Not ready this time The July 2020 edition of National Geographic asked the question “Why Weren’t We Ready for This Virus?”; because it should not have come as a surprise. The magazine article noted that in the mid-1980s a scenario was described at a conference to illustrate the potential effects around the world of a new virus. In 1990, the … Read More
Drivers for your Supply Chain strategy of the future
Views on the future Although the COVID 19 infection rate continues to rise in many countries, there are moves to open economies. This has prompted discussions about possible changes to the business models of commercial enterprises. Helpful input to your thinking about options for supply chains is a recent survey ‘Emerging out of the pandemic supply chain report” conducted by … Read More
Structure national Supply Chains for strategic products
A strategic (or critical) product or material The COVID 19 pandemic has highlighted a lack of availability for personal protective equipment (PPE) in healthcare; also, in some countries there has been shortages of imported replacement parts and consumer products, following panic buying. From a national viewpoint, a strategic sector is critical for a country’s ongoing economy, national security or public … Read More
Planning for effective Sourcing in Procurement process
Procurement process A solution from one commentator concerning increased complexity was to automate the Procurement process, utilising Artificial Intelligence (AI). While IT applications can assist with the work, this suggestion illustrates a misunderstanding of the Procurement process. There are three main elements within the sequence of Procurement: Sourcing – understand and (where possible) influence supply markets Purchasing – buying a … Read More
Procurement Risks are input to your Supply Network Risk
Supply Network Risk Management The COVID 19 pandemic and disruptions to supply chains has provided an opportunity for organisations to review the effectiveness and inherent risks of their supply chains and the suppliers within them. The review is undertaken by senior management, providing their input concerning the corporate approach to supply chains. The review should consider the: Trade-offs between the … Read More