Organizing processing systems for effectiveness

¶ … Organizing Processing for Effectiveness

The effective organization of transportation processes is one of the most complex and challenging tasks that any planner can undertake. A system that is well planned and well organized will run both smoothly and effectively as well as be able to successfully adapt to any changes that come along. Some of the most common considerations in planning a transportation system effectively are load maximization and optimization, inventory systems, support infrastructure and resources, and the ability to adapt to real-time situations and problems that will ultimately arise from human error. All of these considerations combined help to give a transportation planner a macro view of the system, and help to give the planner an accurate inventory of the requirements necessary in planning and building an effective transportation system.

The ability to direct shipments of cargo to their required destinations sounds easier than the task often is. When a port grows to be large enough to accommodate multi-modal forms of transportation, it is often difficult to direct all the cargo. Software solutions allow managers and planners track shipments from warehouse to warehouse as well as in transit (Pinedo, 2009). All of the different stops along the way help to increase to complexity of the task. Since many trucks and ships deliver shipments to multiple ports in one trip, it is often necessary to optimize the loading of these shipments on the vehicles (Krajewska and Kopfer, 2009). If the loading is done correctly, and the shipments can be delivered in order with less time spent sorting or sifting, then the processing of freight can occur much more smoothly.

Proper loading also helps to ensure that the supply chain is utilizing optimal capacity. If the freight load increases in certain parts of the year or month, the system needs to be robust and adaptable enough to deal with these ebbs and floods (Stadtler and Kilger, 2005). Optimal capacity is not about maximizing capacity, rather it is ensuring that the shipments are sent in the most efficient, cost-effective manner (Krajewska and Kopfer, 2009). And in planning a transportation system, these considerations must be taken seriously for the supply chain to function properly. Load maximization is dependent on route maximization as well. A transportation planner who can create a supply chain and delivery system that maximizes loads both coming and going from destination to destination will also be more efficient.

All well-planned transportation systems have a traceable inventory system as well (Crainic, Ricciardi, and Storchi, 2009). This type of system allows people to see where shipments are in transit as well as once they are delivered. The accuracy of these systems is critical in being able to create solutions for delays and missed shipments. Delays and missed shipments are going to occur no matter how well organized a transportation process or system is. But being able to effectively deal with these missed shipments and delays sets apart a well-organized process from one that is not. It is very important for a system to be adaptable enough to cover shortfalls and to make it possible to act on events that occur within a certain timeframe (Crainic, Ricciardi, and Storchi, 2009). Many solutions are time-sensitive, and require quick and decisive actions from the planners and managers. Delays are opportunities for implementing creative planning and effective solutions. They should also be viewed from the planning standpoint as opportunities for more effective future planning and places where transportation planners can learn from the mistakes of previous planners and organizers.

Just as important as being able to have an adaptable supply chain is the ability to notify planners and managers when a shipment or delivery is not moving as expected (Stadtler and Kilger, 2005). Smooth flow of shipments is not a fact of life, and since many mistakes are likely to occur over the lifetime of the system, the ability to be notified in a timely manner of these mistakes and problems is key in planning and implementing a supply chain solution (Crainic, Ricciardi, and Storchi, 2009). Transportation planners should not plan a system with idea that perfection can be attained. Human beings will make mistakes. It is the ability to recognize when these mistakes occur, preferably as soon as practical, that sets a productive, efficient supply chain apart from one that is neither productive, nor efficient.

Effective organizational planning is not just about planning the actual shipping infrastructure, it's also important to take into account the necessary support systems and structures that allow shipments to be delivered quickly and effectively (Pinedo, 2009). These support systems include the machinery and vehicles that help to load, unload, service, refuel, and repair the ships, cars, trucks, planes, and other vehicles involved in the supply chain. Proper operational consideration for these types of equipment is necessary, just as a pit crew is necessary for a racecar to win a race. It is important that a transportation planner be able to direct these resources efficiently and effectively. Delays and missed shipments can occur if the system is unable to fully support even a completely optimized transportation supply chain infrastructure.