Sterlite implements tracking solution for complex outbound logistics
For Sterlite Technologies it was the introduction of a simple tracking technology solution that came in handy to solve a complex challenge in its outbound logistics.
For global manufacturers to have a complete control and visibility of their assets in transit is very complex and challenging task due to infrastructural challenges like bad road networks, unskilled drivers, thefts and pilferages. It is here that the technology-enabled solutions come in handy for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to fully manage the movement of finished products from manufacturing plants to buyers.
For Sterlite Technologies, manufacturer of optic fibre cables, optic fibre and wires, having a control on their high-value products being transported from their plants in Aurangabad and Silvassa to locations around the country was literally a logistical challenge. Inefficient outbound logistics through an extensive, sometimes multimodal transportation network was leading to delayed on-time deliveries and ineffective customer service. It is here that they turned to a technology solution that provides them complete access to their assets on move anytime and anywhere.
Sterlite partnered with I’M Here Tracking Solutions LLP which developed an online vehicle tracking solution based on GPS and GPRS to find the real-time location of dispatch vehicles. This solution has helped Sterlite’s customers in telecom and power businesses keep tab on the fleet, plug pilferage, reduce thefts and ensure arrival at the destination on time.
Sterlite Technologies has implemented delivery tracking solutions through GPS for fleet optimisation and improving on-time deliveries in partnership with I’M Here Tracking Solutions LLP.
GPS tracking solution has allowed Sterlite’s supply chain management team to have visibility on the vehicle’s movement with information on present location, speed, and a host of other features. The information has been made available by using a combination of Global Positioning System, mobile phone network, internet, digital mapping and the specialised tracking software. The GPS system primarily consists of a GPS receiver on the bus or vehicle, a communications link between the vehicle and the dispatcher, Web-based or offline tracking software and a digital map. Communication between the GPS receiver and the server can happen via a GSM network using SMS (Short Message Service) or General Packet Radio Service (GPRS).
After the implementation of the GPS tracking software, Sterlite has done movement of 1000+ vehicles since May 2015 from their Optical Fibre manufacturing facility at Aurangabad and Optical Fibre Cable & Copper Cable manufacturing facility located at Silvassa, India.
Talking about the roll out of the asset tracking application across India in the company’s outbound logistics, Pankaj Priyadarshi, Chief Commercial Officer for Sterlite technologies, said that today customers want a solution that offers complete visibility and provides authentic information on demand. “It is important that the information is useful to the customer and he or she gets it on demand. And with I’M Here Tracking Solutions, we are seeing tremendous efficiencies in our outbound logistics and significant cost savings,” Priyadarshi added.
The implementation of GPS tracker for outbound logistics, according to Priyadarshi, has resulted in other benefits like stoppage of follow ups at multiple points for manual shipment tracking, timely alerts of shipment position to both - marketing department and customers, reduction in detention charges at consignee’s end, timely update of warehouse entry-exit and unloading time at customer’s end and control over vehicle operator.
