Unusual logistics processes have long been a challenge for companies whose business model is to make short batches of bespoke products. Until now, most companies have had to manually handle every step of the process. Rapidly developing technology and low-code platforms, which are gaining in popularity, come to the rescue in such cases. They provide the possibility to create applications tailored to the individual needs of a manufacturing company and map the actual processes occurring in logistics. Thanks to their use, order processing can be performed considerably faster and more efficiently.
Which logistics processes may be challenging?
The main task of logistics in a manufacturing company is to optimally manage the flow of raw and semi-finished materials and the resulting final products to be delivered to the customer. This involves a number of various stages, such as the organisation of procurement, warehousing, distribution of goods and handling of returns. All of this requires extremely careful planning and an efficient flow of information, as any downtime, shortages or inefficient use of resources can lead to huge losses for the company.
In places where production is on a mass scale, the processes are repetitive and predictable, so that the emphasis in logistics is above all on achieving even greater planning precision and thus savings.
Unlike multi-batch production, companies with complex individual orders have to deal with far more difficult challenges. The production of unique and at the same time highly sophisticated equipment or installations poses numerous problems. It is then necessary not only to meticulously control the production process, but also the loading, packaging, preparation of shipping documents and to ensure that the specialists receive the complete set of components necessary to assemble the order on site. Often, manufactured goods require specialised transport due to their considerable size or other unusual characteristics. Preparing and shipping such materials to the customer is no longer a process, but an art. It usually turns out then that the modules provided by the ERP system are insufficient to swiftly coordinate the full execution of the order.
How can VSoft archITekt solve the problem with unusual processes?
When faced with the challenge of completing an unusual logistics process, manufacturing companies tend to manually oversee every step, thus exposing themselves to major pitfalls. Few companies actually realise that they can considerably facilitate their work by reaching for low-code solutions. When choosing such a platform, it is worth considering the VSoft archITekt tool. One of its key advantages is that it allows an already operating process to be mirrored in a way that is as relevant and convenient as possible for the people involved. By using archITekt, the logistics process can be automated, which not only takes some responsibilities from the employees, but also significantly speeds up production execution. Employees can use all the data entered into the system whenever they need to, and a large proportion of tasks can be carried out with just a few clicks.
What are the business benefits of automating the logistics process?
By building a consistent application that automates the logistics process, we gain a single place where all order data is collected. This considerably minimises the risk of costly mistakes, such as shipping an incomplete product. Moreover, tedious and time-consuming activities, for example, preparation of shipping documents, from now on can be done automatically using the document generation module of the VSoft archITekt platform. This allows employees to focus on other, more critical tasks that require specialist knowledge and experience. It is also worth noting that the onboarding time for logistics employees is significantly reduced. This is because onboarding to new duties is much easier when they are to be performed using an efficient IT system.
What are the other advantages of the VSoft archITekt platform?
Thanks to the integration capabilities of the mass data processing module, the logistics process can be automatically supplied with data directly from the ERP system. This means that we do not have to manually enter, for instance, lists of components to be dispatched – archITekt will complete them itself, at the same time allowing the possibility of adding further information.
It is also a great advantage that the built application works on both computers and mobile devices. When a logistics employee receives a new order, they can verify the items to be shipped by walking around the site and taking notes from their phone or tablet. Then, upon returning to the office, they can finalise the shipping planning already on their computer. This significantly increases both convenience and speed.
Importantly, the application can be developed in stages – it does not have to cover all logistics at once, generating the need for detailed staff training and the additional stress associated with change. Key elements of the process can be implemented at the outset and then gradually developed. Moreover, potential amendments or modifications based on employee feedback can take place in subsequent iterations.
VSoft archITekt is the perfect solution for unusual logistics processes. The platform can be successfully used at various stages of production, streamlining the entire process of order completion and minimising the risk of errors. A company that uses modern technology, tailored to its individual needs, is not only one step ahead of its competitors, but also, thanks to its high-quality service, stands out in the eyes of its contractors.
Slawomir Gierek
Head of Business Development for VSoft archITekt
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