A logistics company designed an AI tool inspired by its supply-chain veteran COO. Meet Uncle Phil.

In a groundbreaking move, Lazer Logistics, a company specializing in yard logistics, has developed a revolutionary AI tool designed to replicate the expertise of its seasoned COO, Phil Newsome. This innovative tool, dubbed Uncle Phil AI, aims to provide site managers with invaluable operational insights that were previously only available through Newsome's extensive experience in the logistics sector. Mike Murphy, the senior vice president of yard solutions and innovation at Lazer Logistics, played a pivotal role in creating this AI-driven coaching mechanism. According to Melanie Sandlin, the company’s CIO, Uncle Phil AI is integrated into their operations system and draws data from various connected platforms, including truck telematics and labor management systems, to generate real-time insights. "Imagine if you could have Phil with you at every site," Sandlin explained. "He can assess situations rapidly and provide solutions that site managers can implement immediately. However, with only one Phil available and 750 locations to oversee, we faced a challenge. That's where Uncle Phil AI comes in." The AI tool not only streamlines information but also enhances decision-making in a sector that has been slow to adopt technological advancements. Bart De Muynck, a supply chain strategic advisor, noted that while warehouses have enjoyed automation for years, yard operations often lack clear metrics and insights. "There are no KPIs in the yard, making it difficult to identify inefficiencies," he remarked. Uncle Phil AI aims to address this gap by enabling site managers to make informed decisions based on comprehensive data rather than relying on instinct alone. With conditions in yard operations often in flux—affected by factors like weather and freight volume—the ability to make quick, data-driven decisions is critical. Sandlin emphasized that many yard operations still operate without real-time awareness of their processes, which can lead to inefficiencies. "Without immediate answers to pressing questions, teams are often left in a reactive mode," she stated. By utilizing Uncle Phil AI, Lazer Logistics has begun to witness significant improvements in operational efficiency. The digitization of vehicle inspection reports has alleviated administrative burdens, allowing managers to focus on coaching drivers and enhancing customer service instead. "While the improvements may not be flashy, they are crucial for our team. Our employees are now spending less time on paperwork and more on meaningful tasks that improve our operations," Sandlin explained. The foundation for this AI implementation was built on a robust data infrastructure, which Sandlin believes is essential for successful AI deployment. Many organizations struggle with fragmented or inconsistent data, leading to subpar AI performance. By prioritizing data governance and connectivity, Lazer Logistics has paved the way for Uncle Phil AI to thrive. De Muynck noted that the journey towards effective technology in yard operations begins with enhancing data collection processes. He cautioned that using AI on poor data could produce misleading outcomes, emphasizing the importance of a solid data foundation for successful predictive analytics and workflow automation. With Uncle Phil AI, Lazer Logistics is poised to transform yard management, setting a new standard for efficiency and operational excellence in the logistics industry.