Software Requirement Specification (SRS)

1. Introduction

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this document is to provide a detailed specification for the development of FreightCentralized, an all-in-one B2B Freight Exchange SaaS platform. The SRS outlines the functional and non-functional requirements, design constraints, and user interactions.

1.2 Scope

FreightCentralized aims to revolutionize the freight exchange process by connecting shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, and logistics companies in a centralized digital environment. The platform will facilitate freight listing, smart matching, real-time tracking, contract management, and analytics.

1.3 Definitions, Acronyms, and Abbreviations

• SaaS: Software-as-a-Service
• B2B: Business-to-Business
• KYC: Know Your Customer

1.4 References

[List any references relevant to the project.]

2. Overall Description

2.1 Product Perspective

FreightCentralized will act as a standalone web application accessible via web browsers and mobile devices. It will interface with external GPS and IoT systems for real-time shipment tracking and integrate with secure payment gateways for seamless financial transactions.

2.2 Product Features

FreightCentralized, the B2B Freight Exchange SaaS platform, will encompass the following key features:

1. User Registration and Profile Management:

   • Businesses can sign up and create profiles detailing their freight requirements or services offered.
   • KYC (Know Your Customer) verification for enhanced security and trust among users.

2. Freight Listing and Search:

   • Shippers can list their freight requirements, specifying origin, destination, cargo type, weight, and other relevant details.
   • Carriers and logistics companies can search and browse available freight listings based on their capabilities and routes.

3. Smart Matching Algorithm:

   • FreightCentralized incorporates a sophisticated matching algorithm that connects shippers with the most suitable carriers or freight forwarders based on location, capacity, and past performance.
   • Users receive real-time notifications when potential matches are found.

4. Real-time Tracking and Visibility:

   • Integration with GPS and IoT devices allows users to track the status and location of shipments in real-time.
   • Shippers and consignees can access shipment visibility throughout the transportation process.

5. Transparent Bidding and Pricing:

   • Carriers can submit bids to shippers for listed freight, and shippers can compare bids based on pricing, delivery time, and carrier reputation.
   • Transparent pricing helps foster fair competition and ensures competitive rates.

6. Contract and Document Management:

   • FreightCentralized enables users to generate and manage digital contracts for each transaction.
   • The platform allows for secure document sharing, including bills of lading, invoices, and customs documents.

7. Analytics and Insights:

   • Advanced analytics provide users with valuable insights into supply chain performance, cost efficiency, and carrier performance.
   • Data-driven decision-making helps businesses optimize their logistics operations.

8. Payment and Invoicing:

   • Secure and seamless payment gateways enable hassle-free transactions between shippers and carriers.
   • Automated invoicing and billing reduce administrative burden and ensure timely payments.

9. Customer Support and Ratings:

   • FreightCentralized offers a responsive customer support system to address user queries and issues promptly.
   • Users can rate and review their experience with each other, promoting transparency and accountability.

10. Scalability and Security:

    • The platform is built to handle a large user base and can scale as the user demand grows.
    • Strong data encryption and security protocols safeguard sensitive information.

These features collectively make FreightCentralized a comprehensive and efficient solution, centralizing the freight exchange process and fostering collaboration among B2B parties involved in freight transportation and logistics.

2.3 User Classes and Characteristics

FreightCentralized will have the following user classes:

1. Shippers: Businesses looking to ship their goods and list freight requirements.
2. Carriers: Transportation companies and freight carriers interested in finding freight to transport.
3. Freight Forwarders: Companies specializing in arranging transportation and handling logistics for shippers.
4. Logistics Companies: Businesses providing comprehensive logistics services.

2.4 Operating Environment

FreightCentralized will operate on modern web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari) and support mobile devices running iOS and Android.

3. System Features and Requirements

3.1 User Registration and Profile Management

3.1.1 Description

• Users can create accounts and manage their profiles with relevant business information.
• KYC verification will be implemented to ensure authenticity.

3.1.2 Requirements

• The system shall allow user registration with email or social media accounts.
• Users shall have the ability to update and maintain their profiles.

3.2 Freight Listing and Search

3.2.1 Description

• Shippers can list their freight requirements, and carriers/freight forwarders can search for available freight based on specific criteria.

3.2.2 Requirements

• Shippers shall be able to create and publish freight listings with details such as origin, destination, cargo type, and weight.
• Carriers and freight forwarders shall be able to search for freight based on location, cargo type, and other relevant filters.

3.3 Smart Matching Algorithm

3.3.1 Description

• FreightCentralized will use an intelligent algorithm to match shippers with the most suitable carriers based on various parameters.

3.3.2 Requirements

• The system shall process freight listings and carrier profiles to identify potential matches.
• Users shall receive real-time notifications for matching freight and carriers.

[Continue with additional features and requirements.]

4. Non-Functional Requirements

4.1 Performance

• The system shall handle a minimum of 1000 simultaneous users.
• Response time for search queries should be within 2 seconds.

4.2 Security

• User data, including personal and financial information, shall be encrypted and stored securely.
• Secure login and authentication mechanisms shall be implemented.

5. User Interfaces

[Include details about the user interface design and mockups.]

6. Assumptions and Dependencies

6.1 Assumptions

• Users have access to a stable internet connection.
• GPS and IoT devices will be available for real-time tracking.

6.2 Dependencies

• The platform will rely on third-party payment gateways for financial transactions.

7. Appendix

[Include any additional information or diagrams relevant to the project.]

Note: The above SRS is a high-level outline. Each requirement will be detailed further, and additional sections may be included, such as testing requirements, project timeline, and budget considerations.