S&OP is a process The complexity associated with flows through supply chains means that to simplify processes can only help to achieve objectives. And that includes the use of software. There are any number of software suppliers willing to sell applications and tools, but are they necessary and do they complicate the process? The Planning process is Sales & Operations … Read More
Collaboration in Planning makes better Supply Chains
The heart of a business Planning as a collaborative process is the heart of a business. The engine to make Planning and Scheduling happen is Operations Planning, a function within the Supply Chains group (Procurement, Operations Planning and Logistics). The Planning process is Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP). S&OP can be implemented in any organisation that requires a structured process … Read More
Supply Chains are planned then scheduled for outcomes
Planning and Scheduling supply chains An objective for supply chains professionals is to not only consider the effectiveness and efficiency of a process, but also its complexity. As it is generally recognised that supply chains can be complex, to simplify the planning and scheduling of supply chains will be help your organisation. However, some websites that promote Sales & Operations … Read More
Reducing Bias in AI powered Supply Chain applications
Is AI good or bad? Many articles portray Artificial Intelligence (AI) as heralding a new chapter in the development of civilisation or doom-laden. Although in development for more than 70 years, its potential is now being more broadly discussed. It was recently reported that a software firm demonstrated a Non-disclosure Agreement negotiation, completed in minutes, between the software company and … Read More
Supply Chain technologies and the Hype around them
What has happened to self driving vehicles? An article in the New York Times of late 2018 argued that autonomous, self-driving vehicles were “a technology in search of a purpose”. But the media promotion continued, often highlighting the ‘obvious’ acceptance of the technology by ‘leading’ transport companies. The factor that can often pass us by when reading about new technologies … Read More