UPS-Case Study

I) UPS

1- What are the inputs, processing and outputs of UPS’ package tracking system?

. The inputs: package information, customer signature, pickup, delivery, time-card data, current location (while en route), and billing and customer clearance documentation.

scan bar-coded label attached to a package which contains detailed information about the sender, the destination and when the package should arrive.

. Processing: The data are transmitted to a central computer and stored for retrieval. Data are also reorganized so that they can be tracked by customer account, date, driver, and other criteria such as the consolidation of orders for efficient final delivery of packages.

The processing of UPS’s package tracking system is before the package is picked up, information from the “smart” label is transmitted to one of UPS computer centers in Mahwah, New Jersey or Alpharetta, Georgia and sent to the distribution center nearest its final destination.

. The outputs: The outputs include pickup and delivery times, location while en route, and package recipient. The outputs also include various reports, such as all packages for a specific account or a specific driver or route, as well as summary reports for management.

The output of UPS’s package tracking system is customers download and print their own labels using special software provided by UPS or by accessing the UPS Web site.

2- Web based services

Bar code scanners

Wireless communication system

GPS

DIAD

Centralized database

The company’s strategy is to have the best service with the lowest price. So by using these technologies, they are cutting down on cost which can help them reduce their prices and at the same time they are being fast and effective in their operations in the face of their competitors.

3- Effectiveness in Operations: fast service with the lowest prices

New services: UPS’ years of expertise helped them in managing their own global delivery network to manage logistics and supply chain activities for other companies.

Better decision making: when it comes to the choice of routing

Customers easy accessibility to information: through the web based application

Decrease In cost

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