Meet Our Founder

For nearly four decades, Ari Smith has helped manufacturers and distributors solve complex transportation challenges through technology, innovation, and trusted partnerships. 

In 1988, Ari founded Next Generation Logistics (NGL) with the belief that transportation technology should simplify operations—not complicate them. What began as a transportation consulting company has grown into a nationally recognized provider of Transportation Management Software (TMS), Managed Transportation Services (MTS), and Microsoft Dynamics transportation solutions.

Today, NGL continues to help manufacturers, distributors, food processors, and logistics organizations improve visibility, reduce transportation costs, and build more efficient supply chains through modern technology and strategic expertise.

 "When I founded Next Generation Logistics in 1988, I never imagined how dramatically technology would transform our industry. What hasn't changed is the importance of trust, integrity, and taking care of our customers. Every advancement—from client/server computing to cloud platforms and now Artificial Intelligence—has reinforced my belief that technology should empower people, not replace them. I remain grateful to our customers, employees, partners, friends, and family who have been part of this incredible journey. Together, we're not just building software—we're helping shape the future of transportation"  - Ari Smith

Ari's story began in Chicago, Illinois, where he was born to parents who had emigrated from Greece in search of opportunity and a better future for their family. As a teenager, he returned to Greece, an experience that profoundly shaped his character. Living between two cultures taught him resilience, adaptability, and an appreciation for both his Greek heritage and the opportunities available in America. After returning to the United States, Ari attended Illinois State University, where he began building the foundation for a lifelong career in transportation, operations, and technology. Those early experiences continue to influence his leadership today—combining old-world values of integrity, loyalty, and hard work with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.

Before founding NGL, Ari gained valuable experience in transportation and supply chain operations, developing a deep understanding of the real-world challenges faced by manufacturers and shippers. In 1988, he launched Next Generation Logistics with a simple philosophy: Listen first. Understand the customer's business. Then build technology that solves real operational problems. That philosophy remains at the heart of the company today. Over the years, NGL has evolved from a transportation consulting firm into a comprehensive transportation technology provider, offering:

• Dynamics TMS® Transportation Management Software
• Managed Transportation Services (MTS)
• Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central integrations
• Microsoft Dynamics Finance & Operations integrations
• EDI connectivity and carrier integration
• Transportation consulting
• Freight optimization
• Supply chain visibility solutions

Through every stage of the company's growth, Ari has remained actively involved with customers, product strategy, and innovation.

Throughout his career, Ari has witnessed—and embraced—every major evolution in transportation technology. From client/server applications......to web-based platforms......to cloud computing......and now Artificial Intelligence Rather than chasing technology trends, he has focused on helping customers adopt innovations that create measurable business value while protecting the investments they have already made. Today, Ari is leading the continued evolution of Dynamics TMS into an AI-enabled transportation platform designed to combine intelligent automation, predictive analytics, cloud architecture, and deep Microsoft Dynamics integration. He believes AI will not replace transportation professionals—it will empower them to make better decisions, respond faster, and serve customers more effectively.

One principle has guided Ari throughout his career: Business is built on relationships, not transactions. Many of NGL's customer relationships have lasted for years because the company views every implementation as the beginning of a long-term partnership. The goal has never been to simply install software. The goal is to become a trusted advisor. That commitment has helped shape NGL's culture of responsiveness, accountability, and continuous improvement.

For Ari, success has never been measured solely by revenue or growth. His greatest source of inspiration has always been his family. As the father of a daughter with significant special needs, he has gained a unique perspective on patience, compassion, perseverance, and the importance of serving others. Those experiences have strengthened his commitment to building a company that values people as much as technology. He has also remained active in his faith and community, supporting charitable organizations and serving in leadership roles that reflect his belief that businesses have a responsibility to contribute positively to society.

 After nearly forty years, Ari remains energized by what lies ahead. His vision is to position Next Generation Logistics as the premier Microsoft Dynamics transportation platform—bringing together Transportation Management Software, Managed Transportation Services, AI-powered decision support, cloud technologies, and an expanding ecosystem of strategic integration partners. He believes the transportation industry is entering one of its most exciting periods of transformation, and NGL is committed to helping customers navigate that future with confidence.

 "After nearly four decades, I remain as excited about the future as I was on the day I founded Next Generation Logistics. Artificial Intelligence, cloud computing, and connected transportation networks are creating opportunities we could only imagine in 1988. Our mission remains the same—to help our customers move forward with confidence, one innovation at a time." 

 "Whether you're evaluating transportation technology, exploring managed transportation services, or simply looking for industry guidance, I'd love the opportunity to learn more about your business." - Ari