“ It was a totally dynamic and customized solution based on budgeting and forecasting benefit , and logistics span analysis . As a result , we were able to achieve a very sizeable , double-digit million-euro saving for the customer ,” shares Thorsten . For him , this demonstrates how , with the right people , digital technology can ensure goods are at the right location , while also generating cost savings .
The second main theme surrounding logistics and facilities is standardization , which is not only key for efficiency , but also for top-quality implementation and execution . To that end , DHL has what it calls an Operations Management System ( OMS First Choice ), which is rolled out across the company ’ s supply chain and operations . “ It offers a holistic management framework , and works by cataloguing how processes are analyzed , executed , improved , and supported with technology , while also covering change management , and the mindset and behavior of people ,” Thorsten divulges .
With this strategy in place , he is keen to see the business continue its digitalization journey , which is already proving to be a success . “ As mentioned previously , we are focusing on 12 primary technologies , and these are being utilized in about 4000 global projects as of April this year . Over time , that number will steadily grow . We would also like to move towards full supply chain orchestration . Not only optimizing transportation and warehousing for our customers , but also offering them a truly end-to-end and fully connected supply chain perspective . In doing so , customers will be able to see inventory flow throughout supply chains with real time visibility on shipment details , metrics , resilience , compliance , cost efficiency , and flexibility .”
As an example , the business was recently approached to design an end-to-end supply chain flow for an automobility customer in battery logistics . “ We were asked to design and manage a new go-to-market strategy in Asia where the company needs to build up a regional distribution center to serve multiple countries in that area , which is a change in strategy , because the client is moving away from the use of external distributors .” The results of this were impressive , and for Thorsten , more evidence of how DHL is taking on the industry ’ s technological revolution to remain a leader in the logistics sector . ■
www . dhl . com scw-mag . com 27