SCLogic Insight: Effective Logistics Within a University Setting
The SCLogic Premier Group has many members who work in colleges and universities, a unique sector within the logistics field. Our company realizes that higher-ed mailroom managers and staff have to navigate so many issues daily. Thankfully, we have talented staff in-house who understand this nuanced logistical sector and can provide tips and insight for our higher-ed folks; among that talented bunch is our Customer Success Manager, Adam Bower.
Before joining SCLogic, Adam worked in higher education for just under a decade as the Logistics Services Manager, overseeing the business and student logistics systems at a major midwestern university. Adam was deeply involved in restructuring the business logistics systems on campus and engaged in various efforts (i.e., incorporating a virtual file folder mail system, recouping 3,500+ SQFT, deploying intelligent lockers, improving the student experience, and lowering costs by $110,000). Let’s chat with Adam about his time as a mailroom manager, understand how Intra was the linchpin to his success, and learn tips for the success within a university setting.
SCLogic: What was your former position, and what were your day-to-day responsibilities?
Adam: I was the Logistics Services manager. I oversaw the day-to-day activities of receiving, distributing, and shipping mail, parcels, and outbound freight for a large midwest school with around 40,000 enrolled students and 900 employees. I had a team of 7 full-time employees and 30 student employees who collectively worked to meet the logistical needs of the campus.
SCLogic: What role did Intra play in your daily duties?
Adam: Intra played a crucial role in my daily duties. It was the backbone of the campus’ logistics system. Every item and request we processed was tracked by Intra and kept customers informed.
SCLogic: How do you think university mailrooms differ from any other type of mailroom?
Adam: The university mailroom is slightly different from most mailrooms because there are more levels of complexity based on who the customer is. From a student or parent to a dean and everyone in between, they all have unique service needs. University logistics departments also have a unique set of receivables. It could be freight from overseas that needs to be brokered into the country or cookies from a grandma. The items coming in and going out are a wide variety of things, from books to sciences experiments from NASA.
SCLogic: What inspired you to become a part of the SCLogic team?
Adam: I believed in the product and knew how much impact and value it brought to those who use the software. The team members are fun to work with and are great people.
SCLogic: What tips can you provide fellow university mailroom staff to maximize their Intra experience?
Adam: The biggest tip I have would be to talk with other users about using the software or reach out to me, and I will be happy to review how you can get more out of Intra. You can also ask our user community on LinkedIn about how others are using the software.