Supply Chain

Top 10 Real-Time Transportation Visibility Platforms 2024

Leave a Comment / Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Blog, Chemicals, Construction, Consumer Goods, Distribution, Food and Beverage, High Tech & Electronics, Industrial Manufacturing, Life Sciences, Retail / By / December 13, 2024

In the realm of real-time transportation visibility platforms, apparent similarities abound, with each touting comparable capabilities. Yet, distinctions emerge; some specialize in specific modes, while others offer multi-modal prowess. Geographic coverage further diverges, with prevalence in North America for some and exclusive focus on Europe for others. While some function as standalone applications, their primary role lies in empowering supply chain control tower applications—integral solutions seeking to finalize the supply chain equation through carrier-centric data.

Though widely embraced, real-time transportation visibility platforms represent a relatively recent phenomenon. Previously, such capabilities were unattainable due to the absence of industry-wide traceability. Although, the advent of carrier networks and ELD regulations has now unlocked these datasets. These newly accessible datasets wield substantial power independently and, when correlated, amplify the insights furnished by these platforms. Real-time visibility platforms extend beyond supply chain traceability, delving particularly into advanced scenarios like transportation risk management across geopolitical boundaries facilitated by technologies like blockchain. 

Top 10 Real-time Transportation Visibility Platforms In 2024

The deployment of RFID chips on containers facilitates detailed traceability, particularly encompassing international multi-party BOM tracking. Platforms enhanced with AI and ML showcase impressive KPIs, achieving a 99.99% accuracy in delivery ETA. Notwithstanding pre-established networks and datasets, challenges arise in onboarding current carriers, potentially leading to misleading insights and incomplete traceability. Thus, platforms offering a superior user experience and streamlined onboarding processes are likely to provide enhanced insights. While the suitability of these platforms varies, some are tailored for SMB customers, and others are designed as enterprise-grade solutions. Now, let’s delve into the top 10 real-time transportation visibility platforms in 2024.



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10. TruckerTools

TruckerTools is perhaps the smallest solution on this list, targeting freight brokers to see load visibility. The number of modes is substantially limited, without the coverage for modes such as air or ocean. With the limitation of its network, it might not be the best fit for companies seeking a platform with international multi-modal traceability.

Pros
  • ELD integration. While the platform is relatively smaller, ELD integration allows data to be acquired in an autonomous fashion without relying on manual acquisition.
  • SMB friendly. The simplicity of the solution and the costs would be friendlier for SMB companies.
  • Detailed visibility. While not as comprehensive with the coverage, the visibility use cases are detailed.
Cons
  • Does not cover other modes of transportation, such as air or ocean. The visibility is primarily limited to trucking data, making it not a right fit for multi-modal traceability.
  • Clunky UI. The clunky UI might lead to poor adoption among carriers, making data collection harder and insights misleading.
  • Integrating with TMS requires consulting help. While cheaper with licensing, the consulting help required for integration TMS might be expensive for smaller companies.

9. IntelliTrans

IntelliTrans, compared to TruckerTools, is slightly richer with its capabilities, especially for multi-modal scenarios. While it covers several models, the network coverage is limited compared to other advanced tools such as Project44 or FourKites. It is a great option for SMBs looking for multi-modal capabilities with some level of TMS integration provided, but may not the best fit for large enterprises seeking comprehensive network coverage and end-to-end supply chain traceability.

Pros
  • SMB-friendly. While not as comprehensive a network for exhaustive multi-modal traceability, the costs and leaner layers of the software make it SMB-friendly.
  • Multimodal features. Compared to TruckerTools, it covers more modes such as road, rail, and ocean than being just limited to trucking data.
  • Integrated TMS. Integrated TMS would reduce consulting costs, but further vetting may be required to ensure the use cases supported by pre-integrated workflows would work for the datasets and the use cases that need to be supported.
Cons
  • Limited to road, rail, and ocean. Limited coverage might lead to misleading and incomplete insights but may be OK for companies on a budget. 
  • Not designed for large enterprises. Large enterprises requiring mature capabilities such as AI and ML, with comprehensive coverage for networks, might find it limiting.
  • Ecosystem limited. The companies consulting on the tool might be limiting, making it harder to find talent relying on vendor-provided professional services.

8. Blume Global

Blume Global is another option for SMB companies needing global visibility with multimodal features. Post-acquisition with WiseTech, it can now offer broader capabilities, including pre-integrated TMS offerings, just like Trimble. Due to the limited AI and ML workflows and network coverage, it might not be the best fit for companies seeking mature capabilities.

Pros
  • Multimodal features. This is especially helpful for companies seeking global traceability across most modes.
  • Integrated TMS. The integrated TMS would reduce consulting costs, but further vetting is required to ensure the usability of pre-integrated workflows.
  • Now part of WiseTech Global group. Due to the integration with WiseTech Global Group, its financial sustainability would not be an issue.
Cons
  • Ecosystem limited. The limited ecosystem makes it challenging to find talent and a consulting base compared to larger peers.
  • Not as well adopted or funded as other options. While it is part of the WiseTech group, it’s not as adopted as other options such as Project44 or FourKites.
  • Not as comprehensive as other options on this list. The network is limiting, making the datasets potentially biased and misleading for companies seeking multi-modal traceability.

7. Overhaul

Overhaul is an enterprise-grade option for companies seeking global trade traceability and transparency. It has some unique capabilities, such as integrated RiskGPT, helping companies manage their risks. However, the platform might not be built as other solutions on this list, with limited options to mine relevant insights.

