Tag: Ports

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The future of integrating with Master Terminal

Posted on | by siteadmin

By Rebecca Rowley, Solutions Architect, Jade Logistics

With the constantly evolving landscape of terminal operating systems and their role within wider supply chain management, Jade Logistics has recently reviewed their API offering to ensure it continues to support easy and cost-effective integration with third party systems and excellent performance at scale.

The increase in demand for agile application development — providing applications which can be built quickly to explore new ideas, ways of working and growth opportunities — paves the way for an integration strategy that provides clear, concise APIs that require little system knowledge, have a low maintenance burden, are easily extendable and simple to interact with.

EDI continues to be a staple of the logistics industry and Master Terminal’s existing capabilities in this area are an important aspect of the TOS solution. As well as FTP drop and operator upload, the Master Terminal SOAP web service supports EDI data transfer via a SOAP interface and this existing web service will be maintained. This mechanism works well for this type of data transfer and is already a standalone web service endpoint which does not require frequent definition updates, and as such requires little support beyond the initial integration development.

An increasingly important area of data for port operators is real-time, event-driven updates. Jade Logistics will continue to use, and further enhance, the Event Stream framework for event driven data transfer direct from Master Terminal. As this data is driven from the existing SQL extract mappings, it is an ideal interface to provide information into a data warehouse for targeted, customer specific, BI analysis.

For data integration beyond the port environment and into the wider supply chain, Master Terminal integrates directly with CargoChain. This ensures information about cargo and its movements generated at the terminal is available to all supply chain participants, eliminating the need for complex point-to-point data sharing and providing one integrated view of cargo. Third-party applications can take advantage of this by using CargoChain to redefine the global information supply chain, safe in the knowledge that the relevant Master Terminal activity will be captured by CargoChain.

Master Terminal currently exposes a user interface SOAP web service, which will continue to be supported and used by both Jade Logistics applications and third parties. However, in the future new integrations will be supported by REST web services.

The Master Terminal REST API suite is designed with the single responsibility principle at its heart; specific interfaces are responsible for single functions, producing loosely-coupled modular systems with scope for extension without impacting existing services. This reduces the maintenance burden and provides an uninterrupted API service for third parties, removing barriers to upgrade.

The Master Terminal REST API suite supports both JSON and XML data output enabling easy integration. In keeping with the separation of concerns principle, only the object data relating to a specific interface is transferred. This reduces the size of data transmitted as well as providing a clear and concise interface. Where as the existing SOAP Web service data objects are tightly coupled to the Master Terminal implementation, this is decoupled in the REST APIs providing a user-friendly interface requiring less system knowledge to integrate.

At Jade Logistics, we appreciate that every port is unique, with different workflows and handling procedures. Customers with specific and unique integration requirements, for example to assist in implementing custom applications for terminal functions, will have a specific REST API developed to meet their needs. This can be used in conjunction with the Master Terminal REST APIs to provide the functional coverage required to build a bespoke application.

It is important to Jade Logistics that port operators can choose the third-party applications on the periphery of their TOS (such as an external VBS System) that work best for their business, while still being able to easily integrate these systems with Master Terminal. The Master Terminal REST API suite includes generic interfaces for commonly required functions. If additional feature support is required, an application specific interface can be developed with little overhead.

MASTER TERMINAL API OFFERING

 

WHY REST?

REST interfaces now represent more than 70% of public APIs. This popularity is because REST, with JSON data, is simpler to interact with and faster to integrate to. Highly extendable, flexible and fast, REST is ideal for APIs in today’s agile environment.

The size of a REST API call and data transmission is significantly smaller than a SOAP request. This improves performance and requires less bandwidth, reducing load on the system. REST calls are lightweight and simple, allowing easy, quick calls to a URL for fast return responses.

REST inherently supports a variety of data formats, but the predominant use of JSON means better support for browser clients. JSON data is easily serialized into application specific objects without the need for a full service definition and intermediary proxy classes. This greatly simplifies the development required to interact with the client interface as well as removing the need to update a previous definition when changes are made, providing backwards compatibility.

Because REST is stateless, the same request can be made multiple times with the same response. This is ideal for mobile applications, allowing the process to be retried without major interruption in case connectivity is lost, as well as supporting caching of the results.

