Communication Systems for Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Communication Systems for Logistics and Supply Chain Management are crucial to keeping day-to-day operations running smoothly but they’re even more important when emergencies and crisis situations arise. Learn how Regroup Mass Notification is your one-stop solution for all scenarios.

Supply chain and logistics management involves the processes, people and technology used to source raw materials and component parts, build products and deliver goods to end-users. This can involve manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, transportation, wholesalers and retailers. Communication systems are essential for any business that moves goods from one place to another. Logistics and supply chain management is no exception. There are different communication needs, protocols and systems used in these fields with specific requirements depending on the needs of individual organizations. In this article, we explore how effective communication is crucial to maintaining a proper supply chain and logistics structure that works as planned during day-to-day operations and in case of emergencies.

Importance of Effective Communication System in Logistics

Communication is the most important component in any logistics operation where goods are being transported. Communication systems used in supply chain communications are designed to keep track of all the shipments and their status at all times while maintaining reliable communication with key players in the field, at headquarters and in different locations at all times.

There are many different types of communication systems and needs in logistics management, including:

• Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are small devices that can be attached to a shipment to transmit identifying information.
• Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled devices send data from the logistics operation to a central computer system.
• Portable computers and handheld devices allow for two-way communication between operations personnel, dispatch managers and on-site logistics staff.
• Voice communication allows real-time exchange of information between logistics operations and with clients.
• Text messages between logistics operations, dispatch managers and clients are also common.
• Email allows for the exchange of data between logistics operations and dispatch managers.
• Cloud-based communication systems allow for the storage and management of data and communications between logistics operations and dispatch managers.
• Computer-based system software enables the exchange of data between logistics operations and dispatch managers.

The most important step you can take is to partner with a dependable provider that has the capacity to create a reliable system that includes all your communication channels and is easy to deploy, manage and scale.

Inventory, Logistics & Supply Chain communications for businesses

Businesses that rely on the flow of goods through their supply chain are increasingly turning to communications systems that can track inventory and manage logistics operations. The following are among the most common communication systems used in supply chain communications.

• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are computer-based systems that manage inventory, shipping and logistics operations, including communications. WMS systems are either stand-alone systems that are built on software designed for inventory management or they’re part of a computer-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, which handles the entire business operation.
• Routing systems are computer-based systems that assist with routing inventory from one location to another.
• Order-confirmation systems allow businesses to confirm orders with clients.
• Paging systems notify employees of important information.
• Voice communication systems allow for two-way voice communication between employees and clients.
• Text messaging systems allow the exchange of text messages between employees and clients.

Handling these systems requires reliable communications between key players that are located in different locations and rely on different devices to communicate with each other. That’s why it’s crucial to count on a system that efficiently connects all of them.

A mass notification platform, like Regroup, can help logistics professionals tie their entire communication plan together. Used for routine business, Regroup can help get the word out when there are supply chain disruptions, rescheduling needs or even shift availability. Used in conjunction with an overarching communications strategy, Regroup enables logistics companies a more immediate and reliable way to get essential information to the people who need to know.

Day-to-Day Mass Communication Alerts

While some communication systems are more focused on specific areas of logistics management, others are designed to handle day-to-day communications as well. These systems are beneficial for almost any organization with a significant number of employees and various locations/routes to manage.

In order to build a reliable communication network with all stakeholders, you need the ability to:

• Broadcast available loads
• Conference team members from anywhere
• Issue reminders and invoices
• Keep stakeholders informed of delays
• Two-way conference to check load status
• Send road closure notices

Additionally, you need a platform that is easy-to-use and easy to learn, with reliable 24/7 support, advanced messaging options like AdHoc and geo-targeting, scheduled messaging, RSS feeds connectivity for websites and portals, dedicated short codes, automatic database synchronization capabilities and more.

Since 2006, Regroup Mass Notification has provided a robust and easy-to-use cloud-based platform that keeps people, property and assets safe in the event of a crisis and businesses communicating effectively every day. Used as a complement to your company’s overall communication strategy, Regroup closes the gaps by delivering to email, text/SMS, push notifications, corporate intranets and a multitude of other channels. Logistics companies have come to rely on Regroup to keep their people safe, informed and productive during routine business and critical events alike.

Communication in Logistics Management During a Crisis

When an organization is under duress, whether due to an emergency, a natural disaster, extreme weather, or during any other sort of emergency situation, communication between departments becomes even more important. The following are among the most crucial ways a reliable communication system can help your organization handle emergencies and crises effectively:

• Notify staff and authorities of emergencies
• Issue severe weather warnings
• Active shooter or criminal activity alerts
• Give critical updates
• Enable staff and drivers to report their status
• Alert staff of critical outages (IT, phone lines)

Your Next Steps

We invite you to schedule a quick, no-hassle demonstration of the Regroup Mass Notification platform to learn how your organization can improve internal and external communications during emergency situations or day-to-day operations. Click below to get started.