Empowering Companies Through Integrated Data Flows

摘要

Q: What are some key data management challenges in logistics today? A: One key challenge is the different types of information flows. For example, some companies use electronic data interchange; others prefer XML or flat file. The choice often depends on the industry vertical, the company's capabilities, and how their suppliers operate. For example, in the fashion business, some small suppliers use outdated technology. They may still communicate via fax, which is unacceptable to many trading partners in this day of advanced data management. Sometimes companies need to help suppliers improve their capabilities in this area. The supplier might even leverage the company's or the third-party logistics (3PL) provider's technology. Either way, data needs to flow electronically, rather than manually, to improve accuracy and efficiency for everyone.