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Terminal managers can no longer rely solely on their intuition for decision making. As technology advances and the implementation of remote monitoring software such as terminal operating systems (TOS), becomes more convenient and profitable the transition to data-driven decision making has become a key driver to terminal port’s long-term success.
However, deciding on the right terminal operation system is complex as they require an in-depth understanding of your terminal’s unique needs to identify the features necessary to optimise the value it brings to your operations. To help you with your decision making we have compiled a list of the key considerations to when deciding on a TOS to install at your port.
Terminal Operating Systems are digital platforms used to manage and track the supply chain operations at a port or terminal by coordinating all logistical elements, tracking container movement, optimizing asset usage, and analysing data to support decision making. TOS thereby help improve the speed and accuracy of decisions enhancing efficiency and productivity.
The first step to identifying the right Terminal Operating System for your terminal/ port is to identify the main issues and frustrations you are trying to address by installing the TOS. For example, do you need faster data and report turnaround, accurate productivity measures, a user-friendly interface with an intuitive platform, or an easy to integrate system to reduce paperwork and billing time, etc. This will help you to identify the biggest source of value and how to optimise the system to ensure your needs are met.
A Terminal Operating System is a huge investment and the start up costs to install the technology required for full monitoring are not cheap. The hardware required may hinder growth as moving data rooms and maintenance can be expensive and time consuming. Cloud-based TOS solutions are a budget friendly option which although it gives you less control in terms of customisability, it relieves you of the cost of maintenance and security. It is important at this stage to also look at the bigger picture and decide which option to take.
Customers are the most important stakeholders through out the logistic/ supply chain. Your customers are your consignees and they what to be able to track their cargo throughout the logistics process. Having a TOS system that allows for easy and accurate tracking gives your terminal a competitive advantage by increasing transparency and customer confidence.
Operational data is key to improving your terminal productivity. Being able to monitor the routes and truck movements in real-time allows for better strategic decision making to avoid congestion in the port and optimise the functionality and efficiency of your terminal layout. With easy communication between the control centre and your operators there is increased visibility and flexibility improving productivity through optimised traffic capacity.
Considering the exponential growth of technology, it is important to ensure your TOS will be able to keep up with and support the newest technological upgrades. Finding or building a TOS that can withstand the test of time is thus an important consideration particularly if you are investing in building your own TOS infrastructure as it is difficult and expensive to quickly change the entire system as technology.
Heavy Lift, a division of CFAO Equipment SA, is the distributor of Konecranes range of container lift trucks, reach stackers and heavy-duty forklifts. Konecranes TRUCONNECT is a Remote Monitoring platform which can be utilised to remotely manage and track equipment usage and movement.
Konecranes TRUCONNECT Remote Monitoring platform is essential for the real-time identification analysis of anomalies, patterns and trends which are used to make data-based component-specific maintenance predictions and recommendations. All the data collected regarding the condition, usage, and operation of your fleet is sent from the control system and sensors and aggregated at yourKONECRANES.com account giving you a comprehensive view of your maintenance and performance data. With a quality remote monitoring maintenance platform your TOS can provide you with in-depth performance data improving your productivity and safety at the ground level. This innovative technology is easy to install and use, highly efficient and allows for flexible upgrading.
To find out more about how Konecranes TRUCONNECT can help you monitor your Terminal Operations and improve productivity and performance contact a consultant today.
