The Role Of A Transport Analyst using Route Optimisation

What Is The Role Of A Transport Analyst in relation to Route Planning and Transport Management Software?

The dictionary definition of the word transport is to move goods, services or people from one location to another in a vehicle, train, locomotive machine, aircraft or by ship. It is obvious that by looking at the modern distribution industry that such movement occurs by different (intermodal) means. A transport cost is the financial outlay incurred by an agency that moves the cargo between different locations. The use of vehicle routing software is one mechanism by which a logistics company can reduce its transportation costs. The infrastructure the logistics company utilises to move consignments is termed the transport network, and delivery route planning is an integral part it.

Analysing infrastructure

A transport analyst is employed to study a given infrastructure and then develop solutions to any issues concerning the functioning of the transport system. The profession involves supervising, monitoring and attempting to control the supply side from origin to destination of commodities between purchasers, sellers and distributors. In addition, the analyst is required to have an appreciation of the legal framework within which the movement of the commodity operates. Practitioners often work with IT professionals, vehicle engineers and other transportation analysts to achieve their employer’s objectives. In short the analyst plans, organises and assigns priority to the conveyance of goods and understanding the importance of route planning and route optimisation software is a fundamental component of the position.

Supply Chain Transport analysis

A consignment may be moved hundreds or even thousands of miles when it is carried from its origin to destination. The different carriage modes which compose a given transport network are known as the supply chain, and the transport analyst is responsible for ensuring that movement between them is as free of ‘friction’ as possible. Furthermore, if circumstances change, the individual or team of analysts will be responsible for implementing a next best alternative from a choice of options generated by route planning and/or transport management software.

Route Planning Software versus Transport Management Software

Route Planning software typically refers only to the road element of the movement of goods though it might well include routing via ferries and over land borders. Transport Management Software, on the other hand, can cover a number of elements including 3rd party contractor selection, mode analysis (which is best – plane, train, sea or road), backhaul management and logistics network analysis. Transport analysts are in often experts in the use of transport management software whereas transport planners are more likely to be experts in both route planning software and transport management software.