Planning is a macro view Planning roles have always being analytical, but there is an increasing emphasis on working with system applications and tools and the integration of transaction data with annual budgets or ERP outputs. With the increasing ease of re-running Operational models, the objective of Planning appears to be accurate and fast. However, this is an incorrect view … Read More
The role of Logistics within the Supply Chains group
The role of each function The previous blogpost identified that the Aim of a Supply Chains group is to provide ‘Competitive Availability’ of products and services. This is achieved through implementing the Objectives of the principal Supply Chains operational functions, consisting of Procurement, Operations Planning and Logistics. The driver for each function is: Objective of Logistics The operational activities for … Read More
Supply Chains Strategy is a consolidation of strategies
Strategy and Tactics It is assumed by commentators that few businesses have developed a Supply Chains Network strategy. This may be due to the continuing perception that all elements of supply chains are cost based and therefore, the main role of managers employed in the area is to reduce or eliminate costs. The opposite view is that a business exists … Read More
Themes that will influence the design of supply chains
Short-term noise Change happens continuously through our lives, but most is not important and we absorb the changes into what we do. Sometimes a change is heralded as a ‘new’ way, but there is insufficient momentum for change, so enthusiasm dies and things return to the old way. For example, during the Covid pandemic, many retailers and manufacturers changed from … Read More
Adaptation through the Supply Chains for Climate Change
COP28 climate conference The meeting in Dubai has concluded, and the limited outcomes are unlikely to make a substantial difference to the expected climate change for the planet. The current emphasis on Mitigation through decarbonising supply chains is insufficient. It will therefore also require Adaptation (or resilience), to protect citizens and organisations against an adverse climate. However, because Climate Change … Read More