While many companies still struggle with data silos between Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS), RedPrairie has recognized the transformative potential of an integrated approach. The supply chain technology provider is elevating its cloud strategy to seamlessly merge WMS and TMS, delivering more efficient and adaptable tools for supply chain management.
Cloud Integration: The Birth of RedPrairie On-Demand Supply Chain
RedPrairie has launched a new business unit—RedPrairie On-Demand Supply Chain—dedicated to providing cloud-based supply chain services. This move signifies a strategic elevation of RedPrairie’s cloud capabilities, offering both single-tenant and multi-tenant models to accommodate diverse client needs.
This initiative builds upon strategic acquisitions made in recent years. In 2010, RedPrairie acquired SmartTurn, an on-demand WMS provider, followed by the 2011 purchase of TMS specialist Shippers Commonwealth. These acquisitions laid the groundwork for RedPrairie’s cloud-based integration of WMS and TMS.
Ken Webster, Vice President and General Manager of On-Demand Solutions at RedPrairie, explained during the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) conference in Philadelphia: "We’ve consolidated our cloud-based TMS and WMS divisions under a unified brand—RedPrairie On-Demand Supply Chain. The core of this initiative is technical integration, with WMS adopting a single-instance, multi-tenant solution while incorporating TMS into the same framework."
Multi-Tenant TMS: Launching by Year-End 2011
RedPrairie plans to roll out the first phase of its multi-tenant TMS by the end of 2011. This model allows multiple clients to share software and hardware resources, significantly reducing IT and maintenance costs.
The formation of RedPrairie On-Demand Supply Chain was part of the company’s long-term vision following its acquisition of Shippers Commonwealth, demonstrating RedPrairie’s commitment to cloud innovation and supply chain integration.
Competitive Edge: Subscription-Based WMS/TMS Bundles
RedPrairie distinguishes itself as one of the few providers offering affordable, subscription-based WMS and TMS integration. This unified solution enhances supply chain efficiency, reduces operational costs, and improves customer satisfaction.
Jim Le Tart, RedPrairie’s Marketing Director, noted: "We were among the first to recognize the critical connection between WMS and TMS, which we’ve already implemented in on-premise solutions. Now, we’re extending this capability to our on-demand services."
Webster added that no other supply chain technology provider offers comparably priced, subscription-based WMS and TMS bundles for businesses of all sizes. This integration remains central to RedPrairie’s differentiation strategy, with plans to expand its offerings further.
The Evolution of RedPrairie’s Cloud Strategy
RedPrairie’s cloud strategy extends beyond mere software migration, encompassing acquisitions, integration, and innovation to create a truly cloud-optimized supply chain platform. Key phases include:
- Concept Validation: Exploring cloud technology’s potential in supply chain management.
- Strategic Acquisitions: Acquiring SmartTurn and Shippers Commonwealth for cloud-ready WMS and TMS expertise.
- Integration and Innovation: Merging acquired technologies into the RedPrairie On-Demand Supply Chain platform.
- Market Expansion: Promoting the platform to secure client adoption.
Cloud Advantages: Flexibility, Scalability, and Cost Efficiency
Compared to traditional on-premise systems, cloud services offer:
- Flexibility: Resources can be adjusted dynamically without heavy hardware investments.
- Scalability: Effortlessly accommodates business growth without performance bottlenecks.
- Cost Efficiency: Subscription-based pricing eliminates upfront hardware and maintenance expenses.
RedPrairie’s Vision: Reshaping Supply Chain Management
RedPrairie’s cloud strategy represents a fundamental shift in supply chain management, enabling businesses to eliminate data silos, synchronize operations, and enhance efficiency. By driving smarter, more collaborative supply chains, RedPrairie is positioning itself as an industry leader.
Future Directions: AI, IoT, and Blockchain
Looking ahead, RedPrairie aims to incorporate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence for smarter decision-making, IoT for comprehensive data monitoring, and blockchain for heightened transparency and security.
RedPrairie’s cloud strategy offers a blueprint for the industry, emphasizing the importance of cloud adoption, system integration, and continuous innovation to meet evolving market demands.