With REST web services, the client and server are loosely coupled. This means the server (i.e. the web service provider) can extend or modify the exposed interfaces without impacting the client (i.e. the application calling the web service). This is in stark contrast with SOAP web services, where the published API (web service definition) must be kept in sync and any changes must be made by both the client and server at the same time. This is a significant barrier to continuing enhancements and agile development.

If you would like to learn more about our TOS, Master Terminal, please contact us.

 

Jade Logistics makes the case for mobile apps in ports

Posted on | by siteadmin

World Cargo News recently talked to us about the launch of our suite of new mobile apps. The article is reproduced below.

Jade Logistics has launched a suite of 30 new web-based hand-held mobile apps for its Master Terminal TOS. The apps deploy mobile functionality and data capture ability to any internet-connected mobile device running the Microsoft, Android or Apple operating systems.

With the new apps, Jade is ready to support ports’ deployment of TOS functionality at different levels to different roles on the terminal, without requiring proprietary ruggedised devices that it views as expensive and lacking flexibility.

The apps include a vehicle app for mobile equipment operators. Depending on the task, and the driver’s preference, various views are available including a graphical view and a list view. Among other features, users can toggle night mode, select twinmode and customise the app to display the most important information in the most prominent areas on screen.

Like all the Jade apps, the Vehicle app is updated at the server level, so there are no software updates needed at the device level to maintain the app.

Delphine Ducaruge, product manager, said the need for 30 different apps reflects the diversity of specific roles at marine terminals, and each app is for a specific purpose, such as truck checking at a gate, or reefer container monitoring. There is, she added, no risk that the number of apps could become a source of frustration to people on the ground using the Jade Master Terminal TOS. An administrator decides who has access to what apps, and most users will typically have access to only “a couple”, and will stay in a single app for several hours while they work.

Grupo CICE in Veracruz was part of the beta programme to test the new Master Terminal web-based mobile apps. “The suite of 30 web apps spans CICE’s entire port operation, from splitting and merging cargo, through to loading or unloading a truck, and replaces their long-serving Windows applications,” stated Jade. “CICE, who are forwardthinking technology enthusiasts, rigorously tested the new apps over a two-month period, working closely with Jade Logistics to ensure the functionality developed would deliver real benefits to their port.”

Genaro Mendez, director of information technology at CICE commented that the new web-based apps were a welcome addition to the company. “Today’s terminals must be more responsive,” he said. “They must adapt to new technology quickly to remain competitive. We recognised the benefits the web apps would deliver, and made the decision to upgrade as soon as they were released.”

The ability to use commodity hardware also resonated with CICE. “We no longer need to invest in expensive ruggedised equipment. Today’s readily available and inexpensive tablets and smartphones, with a supported web browser, are all that is required to use the apps,” said Mendez.

Using smartphones, tablets or laptops instead of so-called ruggedised devices challenges the conventional wisdom about the working environment in ports. As WorldCargo News has discussed previously, ports often purchase expensive ruggedised devices with high IP and Mil-Spec ratings that have proved to be more durable in industrial applications.

However, the gap between ruggedised and commodity devices has closed significantly in recent years (the iPhone 8 is rated to IP67, for example), and cases/covers can be used for extra protection.

Jade believes its apps can replace mobile computers connected to a TOS, across virtually the whole terminal. The STS cranes are the exception, and Ducaruge noted that, for safety reasons, “ports don’t want to add extra technology to the STS cranes”…

Published World Cargo News: November 2017.

Ports can do more with the resources they have

Posted on | by cdorsey

Growing ports can be more competitive by realizing their break bulk potential. Terminal Operators are continually challenged to increase revenue while faced with extreme competition and demand from customers to do more for less. 

In a recent Port Strategy article, it was reported that increasing pressure to improve break bulk related operating efficiency is posing a serious challenge to operators as demand for machinery, equipment and components to support worldwide commercial projects ramps up.

It was suggested that the most obvious solution to overcome inefficiencies in break bulk handling is investment in facilities and processes, but what are the other options available to smaller ports who do not have the means to buy more land or expensive machinery?

Technology is one answer.

One area where break bulk terminals can make their own quick gains in performance is implementing or upgrading their terminal operating system (TOS), to ensure every possible piece of capacity is extracted from existing infrastructure, delaying the need for costly investment.

