Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 10, 2025

For years, supply chains were engineered to be lean. Reducing cost was the primary objective, and most operational decisionsfrom sourcing to fulfillmentreflected that mindset. Recent years have brought a series of disruptions that exposed vulnerabilities in how supply chains are designed.

Optimal Sourcing 208

Optimal Sourcing Modeling Supply Chain Optimization Cost Reduction Strategies 208

Supply Chain Shaman

MAY 15, 2023

Let me explain, if you fill out one of my surveys on LinkedIn, I share the research results in front of the paywall (I believe that supply chain research should be readily available and not locked behind a paywall.) (If We are trying to assess the value of a network in managing contract manufacturing.)

Manufacturing Procurement 468

Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Planning 468

Supply Chain Shaman

FEBRUARY 4, 2025

For over a decade, since founding Supply Chain Insights in 2012, I have pounded the keyboard, asking business leaders to think more holistically about the impact of supply chain decisions on the firm’s value, the improvement of a value chain, and the impact on the environment. Thirteen years. The reason?

Supply Chain Design Software 221

Supply Chain Design Software Price Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies Supply Chain Planning Software 221

Supply Chain Shaman

NOVEMBER 21, 2024

(Most of the business networks were hollowed out by venture capitalists or purchased by opportunists. The supply chain planner role is the most dissatisfied of any employee in the supply chain, but most focus on improving engines using AI into conventional work processes. This will not help.

Supply Chain Planning Software 396

Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Software Modeling Supply Chain Network Software 396

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 14, 2024

During my current supply chain planning market research, I have received briefings from several SCP companies. The people who work with us are those who really, truly believe in what we believed in from the start, that is, autonomous supply chains are possible. Solvoyo has a metric they call the user acceptance rate.

Supply Chain Planning Software 283

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Scenario Planning Procurement Analytics 283

SCMDOJO

JANUARY 9, 2025

Strategic sourcing and innovative solutions are often viewed as two distinct procurement tools, but they should not be seen in isolation. Think of them as apples and gearseach essential and effective on its own, yet when combined; they create a formidable mechanism for achieving procurement excellence.

Optimal Sourcing 98

Optimal Sourcing Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Solutions Negotiating Skills 98

Supply Chain Shaman

APRIL 18, 2023

The global supply chain is built on three assumptions: rational government policy, availability of reasonably priced logistics, and low variability. In March 2023, the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index fell to the lowest level since November 2008. Over the past three years, supply chain cycles shifted.

Supply Chain Planning Software 417

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Software 417

Supply Chain Shaman

APRIL 24, 2025

Self-congratulations notes abounded this week as vendor-after-vendor shared their rankings on the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Supply Chain Planning. I believe that the Gartner Magic Quadrant is a barrier to progress in supply chain planning, and that vendors that rally in support have a false sense of superiority.

Gartner 195

Gartner Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Scenario Planning 195

Freightos

APRIL 23, 2025

Home Introducing Freightos Enterprise: End-to-End Procurement, Benchmarking, and Management Freightos Enterprise unifies market intelligence, tender management, and shipment operations into one solution, enhancing logistics efficiency for large import-export businesses.

Optimal Sourcing 156

Optimal Sourcing Benchmarking Manufacturing Procurement Modeling 156

Supply Chain Shaman

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic tested the global supply chain. Like riding a bumpy road, the supply chain leader is riding the ups and downs of changing market conditions facing greater variability day-to-day. Here, based on interviews with supply chain leaders, I share lessons learned. What are functional metrics?

Supply Chain Planning Software 355

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply and Demand Procurement Analytics 355

ToolsGroup

JUNE 2, 2023

Once upon a time, the world of manufacturing was a relatively stable place. But then, supply chain disruption became the rule instead of the exception, consumers changed their tastes as often as their socks, and global competition started playing hardball. So how does a manufacturer navigate this rollercoaster?

Real-time Visibility 294

Real-time Visibility Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing Inventory Reduction 294

RFgen

DECEMBER 19, 2024

Scaling manufacturing operations is crucial for business growth but presents unique challenges. Balancing increased demand with consistent quality and controlled costs is difficult but essential for manufacturers looking to expand. Successfully scaling manufacturing requires more than just adding resources.

Material Savings 92

Material Savings Sourcing Strategies Resource Reduction Inventory Reduction 92

RFgen

DECEMBER 4, 2024

Supply chain efficiency is the cornerstone of success and involves the effective management of processes, resources, and technologies from procurement to production, transportation to warehousing. In the automotive sector, manufacturers are simultaneously reducing inventory costs and delivery times.

Sourcing Strategies 96

Sourcing Strategies Inventory Reduction Waste Reduction Expense Reduction 96

Supply Chain Shaman

APRIL 2, 2025

The Connected Supply Chain. Drip Digital Supply Chain. Autonomous Supply Chain Planning. Self-Healing Supply Chains. Touchless Supply Chains. Small companies outperform large companies, and the marquee customers of major supply chain planning technology providers underperform.

Optimal Sourcing 195

Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Supply Chain Design Software 195

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 15, 2022

When reviewing strategy decks for supply chain teams, I often see statements like “move from a functional-silo’d focus to a drive a more holistic response.” Companies became less clear on the definition of supply chain excellence and how to implement decision support technologies. Functional Metrics.

