How a TOS system without customization can
be the best solution for your terminal

Are you tired of paying for expensive customizations for your Terminal Operating System? But you’re skeptical that a TOS system without customizations is good enough for you?

We get it. That’s why you in this article will learn:

1. What exactly a SaaS-based TOS system is,
2. How you can save money on customization and still get a TOS that suits your terminal needs,
3. Pros and cons of using a SaaS-based TOS system compared to an on-premise one.

What exactly is a SaaS-based Terminal Operating System?

A SaaS-based TOS, or Software-as-a-Service Terminal Operating System, is a type of software that runs in the cloud instead of being installed directly on your terminal’s servers.

Think of it like the difference between storing files on your personal computer versus using an online service like Google Drive. With SaaS, the software isn’t tied to any one computer or location – it’s accessed online through a secure connection.

Now, you might be wondering – is this just another buzzword for being on the cloud?

Cloud or SaaS – what’s the difference?

Cloud-based: The term “cloud-based” simply means the software is hosted on remote servers (the cloud) rather than on-site at your terminal. You access it over the internet. It’s like using an online storage service like Google Drive, where your files are saved in a secure online location instead of being stored on your personal computer.

SaaS-based: SaaS goes one step further. It not only runs in the cloud, but it also includes ongoing maintenance, updates, and support provided by the software provider. With SaaS, you don’t just get the software – you get a complete service package.

This setup means that the software provider – like omoqo – takes care of hosting, maintaining, and updating the system. You don’t need to worry about managing servers, applying software patches, or installing hardware upgrades. The provider handles all of that in the background.

So now that we got that settled, let’s move on to what you really came here for:

The battle of the eras: Configuration vs customization

SaaS-based TOS systems don’t offer customization to fit each individual terminal. This is often misjudged as being inflexible and assuming they can’t meet the specialized needs of terminals. But the reality is different. Modern SaaS-based TOS systems, like omoqo’s TOM, offer configurations. Configurations, that are dynamic settings made to adapt to terminal workflows without the delays and costs of traditional customizations.

For years, terminals have relied on customizations to tailor their TOS to specific operational needs. While effective, this approach often comes at a high cost.

Customization timelines stretch from months to years, creating delays and incurring significant expenses. SaaS based TOS platforms, like TOM, on the other hand, leverage pre-built modularity, allowing terminals to toggle features and make real-time adjustments.

“Whenever the configuration is made, the effects are immediate. They should be able to just focus on their business. No need to worry about updates or customization,” says David Pereira, CEO of omoqo​.

How do you configure a TOS system on the go?

In omoqo’s terminal operating system, named TOM, you can make configurations as simply as clicking on a button. But don’t worry – you can decide who should be able to make these changes!

Here are a couple of examples of how you can configure your terminal operating system in TOM right from your phone or computer:

1. Crane split

If you need to split crane usage across multiple berths during a high-traffic period, this can be configured in seconds during a meeting – no developers, no downtime.

2. Tally clerk flexibility

The rail tally configuration in TOM allows terminals to easily decide whether the tally function is included in their workflow. This flexibility is particularly useful for terminals with processes that don’t require a tally clerk. If a tally clerk is added to the process later, you can add the tally clerk back into the system with just a click.

3. Yard planning

TOM’s yard planning configuration provides flexibility for terminals that may want to streamline operations. If yard planning is toggled off, operators can start stacking jobs immediately and manually choose slot positions without needing a pre-reserved plan. This enables quick decision-making and reduces delays during busy periods, making yard operations more responsive to real-time conditions.

Concerns due to lack of customization

“What if the feature I need isn’t available?”

A significant worry for terminals considering SaaS-based TOS systems is whether the features they rely on will be supported. Instead of creating custom solutions for one terminal, they gather feedback and integrate high-value features into the core product.

This approach ensures terminals benefit from ongoing innovation while avoiding the delays and costs associated with traditional customizations.

“Will I lose control over my processes?”

Some terminal operators fear that moving to a SaaS-based TOS system means sacrificing control over how they operate. However, SaaS-based TOS systems are designed to put control directly in the hands of operators.

Configurations allow terminals to make adjustments instantly, whether it’s staffing changes, equipment usage, or workflow optimization.

There’s no reliance on external developers or prolonged waiting for updates – just tools that adapt to your needs on demand.

“We strive to create a weak dependency on us – we don’t want terminals to be highly dependent on us and on the updates,” says David Pereira. “That’s how we empower operations to thrive.”​

Comparing SaaS-based TOS and traditional on-premise TOS

When it comes to terminal operating systems, it’s not just about choosing between SaaS-based and traditional solutions. It’s about understanding the unique strengths each offers. Both systems have their merits, depending on your terminal’s operational needs, budget, and long-term goals.

The table below gives you a clear overview of the pros and cons of these two systems. You can also get an impression of how they align with your priorities, from scalability to maintenance and beyond: