TTM GmbH optimizes transport and warehouse logistics with LIS software
TTM GmbH, a leading company in the field of international transport and warehouse logistics, is celebrating two anniversaries this year: The founding of the company 30 years ago – and 25 years of cooperation with LIS Logistische Informationssysteme GmbH. For a quarter of a century, the company has relied on the logistics software provider’s high-performance solutions, in particular the WinSped Transport Management System (TMS). With locations in Leipzig and Mannheim and a dedicated team of 160 employees, TTM specializes in the efficient handling of transport and warehouse logistics services.
When starting a business, you begin on a small scale and closely monitor growth. When TTM processed its first transport orders in 1994, it was not yet clear where the journey would lead. However, when the forwarding company experienced enormous growth after just five years and the manual planning and implementation of logistics processes became increasingly complex, the team at the time made a forward-looking decision: A transport management system (TMS) was needed.
Requirements and decision for LIS
Bien, authorized signatory at TTM GmbH, has been with the company since 1999 and still remembers the introduction of the software: “Better one comprehensive program than 30 different ones,” was the credo of the team at the time. “In order to structure ourselves better and become faster, we looked for a TMS that could map everything: Order entry, route planning, invoicing – and as simply and attractively priced as possible,” explains Bien. WinSped impressed with its comprehensive functionality and the ability to map all relevant processes in one system. The ability to communicate with other applications via interfaces was a decisive factor in the choice of WinSped.
Implementation and cooperation with LIS
Kopatz, head of the IT department, and his team are responsible for integrating WinSped into day-to-day business and are in regular contact with Kolk, customer advisor at LIS. “Communication is going very well at both a technical and strategic level,” reports Kopatz. In addition to monthly meetings at which current challenges and requests relating to the software are discussed, TTM takes part in telematics conferences and other events organized by the software partner, such as the T-MATIK in-house exhibition, in order to keep up to date with the latest developments.
Of course, there is a need to optimize new features or connections from time to time: LIS is always open to feedback and works continuously to optimize its solutions. For example, an update of the ticket workflow at LIS is currently on the agenda in order to respond to customer inquiries more quickly and professionally. As one of the test customers, TTM is involved in the restructuring and can thus actively participate in determining how work processes will be optimized in the future.
Advantages and increased efficiency with WinSped
The original idea was to move away from complex and error-prone Excel lists and towards clarity. Over time, however, the requirements for a TMS became increasingly complex. TTM Managing Director Fillbrunn gives an insight into the development: “LIS has continuously developed WinSped and reacts proactively to market requirements. The software started with functions for part and full loads, but has been continuously expanded with new modules. A good example is the integration of the groupage area, where we were able to contribute our expertise. Today, WinSped offers a wide range of functions that go far beyond the original scope.”
With the introduction of the TMS 25 years ago, TTM was able to achieve considerable improvements in the operational process, which are still noticeable today. The software has increased clarity and reduced manual processes. Thanks to powerful algorithms and the integration of new modules such as customs processing, TTM can now work much more efficiently.
Last year saw the implementation of another WinSped feature, graphical scheduling, which promises to save even more time. This feature makes it easier to process several consignments at the same time and offers clearer vehicle planning. New automatisms in the time mechanics and the integration of additional features such as the Transporeon connection and parking space bookings make work even easier.
“Even though the integration is not yet complete, we are already noticing improvements. Our dispatchers can work more efficiently and have a better overview of the entire process,” says Fillbrunn. It is always nice to see that with every new function in TMS, work is made more efficient somewhere in the logistics process.
Conclusion and future prospects
The long-standing partnership between TTM and LIS is based on mutual trust and a willingness to innovate. “We have never been let down. The functions of the software are versatile and are continuously being developed. Our external telematics system is seamlessly connected to WinSped,” emphasizes Fillbrunn. The fact that TTM also relies on the specialist from Greven for the introduction of new software demonstrates a high level of satisfaction with the innovative spirit and reliability of LIS.
About TTM GmbH
Founded: 1994
Locations: Leipzig and Mannheim
Employees: 160
Focal points: Transportation and warehouse logistics
Order volume: 800-900 orders a day, up to 1,000 at peak times