Pros
  • Great transportation visibility tool. This is especially useful for companies seeking global traceability, especially in areas such as insurance, theft, etc.
  • GSOC feed integrated along with visibility. The integration of GSOC data makes it unique for risks and security-centric workflows.
  • AI and RiskGPT capabilities integrated. Compared to smaller options limited with AI capabilities, it features richer AI and RiskGPT capabilities for risk forecasting and prevention.
Cons
  • Communication errors between the carrier and the platform. The communication between the carrier and the platform might not be as seamless, causing issues with communication and leaving datasets unreliable.
  • The limited network may require carriers to participate. Because of the limited network, companies would be required to invite their carriers that might not already be on the platform, making the adoption harder and insights potentially biased and misleading.
  • Not as well as designed and might be cluttered with GPS pings. While the system has tons of data, navigating through data might be a challenge because of the missing scalable layers to customize insights relevant to each user in the company.

6. Trimble Transporeon

Trimble Transporeon is a comprehensive solution, particularly strong with the carrier and trucking side of data, making it ideal for transportation companies or companies with internal fleets, such as agriculture or construction. It might not be the best fit for enterprises seeking mature capabilities with AI and ML workflows and multimodal traceability through the international supply chain.

Pros
  • Over 150K carriers are part of the network. One of the largest sample sizes of carriers, making carrier adoption easier.
  • Integrates with over 3000 ERP and TMS systems. The pre-integrated workflows help mine data and with integration without expensive consulting costs.
  • Power of Trimble’s powerful maps and telematics technology, timeslot, and retail timeslot management. Trimble’s unique offering includes powerful maps and telematics technology, augmenting ELD and carrier-centric data and providing more accurate metrics.
Cons
  • Mainly an European solution. While a comprehensive network, its geo exposure is limited, with Europe being the main focus, struggling in other geographies such as North America.
  • Relies on some datasets on other players, such as Roambee. Due to the limited datasets, they rely on other providers for some datasets, such as Roambee.
  • Not as comprehensive as other solutions on this list. While a great solution for several industries, it’s not as comprehensive as some of the other solutions on this list.

5. Shippeo

Shippeo is great for companies looking for road transportation visibility, mainly focused on Europe. It’s network is not as comprehensive as other solutions such as Project44 or FourKites, especially covering different geographies. While a great solution for Europe, it might not be the best fit for companies seeking global traceability across all modes.

Pros
  • Carbon emission tracking. One of the unique advantages of Shippeo is that it provides carbon emission data, especially useful for geographies such as Europe where carbon emissions tracking may be used as an input for planning and reporting.
  • Accurate truck positioning. Due to the rich datasets, it can provide far superior positioning of trucks, making ETAs far more reliable and helping with planning, generally difficult with other tools that might not be as accurate with truck positioning.
  • Machine learning to calculate ETA. Shippeo is packaged with machine-learning capabilities to complete the missing datasets. 
Cons
  • Network not as strong as other platforms. The current network is not as strong as other solutions, such as Project44 or FourKites.
  • Mainly a European solution as well. Since it is focused on Europe, companies in other geographies might find it challenging.
  • Not integrated suite as other platforms. The other platforms on this list have more integrated capabilities, augmenting limited datasets and providing richer insights.

4. Descartes (MacroPoint)

Descartes MacroPoint is the best for global freight visibility and carrier capacity for logistics-intensive businesses such as freight brokers or logistics service providers. Unlike other solutions on this list with limited data and security models, Descartes MacroPoint offers enterprise layers that accommodate the needs of different personas, ensuring the right insights for the right user profiles. Descartes MacroPoint would not be a great fit for SMB companies seeking a simpler solution with a limited budget.

Pros
  • The ability to fine-tune alerts and accurately track the driver’s location all the time. The systems with limited data and security layers make gleaning insights overwhelming, impacting product adoption.  
  • Global coverage. It’s not as limited as other SMB solutions on this list, with its coverage for various geographies.
  • Focus on logistics-centric businesses. Logistics-centric businesses have a very unique need, with a primary focus on international BOM data, where Descartes is extremely strong.
Cons
  • Expensive. While great from a coverage perspective, smaller companies might struggle to justify the price tag.
  • Carrier performance might not be as strong. Compared to other options on this list, carrier performance data might not be as strong, leaving a critical dataset for end-to-end traceability.
  • Designed from the perspective of logistics providers, limited carrier network. While great for logistics service providers as they have unique needs, it might be limiting for diverse business models.

3. e2open

e2open is the best for global companies looking for a complete suite, including network, planning, and execution. While it relies on other solutions, such as FourKites and Project44, for carrier-centric data, it could be a powerful for companies seeking real-time transportation visibility platforms because of other datasets, enriching the transportation data and completing the supply chain equation. It might not be the best fit for companies seeking simpler solutions.

Pros
  • Complete suite. The biggest advantage of e2open is that it’s a complete suite, combining all modes and geographies, making it one of the strongest platforms for end-to-end supply chain traceability.
  • Combined network channel and carrier. e2open has its own network, making the adoption far easier for companies onboarding their existing carriers.
  • Richer data and analytics. The AI and ML capabilities and the power of the network, along with the security and data layer, offer decision-grade data that might not be available through any other platforms.
Cons
  • Relies on Shippeo for transport visibility data. While e2open has some carriers and data, it relies on Shippeo for the datasets, posing sustainability issues if it loses its relationship with Shippeo or if Shippeo gets acquired by a competitor. 
  • Expensive. With the amount of capabilities packed as part of the solution, it might be cost-prohibitive for SMBs.
  • It is not the best fit for companies looking for a standalone RTV platform. e2open is a suite and not necessarily an RTV platform if the cross-functional alignment might be a challenge, and this platform needs to be purchased at the departmental level.

2. FourKites

FourKites is perhaps the best platform for enterprises seeking standalone real-time transportation visibility platforms. It has global coverage across all modes. But might not be the best for companies seeking suite capabilities across the supply chain and not just transportation. Also, it might not be the best fit for SMBs seeking an affordable solution.

