How do you fix transportation management system problems?

1 Identify the problem

The first step to fixing a TMS problem is to identify the root cause and scope of the issue. Is it a technical glitch, a human error, a data quality issue, or a process gap? Is it affecting one module, one function, or the entire system? Is it impacting one user, one department, or multiple stakeholders? By answering these questions, you can narrow down the possible sources and solutions of the problem and prioritize the most urgent and critical ones.

2 Check the documentation

The next step to fixing a TMS problem is to check the documentation of the system. This includes the user manuals, the configuration guides, the troubleshooting guides, and the online help resources. These documents can provide you with valuable information on how the system works, what are the expected outputs and outcomes, and what are the common errors and how to fix them. You can also consult the vendor's support team or the system administrator for more guidance and assistance.

3 Test the solution

The third step to fixing a TMS problem is to test the solution before implementing it. This means verifying that the solution works as intended, that it does not cause any new or additional problems, and that it meets the requirements and expectations of the users and customers. You can use various methods to test the solution, such as simulation, validation, verification, or pilot testing. You can also solicit feedback from the users and customers to ensure that the solution is satisfactory and effective.

4 Monitor the results

The fourth step to fixing a TMS problem is to monitor the results after implementing the solution. This means measuring and evaluating the impact of the solution on the performance and functionality of the system, as well as on the efficiency, cost, and customer service of the transportation operations. You can use various metrics and indicators to monitor the results, such as service level, on-time delivery, freight spend, utilization, or productivity. You can also compare the results with the baseline or the benchmark to assess the improvement or the gap.

5 Learn from the experience

The fifth step to fixing a TMS problem is to learn from the experience and prevent recurrence. This means identifying and documenting the lessons learned, the best practices, and the recommendations from the problem-solving process. You can also use the experience to improve the system design, the user training, the data quality, or the process alignment. You can also share the knowledge and insights with other users, departments, or partners to foster collaboration and continuous improvement.

6 Update the system

The sixth step to fixing a TMS problem is to update the system regularly and proactively. This means keeping up with the latest technology, market, and customer trends that affect the transportation industry and the TMS functionality. You can also take advantage of the new features, enhancements, or integrations that the vendor or the system administrator offers to improve the system performance and functionality. You can also review and revise the system configuration, settings, or parameters to optimize the system efficiency and effectiveness.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?