5 Tips to Avoid TMS Implementation Horror Stories

I've heard my fair share of TMS implementation horror stories. From endless implementations to products that don't work and user-unfriendly experiences, it's no wonder that many logistics professionals are scared of TMS implementations.

Over the last 10 years, Cargobase has managed a 100% success rate, so I'm here to help you navigate the process with our unique no-nonsense approach!

Focus Area #1: Say "No" to Integrations from Day One

Integrations can be a great way to exchange data between systems, but they can also cause delays and complications in TMS implementations. In fact, according to an industry study, 87% of TMS implementations that involve integrations experience delays and cost overruns. I recommend starting by focusing on building a working and tested process first before involving IT resources. Trust me, your IT department will thank you, and you'll avoid integration headaches.

Focus Area #2: User-Friendly is Key to Long-Term Success

The user interface of a TMS is critical to its long-term success. In fact, a survey by Inbound Logistics found that 89% of end-users prefer a TMS with a clean and user-friendly interface. I recommend keeping screens clean and removing buttons and information that are not used. Do this and you'll avoid the dreaded "I can't figure out how to use this" phone calls.

Focus Area #3: Understand Everyone's Objectives and Priority

To ensure a successful TMS implementation, it's important to understand the objectives of all stakeholders involved, from high-level management to the end-users, and prioritise them. In fact, same survey from Inbound Logistics found that 73% of TMS implementations fail because they do not meet the needs of end-users. I recommend understanding the processes of end-users in detail and interviewing them to learn where potential improvements can be made. Followed by categorising the must’s and the nice-to-haves. By doing this, you'll be able to create a TMS implementation that meets everyone's objectives and avoids the "this doesn't work for me" or “this is not important to me” complaints.

Focus Area #4: Don't Copy-Paste Old Process

It’s 2023, we don’t live the way we did in biblical time, so don’t have that mindset when it comes to TMS implementation! Trying to copy old processes and data elements into a modern platform may seem like the easiest way to implement a new TMS, but it may not lead to the optimal end result. Challenging every data element used and the purpose of the data element. Make sure you know how every step is designed to fit your organizational goals. A bonus point of engaging experienced TMS solution providers with success cases is to tap into their insights into how other companies manage their processes and what might fit your organization.

Focus Area #5: Land and Expand

Finally, don't try to change too much at too many locations simultaneously. You want to have a solid business use case before shaking the entire boat. I recommend starting with one or two locations with pro-change people and making this an example. By doing this, you'll be able to keep it simple and avoid disrupting regular workflows. Once you've established a successful TMS implementation at these locations, you can expand to other locations.

So, if you're thinking of implementing a TMS, don't be scared! Keep the basics simple and avoid common mistakes. Want to learn more tips and stories about TMS implementation? Let’s get in touch.