Change brings higher return on investment
Michael Schwank
Changing a terminal management system can be a very daunting task for management and staff to consider, says Michael Schwank, president of Tideworks Technology.
"However, ports and terminals that can effectively leverage proven technology and industry practices can maximise their operational productivity, enhance communication with customers and partners and reduce vessel and truck turnround times. Higher efficiency equates to lower operational costs and a higher return on investment."
Often the terminal has already invested financially in its existing system or supplier and the thought of moving on to another, perhaps even before a return on the initial investment is fully realised, may not be particularly appealing, he acknowledges. In addition, the terminal's management and staff may have invested significant time and effort into the execution of the current solution, "and no one likes to see their efforts wasted".Mr Schwank says the key considerations include the labour environment - how have users adopted and adapted to the current system and how accepting will they be of the new system? He also highlights change management as critical - in particular, are there any other changes taking place such as other IT systems or structural/organisational changes, that hamper the implementation of a new operations system? And then there is emotional investment: "Many times we have found there is an emotional investment in the current system, particularly if that system was developed in-house. This often makes it more difficult for the 'owner' of the system to see its shortcomings and become convinced it needs to be replaced."
"Changing a port's terminal management system is something that can range from easy to difficult. However, the job of the provider is to help the customer through these issues in an honest and forthright manner."
The most important step for the supplier is getting a grasp of what isn't working with the customer's current software system, he adds. "Only then can we help them find a solution that truly works with their unique operating environment, and is able to evolve and adapt with the operation."
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