Supermarket chain integrates TSM system into supply chain

Thanks to a smart configurator, the DCT solution offers numerous options to tailor the tool to a specific situation. Examples include different user rights, the ability to add documents, layout options for the booking screen, and more. When a new warehouse needs to be connected to DCT, the supermarket chain now takes care of the setup itself, based on the requirements of both local managers and headquarters. In the initial pilot mentioned above, DCT handled the setup; the client only had to complete a few checklists, and within days a Ready-To-Go system was delivered.

The client saw this flexibility as a solid foundation to build on. The hundreds of warehouses using DCT all have their own specific requirements. Over the years, a team of five in-house specialists was formed to support and train users and assist carriers in using the system. The collaboration between DCT and the client took shape through regular meetings in which development priorities for the coming period were agreed upon — even leading to entirely new features for the application. A pure form of co-creation.

Finally, this team also ensures the necessary reporting, enabling processes to be refined or adjusted where needed.

This reporting marked the start of a series of integrations that gradually expanded the functionality of the DCT solution. Examples of this development include:

• Integration with kiosks/terminals such as Pyramid and Paas, optionally extended with license plate recognition programs like Cognify. The idea for kiosk integration arose from the need to save drivers even more time. Unloading times are shortened, allowing trucks to quickly continue to their next destination. Upon arrival, drivers must have a PIN code generated by DCT after making a booking. Furthermore, bookings can only be made in combination with a purchase order number. Ad-hoc drivers without a booking can be assisted on-site, provided there is time and always after others have been served. The learning effect is that drivers will arrange a booking for their next visit.

• Access control integration (Exos) for driver waiting areas, known as “drivers’ lounges.” DCT generates the code needed to enter these areas.

• Integration with the customer’s IT systems, for example with archive and storage systems. On request, DCT also stores all bookings as a backup.

• OCR (optical character recognition), integrated to enable reading of documents attached to bookings.

• Data imports from over 300 external applications, allowing DCT to bring in customer-requested data directly.

All in all, DCT today is much more than a TSM solution. Yard and access management can also be included as part of DCT if desired.

At the time, it was mainly the simplicity and user-friendliness that led the supermarket chain to choose DCT. It quickly became clear how stable the application was in practice. The possibilities for customisation, the short implementation times for adjustments, and close collaboration with very short lines of communication have resulted in a solution perfectly tailored to the organisation — one that continues to evolve. Today, DCT occupies a crucial position at the intersection of a WMS, TMS, and YMS, integrated with numerous applications, giving the customer perfect control over their goods flows.