type of reporting provides specific insight into your shipments to find trends and areas for continuous improvement.

To determine your organization’s TMS requirements, first review your strategic goals and assess your primary pain points. When discussing those pain points with a potential TMS partner, that partner should listen, analyze, and create solutions specific to your company.

Many TMS systems will have similar features; the true differentiator is how does your partner turn those features into customized solutions that not only reduce cost, but also create more efficient and sustainable transportation programs within your organization.

If you are ready to cut the (spread)sheet, request a TMS demo with Sunset Transportation to learn how you can gain visibility and improve your supply chain from dock to delivery.