Pros
  • 490K Carriers, ETAs 6x more accurate, 98% of global ocean traffic, and 17K airports. Compared to other solutions on this list, FourKites has one of the most comprehensive coverage and is more accurate because of its data coverage.
  • 1.5M monthly parcel and last mile load. The inclusion of parcel and last mile load is an added advantage and a critical component for end-to-end transportation traceability.
  • Visibility past transportation to include yards, warehouses, and stores. While the purpose is to include just the transportation visibility, including yards, warehouses, and stores, it helps with end-to-end visibility of the entire transportation value chain. 
Cons
  • Expensive. The comprehensive datasets and AI and ML capabilities to forecast decision-grade data make it expensive for SMBs.
  • Not as strong with service parts. The intent of the platform is not to provide the supplier-side of traceability. So it would not be a great fit for the supply chain visibility needed for supplier collaboration in business units such as spare parts businesses.
  • Limited integration with other TMS systems. Some of the TMS systems might not be as integrated, requiring companies to spend on consulting efforts.

1. Project44

Project44 is the best for SMBs seeking standalone real-time transportation visibility platforms. Compared to FourKites, Project44 is relatively friendlier for SMBs. It also provides a guarantee for carrier compliance, a huge risk for companies struggling to get their carriers on the platform, leading to misleading insights and unreliable data. Project44 is also GDPR-compliant, making it friendlier for geographies such as Europe.

Pros
  • Carrier compliance guarantee. One of the biggest challenges in being successful with real-time transportation visibility platforms is carrier onboarding. Project44 not only has one of the largest carrier onboarding, minimizing the need to onboard as many carriers. But they also offer a guarantee because of how streamlined the process is. 
  • 230K+ carriers, 760 ELD providers over more than 48 countries, 4.33 million drivers, 3.55 M trucks, 800K fleets. These data points make them one of the largest global networks.
  • GDPR compliant. Project44 is perhaps one of the few systems that are GDPR-compliant, highly relevant for companies with a presence in the European market. 
Cons
  • Steep learning curve. The enterprise and scalable layers might require change management and training budget, which also might be out of reach for some SMBs.
  • Not an open platform. The open platform makes it easier and creates trust for carriers to join. While they are not open, they are one of the largest networks. Not being open might lead to mistrust among carriers and, as a result, their resistance to joining the network.
  • Requires carriers to agree on connecting. Carriers might not agree to join the network, thus leading to misleading insights and incomplete data, which is where their guarantee might be helpful. 
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Conclusion

Choosing real-time transportation visibility platforms necessitates insight into the underlying network, particularly data sources. Without this awareness, platforms may seem indistinguishable, potentially resulting in misguided choices. While some aspects, like platform vetting, maybe within your control, poor user experience could hinder adoption within your carrier network, impacting desired outcomes. If you’re exploring the top 10 real-time visibility platforms, consider leveraging the expertise of independent supply chain consultants for a successful selection.

FAQs

Top 10 Supply Chain Business Network Platforms In 2024

Leave a Comment / Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Blog, Chemicals, Consumer Goods, Distribution, Food and Beverage, High Tech & Electronics, Industrial Manufacturing, Life Sciences, Retail / By / March 3, 2024

Before the advent of supply chain business networks, industries depended on research and survey-based approaches for supply chain planning. Companies in the data business often erred significantly, leading to inefficiencies throughout the supply chain. Establishing networks was challenging due to communication standard disparities and the difficulty of persuading the entire industry to converge on a single platform. While business-to-business communication relied on standards like XML or EDI, they offered limited connectivity and acknowledgment without centralized repositories to drive industry-wide supply chains.

As EDI networks expanded, they evolved to extract valuable data, especially for carriers. However, the supply chain equation still lacked traceability. Mode-specific networks emerged, effectively connecting stakeholders within each mode. Yet, achieving end-to-end supply chain traceability and control tower capabilities remained elusive due to industry-wide data silos. Recognizing this challenge, private equity firms saw the necessity of consolidating these silos into comprehensive networks that encompass various supply chain elements.

Top 10 Supply Chain Business Network Platforms In 2024

Unlocking the full potential of technology, achieving supply chain traceability requires strategic approaches. Managing domestic communication networks is feasible, yet crossing geopolitical boundaries introduces unique challenges. Global traceability remains elusive, given national security and data privacy concerns. Blockchain technology emerges as a solution, seamlessly connecting datasets while upholding security interests. The landscape expands with ESG and e-invoicing initiatives, broadening the equation. While the origin of each network varies, each serves a distinct purpose. These networks not only ensure end-to-end traceability globally but also supply essential data for AI algorithms, transforming demand forecasting. Intrigued about the top 10 supply chain business network platforms in 2024? Let’s delve into the exploration.



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10. Pagero

Just like the role OpenText played for enterprise e-invoicing and document exchange for the stakeholders across the supply chain, Pagero’s cloud-native platform filled the same gap for SMBs, offering them a network very similar to OpenText. Pagero would be relevant if you are looking for a good document exchange solution, including e-invoicing support with trading partners for various markets. While Pagero’s network fills the gap with critical supply chains, they are not the best fit if you are looking for a vendor that could provide end-to-end supply chain visibility and traceability data, ranking at #10 on this list.

