In the fast-paced world of supply chain management, finding the one action that could make a significant difference might seem like searching for a needle in a haystack. However, when seasoned supply chain consultants, who collectively boast years of experience and insights gained from traversing countless warehouses, are asked this question, their responses offer valuable guidance.
In our recent Ask the Experts Panel Discussion focused on the benefits of working with a WMS consultant, experts from the Brecham Group , Bricz, enVista and Made4net offered their top tips for the one action a company could take today to make a difference in their supply chain.
Dan Waters, Vice President Sales at Made4Net, emphasized the importance of measurement in managing a supply chain effectively. He advocates for a comparative approach, emphasizing the need to measure performance metrics to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Without accurate measurement, managing supply chain investments becomes a daunting task.
Amit Kirpalani, Vice President, Supply Chain Solutions at enVista, zeroed in on the critical aspect of visibility within the supply chain. He highlights the detrimental impact of lack of visibility and underscores the role of advanced tools, including next-generation WMS solutions, in enhancing visibility. From inventory management to transit tracking, Amit emphasizes the need for companies to invest in tools and programs that provide real-time visibility, enabling better decision-making and improved customer satisfaction.
Chris Dahm, Director at Brecham Group, echoed Amit’s sentiment on visibility, stating the importance of being present and engaged in the day-to-day operations of the supply chain. He advocates for leaders to step away from their screens and immerse themselves in the physical environment, engaging with employees and vendors to gain firsthand insights. Chris notes that visibility, both in terms of data analytics and physical presence, is crucial for understanding operational challenges and fostering collaboration across the supply chain ecosystem.
We agree that it’s critical to understand how to manage warehouse employees for optimized productivity. With the right employee engagement, warehouse teams can further boost efficiency and optimize their processes.
Tyler Linderman, Vice President, Strategy & Growth at Bricz weighs in on the importance of building strategic partnerships. He suggests that finding a trusted partner or group of partners who understand both the technology and operational processes can be instrumental in driving supply chain success. These partners can provide valuable insights and guidance, from addressing immediate needs to strategizing long-term solutions, ultimately setting companies up for success for the long haul.
In synthesizing these insights, it becomes evident that while there may not be a singular magic bullet for supply chain success, certain foundational principles consistently emerge. Measurement, visibility, and strategic partnerships are all critical elements that companies can prioritize to drive meaningful improvements in their supply chain operations. You can access the full panel discussion recorded live at MODEX 2024, here.
