What Questions to Ask Your TMS Vendor About Updates and Upgrades

Regular updates and upgrades are crucial for maintaining an efficient and secure Transportation Management System (TMS). For trucking companies and field service applications, understanding how your TMS vendor handles updates and upgrades can ensure smooth operations and continuous improvement. Here are key questions to ask your TMS vendor about their update and upgrade processes.

**1. How Often Are Updates and Upgrades Released?**

Frequency is important for keeping the system up-to-date. Ask how often the vendor releases updates and upgrades, and what types of improvements you can expect with each release.

**2. What Types of Updates and Upgrades Are Provided?**

Understanding the scope of updates and upgrades helps in planning. Inquire about the types of updates (e.g., security patches, new features) and upgrades (e.g., major version releases) provided by the vendor.

**3. How Are Updates and Upgrades Communicated?**

Effective communication is crucial. Ask how the vendor communicates upcoming updates and upgrades, including release notes, user guides, and training materials.

**4. What is the Process for Installing Updates and Upgrades?**

The installation process should be smooth and minimally disruptive. Inquire about the steps involved in installing updates and upgrades, and whether they require downtime.

**5. How Are Customizations Handled During Updates?**

Customizations can complicate the update process. Ask how the vendor ensures that customizations are preserved or smoothly transitioned during updates and upgrades.

**6. What Support Is Available During Updates and Upgrades?**

Support is crucial for a successful update process. Inquire about the level of support available during updates and upgrades, including access to technical experts and troubleshooting assistance.

**7. Can Updates and Upgrades Be Scheduled?**

Flexibility in scheduling can reduce operational disruptions. Ask if updates and upgrades can be scheduled at convenient times for your business operations.

**8. How Are User Permissions and Data Integrity Ensured?**

Security and data integrity are paramount. Inquire about the measures taken to ensure user permissions and data integrity are maintained during updates and upgrades.

**9. Are There Any Costs Associated with Updates and Upgrades?**

Understanding the costs involved helps in budgeting. Ask about any costs associated with updates and upgrades, including potential hidden fees or additional charges.

**10. What is the Vendor’s Track Record with Updates and Upgrades?**

Finally, evaluate the vendor’s track record with updates and upgrades. Request case studies or references from other trucking companies in segments like liquid and dry bulk, chemical transportation, petroleum transportation, and fuel transportation to understand their experience and satisfaction.

**Conclusion**

Regular updates and upgrades are essential for maintaining an efficient, secure, and up-to-date TMS. By asking the right questions, you can ensure your TMS vendor provides a smooth, transparent, and well-supported update process. A robust update and upgrade strategy will keep your fleet running smoothly and your business competitive in the dynamic trucking industry.