Case study 1: What are the input, process, and output

of UPS’s tracking system?

timelines95.blogspot.com/2016/10/case-study-1-what-are-input-process-and.html

1. What are the input, process, and output of UPS’s tracking system?

Inputs:
- include package information, customer signature, pickup, delivery, time-based
data, current location (while on route), and customer documentation
Process:
- Data transmitted to central computer and stored for retrieval. Data also
reorganized so that can be tracked by customer account, data, driver, and other criteria.
Output:
- Include pickup and delivery times, location while on route, and package recipient,
but specific as well as summary reports for management

PROCESSING OUTPUT:
INPUTS: Processing 1.
Input device: Delivery Information technology: Progress
Acquisition Device (DIAD) UPU’s Report
Computer on
Input data: Sender’s detail and Center package
destination package via web
PROCESSING 2.
Processing technology: UPU’s Computer Printed
Center scan able
barcode
OUTPUT: label
1. Progress Report on package via
web

2. Printed scan able barcode label

2. What technologies are used? How are

these technologies related to UPS’s
business strategy?
It all starts with the scannable bar-coded
label attached to a package, which
contain detailed information about the

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sender, the destination, and when the
package should arrive. Next, UPS use
special software to create the most
efficient delivery route for each driver that
consider traffic, weather conditions, and
the location of each stop. In 2009, UPS
began installing sensors in its delivery
vehicles that can capture the truck’s
speed and location, the number of times
it’s placed in reverse and whether the
driver’s seat belt is buckled. Furthermore,
by combining GPS information and data
from fuel-efficiency sensors, UPS is able
to reduce fuel consumption. Then, from
getting feedback from their customers the
company developed acquisition device
called Delivery Information Acquisition
Device (DIAD), which can access a
wireless cell phone network. DIAD also
automatically captures customers’
signatures along with pickup and delivery
information.

The technologies used above are related

to UP'S business strategy because it
improves efficiency and time
management. For example, using GPS
technology allows parcels to be tracked
wherever they may be. If it is lost they can
be located and delivered to the correct
address.

These technologies also ensure

maximum flexibility in business
operations. Bluetooth and Infrared
technology allows instant messaging
which enables any changes to be
communicated easily and immediately.

These technologies solve timing problems

as drivers can receive urgent delivery
messages. If delivery has been sent to
the incorrect location you are
automatically notified. Drivers are shown
directions to customers address, gives
the fastest route therefore saving time to
deliver the next parcel. Customers have
access to tracking their parcels instead of
having the hassle to call UPS and ask of
its location.

3. What strategic business objectives do

UPS’s information system address?

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The strategic business objectives do
UPS’s information system address is to
grow their global business by serving the
logistics needs of customers.
Those technologies are solving problems
such as:
* ensuring they can deliver anywhere in
the world by using the built in GPS
* Electronically records signature from
customers, which is automatically
recorded to the company database.
* Information are send directly to drivers
on instant messages.

4. What would happen if UPS’s

information systems were not available?
If those technology were not available it
would made it hard for drivers to find
address or pick up point for customers
because the GPS makes it easier for
them.

Next, if these technologies were not

available UPS would not be able to have
a competitive edge on its competitors and
not deliver an effective and efficient, time
targeted service. Finally, it can result in
lower revenue.

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