Modern supply networks are possible thanks to advances in technology, increased human cooperation, and streamlined risk management, all of which have been the subject of substantial research. However, modern supply networks are hindered by inefficiency, unnecessary rigidity, and an ignorance of consumers’ ever-evolving needs. Several supply chain service providers have initiated changes to bring their own supply chain teams into the current era. These seven characteristics will be prioritized by the most efficient supply chains. We will go over the characteristics of supply chain management in detail in this article.
The supply chain is the series of operations that begins with the creation of a product or service and ends with its purchase by the end user. That is to say, it encompasses everything from sourcing raw materials to moving finished goods. The entire process, from sourcing raw materials to shipping the final product, falls under its purview. As a result, the supply chain incorporates the processes of sourcing materials, making goods, storing goods, and distributing them. Dive deeper into the process of supply chain management topic by reading this extensive research paper.
Characteristics of Supply Chain Management
The paper demonstrates how effective supply networks underpin and propel corporate strategy. Second, they help us be aware of potential dangers and the unknown. The next step is to work together with essential components. Adaptability is the last one on the list. Here is an overview of characteristics of supply chain management with a detailed explanation for your better understanding.
Innovative
Successful supply chains are built on novel ideas, which lends them adaptability. The rate at which we are obtaining new technology is terrifying. Many companies are introducing cutting-edge supply chain methods to guarantee the highest quality and maintain a competitive edge.
Some examples include installing beacons in factories to keep an eye on production and using smart glasses in warehouses to speed up the picking process. Also, these are only a few of the many creative approaches to managing the supply chain.
Networking
It is my duty to raise this issue during our next round of discussions on how to improve our supply chain. Monitor social media, blogs, podcasts, and trade shows for new trend identification and gain strategic advantages.
In addition, supplier relationship management can benefit greatly from the use of social media for training suppliers or establishing a supplier forum where they can discuss best practices. If you want to win, it’s smart to take use of modern technologies that allow you to communicate instantly with everyone on the planet.
Planning
Excel files outdated for supply chain planning; replaced by ERP systems and cloud-based optimization. In my most recent featured Beet Fusion piece, I discussed how the transition to cloud-based inventory and supply chain planning is inevitable.
Businesses can improve their product purchasing and inventory management decisions with the help of operations research’s accurate predictions based on past data.
Managers can also benefit from these technologies when figuring out where in their network to keep inventory and how to get it to customers. Managers have access to and are willing to use a variety of planning-friendly digital tools.
Youthful
The word “youthful” can indicate many things depending on the setting. One strategy involves recruiting and instructing newcomers to the supply chain. An untrained next generation may hinder the productivity of a supply chain managed by seasoned veterans.
The second aspect of the phrase “youthful” is the supply chain strategy. Do you still make use of the aforementioned Excel planning files? Have you been ignoring the rise of digital and intelligent technologies, which have been shown to increase productivity in early adopters? If this is the case, sustaining high standards will become increasingly more difficult over time.
Agile
To function efficiently, a supply chain needs the ability to change quickly. This is a topic that has inspired countless books; one blog post would be inadequate.
However, efficient supply networks can adjust quickly to shifts in the operational environment. Their strengths lie in their collaborative nature, thorough risk assessment program, insightful decision support tools, and demand-driven approach.
Punctual
I think the meaning of this sentence is clear. The customer will go elsewhere if you are unable to meet their immediate needs. Companies in the logistics sector, such as Amazon, are now catering to the “now-culture” by promising customers 30-minute home delivery. I think the ability to make on-time deliveries will be the deciding element between strong and poor supply lines in our “now culture,” where impatience is on the rise.
Unified
The term “unified” is used to describe a centralized approach to managing the supply chain. This is shown by the fact that all of the most important parts of the supply chain—buying, making, distributing, and selling—have clear lines of communication and the same goals.
Positive environments can be fostered by tearing down walls between departments and getting everyone on the same page. Continuing to evaluate each position using criteria that do not contribute to the organization as a whole is a roadblock to improvement.
Honest
Another word for ethics is “integrity.” An increasing number of consumers are asking retailers about the “how” of supply chain operations. Companies’ reputations and bottom lines have taken hits due to allegations of using child and slave labor. One approach that can help avoid these problems is ethical procurement.
I can’t think of a more ethical supply chain management move than Nestle’s choice to come clean about its partnership with a big Thai seafood supplier known for its use of slave labor.
Most corporations would rather stay out of the spotlight and hide, but Nestle came out, recognized it had made a mistake, and developed a strategy to improve working conditions in the Thai fishing industry as a whole. The company’s admission of guilt and commitment to change were positive for its image. Therefore, a trustworthy workplace is essential for achieving success in the supply chain.
Leadership
Leadership is crucial in the supply chain. The “big picture” goals of a company are important for supply chain leaders to understand and shape. They should also stress the importance of these goals to the supply chain personnel.
As a result, you need solid teamwork and communication skills. If the supply chain department does not have a chair, these executives should be confident enough to bring their own chair to C-suite meetings. Finally, the supply chain leader integrates the supply chain’s role into value creation strategy.
Clear
Since “transparent” doesn’t have a “T,” I’ll have to settle for “clear.” The ability to track the source and final destination of items along the supply chain is only one aspect of transparency. Internal and external supply chain transparency are both possible. Internal transparency refers to the free movement of materials and information among the four stages of production (buying, making, distributing, and selling).
However, a clear external supply chain relies heavily on being able to see where goods are coming from and going. Supplier network awareness is challenging to improve but is rapidly becoming a “must have” as government restrictions (such as the UK Modern Slavery Act) continue to affect how firms deal with their suppliers. The supply chain will be more effective if there is an equal amount of openness within as well as outside the network.
FAQ
What Does the Six Sigma Model Involve in the Supply Chain?
Six Sigma’s original purpose was to fix issues with output and get back inside acceptable parameters. Quality control is an important skill for any supply chain management, and Six Sigma analysis can teach you a lot in that area.
What is the Concept of a ‘Lean’ Supply Chain?
A lean supply chain is one that is running at peak efficiency. It ensures the least amount of resources are wasted in getting a product to the customer, and has enough wiggle room in case of delays.
Which Six Factors most Affect Supply Chain Efficiency?
Supply chain efficiency is based on five elements: manufacturing, stock, distribution, communication, and data. Companies design drivers for an optimum balance of responsiveness and efficiency based on their specific business and financial needs.
Summary
Management of an organization entails a methodical examination of its processes, departments, and personnel. What each person does, who they report to, and how company-wide decisions are made are all aspects of organizational management. The names of employees and their basic ranks are the bare minimum for effective management. Always bear in mind that characteristics of supply chain management plays a significant part in the whole process while carrying out various operations.
