DC Velocity outlines how impact will affect logistics over the next year, focusing on mobile devices, analytics software, and social media. Go here to read the whole thing.

At Cheetah, we've long recognized the importance of mobile devices for logistics efficiency, productivity, and profitability. So we agree with DC Velocity where they write:

Mobile computing devices, whether in the form of smart phones or tablet computers, could have a more far-reaching impact on logistics than anyone ever imagined, according to the panelists. The appeal of these devices lies largely in their flexibility. With a tablet or smart phone in hand, managers no longer need to return to their desks to obtain essential operating data; they can pull up the information wherever they are—whether in the warehouse or on the road. That's a powerful draw, noted Mark Ohlund, vice president of technology strategy for PLS Logistics Services. "We want [access to] information anytime we want it."

We've also long provided as much actionable information as possible to our customers from the Cheetah system, and we plan to provide more. DC Velocity points out the significance of improved analytics:

Predictive analytics, on the other hand, help managers assess future risks—for example, a jump in oil prices—and weigh the pros and cons of alternative responses. "It will come up with a range of options," Watson said. "For example, you could see what your supply chain should look like with oil at $70 a barrel versus $150 a barrel."

Finally, social media has been slow to penetrate the logistics industry, particularly the carriers who serve as Cheetah's primary customers. That might be changing, however, as DC Velocity points out:

As for social media, the panelists agreed that Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and the like are changing the way information is exchanged in the logistics community. They noted, for example, that it's becoming common for companies to use social media to find and recruit younger supply chain professionals—those under the age of 30.