When we talk about logistics, we refer to all the processes involved in the supply chain that drive the correct performance of companies. In e-commerce, this area has become crucial, but we must not forget that adapting to new market demands is also very important.
The rise of e-commerce has multiplied the complexity of logistics operations. In a sector that is expected to exceed €18.19 billion by 2022, according to the CNMCIt is only natural that the activities that set in motion the mechanisms of its functioning have to be as precise as possible.
Within the new parameters governing the functioning of consumption, customer satisfaction and customer service have become factors of great relevance, establishing standards such as faster deliveries or free returns.
For all these reasons, the demand for more agile and flexible operations requires the introduction of new instruments to keep up with the established pace. Digitalisation is the tool of choice to achieve these objectives, replacing once manual methodologies with more advanced ones capable of automated and highly accurate management.
Logistics information systems are born from this manifesto, from the need to adapt to a growing e-commerce, which is expected to continue to grow. one more 20% this 2023. Thus, as we can see on a daily basis, logistics is an essential foundation for the success of operations in this area and these methods are presented as the solution to optimise the supply chain of these shops and ensure a unique experience for consumers.
What do we mean by logistics information systems?
LIS are technological programmes for the extraction and processing of information from the various logistics areas. The aim is to facilitate decision-making, as well as the resolution of setbacks, the planning of strategies, the management of the supply chain and the improvement of customer service.
In this way, these systems are key elements in the evolution and digitalisation of companies, born under the premise of reducing errors that occur throughout the activity.
These solutions ensure that businesses have constant bi-directional data flows to, for example, improve business connectivity or product tracking.
What makes the LIS stand out is that it obtains information in real time, updating the areas of the companies that require this data at all times. In this way, it will be possible to know the precise location of an order or collect documents that allow us to improve the performance of the distribution and return of goods.
Among the benefits of integrating these systems into the company's daily activities are: reduction of errors, cost and time savings, optimisation of deliveries, increased customer welfare and improved work management.
What are the drivers of this integration?
The introduction of LIS in e-commerce platforms comes as a response to several key factors.
- The need to streamline and synchronise information flows between the operators involved in the supply chain. Simple and fluid communication is essential for distribution to be carried out efficiently in terms of planning and execution.
- Increasing demand for visibility and traceability of shipments. Consumers are increasingly demanding data that provides real-time reports on the status of their orders. At both the beginning and end of the process, customers want to know everything about what they have bought, to have greater control over their actions. By integrating these systems into the e-commerce organisation, we offer a much more transparent and reliable service. In addition, problems that may arise in this part of the activity can be solved quickly thanks to it.
- Increasing reverse logistics. Returns have become the bread and butter of e-commerce. As a task that can generate multiple conflicts between consumer and seller, it must be tackled effectively if the success of the business is not to be undermined. With the annexation of LIS to the platforms, the management and administration of returns can be greatly facilitated, resulting in improved times and reduced costs.
With all these players in play, logistics information systems are the most efficient way to improve logistics operations and thus achieve customer satisfaction. Companies that are committed to increasing their visibility, data quality and customer service will position themselves with a significant competitive advantage over the large e-commerce market.
In Side Logistics is the logistics operator you need if you want to improve the capacity of your business. With extensive experience in digital transformation projects, they offer the most appropriate services depending on the client's needs, adapting to each of them. They guarantee the commitment, technology and invocation that will take your business to the next level.