Pros
  • Cloud-native interface. Pagero technologies are cloud-native, making vendor onboarding super easy, allowing you to not only use the vendors and carriers already on the network but invite your trading partners to the platforms as well, expanding the network even further.
  • Easy connecting with trading partners. Connecting and onboarding new vendors could be done with a few clicks, reducing the friction and resistance of those who might not be willing to join the network because of friction in the process.
  • E-invoicing compliance capabilities. Not many technologies in the market can allow true eInvoicing capabilities, which are critical to comply with processes in several countries, even for custom compliance requirements.
Cons
  • Limited to document exchange. The scope of the network is limited to document exchange related to eInvoicing and communication with trading partners.
  • Limited suite capabilities. Companies looking for an entire suite that could utilize the data generated by the network might not be the best fit.
  • Not a real supply chain business network. It’s not necessarily a supply chain business network, but it does provide critical capabilities to communicate with supply chain stakeholders.

9. TESISQUARE 

TESISQUARE presents a unique network origin, initially focusing on supplier collaboration within manufacturing and engineering value chains. Unlike carrier or eInvoicing networks, its strength lies predominantly in the European market, offering specific capabilities within the supply chain. While not comprehensive for the entire supply chain, it excels as a supplier collaboration network with strength within the SAP ecosystem. TESISQUARE secures a spot at #9 on our list, providing control tower features geared toward tracking supplier collaboration.

Pros
  • Strong competence with SAP. They started with SAP partners to provide collaboration capabilities for SAP customers, leading to superior integration with SAP technologies.
  • Sending drawings etc to suppliers. Not many companies can help with the engineering collaboration where drawings need to be collaborated with suppliers, providing them a unique value prop.
  • Control tower capabilities. While limited capabilities, they have control tower capabilities, offering a centralized view of your supply chain.
Cons
  • Limited to European network. Their network is primarily limited to European carriers, which might be limiting for companies seeking to track global supply chains.
  • Fairly small network limited to European countries. The small network can lead to a biased view of the network, leading to partially completed data that is not as superior as other platforms on this list.
  • Limited suite and data. The suite capabilities are very limited to a very specific use case, and not a complete suite similar to technologies such as e2open.

8. Elemica

Elemica originated as a carrier and document exchange network, similar to EDI vendors or shipping platforms, with a primary focus on process manufacturers. Since process manufacturers require unique capabilities with document exchange and shipping needs, their network is focused on specific geography, use cases, and industries, limiting their applicability as a true supply chain business network. But they could be a great platform if you are looking to communicate and collaborate with industry-focused trading partners. Given their pros and cons, they rank at #8 on our list.

Pros
  • SMB friendly. Their platform is very SMB-centric for companies looking for basic communication capabilities within a TMS, especially ideal for companies for which supply chain footprint might be limited because of outsourced supply chains to 3PL and carrier companies.
  • Connect with carriers, including rate shopping. Allows companies looking for basic carrier communication capabilities, including rate shopping.
  • Chemical and process industry-specific capabilities. The chemical and process industry is very unique because of its complex inventory and quality requirements, requiring specific capabilities in a network platform.
Cons
  • Not a real supply chain business network. While a great connectivity platform, it’s not really a real supply chain business network for companies seeking end-to-end traceability and true control tower capabilities.
  • Really a document exchange and small shipping software. It’s really a very small package for document exchange and shipping needs.
  • Smaller network footprint concentrated on certain industries. The size of the network is small, limiting its scope as a supply chain business network.

7. True Commerce

True Commerce is primarily an EDI network connecting trading partners in the automotive ecosystem, serving as a visibility platform for the automotive industry. While it could be a great value add for SMBs that might have access to a more robust supply chain platform, it’s not necessarily a true supply chain business network. But it could be a great network if your goal is to primarily connect with trading partners through EDI, ranking at #7 on our list.

Pros
  • Easy connectivity with trading partners. The main benefit of True Commerce is trading partner communication, with a very lean network for visibility needs.
  • SMB-friendly. It’s not as cost-prohibitive as other platforms on this list, making it friendlier for SMBs.
Cons
  • Not a real supply chain business network. While great for connectivity, it’s not a real supply chain platform for companies seeking end-to-end traceability of their supply chain, along with control tower capabilities.
  • Visibility is limited to Automotive. While great for the automotive value chain, it’s not the best fit for other industries.
  • Limited insights and network size. The limited network size would provide biased insights and incomplete data that might not be as valuable for supply chain planning as with other platforms.

6. OpenText

OpenText provides enterprise-grade content exchange and trade document networks primarily for enterprise ERP ecosystems such as SAP or Oracle to provide connectivity with trading partners. With ESG and eInvoicing capabilities housed with these networks as well, their network has been expanded to these workflows, expanding their network further. While it’s a great platform for connectivity and collaboration, it’s not necessarily a true supply chain business network, ranking it as #6 on our rank for this year.

Pros
  • Best-of-breed content management platform for enterprise workloads. It is one of the leading products for centralized management and distribution of physical document exchange.
  • A business network for trading partner collaboration. One of the largest networks for trading partner collaboration.
  • Global compliance. Global compliance capabilities require unique processes for each country and supply chain lanes, providing enterprise-grade compliance capabilities.
Cons 
  • Not a true supply chain visibility platform. While great for execution-centric capabilities with an external network, it’s not a true supply chain platform.
  • Not friendly for SMBs. The enterprise compliance layers and business rules might be overwhelming for SMBs.
  • Expensive. SMBs limited on budget and not caring for enterprise capabilities might find it overly expensive.

5. Kinaxis/MPO

Kinaxis, just like e2open,  takes a very different approach to its suite and has a true supply chain business network that it owns, enabling the AI and ML workflows crucial for decision-grade data. Their network will provide end-to-end supply chain traceability for all global modes and control tower capabilities. While it might be a great planning suite for manufacturing-centric verticals, as in these industries, planning processes do not need to be tightly integrated with operational workflows, it might not be a great fit for retail-centric verticals as they require planning processes to be tightly integrated with order management, store and floor planning, warehouse, and procurement.

