Project logistics involves managing complex supply chains, tight schedules, and significant budgets. At Wiima Logistics, we’ve identified that transparency and trust are key factors distinguishing successful projects from unsuccessful ones. In this article, we delve deeper into these principles and how they support collaboration and smooth project execution.
We interviewed Mary Liewendahl, Sales Manager for Wiima Logistics’ project division, on the topic. She answered five key questions highlighting the importance of transparency and collaboration, along with their practical application in projects.
1. How do transparency and the “open books” principle work in project logistics, and why are they important?
Transparency among all parties involved in project logistics is essential, as it fosters collaboration and builds trust. Transparency means sharing information openly among all project participants, including budgets, schedules, risks, and decision-making processes.
The “open books” principle refers to a practice where cost calculations, purchase prices, and other data are accessible to all parties. This builds a foundation of trust and enables cost management based on mutual understanding.
In project logistics, where managing complex supply chains, schedules, and significant budgets is the norm, these principles are vital for several reasons:
- They streamline collaboration.
- They reduce misunderstandings.
- They help prevent issues arising from hidden motives or opaque practices.
2. How does this approach foster collaboration among project participants?
The transparency and open books principle fosters collaboration by enhancing trust and coordination among stakeholders. In projects where coordination and trust are crucial, openness reduces distrust, as participants can review details like costs, delivery schedules, and risks. This creates a stronger collaborative atmosphere between the client and the logistics provider.
Cost optimization often plays a significant role in projects. With open books, stakeholders can view actual costs and assess whether expenses are justified. This enables finding cost savings without any party benefiting at the expense of another.
Another significant advantage is more efficient problem-solving. If issues arise, open information and transparent practices allow for quicker analysis and resolution. The open books approach demonstrates that all parties share the same goals, with no hidden agendas. This fosters long-term partnerships and improves operational models for future projects.
3. How do we choose operators together with the client, and how can the client influence decisions?
Wiima Logistics operates through an extensive global partner network. We maintain strong and open communication with both partners and clients. By understanding the client’s needs and the nature of the project, we can identify the most suitable transport partners for each case.
We also engage in open discussions with our clients and consider their preferences. If a client has previously collaborated successfully with a particular transport company, we take that into account.
4. What are the key benefits of trust and transparency for project success?
Transparency and the open books principle act as a bridge between different stakeholders, fostering trust, clarity, and a common foundation for decision-making. This approach aligns various interests and promotes effective, smooth collaboration—critical for project success.
Transparency improves information flow and ensures a clear understanding of the project’s status and goals. When all information is easily accessible to stakeholders, decisions can be made faster and more accurately. This, in turn, allows early identification and mitigation of risks and issues.
A climate of trust reduces the need for constant monitoring and complex agreements, which can otherwise slow down decision-making and problem resolution.
Trust and transparency are cornerstones of project success. They enhance collaboration, communication, cost management, and risk mitigation. Additionally, they increase stakeholder commitment, innovation, and satisfaction, leading to higher-quality outcomes and long-term partnerships.
5. How does Wiima represent the client to operators and act as a comprehensive project partner?
Wiima’s extensive experience with even the most complex project logistics equips us to provide expert support for challenging endeavors. We know the key players, market price levels, and best practices, enabling us to represent clients with a strong negotiating position. Through an international collaboration network, Wiima delivers reliable and efficient transport solutions worldwide.
We strive to deeply understand our clients’ businesses and needs, allowing us to act as a strategic partner that supports business growth and goal achievement. We select transport partners that meet the client’s needs, ensuring high-quality and cost-effective solutions.
Wiima serves as the main point of contact, ensuring that transport providers comply with the client’s requirements, schedules, and quality standards. If issues arise in the supply chain, we act immediately on the client’s behalf, saving time and effort. By serving as a link between clients and various stakeholders, Wiima ensures seamless coordination throughout the process.
Projects can sometimes face sudden changes with little notice. Wiima adapts to these changes and provides alternative solutions when plans shift. Naturally, we keep the client updated on the project’s progress and logistics status with real-time updates. Before starting a project, we also assess supply chain risks to develop proactive plans for mitigating them.
Wiima represents clients to transport operators and acts as a project partner by offering expertise, efficient project management, transparency, and tailored solutions. Our goal is to advance our clients’ interests, ensure project success, and foster smooth collaboration among all parties. This approach makes Wiima a reliable partner, even in the most complex logistics projects.
About Mary
Mary Liewendahl is a Sales Manager for Project Logistics at Wiima Logistics, responsible for managing complex logistics projects and developing client-specific solutions. Before this role, Mary worked as Nordic Sales Manager at Ewals Cargo Care Nordics and in key account management roles at FedEx and UPS.
With over 15 years of experience, Mary specializes in developing strategic client relationships, leading teams, and designing efficient logistics processes. She combines strong operational expertise with a strategic vision, making her a valuable partner for both clients and colleagues.
Mary’s career reflects her deep expertise in international logistics and sales, enabling her to succeed in demanding business environments.
