Frequently Asked Questions

“Are you thinking about implementing BSM Software Solutions for your business but have concerns about its advantages, suitability for use with your current systems, price, and upkeep? Here are some frequently asked questions and their responses to assist you in reaching a decision”

Can I talk to existing clients to verify how BSM benefits their business?

Yes, you can. In fact, BSM providers are usually more than happy to provide references from their existing clients as part of their due diligence process. Talking to clients who have firsthand experience with the solutions you are considering can give you valuable insights into their benefits, performance, and customer service.

Do I need to load any software onto my computer system?

No, you don’t. BSM solutions are typically cloud-based and can easily integrate with your finance, ERP and production systems. They also integrate with global carriers, banks, and other third-party providers, which means you don’t need to load anything onto your existing system. All you need is high-speed internet access to enjoy 24/7 secured access to your international supply chain, historical data, documentation, and reporting.

Is it expensive?

BSM solutions are designed to offer a targeted return on investment (ROI) value of at least three times the cost. Achieving this ROI is a key part of the BSM business review process, which takes place before any significant spending. There will be initial investments and BSM will provide details of these as part of the review , implementation proposal process that will also outline. While the initial cost may seem high, the long-term benefits and cost savings from streamlining your supply chain processes.

Will I need to maintain two sets of data?

No, you won’t. BSM solutions typically receive and/or push data back into your operating system, eliminating the need for you to enter data repeatedly. Additionally, BSM solutions often capture a greater level of information detail than most client systems, providing additional value beyond streamlining your supply chain processes.

Here are some of the key features and benefits you can anticipate from a BSM solution:

Cloud-based: BSM solutions are cloud-based, meaning you can access your supply chain information from anywhere with an internet connection. This feature provides greater flexibility, especially if you have staff working remotely.
Low cost implementation: BSM solutions typically offer a low-cost implementation process, which means you can start using the system quickly and without significant upfront costs.
Workflows and analytics: BSM solutions often include workflow and analytics capabilities, allowing you to track the progress of your supply chain and identify areas for improvement.
Exception management tools: BSM solutions often include exception management tools, enabling you to identify and resolve issues quickly.
E-invoicing for rate management and cost control: BSM solutions often include e-invoicing capabilities, enabling you to manage rates and control costs more effectively.
No systems infrastructure requirements: BSM solutions typically don’t require any systems infrastructure other than access to high-speed internet.
Interface capabilities with current ERP or accounting systems: BSM solutions can integrate with your current ERP or accounting systems, enabling you to maintain consistency across your software platforms.
Buyer, seller, and mover profile management: BSM solutions often include profile management capabilities, enabling you to manage your suppliers, customers, and logistics providers effectively.
Sales and purchase contract creation, management, and reconciliation: BSM solutions include contract creation, management, and reconciliation tools, enabling you to manage your contracts more effectively.
Shipment management – planning and execution: BSM solutions typically include shipment management capabilities, enabling you to plan and execute your shipments more effectively.
Carrier booking automation: BSM solutions can include carrier booking automation capabilities, enabling you to book your carriers more efficiently.
Automated communications – interactive reporting tools: BSM solutions typically include automated communication capabilities, enabling you to communicate with your suppliers, packers, transport companies, and inspection partners more efficiently.
Automated commercial documentation: BSM solutions often include automated commercial documentation capabilities, enabling you to create and upload documents more efficiently.
Compliance management: BSM solutions typically include compliance management capabilities, enabling you to manage your compliance requirements effectively.
Real-time container status reporting: BSM solutions often include real-time container status reporting capabilities, enabling you to track your shipments more accurately.
Partner rates and tender management: BSM solutions often include partner rates and tender management capabilities, enabling you to manage your partner relationships more effectively.
Client reporting with real-time shipment status updates: BSM solutions often include client reporting capabilities, enabling you to provide your clients with real-time shipment status updates.
Cost reporting: BSM solutions typically include cost reporting capabilities, enabling you to track and manage your costs more effectively.
Competitive edge: Implementing a BSM solution can give you a competitive edge in an environment where international logistics skills are critical.

BSM solutions can provide your company with a host of advantages, from streamlining your supply chain operations to raising productivity and profitability. You can determine whether a BSM Solution is a good fit for your company by speaking with current clients, figuring out compatibility with your current systems, calculating ROI, and making sure the solutions capture the level of information detail you need.

If you’re interested in discovering new ways to improve your organisation’s own supply chain or have additional questions on the application of cloud-based technologies, contact us today.