Pros
  • Planning solutions integrated with the network. Integrated network with the planning solution provides unique capabilities for manufacturing-centric industries.
  • Complementary capabilities for SAP and Oracle customers. Perhaps one of the best networks along with S&OP platforms for companies already on SAP and Oracle for their ERP.
  • Decision-grade intelligence. The network provides proprietary data, and because of that, they are able to offer decision-grade data for their planning cycles.
Cons
  • Not a strong execution component. Their biggest drawback is that they don’t have a strong execution component bundled as part of the suite, but for their industries, the suite might not be as relevant as it is for retail industries.
  • The network is not as strong as its competitors. The strength of their network might not be as strong as other networks, such as e2open, limiting the quality of decision-grade data.

4. One Network Enterprises

One Network is one of the strongest networks for industry-wide collaboration and control tower capabilities. The network features a strong partner network, providing traceability across geopolitical boundaries using its unique technology capabilities, allowing it to have such traceability. The network is also uniquely positioned for complex scenarios such as counterfeit tracking or global pharma supply chain, making the network more relevant for the execution function than for planning, ranking it at #4 on our list.

Pros
  • More than 75 companies in the partner network. Their strong partner network provides them with data to provide global supply chain capabilities combining all modes and regions.
  • Telematics-Enabled Control Tower. The telematics data gathered from across the world help them provide end-to-end traceability that other networks might not have.
  • Multi-party BOM tracking. This tracking is especially useful for tracking across all stakeholders, providing traceability for pharma or counterfeit.
Cons
  • Not SMB-friendly. Global traceability might not be as relevant for SMB companies and might be expensive.
  • Weak planning and execution capabilities. While great with network and global TMS-centric capabilities, other execution components might not be missing for non-transportation or 3PL companies, which might require traceability among trading partners and suppliers, along with an external supply chain.
  • Limited network. While one of the strongest, the network is not as comprehensive as e2open, making it less reliable for decision-grade data.

3. SupplyOn

Much like OneNetwork and TESISQUARE, SupplyOn centers around procurement and supplier collaboration. While OneNetwork emphasizes global collaboration and industry-wide BOM tracking, SupplyOn, akin to TESISQUARE and Infor Nexus, specializes in procurement and supplier collaboration. It may not delve as deeply into the carrier aspect of the network. Although possessing data from a broader array of companies and countries than OneNetwork, its dataset might not match the completeness of networks like e2open. However, for those focused on procurement and supplier collaboration needs, SupplyOn stands out, earning the #3 spot on our list.

Pros
  • 140 companies from 100 countries. The company and country set is much larger than OneNetwork but might not be as comprehensive as e2open.
  • Primarily focused on the procurement network and e-invoicing. The focus on the procurement network and e-invoicing would provide much stronger capabilities for this area, although weaker on the carrier side of the network.
Cons
  • Not SMB-friendly. The platform is not meant to be for SMBs so they will find it expensive.
  • Weak planning and execution capabilities. While great for the network, it does not have embedded planning or execution capabilities for companies looking for embedded workflows utilizing this data and network, increasing the consulting and implementation budget in using it as part of the architecture, but at the same providing flexibility for the best-of-breed architecture or depart level purchase.
  • Not as comprehensive as other platforms. The network coverage is not as comprehensive as other platforms on this list due to its primary focus on the supplier collaboration and procurement side of data.

2. Infor Nexus

Infor Nexus primarily serves as a visibility platform, focusing on the procurement and supplier collaboration aspects of the network. It relies on external datasets, such as those from partners like Project44 and FourKites, for carrier-side information. While it excels in meeting the supplier and procurement collaboration needs of verticals like automotive and aerospace, it falls short of providing a comprehensive supply chain business network. Nevertheless, its strength lies in fostering tight collaboration with other architectural layers, such as WMS and ERP, in industries where this collaboration is crucial. As a result, Infor Nexus secures the #2 spot on our list.

Pros
  • Integrated with Infor solutions such as WMS and ERP. For industries where embedded experience with internal solutions such as WMS or ERP matters, it would provide a tighter experience because of pre-baked integration.
  • Planning integrated with a network similar to Kinexis. Integrated planning would utilize a proprietary network, a similar strategy as Kinexis for decision-grade data, an architecture strategy relevant for these verticals.
  • Collaboration and orchestration with global suppliers. Collaboration and orchestration with global suppliers would help with scenarios such as joint planning and forecasting, which are much more relevant for these industries.
Cons
  • Leaner execution component compared to E2 Open. The execution, especially pertaining to external and global supply chains, would be weaker, requiring external components.
  • Not SMB friendly. SMBs might find it overwhelming and expensive if they don’t care for global collaboration or joint planning with their suppliers.
  • Limited ecosystem. The consulting base and ecosystem might be limited as compared to other options on this list.

1. e2open

e2open stands out as one of the most comprehensive platforms, encompassing a wide range of capabilities within a suite, including planning and execution, coupled with a robust network. In contrast to other solutions that may focus on specific datasets and networks in particular regions, e2open’s network spans suppliers, carriers, and ELD data, covering all modes and geographies. Its versatility shines when managing diverse operations, seamlessly supporting combined business models such as retail and manufacturing under the same portfolio. As a market leader, e2open secures the top spot at #1 on our list.

Pros
  • The most comprehensive suite combines the power of planning. The most comprehensive suite can work for global and comprehensive business models as complex as retail and manufacturing, especially for business models such as Aftermarket, which are highly complex and combine elements of many industries.
  • Execution and networks, are adopted by large enterprises. e2open has one of the largest logos on this list and is installed very commonly alongside SAP and Oracle.
  • Cloud-native UI. Compared to other platforms on this list, e2open has relatively modern technology.
Cons
  • Expensive. SMBs not caring for external supply chain traceability or decision-grade data might find it expensive.
  • Not SMB friendly. The enterprise business rules and layers might be overwhelming for SMBs.
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Conclusion

Revolutionizing supply chain planning, industry networks have reshaped the landscape. While you may not directly engage with these networks, comprehending their dynamics is key to evaluating supply chain visibility and platforms touting AI or control tower features. The robustness of their network shapes decision-grade data quality, influencing critical metrics like ETA and demand forecasting, pivotal for operational efficiency and supply chain planning. When evaluating a supply chain platform, delve into the underlying network to gauge the data quality it offers. If navigating this terrain seems daunting, seek guidance from independent supply chain consulting firms to make informed decisions.

