Introducing
a disruptive technology into the air cargo market is never easy. But
don't tell that to Unisys and Christopher Shawdon.
“The air cargo industry is at
a tipping point where transformational innovation enabled by modern
technologies has become a reality,” Mr. Shawdon, vice president,
Logistics Solutions at Unisys told FlyingTypers.
“The most innovative carriers
are now data-driven businesses that are responding dynamically to
market changes using cloud, sensors, analytics, and digital business.
Such organizations are differentiating themselves with speed, control,
and new value by re-thinking all aspects of their business.”
Mr. Shawdon said air cargo industry
experts participating in the Unisys Cargo User Group (UCUG) community
report disruptive innovations driven by cloud computing collaboration,
sensor technology, and digital business are radically transforming
the way air cargo organizations work and integrate in the supply-chain.
Trending Now
Mr. Shawdon identified three key trends
based on discussions at the recent 61st meeting of the Unisys Cargo
User Group held in April:
- Sensors and integration drive insights and help
businesses manage by exception. For example, sensors in a heart-rate
monitor can alert a doctor to changes in the way a patient's heart
is operating. Similarly, sensors embedded throughout logistics supply
chains feed data into rules-based analytics engines that provide
insights and early warning of issues. RFID sensors on items within
a shipment can quickly identify if part of a shipment is missing,
exactly what is missing, and where it is likely to be. Data from
sensors on containers carrying sensitive air cargo such as pharmaceutical
and perishable products can automatically send key metrics of environmental
conditions throughout the transport lifecycle to a logistics management
system so that a full audit trail is available on demand. Such ready
access to up-to-date data throughout the supply chain provides air
cargo carriers with insights to help ensure that customer promises
are fulfilled even when there is disruption along the route.
- Cloud-based technology services deliver speed
and savings compared to traditional software and Software-as-a-Service
models (SaaS). They offer the benefit of quick implementation—often
in less than six months compared to the years typically required
of other models—and with much lower capital cost. As enhancement
costs can be shared among clients of a cloud-based service, vendors
can deliver services at a lower price point than through traditional
software. Harnessing the community nature of cloud drives collaboration
to tackle joint challenges such as facilitating a fully electronic
supply chain, meeting new regulations and changing established ways
of working across the industry.
- Electronic-supply chains enable more dynamic and
optimized business. Air carriers offer a very perishable product—any
space unsold on a given flight and date is lost revenue. Dynamic
pricing is helping leading carriers maximize use of available capacity.
Their systems interface with the systems of their customers and
partners as part of a fully integrated supply chain using XML, peer-to-peer
apps and web services to reduce cost and better understand their
markets. They are using highly targeted e-business campaigns at
a more granular level than can be done through telesales. And they
are using this early and greater visibility of data—combined
with mobile technology—to fast track the flow of goods from
acceptance through delivery.
Who Benefits?
“Unisys Logistics Solutions are
used by carriers that move approximately 25 percent of the world's
air cargo,” Mr. Shawdon said.
“Leading carriers using the Unisys
Logistics Management System include Air Canada, Gollog, MASkargo,
Modern Logistics, and TravelSky on behalf of Chinese carriers, who
collaborate via the Unisys Cargo User Group.
“This group of clients works closely
with Unisys to discuss industry issues and to identify and prioritize
enhancements and upgrades to the Unisys services. Unisys and UCUG
members have worked with the International Air Transport Association
(IATA) for more than 20 years on initiatives such as e-Freight, Cargo
2000, and XML messaging, and with customs and security agencies to
help carriers develop best practices and remain compliant with constantly-changing
regulations.”
Christopher Shawdon
For more information: christopher.shawdon@unisys.com |