Overview
Birlasoft executes a seamless migration of OTM to the cloud and implements the latest capabilities to support complex planning and accelerate claims and inspection processes.
Logistics is central to the automotive industry, directly influencing distribution efficiency, production KPIs, and customer outcomes. For this reason, applying the latest logistics orchestration capabilities is essential to managing complex supply chains effectively in this sector.
Our client, the logistics arm of a multibillion-dollar OEM, felt the need to modernize its existing Oracle Transportation Management (OTM) environment, which had been deployed by Birlasoft six years prior – to support its extensive logistics operations, which span multiple plants and distribution centers.
Satisfied with their prior engagement, our client partnered with us again to upgrade their OTM deployment and migrate it to the latest version of OTM Cloud. They also wanted to address additional operational requirements by adopting the latest OTM capabilities. Read the details of this engagement and its key outcomes below.
The Challenge
1. Complex transportation operations across multiple locations
In the automotive industry, managing a network of plants, stockyards, and dealers requires seamless coordination. The client managed transportation operations involving 15 plants, multiple finished goods (FG) yards, regional stockyards (RSO), and dealer locations. Orchestrating this complex network demanded a more advanced, integrated solution to streamline operations.
2. Process complexities in custody transfer and loading/unloading inspections
Due to a lack of standardization, the custody transfer of finished goods between plants, clients, and transporters was manual and error prone. These inefficiencies led to frequent delays, mismanagement of goods, and increased operational costs.
3. Inadequate delivery confirmation capabilities and lengthy settlement cycles
The lack of real-time delivery confirmations and delayed payments can disrupt cash flow and slow down the supply chain in the fast-paced automotive sector. The absence of Electronic Proof of Delivery (E-POD) and optimal claims settlement capabilities increased complexity in the client’s operations. The lack of a digital solution for capturing and processing delivery confirmations led to prolonged settlement cycles, which delayed the payment processes.
For these reasons, the client identified the need to upgrade their OTM environment to leverage the latest features available in the cloud version.
The Solution
1. Migration of OTM to the latest cloud version
Birlasoft first migrated the client’s on-premise OTM deployment to the latest version of OTM Cloud. This migration unlocked immediate access to advanced cloud-based features, provided seamless scalability, and improved system performance. The shift to the cloud also facilitated better integration with other digital tools.
2. Complex planning and process enablement
Birlasoft implemented sophisticated planning capabilities, like capacity constraints and multi-stop moves. This enabled strict adherence to Carrier Shipment Order Booking (SOB), which led to optimal planning and orchestration of complex transportation operations. Additionally, the custody transfer process was streamlined with digitization and standardization, improving the efficiency of goods transfer.
3. Pre- and post-loading trailer inspection and E-POD adoption
Birlasoft enabled trailer inspections with digital checklists, which brought consistency and reduced errors in pre- and post-loading inspections. In addition, we streamlined the implementation of digitized E-POD and claims settlement workflows with new features. This expedited payment processes and enhanced the accuracy of delivery confirmations.
4. Integration with SAP, Handheld Devices, and GPS
Lastly, we integrated the OTM Cloud environment with SAP, handheld devices, and GPS technology. This enabled real-time data synchronization and tracking, which brought granular visibility and traceability of goods across the supply chain. The GPS integration provided real-time location data, facilitating better route planning and more accurate delivery time predictions. Handheld devices enabled connected field operations and critical data was captured and processed instantly, leading to quicker responses to operational issues.
The Impact
1. Enhanced visibility and efficiency
The migration to OTM Cloud, SAP, GPS integrations, and EPOD brought granular visibility, which led to more efficient freight planning, better resource utilization, and enhanced financial control, ultimately contributing to significant operational cost savings.
2. Streamlined and standardized workflows
Digital enablement with EPOD, checklist-based inspections, and digitization of claims workflows minimized manual errors and drove consistent outcomes in key workflows.
3. Significant time and cost savings
The enhancements and migration to the cloud reduced the settlement cycle time by 60%, contributing to significant cost savings and operational efficiency for the client.
By entrusting their logistics transformation to Birlasoft once again, the client has realized significant strategic and operational benefits with advanced OTM capabilities and set them up on a scalable digital foundation.
Are you looking to transform logistics operations with OTM? Contact the Oracle experts at Birlasoft to start today.