FAQs

Top 10 Supply Chain Suites In 2024

Leave a Comment / Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Blog, Chemicals, Construction, Consumer Goods, Distribution, Food and Beverage, High Tech & Electronics, Industrial Manufacturing, Life Sciences, Retail / By / February 19, 2024

Suite roles in architecture hinge on cross-functional embeddedness. Supply chain suites restrict ERP suites to financial reporting, while retail-focused suites demand collaboration with WMS, TMS, and OMS for mature capabilities like inventory management and allocation. These were traditionally considered to naturally reside particularly inside the ERP, sparking debates if hosted elsewhere. In retail, procurement aligns closely with merchandising and planning engines. Conversely, in manufacturing and industrial settings, procurement collaborates more directly with production and accounting, illustrating the diverse nature of suite roles.

In the past, distinctions were blurred, and organizations either didn’t prioritize external supply chain tracking or built custom ERP-based systems for traceability. The evolving landscape of supply chain suites, particularly driven by private equity, has changed this dynamic. Today, previously unattainable possibilities are realized through marketplaces and networks, fostering global insights and collaboration. Technologies like blockchain facilitate seamless global data exchange, transcending international interests. While ESG and e-invoicing are in their infancy, their impact on future architecture remains uncertain. However, it’s likely that a portion of these models will be embedded within the supply chain suite, leveraging networks for collaborative documentation exchange.

Top 10 Supply Chain Suites In 2024

As supply chain suites continue to broaden their scope, determining the optimal placement particularly for specific processes within an architecture becomes increasingly complex. While straightforward for pure-play retail or manufacturing models, challenges intensify for businesses with overlapping models, like aftermarket operations blending aspects of both retail and manufacturing. This scenario is particularly applicable to softline and hardline retailers with significant manufacturing exposure. If you’re navigating supply chain suite choices, this list can assist in streamlining your options.



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10. Dassault Systèmes SCM

Dassault Systèmes employs a distinctive approach in its suite, positioned at the crossroads of ERP, CAD, and S&OP. Although tailored for supply chain industries overlapping with process manufacturing and retail, it caters to automotive- and aerospace-centric sectors, necessitating robust supplier collaboration. The suite’s roots lie in plastics, offering integrated tools for plastic-like operations across diverse industries. In contrast, other suites like Blue Yonder may face challenges in these specialized sectors, making Dassault stand out and securing its spot at #10 on our list.

Pros
  • Integrated with the ERP solution. The biggest plus with Dassault systems is its close alignment with ERP and CAD-centric systems,thus making it ideal for industries heavier on cost tracking, requiring ERP-centric processes, and limiting the role of S&OP to just planning.
  • Comprehensive suite with PLM/PDM, SCM, and ERP. Integration with PLM and PDM would be friendlier for companies particularly heavier with S&OP processes in their NPD and R&D phases, a critical requirement for process-centric manufacturers.
  • Compliance pre-baked for automotive and plastic verticals. Compliance processes heavily embedded with supply chain workflows, such as supplier collaboration, would require tight embeddedness of Dassault SCM.
Cons
  • Technology is not modern. The technology might not be as modern as some of the newer options on this list, such as e2open.
  • Limited ecosystem. The consulting ecosystem is highly limited, with their reseller channel being heavily crowded with CAD resellers without deeper supply chain expertise.
  • The network is not part of the suite. They don’t have access to the proprietary network, a critical limitation for demand forecasting, primarily relying on customers’ internal and industry data sources, which are generally substantially off because of inadequacies of their source channels.

9. Trimble 

Navigating supply chain planning, particularly in sectors like transportation, construction, and agriculture brings unique hurdles. Transportation prioritizes dispatch and preventive maintenance, influenced by distinctive driver-side compliance processes. Also, agriculture adds seasonal and crop quality factors to the planning mix. In construction, quoting processes wield substantial influence over supply chain planning. Thus, securing the 9th spot on our list, its suite’s specialized approach caters to the demands of these industries.

Pros
  • A most comprehensive suite containing telematics and fleet management. Most other manufacturing-focused suites might struggle with business models particularly with internal fleets and transportation operations, positioning Trimble uniquely.
  • Strong in transportation visibility. Their traceability and supply chain equation would be limited to transportation visibility, a strength for transportation-centric industries but a huge limitation for other industries.
  • 3PL-specific planning and data. 3PL-specific planning and data are unique, a limitation with other solutions on this list.
Cons
  • Not ideal for manufacturing or retail-centric industries. It is not an ideal fit for manufacturing and retail-centric industries, even if they might be using it for the transportation side of the processes.
  • Limited network. The limited nature of the network would not complete the supply chain equation, thus limiting companies seeking end-to-end supply chain planning.
  • Primarily focused on transportation execution and compliance. The other execution processes, such as retail, manufacturing, and production, would be highly limiting.

8. QAD

QAD adopts a strategy similar to Dassault’s by integrating CAD/PLM, S&OP, WMS, TMS, and ERP capabilities. Tailored for retail and supply chain-centric industries, it leans towards particularly discrete manufacturing and is less focused on process manufacturing for several industries like automotive and life sciences. QAD’s suite is structured around unique product categories, thus influencing supply chain and production processes across diverse industries. It mirrors the strategies of many supply chain suites, which exclusively focus on the supply chain function, omitting the ERP aspect, therefore making the QAD suite unique. Thus with its distinct attributes, QAD secures the 8th spot on our list.

