‘Choose the technology that’s right for you’

RAY SMUTS
DIFFERENTIATING competitors in logistics operations – a trend set to continue this year – relies largely on rapidly developing international technology. The big question posed by Macro2000 marketing executive, Anthea van Breemen, is: “How does one choose the right technology partner that will benefit both logistics suppliers and their customers within the supply chain?” There is the option of packaged solutions or the tailored approach, each with its own benefits. Van Breemen says if the packaged solution provides the correct fit for one’s business, the ROI should be substantially faster than the tailored software option, which takes time to develop but will provide the 100% fit required. The third option, offering the best of both worlds, is the packaged solution that can be tailored to give companies that 100% fit. Van Breemen suggests that when looking at this particular option, it is wise to work directly with the system’s developers to ensure the project can be delivered within a reasonable time span and that the new development becomes part of the original package. “When choosing a technology supplier it is also imperative to ensure they are capable of communicating information with other technology suppliers. “Co-operative logistics is the future, comprising the pooling of synchronised data and crossing all company boundaries.”