Challenge
The development team was tasked with creating a mass freight management software to automate logistics operations. The ground for the project was a basic use case for operating shipment requests and regulating the number of trips based on the load capacity of vehicles.
The major goal, in its turn, was to autonomously choose the best vehicle and assign an available driver for each trip. The system also needed to be pliable enough to adjust to different conditions.
The main problem, however, was the tight timeline. A functional prototype needed to be demonstrated within a week of the project’s start, with daily progress updates on tasks and quick adjustments based on client suggestions.
Approach
We applied the BM4A modular solution to quickly assemble the product with all the needed features.
Since BM4A software already had all essential components (authentication/authorization, menus, dashboards, integration with workflow engine, reports, document generator, file manager, CRUD editor, Query Tool, general interface, etc.) built in, we didn’t have to create those from scratch.
This tactic let us put all our efforts into adding the custom features the business sought and helped us speed up the overall development process without compromising quality.
How It Works (Freight Software Overview)
Below is a brief process description of how we developed the system:
- Stage 1: We deployed the BM4A FLS in the cloud using its standard functionality. Result: In 1 day, we got a basic version of the application that featured the client's corporate style and trademark.
- Stage 2: Within the next 2 days, we put all the client’s wants together, studied them, and prepared the necessary documentation. We also outlined the different types of roles involved and sketched out the entire freight request process.
- Stage 3: Day 3 involved planning the project and calculating the time for each task.
- Stage 4: In the course of the next 5 days, we provided a functional prototype. We included user roles, designed the workflow using BPMN diagrams, and created editors for the CRUD administrations of Drivers and Vehicles. Also, at the client's recommendation, we embedded trailer support.
- Stage 5: After 10 days, we were ready with the MVP. It contained a system of requests for shipment with a CRUD editor, diagrams of process management for tracking the full progression of requests, and widgets for live statistics and active requests.
Prime Features of BM4A Freight Logistics Software
- Mass Freight Management: Mass freight management automatically adjusts the number of trips based on each vehicle’s load capacity.
- Driver and Vehicle Registration: Logistics managers can set up delivery schedules and assign vehicles to trips.
- Role Support and Integration: The system supports user roles, such as "Driver," "Manager," "Logistician," "Administrator," to direct freight requests.
- 360° Analytics: FLS collects data and inspects it to make up a summary about the success of the completed and pending operations.
- Task and Process Management: Using a Workflow Engine with BPMN 2.0, BM4A FLS automates tasks and processes for more regulated logistics.
- Notifications: The system sends in-the-moment notifications about order status, route changes, incidents, and alerts on vehicles or drivers.
- User Authentication and Authorization: The system offers single sign-on (SSO) and uses role-based access control (RBAC) to govern user permissions.
Result
By using the BM4A modular solution, we quickly delivered a simple version of the app, complete with the client’s branding, in just 2 days. Within 9 days, we provided a functional prototype, and in only 20 days, the client had a fully working freight management system.
This fast development process allowed the client to start using the system right away and almost instantly see the first results. The new freight management software helped them slash costs, speed up time-to-market, and gain full visibility over their logistics operations.