Pros
  • Integrated with the ERP solution. The biggest advantage of QAD’s suite is its alignment with ERP-centric processes for cost-focused industries where processes such as cost accounting and production scheduling are critical.
  • Comprehensive suite with SCM and ERP. It combines the best of both worlds, including most components from the SCM suite, such as WMS and TMS, embedded with ERP processes, as well as CAD and PLM.
  • Compliance pre-baked for automotive and F&B industries. Compliance processes that require tighter embeddedness with the S&OP processes would find QAD’s suite extremely compelling.
Cons
  • Backend technology is not modern. The backend technology is not as modern as some of the newer platforms on this list.
  • Limited ecosystem. QAD ecosystem is highly limited, with very few consulting companies maintaining expertise on the product set, making finding talent challenging.
  • Network not part of the suite. QAD would rely on internal and customer-provided external data for its analysis, a substantial limitation compared to other systems owning and maintaining their networks as part of the suite.

7. Manhattan Associates

Manhattan specializes in retail and warehouse execution, tailored for industries tightly integrating physical store planning with warehousing and merchandising processes. These industries, less cost-focused with stable pricing models, don’t demand meticulous cost tracking, as seen in complex industrial sectors. The industries that Manhattan targets adopt a distinctive approach to intricate functions like inventory management, allocation, and omnichannel fulfillment. Its specific applicability to certain industries positions it at the 7th spot on our list.

Pros
  • Tailored flow for retail merchandisers and planners. Retail merchandising and planning are foundational processes for retailers, collaborating tightly with procurement, new product development, and design teams, requiring unique suites like Manhattan. 
  • Warehouse and store visualization and planning. The critical success factors for industries that Manhattan targets are warehouse and store visualization, influencing planning and allocation cycles substantially, requiring a unique architecture.
  • Integrated suite, including POS and distributed order management. The POS and DSD-centric business processes require unique architecture, only possible through suites like Manhattan.
Cons
  • External supply chain planning is limited.  The limited focus of Manhattan on retail execution leaves the external supply chain planning outside of the scope of Manhattan.
  • Network not included. Without a network, the planning components would be dependent upon internal and customer-provided external data, a huge limitation for companies seeking decision-grade data for the entire supply chain.
  • Not SMB friendly. The enterprise data and process layers would be overwhelming and unnecessarily expensive for SMBs.

6. Körber/HighJump 

Körber, akin to Manhattan, adopts a distinct approach with a focus on warehouse and execution components. It caters to 3PL-centric business models, crucial for distribution-focused companies often incorporating 3PL elements. Unlike Manhattan, Körber targets the mid and upper-mid markets, integrating processes like WMS, TMS, and freight claims management. While comprehensive, it lacks certain critical components found in other suites. Its unique approach and more limited applicability position it at the 6th spot on this list.

Pros
  • Strong warehouse management capabilities. It is one of the strongest cloud-native WMS systems for mid-market companies, covering most aspects of warehouse management relevant to mid-market companies.
  • TMS capabilities integrated. Industries where the embeddedness of TMS and WMS processes matter, especially for supply chain companies, would find Korber highly attractive.
  • Strong last mile and parcel capabilities. The last-mile capabilities are uniquely complex because of the scheduling and compliance processes of various industries, making Korber unique for DSD-centric operations.
Cons
  • External supply chain limited. While great for the internal supply chain, external supply chain capabilities are highly limited.
  • Network not included. The missing network would not provide the decision-grade data included with other supply chain suites.
  • No supply chain planning or collaboration. The missing planning or collaboration component might not be the best fit for companies requiring tighter embeddedness of  WMS and TMS processes with S&OP.

5. Infor CloudSuite SCM

Similar to Dassault and QAD, Infor CloudSuite SCM adopts a distinctive approach, integrating diverse processes like CAD/PLM, WMS, ERM, and HCM with S&OP processes. It proves ideal for companies with manufacturing-heavy business models where supply chain processes tightly intertwine with new product development and ERP. Pure-play retailers might find other suites more suitable, as S&OP processes may not align with their needs. Given its unique market position, Infor CloudSuite SCM secures the 5th spot on this list.

Pros
  • A comprehensive suite for supply chain management. Infor CloudSuite is uniquely comprehensive, most components pre-integrated, needed for manufacturers.
  • Great visibility platform with planning. Includes a visibility platform for supplier collaboration and procurement without carrier-focused visibility, generally included in 3PL and retail-centric suites.
  • Global trade workflows and compliance capabilities. Global trade compliance requires country and geopolitical restrictions that need to be integrated with business processes.
Cons
  • Weak transportation execution component. Due to the nature of industries Infor CloudSuite SCM targets, the transportation execution component is not as critical for the suite but might be a limitation for diverse operations.
  • Not proven with enterprise workloads. The enterprises requiring millions of transactions per hour for planning cycles might struggle with it.
  • Not fit for smaller businesses. The overbloated data and process layers might be overwhelming for smaller businesses.

4. Oracle

Oracle Supply Chain Suite proves ideal for global enterprises with diverse operations and various business models, effectively accommodating the planning cycles of multiple industries. In comparison, industry-specific suites like Infor, QAD, or Trimble may face challenges in handling such diverse operations. Mid-market-focused suites may struggle with the high workload of enterprise-level planning cycles, especially those involving millions of transactions per hour. While limited by its proprietary network, Oracle Supply Chain Suite excels in providing operational capabilities for global enterprises that demand seamless integration across systems such as HCM, ERP, WMS, and TMS with S&OP. Its unique position for large enterprises secures its rank at #4 on our list.

