Improving Supply Network Efficiency and Performance to give customers what they want, when and where they want, while Making the business profitable and sustainable
What is supply chain optimization?
Supply chain optimization makes the best use of technology and
resources like blockchain, AI and IoT to improve efficiency and performance in
a supply network. An organization’s supply chain is a critical business process
that is crucial for a successful customer experience. A high-performing supply
chain enables business efficiency and responsiveness, so customers get what
they want, when and where they want it — in a way that is both profitable for
the organization and contributes to supply chain sustainability.
Supply chain design
Describes network design processes like where warehouse facilities are located
and how product flows between them, and strategic objectives like demand
forecasting, establishing supplies, and the planning and scheduling of
manufacturing operations.
Supply chain planning
Includes the creation of a strategic supply chain deployment plan, inventory
planning, and the coordination of assets to optimize delivery of goods,
services and information from supplier to customers — balancing supply and
demand.
Supply
chain execution
Focused on execution-oriented applications and systems: warehouse and inventory
management, transportation management, global trade management, and other
execution applications, such as real-time decision support, supply chain
visibility and order management systems.
Why is supply
chain optimization important?
Supply chains are complicated, but that complexity pays
technological dividends, especially when blockchain is combined with AI and IoT
A well-designed supply chain optimization process addresses the
following issues:
Silos
Supply chains can’t get the insight they need because data is siloed, and they
lack end-to-end visibility — ultimately this impacts their ability to meet
customer needs. A supply chain optimized through connected technology is the
best solution for informational silos.
Client
needs
Rising customer expectations mean supply chains must innovate and optimize
every step of the way to meet those needs. Streamlining the supply chain is a
priority for organizations that want to continue to meet and exceed customer
expectations.
Competitive advantage
Supply chains of the past focused on network design — warehouse placement and
the distribution fleet. Today optimization is key to building competitive
advantage and protecting the brand, with a focus on execution-oriented
applications and real-time decision support.
Agility
How fast can your supply chain respond to change, whether customer demands,
competition or supply disruptions? Modern supply chains must be agile to remain
competitive.
Sustainability
Supply chains have enormous environmental and social impacts. Today’s customer
wants to know if your goods are produced in a sustainable and ethical way,
using renewable or low-impact extraction methods.