Large organizations are often reticent to switch service providers because of the short-term ramifications of transitioning business to someone new. These are five important considerations for importers and shippers to keep in mind when the time is right to transition your logistics and compliance programs to a customer-service focused and highly experienced service provider.
“We were recently awarded business that had been handled by another service provider for more than fifteen years. There were procedures and other important information filed in various places that were unorganized and certainly not optimized. Following the steps in a formal transition process allowed for a streamlined and centralized program developed in partnership with the customer. The customer expressed how pleased they were with the knowledge and information that they subsequently gained by walking through the transition process step by step with Expeditors. This also significantly improved their overall compliance in record and data retention.”
If you carefully consider these five elements, we think you’ll find a much smoother transition ahead of you.
1. Transparency
From the time business is awarded; there should be a high level of transparency between both organizations. Transitions are a team effort, and expectations must be communicated between groups. You know your business better than anyone; but you must be willing to share your vision and goals so the partnership can succeed.
2. Resources
Unlike some transactions, dedicated resources are important for successful transitions. Those resources should likely come from the service provider, so they can engage the right operational subject matter experts, IT analysts, and management support. Tasking one person with shepherding the project through to completion ensures the oversight necessary to stay on track with targeted dates and milestones.
3. Mapping
Professional transition managers are uniquely equipped to develop comprehensive project plans based on the identified key performance indicators, scope of systems integration, and process mapping. Clearly defining operational processes from the beginning will simplify the overall project and will ensure there is no disruption to your business when switching service providers.
4. Communication
Every project should start with a “kickoff call” or meeting to ensure the scope of business is aligned with your expectations. Regular weekly conference calls with internal and external stakeholders will make it easier to stick with the project plan.
5. Measurement
A smooth transition will include timelines and milestones that are clear and measurable. Your business objectives should be the focal point of the process, with regular reviews to keep everyone on target to achieve the results you expect.
Expeditors has developed a successful global transition and implementation process using experienced professionals who are responsible for providing an accurate assessment of what business is secured, what transition elements exist and what measurements should be applied to accomplish a global, seamless transition to our Account Management Program.
Note: ExpressTracking provide Expeditors Tracking service now.