http://bit.ly/TranportSoftware - What cloud-based logistics software give enterprises is the power of connectivity and accessibility without the burden of maintaining the infrastructure. With the cloud, the user gets both software and "hardware" so operations can proceed as usual.
2. Has it finally come for cloud solutions to take centre stage and
control the Australian supply chain industry? The issue of moving
IT infrastructure to the cloud seems to be a debate among IT
consultants only. But the reality is decision makers in transport and
logistics enterprises should be involved. That's because taking the
cloud as an option, as opposed to staying with local-based
technologies, is a decision that can affect not just this quarter's
financial expenditures but also the company's ROI in the long run.
3. The Limitations of Local-Based Programs
Today, many Australian enterprises still use localised programs to run their operations.
These are computer programs that are hosted within office premises. Smaller data
hardware are often referred to as "closet servers" because they occupy little space as
opposed to full-blown data centres and are located inside the office. However, logistics
software that is hosted in such servers have several limitations that not only prevent the
business from improving services; they also cause expenses, albeit discreetly.
As opposed to cloud solutions, local servers are limited to operating within a set
network. This means, the only computers that can access the software are those
connected to the network. While some enterprises have managed to make their
program available on via wireless Intranet, it is still limited to the Intranet and cannot
be accessed via the Internet. This means drivers and other employees off-site, or off the
network, will need to record data manually and encode it again manually once they
arrive in company premises. This leads to waste of employee hours and lower
productivity. It can also lead to a raise in human error.
But that's just one side of the problem. The other side is with expenses related to the
purchase and maintenance of IT infrastructure. A local-based program will need an
upfront investment as equipment needs to be purchased. The recurring expenses
involve utilities and overhead for IT managers and staff. This issue is solved through
cloud solutions.
4. The Cloud AsThe Option
The cloud is not an option, it is THE option.
For Australian supply chain companies, the
ROI will depend on movement of the goods –
whether children's toys or iron ore from
mines, it doesn't matter.Your company
cannot rely on local software because your
people are always on the move. To improve
employee productivity, they must have
access to your crucial systems wherever they
are. But given your operations software is
available on the Internet, it does not address
the other issue, which is incurring expenses
via purchase and maintenance of local-based
IT infrastructure.
5. .
What cloud-based logistics software give
enterprises is the power of connectivity and
accessibility without the burden of maintaining
the infrastructure. With the cloud, the user
gets both software and "hardware" so
operations can proceed as usual. However,
with this option, you won't have to purchase
actual hardware and maintain it. The provider
has that covered. And unlike dedicated
servers, you can easily increase or decrease
your bandwidth requirements based on the
needs of the company and do it in real time.
6. So, has time come for Australian supply chain companies to move
to cloud solutions? The best way to approach this is to consult
with your software provider and see if your company can move to
the cloud.
7. So, has time come for Australian supply chain companies to move
to cloud solutions? The best way to approach this is to consult
with your software provider and see if your company can move to
the cloud.
