Logistics is the intersection where the physical world of cargo operations meets data, facilitating the movement of supply chains. Interruptions in these processes can significantly increase the risk of slow or halted cargo operations. In logistics, eliminating manual steps can greatly enhance process efficiency. To get there, the industry needs an elixir for its many data-related shortcomings.
At Splice, bridging the gap between systems to drive process efficiency is our number one priority. It is evident in our products.
Splice Exports: When booking confirmations arrive, Splice kicks off new processes to track the frequent changes in export receiving dates and vessel schedules. Splice automates the collection, sorting and retention of earliest return dates, port cut-offs, document cut-offs, VMG cut-offs, and vessel arrivals and departures to streamline export logistics.
Yard Spot: Container yards are all about optimizing movement in a tight space to increase throughput and decrease turn times. Yard Spot combines multiple data sources to form a common operating picture that coordinates inbound, warehouse and outbound yard operations.
API Integration Platform: The platform lets users connect systems, set up event-based triggers, and use pre-built integrations to create automated dataflows between all kinds of systems.
Event-driven automation requires data integration and translation to make it work. Inside Splice are capabilities that users don’t see, but wow, they make a difference! Let’s break down what we have under the hood.
Delta Engine: Known as the Delta Engine within the company, it monitors and tracks changes in data points as updates flow in. When data arrives and it has changed, we keep track of the source, when it changed and its previous value. The delta engine provides accurate insight into the change history.
Rosetta Stone: The Rosetta Stone allows Splice to translate and normalize data so it can move between systems that otherwise cannot understand each other. No matter the language, standard or protocol, Splice puts your data to work – rather than you working for your data.
Washroom: Data cleansing is all about avoiding the adage of “garbage in, garbage out.” Poor data quality is not a problem confined to shipping and logistics, but in this fast-moving business where the relevance and value of data changes quickly, it is a confounding problem. Splice has implemented various tools to check accuracy and increase confidence in the outputs. For example, Splice Exports checks vessel names and receiving locations against industry databases to ensure information lines up. It is an important step to make sure the data comes out clean.
Event-driven automation creates a lot of value because it can affect so many aspects of shipping and logistics. Splice has created a system to enable event-driven dataflows for many clear reasons. For you, the list may feel familiar, but because it includes issues that occupy your thoughts and planning of a more efficient and resilient supply chain.
Faster, More-Timely Decision Making
Event-driven data automation enables timely situation monitoring and decision-making. In container shipping, where timing is critical, being able to respond immediately to events such as delays, changes in weather conditions, or port congestion can significantly improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Enhanced Operational Efficiency
Enhanced efficiency and productivity of people and assets key expected outcomes of event-driven dataflows. This comes about by reducing manual intervention in dataflows. Automatic updates to vessel and dispatch schedules flowing into a TMS, YMS or other supply systems help maintain smooth operations and reduce human error.
Improved Supply Chain Visibility
Event-driven systems provide end-to-end visibility of the supply chain. Stakeholders can track shipments in near real time, monitor their status, and receive alerts for any deviations from the plan. This transparency helps in managing expectations and improving coordination among different parties. Would you want to rely on visibility tools that require a person in the loop to make an update?
Proactive Problem Resolution
By automating responses to specific events, companies can proactively address issues before they escalate. For example, if a container is delayed at a port, automated systems can immediately reroute shipments, notify customers, and update delivery schedules, minimizing disruptions.
Cost Reduction
Automation reduces the need for manual labor and the associated costs. By responding to events without human intervention, companies can lower operational costs. Additionally, avoiding delays and optimizing routes through automated systems can result in significant cost savings.
Scalability
Event-driven architectures are inherently scalable. As the volume of shipping activities grows, the system can handle increased data and events without a corresponding increase in manual processing, allowing businesses to expand efficiently.
Compliance and Documentation
Automated systems ensure that all regulatory requirements and documentation are consistently updated and maintained. Event-driven triggers can automatically generate and submit necessary paperwork, ensuring compliance with international shipping regulations and reducing the risk of fines and penalties.
Customer Satisfaction
Customers appreciate timely updates on the status of their shipments. Automated notifications about delivery schedules, delays, and other relevant events enhance customer service and satisfaction by keeping them informed and managing their expectations.
Data-Driven Insights
Collecting and analyzing data from event-driven systems can provide valuable insights into operational performance. Companies can identify patterns, optimize routes, improve resource allocation, and make informed strategic decisions based on comprehensive data analysis.
Risk Management
Event-driven automation helps in identifying and mitigating risks promptly. For example, monitoring of container conditions (like temperature and humidity) can trigger alerts if they go out of the specified range, preventing damage to sensitive cargo and reducing insurance claims.
In summary, event-driven data automation is pivotal in shipping and logistics for improving efficiency, reducing costs, ensuring compliance, and enhancing customer satisfaction through automated responses to dynamic events in the supply chain.
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