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When we think of Federal Express we, of course, think of timely package delivery. But who among us has not been impressed at one time or another with the Federal Express capability to tell us just exactly where our package is at any time. Federal Express has really set the standard for customer service in this business generation. If Federal Express can pick up a package, transport it across vast distances in a very short time, move it between trucks, planes and buildings, deliver it to a precise location, get a record of that delivery and be able to report on that odyssey in real time, all for about twenty dollars, then shouldn't every business be able to offer the same level of information to it's customers?
Don't kid yourself ... the customer now expects this.
And with the internet it is now possible for every business to supply real time
fulfillment information to all it's customers and salespeople.
The internet as a business tool is rapidly evolving. With the introduction of web services the internet is changing from an information tool to a business process automation tool. In a few short years we will look back on the initial blossoming of the internet with a certain amount of amused condescension.
The management of the movement of our products must now be meticulously documented. Using barcode scanners and computerized inventory and sales systems we can establish the information base for 'Fedexizing' our businesses.
The good news is that handheld barcode scanners are now coming of age. Using the 'palm pilot' sized machines the cost of implementing a 'closed loop' inventory which tracks the movement of goods from purchase order, to receiving, to sales and finally delivery has fallen dramatically.
- The benefits of a closed loop inventory system are truly immense
- Improved customer service
- Greatly improved product availability
- Reduced inventory levels
- Reduced logistics costs.
