For 35 years, Van-Kam Freightways has relied on the IBM i, demonstrating their commitment to reliable technology. While this foundation served them well, the company recognized that staying competitive in today’s fast-paced logistics industry required modernization. Their initiative to update their operations reflects both their forward-thinking mindset and dedication to enhancing service delivery through advanced technology.
Challenge
Van-Kam Freightways needed to futurize their operations to remain competitive in the fast-paced logistics industry.
They required a solution that could:
- Modernize their user interfaces
- Improve efficiency in cross-dock facilities
- Streamline pickup and delivery processes
- Reduce paper usage and support green initiatives
Solution
After a rigorous six-month evaluation of four different competitive products, Van-Kam Freightways chose Profound UI, a key component of the comprehensive Profound AppDev suite by Profound Logic.
Key factors that set Profound UI apart:
- Superior Design Interface: The IT Manager praised Profound UI’s exceptional screen design interface, which outperformed all competing solutions.
- Rapid Learning Curve: Developers were up and running in just two weeks.
- Flexibility: While Profound UI allowed the use of existing code, Van-Kam opted to write new code to fully embrace modern features.
Implementation
With Profound UI as their chosen solution, Van-Kam Freightways embarked on a comprehensive futurization journey. The implementation process targeted key areas of their operations, leveraging Profound UI’s capabilities to transform outdated systems into efficient, modern processes.
Here’s how Van-Kam implemented Profound UI across several critical areas:
Futurizing Cross-Dock Facilities:
- Replaced paper-based system with Android tablets on forklifts
- Enabled real-time updates and improved accuracy
Revolutionizing Pickup and Delivery:
- Developed a custom Android smartphone app for drivers
- Eliminated paper manifests and hard-copy delivery receipts
- Implemented electronic delivery receipts using e-signature capability
Embracing Green Initiatives:
- Utilized e-signature capability to reduce paper usage
Tangible Results
The strategic implementation of Profound UI yielded impressive results for Van-Kam Freightways, transforming their operations and setting new standards for efficiency in the LTL industry. The futurization efforts paid off in multiple areas, demonstrating the power of well-executed digital transformation.
Here are the key improvements observed:
- Improved Efficiency in Cross-Dock Facilities: The new system allowed them to strip and load trailers in a timely manner, with all information being updated instantly.
- Streamlined Pickup and Delivery: Drivers could now see all their deliveries and pickups on their smartphones, eliminating the need for paper manifests and hard copy delivery receipts.
- Reduced Paper Usage: The e-signature capability supported Van-Kam’s efforts to “go green” and use less paper.
- Enhanced Mobile Solutions: Custom Android apps for both cross-dock facilities and drivers improved real-time information access and communication.
- Seamless Integration: Profound UI provided intuitive interfaces and seamless integration with existing systems.
"Profound Logic has successfully replaced our outdated green screen platforms. Being able to share live information, on screen, with our management team has been smooth and well-received."
Conclusion
Van-Kam Freightways’ partnership with Profound Logic, utilizing Profound UI from the Profound AppDev suite, exemplifies the transformative power of strategic futurization in the LTL industry. By leveraging intuitive interfaces, mobile solutions, and seamless integration with existing systems, Van-Kam Freightways has not only futurized their operations but also positioned themselves at the forefront of innovation in the LTL industry.
The Profound AppDev suite’s unique phased and coexistent approach allowed Van-Kam Freightways to adapt their futurization process according to their specific needs, pace of change, and budget constraints. This flexibility not only enabled a strategic, low-risk journey where legacy and modern systems operate seamlessly side-by-side today, but also positioned Van-Kam for continuous evolution. Recognizing that futurization is an ongoing journey, Profound Logic’s solutions provide the foundation for both immediate modernization needs and long-term transformation goals—supporting clients through current, future, and even yet-to-be-discovered technological advances.
This case study demonstrates how Profound Logic’s solutions can help LTL businesses futurize their operations, improving efficiency, reducing paper usage, and enhancing overall operational effectiveness.
For more information on how Profound AppDev can futurize your business operations, contact Profound Logic at Futurization@ProfoundLogic.com.
