UPS Case Study

here are the answers to the case study questions:

1. What are the inputs, processing, and outputs of UPS's package tracking
system?

Inputs:

● Customer information (sender and receiver)

● Package information (weight, dimensions, destination)
● Scanning data from barcode labels
● Delivery information (pickup and delivery locations, timestamps)

Processing:

● Sorting and routing of package information

● Updating package status and tracking information
● Communication with drivers' DIAD devices
● Providing real-time tracking data to customers

Outputs:

● Package tracking information on the UPS website and mobile app

● Delivery notifications to customers
● Proof of delivery documentation
● Data for supply chain analysis and optimization

2. What technologies are used by UPS? How are these technologies related to
UPS's business strategy?

UPS utilizes a wide range of technologies to support its package tracking system and
overall business strategy. These technologies include:

● Barcodes and scanning devices: Barcodes provide a unique identifier for each
package, enabling efficient tracking and routing. Scanning devices capture
barcode data and transmit it to the central computer system.
 ● Wireless communication: Drivers' DIAD devices use wireless communication
networks to receive route updates, capture delivery information, and transmit
tracking data.
● Central computer systems: UPS maintains a network of powerful computer
systems that store and process package tracking data, manage routing
algorithms, and provide real-time tracking information to customers.
● Mobile applications: UPS offers mobile apps that allow customers to track
packages, check delivery routes, and manage shipping options from their
smartphones.
● Web services: UPS provides web services that enable customers and partner
companies to integrate tracking functionality into their own websites and
applications.

These technologies are closely aligned with UPS's business strategy of providing
efficient, reliable, and customer-centric package delivery services. By leveraging
technology to track packages throughout the delivery process, UPS can optimize
delivery routes, minimize delays, and provide real-time visibility to customers.

3. What strategic business objectives do UPS's information systems address?

UPS's information systems play a crucial role in achieving several strategic business
objectives:

● Operational efficiency: Information systems enable UPS to optimize delivery

routes, minimize fuel consumption, and streamline logistics operations, leading to
cost savings and improved efficiency.
● Customer service: Real-time package tracking and proactive delivery
notifications enhance customer satisfaction and trust in UPS's services.
● Competitive advantage: UPS's sophisticated tracking technology differentiates it
from competitors and supports its position as a leader in package delivery
services.
● Supply chain management: UPS's information systems provide valuable insights
into supply chain patterns and enable companies to optimize their inventory
management and distribution strategies.

4. What would happen if UPS's information systems were not available?

The disruption or unavailability of UPS's information systems would have a significant
impact on the company's operations and its ability to fulfill its business objectives. The
following consequences would be likely:

● Operational disruptions: Package tracking and routing would be severely

hampered, leading to delays, misrouted packages, and overall delivery chaos.
● Customer dissatisfaction: Customers would lose real-time visibility into their
shipments, leading to frustration and uncertainty.
● Competitive disadvantage: UPS's inability to track packages accurately and
efficiently would erode its competitive edge and allow rivals to gain market share.
● Supply chain disruptions: Companies relying on UPS's logistics services would
experience delays and disruptions in their supply chains, affecting their
production and distribution activities.

In summary, UPS's information systems are critical to its success and play a vital role in
enabling the company to deliver packages efficiently, satisfy customers, and maintain its
position as a leader in the package delivery industry.

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Mashaweer CASE STUDY

1. What kinds of applications are described in this case? What business

functions do they support?

- Applications: ERP system, customized PDAs, Mashaweer Server, Mashaweer API,

Mashaweer PDA client.

- Business Functions: Order placement, editing, tracking, route optimization, client

management, package tracking, call center operations, financial transactions tracking,
asset tracking, and management reporting.

2. What are the benefits from equipping their riders with PDAs?

**Benefits of PDAs for Riders:**

 - Accurate order tracking through GPS.

- Efficient task management and synchronization.

- Decreased errors in order processing.

- Real-time communication and messaging.

- Integration with the SCADA system for live order monitoring.

3. Was it a good decision to expand the business to Cairo? What are the
implications of information systems?

- Yes, it was a good decision as Cairo presented a larger market.

- Implications: Increased demand, need for extensive market research, heavy

investment during the Revolution, adoption of a different expansion strategy covering
the entire Greater Cairo area.

4. Do you think that Mashaweer will be able to accomplish their future strategy
and sustain its market share?

- Mashaweer's future strategy includes Mashaweer Market, call center expansion, and
geographical expansion.

- With technological investments and a diversified service offering, Mashaweer is

positioned to accomplish its future strategy and sustain market share.

5. Do you think in near future, the competition between Mashaweer and Wassaly
will be aggressive? Why?

- Competition may become aggressive as both companies operate in the same

market.

- Mashaweer's unique selling propositions, technological advancements, and

diversified services give it a competitive edge, but the entry of new competitors may
lead to intensified rivalry.