Assalamualaikum...

CASE STUDY

UPS COMPETES GLOBALLY WITH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.

What are the inputs processing and outputs of ups’s package tracking system?

Using a handheld computer (DIAD ), UPS drivers automatically

capture customers’signatures along with pickup, delivery, and time-card information. The drivers then place the DIAD into their truck’s vehicle adapter, an information-transmitting device that is connected to the cellular telephone network. Package tracking information is then transmitted to UPS’s computer network for storage and processing in UPS’s main computers in Mahwah, New Jersey, and Alpharetta, Georgia. 

From there, the information can be accessed worldwide to provide proof of delivery to the customer or to respond to customer queries.(as inputs) Through its automated package tracking system, UPS can monitor packages throughout the delivery process. At various points along the route from sender to receiver, a bar code device scans shipping

information on the package label; the information is then fed into the central computer. The people who are shipping packages can access the UPS website to track packages, check delivery roots, calculate shipping rates, determine time in transit and schedule a pick up. Businesses can use the website to arrange UPS shipments and for billing the accounts.

Inputs: The inputs include package information, customer signature, pickup, delivery, time-card data, current location (while en route), and billing and customer clearance documentation. 

Processing: The data are transmitted to a central computer and stored for retrieval. Data are also reorganized so that they can be tracked by customer account, date, driver, and other criteria such as the consolidation of orders for efficient final delivery of packages.

Outputs: The outputs include pickup and delivery times, location while en route, and package recipient. The outputs also include various reports, such as all packages for a specific account or a specific driver or route, as well as summary reports for management.

What technologies are used by UPS? How are these technologies

related to UPS`s business strategy?

Since 1985 UPS began to improve their data networking applications. They built up their IT network and database in order to collect and track over 200 data elements for every single package. Through UPS.com new UPS could also serve new B2B companies to use their tracking system with only a link. UPS also offers a set of transportation APIs called the UPS Online Tools that allow businesses to integrate tracking, rating, address validation and other important jobs.

What problems do UPS`s information systems solve? What would happen if         these systems were not available

Individuals Customers

1.    Easy Access to Shipping and Tracking

2.    Everything You Need to Ship and Track, Online

3.    Receive Packages Your Way

4.    Access UPS When and Where You Need To

5.    Get Your UPS Bill Faster

6.    Returns Made Simple

Business Clients

1.   Save Time and Money

2.   Manage Shipping Online

3.   Receive Packages At Your Convenience

4.   Access UPS Where and When You Need To

5.   Get Paid Faster

6.   View and Pay Your Invoice

7.   Excess resources like call center and others.

Shipping and Receiving Managers

1.    Leverage UPS Technology to Manage Shipping and Returns

2.    Take Control of Your Receiving Process

3.    Access UPS When and Where You Need To

4.    Receive Your Invoice Electronically From UPS