Pros
  • Comprehensive supply management suite, including global trade management capabilities. The supply chain suite would cover the need for the most diverse operations for global enterprises.
  • Strong planning platform integrated with execution suite. The planning platform is not industry- or function-specific, providing end-to-end traceability of all planning datasets, including S&OP, human resources, and FP&A.
  • Pre-integrated with ERP. Embedded processes with ERP, along with a disconnected supply chain suite, can cover both architectures equally well, covering the needs of diverse operations.
Cons
  • Network not part of the suite. Missing a network would require additional components, and the processes that need to be tightly embedded with the network might struggle.
  • Not SMB friendly. The enterprise data and process model might be overwhelming for SMBs leaner on their process overhead.
  • Expensive. Ultra expensive for SMBs looking for cheaper options with learner process and data models.

3. SAP

Like Oracle, SAP Supply Chain Suite is tailored for global enterprises with diverse operations, accommodating planning cycles across various business models. Unlike Oracle, SAP offers friendliness for product-centric industries deeply involved in cost accounting and MRP-driven processes. Mid-market-focused suites may struggle with the high workload of enterprise-level planning cycles, dealing with millions of transactions per hour. Despite its proprietary network limitations, SAP Supply Chain Suite excels in providing operational capabilities for global enterprises, seamlessly integrating systems such as ERP, WMS, HCM, and TMS with S&OP. This unique position earns it the #3 rank on our list.

Pros
  • Comprehensive supply management suite, including global trade management capabilities. The supply chain suite is comprehensive for highly regulated organizations requiring process tightness and control across systems such as ERP, WMS, TMS, and S&OP.
  • Strong planning platform integrated with execution suite. The tight integration of the planning suite with execution components allows cross-pollination of business rules, which is highly critical for publicly traded organizations.
  • Pre-integrated with ERP.  The pre-integration with ERP allows exploring diverse warehouse architectures – decoupled or embedded, catering to different business models, being especially friendly for 3PL-centric operations.
Cons
  • Network not part of the suite. The missing network would struggle with the cross-pollination of business rules, requiring a network.
  • Not SMB friendly. The overbloated enterprise data and process layers would be overwhelming for SMB companies.
  • Expensive. SMBs might find the SAP’s price tag cost-prohibitive and overly expensive.

2. Blue Yonder

Blue Yonder stands out as a unique suite, akin to Manhattan, offering retail-centric capabilities enriched with robust external supply chain processes and control tower capabilities. In contrast to industry-specific suites like QAD, Infor Nexus, and Dassault, Blue Yonder may not excel in industries requiring seamless integration of business rules from WMS, TMS, and OMS with ERP, particularly those emphasizing cost accounting and MRP-centric processes. Unlike SAP and Oracle, which may lack depth in external supply chain capabilities, Blue Yonder proves more suitable for industries necessitating the decoupling of cost-centric overhead. Differing from e2open, Blue Yonder lacks its proprietary network. Its versatile application across various industries earns it the #2 spot on our list.

Pros
  • Strongest supply chain suite with planning and execution components. One of the strongest pure-play supply chain suites for retail-centric industries.
  • Ability to handle a large number of SKUs for enterprise retailers. Enterprise retail workloads require processing millions of transactions per hour for planning loads containing millions of SKUs and location planning.
  • External supply chain capabilities. One of the strongest supply chain suites for end-to-end supply chain traceability, internal or external.
Cons
  • ERP is not included as part of the suite. In the processes and business models where cross-pollinations of business rules with ERP is critical, Blue Yonder might not be the best fit.
  • Network is not part of the suite. With Blue Yonder not owning its own network, it might not have as much control over the third parties providing them network.
  • Not SMB friendly. The enterprise process and data layers might be overwhelming for SMBs.

1. e2open

e2open takes a unique approach to its suite, straddling the realms of retail and manufacturing and integrating transactional CRM processes. Diverging from Blue Yonder, e2open prides itself on its proprietary network, ensuring precise decision-grade data, a valuable asset for companies contending with demand forecasting challenges and data dependencies on external factors. While exhibiting similarities with QAD or Infor Nexus in various capacities, e2open encounters constraints in architectures necessitating ERP cross-pollination for specific industries. In such contexts, e2open may not be the optimal choice. Nonetheless, its robust enterprise-grade capabilities and deep supply chain processes catapult it to the forefront, securing the coveted #1 rank on our list.

Pros
  • Most comprehensive supply chain suite with planning, network, and execution. One of the most comprehensive options with all aspects of the supply chain suite that other solutions on this list might not have.
  • Channel marketing planning and collaboration. One of the unique aspects of e2open is that it has a process for channel-driven organizations with trade rebate planning and several other processes that are relevant for collaborative channels.
  • Global compliance and e-invoicing support. Along with the capabilities that most suites offer, it also has capabilities for global compliance and e-invoicing support, requiring only one platform for all collaboration and joint planning needs.
Cons
  • ERP is not included as part of the suite. For industries where planning processes might require cross-pollination with ERP processes, e2open might not be the best fit.
  • Not SMB friendly. The enterprise data and process layers might be overwhelming for SMB companies.
  • Limited ecosystem. The consulting ecosystem is not as prevalent as some of the other solutions on this list, so finding talent might be harder with e2open.
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Conclusion

Supply chain suites have diverse origins, evolving from various perspectives—some rooted in execution systems, others in planning. Over time, they’ve developed significant overlaps with each other and other enterprise software categories, intensifying architectural challenges. In your quest for a supply chain suite, delineate your business process boundaries and determine their natural placement based on required process embeddedness. This list aims to streamline your options, yet identifying the right suite demands expertise, often provided by independent ERP consultants.

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