Articles

The idea of using data as a tool to drive business decisions began in the 1980s. Since then, advances in hardware and software technologies have dramatically improved our ability to work with data causing radical shifts in how we do business. According to recent studies, the amount of data that is collected daily doubles every two years.

Most large parcel shippers would agree that the parcel industry is evolving at a pace more rapidly than we have seen in recent history. After years of shippers designing and operating their parcel networks primarily based on FedEx and UPS's service capabilities, we are seeing a shift to alternative network strategies that permit the incorporation of other carriers' solutions. In an industry dominated primarily by two large carriers, opportunities are quickly arising that lower the barriers...

I am noticing Regional carriers are gaining more interest than ever in the parcel shipping community these days. They have been a presence for years in the industry, but recent parcel industry trends and developments are thrusting them onto an even larger stage. Retailers in particular have been a primary factor in providing greater stardom for the Regionals. As most in the parcel industry are aware, omni-channel retailing strategies are disrupting how retailing is conducted. As a result, the methods for fulfilling and delivering consumer orders are also being disrupted. A primary objective of the omni-channel strategy is optimizing inventory...

As the pressure to stay ahead of the competition has increased, many shippers are working to increase flexibility in their networks. A common goal for shippers is developing a nimble network to meet the high expectations of consumers... Well-meant intentions can result in increased cost and poor service if quality processes for operational execution are not deployed...