To achieve the maximum benefits, supply chain management is a process that involves a variety of tools, methodologies and delivery options. As global competition for talent continue to rise, supply chain complexity and speed also increase. The following are some of the challenges facing supply chains today: rapid price fluctuations, changing oil prices, short product life cycles, expanded specialization, and global competition. In order to overcome these challenges, supply chain management must be a part of every organization’s strategy.
Plan
To control inventory levels and the production process, companies need to plan their actions. These decisions are driven by demand, as companies always aim to match their supply to aggregate demand. The various aspects of planning supply chain management include sourcing, making, and delivering. With the help of analytical tools, companies can also predict market demand and plan their raw materials. Keeping a close eye on demand variation along the value-chain will enable them to make wise decisions and make better use of their resources.
Sourcing
There are many different aspects to Sourcing in Supply Chain Management. First, you must know what you are looking for. In most cases, sourcing is done through a competitive process that involves the development of a request for proposal or bid. This document defines your requirements for prequalified suppliers, including the product specifications, delivery requirements, pricing structure, and financial terms. If you do not do this correctly, you will likely be left with a subpar product.
Manufacturing
The five synergies of manufacturing supply chain management are demand, production, capital flow and logistics. By implementing these strategies, manufacturers can ensure that their products are ready on time and cost-effectively. The five synergies include the ability to predict market changes and to make smart decisions. Manufacturing supply chain management can also help companies select and work with reliable suppliers, which means fewer disruptions, happy customers, and more cash in the bank. SAP Business One solutions can streamline manufacturing operations and reduce production costs.
Fulfillment
The end goal of supply chain management is to get ordered products to customers as quickly and cheaply as possible. This requires optimizing every step of the order fulfillment process. The first step is receiving inventory from the manufacturer. Once you have received inventory, you must check the shipping manifest for any errors. After this, you must prepare to ship the products to customers. Once shipped, the products will be held for pickup or delivery at your company’s warehouse.
Returns to suppliers
Managing returns is a critical part of any supply chain, as this process helps reduce inventory costs and enhance customer service. In addition to ensuring timely credit to customers, effective returns management procedures help maximize the value of product returns. Product reconciliation requires a good understanding of product information and movement to reduce risks and errors. Automated systems such as inventory software can streamline data reports and validate RMAs quickly. This way, inventory can be updated more efficiently and accurately.
Information flow
Information flow is an important part of supply chain management. This information flows between manufacturers and retailers, starting from an order to an invoice. It then moves to pick n pack, transportation, and finally to the retail customer. There are many different parties in the supply chain, and all must have the information they need to respond to changes in customer demand. Information flow includes contracts, foreknowledge, and confirmations. This data is crucial for all parties to understand their role in the supply chain.
Technology
As consumer demand for made-to-order products increases, manufacturers are turning to technology to make products closer to customers. 3D printing is a key driver of localized manufacturing. Its benefits for the supply chain include reduced transportation and logistics costs, a reduction in carbon footprint, and improved customer satisfaction. 3D printing will help businesses fulfill the needs of consumers and satisfy their need for instant gratification. Read on to learn more about how 3D printing can make your supply chain more efficient.
