IT-based logistics firms give customers more than a better sleep

IT-based logistics firms give customers more than a better sleep

Rangga Ivananda
Contributor
Jakarta

The application of information technology (IT) in the
logistics business is not only vital to be more competitive, it
also gives efficient solutions and a feeling of security to
customers.

Currently courier companies that also offer logistics
services, including warehousing, are required to provide
detailed, transparent and on-line information to their customers
about the whereabouts as well as the estimated delivery time of
their consignments. And all this is only possible by using
today's sophisticated information technology equipment.

Among the major reputable courier companies here that include
logistics services in their business are PT Tiki JNE, ELTEHA and
PT Repex Wahana. All of them provide real time information to
their customers on the status of their consignments.

PT Repex Wahana has applied information technology in its
business for years. Its sister company, PT Repex Perdana
International, is a global service partner of U.S.- based Federal
Express Corporation (FeDex). Every FeDex office and affiliate is
connected to the main or central server in the headquarters in
Memphis, United States.

After initially using the IT developed by FeDex, Repex Wahana
developed its own IT system in 1998 to match the specific
requirements of customers here. The company's data base that
contains comprehensive information, such as customers' complete
addresses and e-mail addresses, date of birth and even their
hobbies, makes it possible for a more customized service.

The Repex Wahana has two IT divisions: Technical support and
Application development. The technical support handles
installation of hardware for the network, telecommunications
equipment, personal computers as well as the setting up of
operation system and maintenance of networking.

The application development division, meanwhile, attends to
the creating of required programs to run the operations more
smoothly. For example, this division has adapted the Borland
Kylix-based program for administration purposes, such as
manpower, financial or accounting and the inventory.

Starting out with the Novell server system, then the Windows
NT, in 2000 Repex Wahana turned to the Linux system for all its
servers.

To secure the data, its main server is simultaneously operated
in tandem mode with a back-up server and a tape storage of 200 GB
capacity is used. Uninterrupted Power System (UPS) with 15 KVA
capacity is ready to ensure the continuous supply of electricity.

The connection system between main office, branches and
outlets utilize leased line with a capacity ranging from 64 Kbps
to 512 Kbps made available by major telecommunications companies
here, like Telkom, Indosat and Lintasarta. With all the
sophisticated information and communication facilities, Repex
Wahana ensures its customers a 24-hour access to detailed
information on their consignments.

Tiki JNE, meanwhile, although not affiliated with any foreign
courier company, has also applied and developed the IT programs
required to enhance its services throughout the country. The
application of the Global Positioning System (GPS) for its
vehicles is one example how this company monitors them by using
the latest IT technology. This makes it easier to inform
customers of the estimated time of delivery.

Currently, Tiki JNE is also enhancing its on-line information
system for its customers throughout Indonesia, so that the entire
network comprising head office, branches and agents can provide
real time on-line information for the convenience of the
customers. A special program using a simple software has also
been developed by Tiki JNE to ensure customers' easy and instant
access to various information, such as the daily report on
consignments stored in the warehouses as well as their status
during the entire journey from sender to recipient.

Compared with a number of local logistics companies, Tiki JNE
is making breakthroughs in the use of IT solutions for this type
of business. At the same time Tiki JNE also assists customers who
are new to this technology so that they can get maximum benefit.

Although various softwares for logistics business are
available, major logistics providers with their own IT divisions
have more specific requirements, so adjustments or modifications
have to be made. For those who cannot afford to set up a complete
IT system due to the huge investment involved, they can start out
with the available software in the market and later adapt as each
new requirement arises.

Repex Wahana, for instance, has developed software called In
Bond Information System (IBIS). It is relatively huge as it
comprises data on warehousing, transportation, customs, customers
and all the related administration. The system provides great
convenience both to Repex Wahana's staff and the customer. Take
for example an imported package has to be instantly handled. Some
time before the arrival of the consignment Repex staff is already
aware of each detail of the package, including whether the
customer needs special permit and so forth. Using the IBIS more
accurate information on delivery, warehousing, transferring to
other destinations and so forth can be instantly provided to
customers.

Today's state-of-the-art IT and communications technology is a
true blessing for all sorts of businesses, including the courier
and logistics companies. This and their highly professional staff
providing personalized and customized services really provide
reliable solutions to customers. And a sound sleep, to top it
off.

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