BY MICHAEL SHELTON
AUTOMATED EVOLUTION
Michael Shelton is an executive supply chain consultant.
AUTOMATION AND STREAMLINED SYSTEMS ARE THE DNA OF SUPPLY CHAIN In the high technology manufacturing sector, where much of my experience lies, manufacturing is either done in-house or through contract manufacturers that act as an extension of the organization. Sometimes, it’s a combination of both. In this sector and others, over the past couple of years the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have caused, and continue
to cause, a global crisis. This crisis has clearly stressed supply chains. During that time, supply chain professionals have been pulled in multiple directions and face several simultaneous challenges. For example, manufacturers require parts to ensure their production line continues to function. Sales departments must deal with
customers who still want their products shipped on time – even products they may have ordered over a year ago. Procurement must deal with suppliers whose lead times are increasing at least every quarter. These suppliers may de-commit on original schedule dates, while customer service centres request badly needed parts for the dealer. And of course, coupled with the above issues are the constant price increases supply chain professionals must contain and mitigate. Accurate data reporting lies at the heart of supply chain. As well, the tools that supply chain professionals require are effective systems and technologies. These include ERP platforms such as a robust demand management system. Such systems can include ATP (available to promise); vendor web portals; purchase to pay processes; visibility into the contract manufacturer’s compliant MRP system to identify issues; electronic data inter-
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