Braskem, the largest petrochemical company in the Americas and pioneer in biopolymer production on an industrial scale, advances its digital transformation strategy through the partnership with Infosys, a world leader in digital services. Technological cooperation supports the development of a digital platform that will transform freight transportation and will have the mission of connecting, in a digital environment, manufacturers and freight companies in order to optimize deliveries to clients.

Braskem, through this partnership, relied on various technical skills of Infosys in order to develop the platform's first version, which has been running since the beginning of last year. The project comprises intelligent planning and management modules for Braskem's dedicated fleet, besides real time monitoring and end-to-end delivery tracking. With the use of techniques, also known as machine learning, the system exploits algorithms developed by Braskem professionals with data science expertise, who have added a decision-making intelligence layer to the process based on instantaneous information on distance, routes and next planned deliveries.

In order to create an integrated logistics software solution, Braskem connected the platform to its ERP - a program used for corporate management of the company. This combination enabled gains in scale, flexibility and greater automation, such as consolidation of orders and shipments, and the sending of corresponding dispatch orders. As a result, there is considerable improvement in time management and planning, as well as eliminating inconsistencies.

The main goal of process digitization, enabled by the platform, is to optimize high logistics costs that have an impact on the production chain. "For Infosys, this digital logistics platform was a strategic project, as it opens up a range of opportunities in the sector. There was total synergy and transparency in all of our work with Braskem. We are happy to have contributed towards delivering a better experience to transportation companies, with greater flexibility and efficiency", says Edward Bagliotto, associate partner at Infosys Brasil.

Guilherme Baeta, Chief Digital Officer at Braskem, explains that the company's digital transformation strategy strengthens its position as leader and innovator in the petrochemical industry by incorporating advanced digital technologies. "We are constantly evaluating digital and technological opportunities that have the potential to leverage our business. We not only unlock the logistics operation bottlenecks through process automation and streamlining, but we also strengthen our relationship with partners by offering a superior experience and adding value to our final clients. This is another strategic initiative in a more comprehensive transformation project, which harnesses value through innovation; by simplifying processes, increasing efficiency and reducing transportation costs", says Baeta.

In addition, the platform combines other important functions, such as end-to-end route monitoring, with analysis of events such as potential delays and number of stops, up to the time the goods arrive at their destination and are unloaded. Moreover, by means of an additional module with a simple interface, it is possible to re-assign, in a shorter time, freight that was forwarded by freight companies.

Jaime de Paula, in charge of the logistics platform at Braskem's Digital Center, explains that the company's product development team continues to enhance advanced functionalities that focus on increased transportation data visibility and centralization, as well as aspects that improve user experience, one of the key factors for the success of the platform. "Our goal with this product is to expand the visibility of freight transportation capacity and availability, as well as better exploiting price dynamics in hiring. We are currently evaluating various possibilities, such as for example adding new algorithms to the solution, scaling the platform and other possible strategic partnerships in the sector in order to boost learning and strengthen our value proposition", says de Paula.

 Leonardo Diamante, senior principal at Infosys also believes in the platform's potential for the logistics chain: "together with Braskem, we developed a solution that can help the entire logistics chain so there is effective fleet management, with increased productivity and operation control. Now that the digitization process is moving forward even more worldwide, artificial intelligence added to systems is a necessary advantage", concludes Diamante.

After the first phase of the project, focused on efficiency and visibility, Braskem is exploring the opportunity of launching the platform on to the market so freight companies can monitor and view, through a single interface, truck routes, available freight and manage their operation with the company through this digital environment. Braskem, through this platform and in the long term, aims to contribute with collaborative transportation, and have a positive impact on the Brazilian market and logistics, which is a sector that constantly faces challenges for greater efficiency and is in an increased digitization process. "The potential to link clients, transportation companies and freight forwarders in a single digital ecosystem is huge and our platform is a major step in that direction", concludes de Paula.

Digital Transformation at Braskem

Since 2018, Braskem has been using advanced technologies - such as machine learning and internet of things - and new work methodologies - such as Agile and Design - to transform the way it operates and services its clients. Some of the strategies currently in operation enable the company to streamline operational processes, maintain assets and control the quality of its products in a predictive, and not in a preventive, manner, which gives Braskem a leading position in industry 4.0. Actions also include creating new digital business models, by incubating startups, to rethink factors that have an impact on its business and the petrochemical industry at large.

"An important part of our digital transformation strategy goes well beyond technology. We are dedicated to creating a cultural environment that encourages even more innovation and new ways of working. Our team members are key so that Braskem's digital transformation is successful. Everyone has the opportunity to engage in digital initiatives and acquire new competences through training and tangible practical experience", says Baeta.