Expanding the Functionality of the Logistics Application

Background

Originally, all the information needed to manage cargo transportation was a collection of tables. A better user experience was required to enable them to work faster and make better decisions.

Business Challenge

Introduce a new process that would make it easier for users to manage data and speed up decision making.

Solution

Each service in the customer’s system contains information about cargo transportation. For example, a cargo needs to be transported from point A to point B on another continent. Accordingly, the company’s employees need to determine the route for delivery, find a vessel suitable for cargo placement, issue all documents, arrange shipping, deliver the cargo, and collect statistics.

Instead of presenting all data in tables, we decided to display services on a map. For this purpose, a system was developed for analyzing the route network and using it in planning. Ports, vessels, types of containers and information about availability and maintenance of vessels are located on the map.

Further, we decided to supplement the functionality with real-time tracking of vessels and developed a system of on-line monitoring. Some of the information is in the public domain (the type of vessel, its heading and speed), and some is in the private domain (cargo, loading relative to the waterline). A map is available in the application, which shows all the vessels of the customer and the customer’s partners.

Later we also developed an analytical system for generating reports, uploading and downloading files, and comparing various metrics. In addition, the information became available to a wider range of people, including the company’s partners.

Result

The company achieved more extensive process automation. Decision-making speed has increased because fewer people are able to process more information. Now the system supports 120 services and more than 800 vessels.