How Technology Accelerates Logistics Solutions

Consumer habits will not snap back to how they were pre-covid. So, why are some organizations clinging to outdated supply chain methods?

Roberta Tamburrino, SVP, Logistics Operations at INXEPTION, sheds some light on how technology impacts logistics challenges. Delving into her experience, she also shares what she has learned about women in logistics and improving existing methods in the industry.

Join us as we discuss:

• Revitalizing workflows in supply chains
• How supply chains are like spider webs
• The importance of mentorship, and more

Focusing on a shared solution

There is not an industry that goes untouched by international freight. Specifically, the transportation of goods via ocean plays a part in the supply chain for most, if not all, businesses in the United States.

While ocean freight is heavily utilized, it also comes riddled with inefficiencies and systematic problems. During the pandemic, these issues were emphasized by shut-downs, increased purchasing, and supply chain struggles.

Rather than working to address these problems for INXEPTION alone, Roberta Tamburrino and other company experts focus on creating a solution that can be plugged into by any user that chooses to partner or utilize their systems.

“We look at the problem and say, ‘There’s a way we can solve this through tech. Let’s figure out the best way.’” — Roberta Tamburrino

While working to improve ocean freight shipping overall, INXEPTION has an advantage in the simplicity and evolution of its product. Roberta explains, “There’s always another layer, another issue, another tweak, another feature.” By focusing on the continuous improvement of the overall system, INXEPTION capitalizes on the robust network that can be built by offering solutions to other freight forwarders.

This focus on collaboration and innovation gives INXEPTION an upper hand in the freight industry, allowing leaders to emerge, particularly in developing novel technologies.

The rise of women and innovation in logistics

More women than ever are taking up leadership roles in logistics. While women in logistics were sparse a decade ago, many now head large departments and companies.

The rise of women in logistics leadership has coincided with an increase in innovation and new approaches to old problems. As customer concerns and issues change over time, adapting the technologies used to solve those problems is vital. But, unfortunately, you can’t fix modern struggles with decades-old solutions.

“I would look at some of these technologies in a fresh light to say, ‘Are they still relevant? Are they still what this supply chain needs? How do we move forward?’” — Roberta Tamburrino

This new perspective in the traditional logistics space has led to the development of innovative solutions that have replaced and enhanced outdated systems and processes.

However, not every system can be uprooted for something new. Organizations must maintain a balance between consistency and improvement. While customers always want systems to be better, the designs must also be rooted in relevancy and usability.

To maintain this balance, organizations should use a particular approach. Instead of focusing on fancy software updates and minor changes, Roberta promotes the development of entirely new technologies that elevate the space and moves the industry forward.

Genuinely understanding the industry can help leaders in this development mindset and process. Luckily, they aren’t alone.

Working together to achieve cohesion and traction

Jumping into logistics from tech can seem intimidating, especially with no clear path to success. But, it’s not impossible.

With a quarter of a century of experience, Roberta claims to be a product of direct experience and mentoring. Attributing heavy weight to those who mentored her, Roberta strongly believes that professionals in the space should offer their knowledge and expertise to those curious minds looking for an entry point.

“Mentorship is really important in this space because there is so much to learn. I did not learn all of this in utero, no one does.” — Roberta Tamburrino

In addition to finding a mentor or industry role model, there are several other ways to learn the ins and outs of logistics.

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals, or CSCMP, holds conferences designed around education. With a focus on bringing the best minds to the industry, these conferences are invaluable for people looking to enter logistics. The education they offer ranges from foundational systems and practices to innovative technologies.

With the most robust, accurate, and rich information available, all condensed in a single space, CSCMP is perhaps the most valuable tool to those looking for information. However, attending the conferences may not be an attainable or immediate solution for those ready to jump in immediately.

The alternative, Youtube, is much more accessible. With the shift to remote and hybrid work, the number of free training videos on Youtube has exploded. While many may be organization-specific, these resources offer quick information regarding existing processes organizations use worldwide.

Regardless of how one wishes to enter the industry, Roberta urges individuals to educate themselves and not be afraid to reach out to leaders for mentorship.

Most leaders in the industry are interested in filling logistics with the best minds, and they are more than willing to help shape the industry’s future.

Connect with Roberta at https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberta-tamburrino-3161861/

Keep connected with us by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get podcasts. Find all the episodes here.