The transportation management system (TMS) is the lifeblood for operations within the trucking industry, providing freight management, route optimization, and much more. However, with so many options available, TMS selection can cause headaches.
As explained by Inbound Logistics, “Transportation management systems (TMS) offer major potential benefits to shippers in the supply chain, but only when companies use due diligence to select a solution that is an optimum fit for their profile and needs.”
Since TMS selection affects nearly every level of the organization for members in the trucking operation, it is important to consult those that will be utilizing the system. To make the best TMS selection, companies should consult a few leaders and core individuals in their businesses when establishing their change management team to enable ongoing digitization in the supply chain with the right systems.
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The Chief Financial Officer
One of the most important employees to consult in TMS selection is the chief financial officer (CFO).
A CFO will have access to all of the financial data that will need consideration within the selection process. There are numerous costs associated with TMS operation and sustainability. Involving the CFO will ensure that all matters regarding financials will come into consideration.
Supply Chain Strategy Officer
Another crucial employee to involve in TMS selection is the Supply Chain Strategy Officer.
This individual has the most remarkable insight into what needs the TMS must fulfill. Additionally, the individual in this role will be keenly aware of what systems will benefit the company. They have an incredibly dense understanding of the company’s supply chain operations.
Ultimately, their knowledge is utterly vital in the selection process.
Warehouse, Distribution, or Supply Chain Directors
Warehouse and distribution managers can also lend valuable insight into TMS selection.
These managers have access to the individual warehouse needs and will likely understand what the TMS should prioritize. This ensures that the TMS is consistently beneficial at every level of the company’s operations.
Everyday Workers That Represent the Workhorse Behind Your Brand
Many businesses fail to understand that the everyday workers within their company have some of the most ground-level insight needed in TMS selection.
While it is not practical or necessary to involve every employee in the selection process, these individuals must be consulted regarding what they wish to see within TMS implementation. Additionally, involving lower-level employees in companywide decisions can improve morale. This means that not only will everyday workers offer valuable insight into the selection process, but they are likely to feel more involved in the process and more willing to participate.
While not necessarily commonly discussed within the TMS buyer’s journey, these workers have real-world insight into its possible use is critical to making the right choice.
Director of Operations
The Director of Operations can offer precious information regarding what the customers want from the business.
Once this is established and incorporated into TMS selection, companies can make a decision that will likely boost customer interaction and retainment.
Marketing Personnel and the CIO or Information Technology Director
Lastly, along with the CIO or Information Technology Director, marketing personnel should undoubtedly be involved in TMS selection.
This prepares the marketing team to know how to identify and describe the benefits of the new system to partners and potential customers.
Enhance Your TMS Selection by Building the Right Change Management Team at Inception
It is important to realize that some of the above individuals may serve dual roles depending on the size and scale of your business.
For instance, the Director of Operations may double as the Director of Transportation or the Vice President of Supply Chain Operations. Meanwhile, the Executive champion could also be the CFO, the Owner/Founder, or even the CIO. It’s all subject to the unique needs of the business. Moreover, some organizations may opt for name differences in comparable roles, such as Supply Chain Strategy Officer versus Supply Chain Director.