A TOS specifically developed to handle a mix of cargo types can enable the port to compete effectively for new business, being equipped to handle more than just containers can vastly improve the bottom line by attracting shippers who handle a mix of cargo types, and give operators the opportunity to do more with the resources they have.

Would you like to learn more about handling break bulk at your port? Download our eBook, Solve complex logistics and cargo challenges.

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Jade completes third successful implementation at Diversified Port Holdings

Posted on | by cdorsey

Jade Logistics’ today announced that it was past the half way mark of a five port implementation of its Master Terminal software in the United States. The successful implementation of Master Terminal in Mobile, Alabama is the third of five planned Diversified Port Holdings (DPH) sites and follows successful implementations in Jacksonville and Fort Lauderdale.

DPH, an integrated ports logistics business, selected Master Terminal to operate its five shipping terminals in the south-eastern United States. In particular DPH required Jade’s expertise in solving the complex problem of managing high volumes of disparate cargo, especially in Mobile where the port operation handles a mix of cargo including steel commodities and frozen produce. The installation was completed in the record time of six weeks, well ahead of schedule. DPH is now enjoying the benefits the  Master Terminal system brings to its operation and the port plans to extend the functionality to other areas of its business.

Impressed with the overall implementation, Dennis Rhodes, CIO at DPH said “Working with Jade gave us confidence that the implementation would deliver us the operational efficiencies we were looking to gain in our business. Jade’s flexibility and training enabled our staff to adapt quickly to the new technology.” David Lindsay, Jade’s Managing Director commented that the ability to implement Master Terminal in less than three months realized significant value for ports, reducing their costs.

“Successful implementations in these timeframes are unheard of in the industry and make the selection of Jade Master Terminal even more compelling for mixed cargo terminals,” said David.

The next implementation of  Master Terminal at DPH will be in New Orleans, scheduled for mid-April 2014.

Master Terminal is one of the world’s fastest growing terminal operating systems, having been implemented in Norway, Italy, UAE, USA, Iraq, Brazil, Ghana, Australia and New Zealand. It solves the complex problem of managing high volumes of disparate cargo. A highly reliable system that maximizes operational efficiency and improves competitiveness, the  Master Terminal product provides its customers with a single integrated view of their operations leading to increased productivity throughout the port. Rapid implementation makes Master Terminal the perfect fit for growing and ambitious ports.

Jade Logistics’ Master Terminal arrives in Central America with new customer win

Posted on | by siteadmin

Productivity gains and rapid implementation attract Grupo CICE
Jade Logistics today announced that in a first for the company in Mexico and Central America, Grupo CICE has selected Jade’s terminal operating system (TOS), Master Terminal, to more easily manage its mixed cargo ports. Two ports, at Veracruz and Tampico, will implement Master Terminal this year.

Grupo CICE’s full complement of port operations includes storage for all cargo types, as well as packaging and distribution. Growing and ambitious port operators like CICE are recognising the benefits of a single, solid TOS, making Master Terminal one of the world’s fastest-growing mixed cargo terminal operating systems.

As CICE looks to attract more international shipping companies, Master Terminal will help successfully run and grow their operation, according to a CICE spokesperson. “We have to compete with top international groups, and operate in our own terminal as well as in public areas. To provide top quality services for containers and general cargo we need the right tools to plan, control, and operate our business. Jade’s Master Terminal Software gives us the flexibility and reliability we require from a TOS.”

CICE will retire a number of in-house systems and replace them with Master Terminal’s single, integrated view of the port. With Jade’s rapid implementation process, including a six-week record set earlier this year, the ports will quickly see benefits and gain value from Master Terminal.

Another appeal was Jade’s global track record. Master Terminal is well established in the Middle East and New Zealand, and has a growing presence in the USA. The first African sites, Ghana’s Tema and Takoradi ports, were announced last October.

Captain Kaustubh Dalvi, President of Global Sales,  for Master Terminal, celebrated the system’s arrival in Central America. “This is a significant milestone for Master Terminal; it is our first implementation in Mexico, further extending our footprint in the Americas. Master Terminal is a compelling option for ambitious ports anywhere in the world, and our new relationship with CICE is further proof of that.”

The ground-breaking Mexican implementation will begin later this year.