Global shipping company UPS offers three strategic tips to remember when re-evaluating changes and improvements needed for warehouse and distribution efforts. The first is to “Break the Inertia” through an open-minded look into the current state of operations. Just because operations are running up to par does not mean there isn’t room for improvement and efficiencies. Again, they warn to proceed with caution. It’s a fine balance between evaluating what’s not working and applying a new strategy and not going idle.

“Very often we see companies overhaul their operations in response to some kind of catalyst,” said Nancy Pagely, UPS development director. “But making changes without a clear strategy increases the chances of taking a costly wrong turn.”

The second strategy offered focuses on the importance of the customer and providing a sense of “ease, convenience and flexibility.”

Bhadra states that, “It’s really critical that operators set aside the knowledge they’ve amassed on customers in order to get a fresh look at what’s going on out there. It takes unconventional thinking and a broader set of collaborators to make smart changes.”

The final piece of advice is taking an honest assessment of your company and don’t let the fear of failure determine your company’s next steps.

“Understanding where you want to be can reduce the number of doors to look behind before making decisions and investments,” explains UPS Customer Solutions consultant Mark Modesti. “As long as you plant a flag and build a dynamic roadmap that lets you adapt as needed, you’ll be ahead of the game.”

Source: UPS