Manufacturing Procurement 397

Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Procurement Analytics 397

Supply Chain Shaman

SEPTEMBER 3, 2018

” Here is an excerpt from the article: “…it isn’t by becoming more efficient that the supply chains of Wal-Mart, Dell, and Amazon have given those companies an edge over their competitors. According to my research, top-performing supply chains possess three very different qualities. What did we find?

Supply Chain Planning Software 377

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Software 377

Supply Chain Shaman

APRIL 27, 2022

Supply chain excellence is easier to say than to explain. Executive teams strive to drive improvement in supply chain results; yet, sadly, only four percent of public companies succeed. The supply chain is a complex non-linear system. Now, I view the company as a supply chain laggard.

Procurement Analytics 369

Procurement Analytics Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software 369

Enchange Supply Chain Consultancy

JUNE 10, 2025

Do Set Clear KPIs and Governance Structures : Establish transparent metrics for sales, coverage, and service levels. Do Invest in Distributor Capability Building : Provide training, digital tools, and performance incentives. A well-equipped distributor is an extension of your brand and a key to market penetration.

Waste Reduction 165

Waste Reduction Vendor Strategies Inventory Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies 165

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 29, 2023

In today’s interconnected global economy, supply chains play a vital role in the success of businesses. It is crucial for organizations to understand the importance of Purchase Order collaboration to effectively manage their direct spend, optimize operations, and mitigate risks.

Manufacturing Procurement 266

Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Analytics Material Savings Inventory Reduction 266

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 3, 2025

Optimizing fulfillment requires a series of steps to get a shipment from its source to the end customer. These steps include sourcing and receiving inventory, storing inventory, order processing, picking and packing an order, shipping the order, and returns management. The ability to meet fulfillment goals is impeded by several issues.

Optimal Sourcing 216

Optimal Sourcing Optimization Software Price Mitigation Strategies Sourcing Strategies 216

Jaggaer

NOVEMBER 14, 2024

In today’s dynamic market, procurement is far more than just a buying and purchasing center. Forward-thinking organizations have transformed the department into an untapped gold mine that creates value for the entire end-to-end manufacturing process—from design and sourcing to production and delivery.

Manufacturing Procurement 52

Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing Procurement Solutions Procurement Analytics 52

GlobalTranz

JUNE 30, 2017

Manufacturers have always struggled to know their customers. Unfortunately, this means manufacturers face an even greater challenge, as more customers translate into greater use of customer service. But, how do manufacturers turn their focus to the customer experience? Determine What Customers Want Today.

Manufacturing Procurement 275

Manufacturing Procurement Manufacturing Procurement Analytics Price Reduction 275

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 6, 2023

Procurement and Supply Chain Management are essential functions that can help companies navigate these challenges, but they are often siloed and operate in separate departments. Their metrics are often misaligned as well – supply chain focuses on service and procurement focuses on the cost of acquiring materials and services.

Optimal Sourcing 246

Optimal Sourcing Sourcing Strategies Manufacturing Procurement Material Savings 246

Supply Chain Shaman

JULY 6, 2020

This is a story for the Eds, Franks, and Toms working together in supply chains across the globe. It is also a story for a young supply chain manager attempting to make a difference, but feeling stymied. Frank, the line manager for manufacturing, dominated the meetings. Need for Supply Chain Leadership.

Agile and Lean Supply Chain 362

Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Strategy 362

ivalua

JUNE 12, 2025

If you’re evaluating procurement technology or exploring ways to drive more value from existing systems, chances are you’re looking beyond tactical fixes – you want a smarter, scalable strategy. Misaligned priorities across finance, legal, and procurement create friction that delays decision-making and reduces impact.

Cost Reduction Strategies 130

Cost Reduction Strategies Material Savings Expense Reduction Negotiating Skills 130

ivalua

JUNE 26, 2023

Blog » Procurement on the Thames: Ivalua’s London Summer Symposium June 26, 2023 | | Thought Leadership by Eloise Barnum As businesses navigate through supply chain disruptions, high inflation, and sustainability initiatives, procurement, and supplier management has taken center stage in driving change.

Optimal Sourcing 244

Optimal Sourcing Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Sourcing Strategies 244

RFgen

DECEMBER 19, 2024

That’s the power of manufacturing data collection. Manufacturing data collection is your secret weapon for boosting efficiency, cutting waste, and staying ahead of the competition. Manufacturing data collection is your secret weapon for boosting efficiency, cutting waste, and staying ahead of the competition.

Manufacturing Procurement 98

Manufacturing Procurement Optimization Software Supply Chain Planning Software Inventory Reduction 98

Logistics Viewpoints

AUGUST 15, 2022

GEP and the North Carolina State University (NCSU) Supply Chain Resource Cooperative surveyed supply chain, procurement and IT professionals across a range of industries to gain insight into their priorities and strategies regarding supply chain resilience and optimization.

Supply Chain Network Software 307

Supply Chain Network Software Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Analytics Optimal Sourcing 307

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 7, 2022

These include: Challenges getting ESG metrics from suppliers, partners, and other third parties. Time-consuming manual processes to report on ESG metrics. Complexities integrating data from across global supply chains. Start with your supply chain. appeared first on Logistics Viewpoints.

Material Savings 316

Material Savings Waste Reduction Resource Reduction Supply Chain Design Software 316

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 3, 2025

Ibrahim Al Syed, the director of digital manufacturing at Celanese, was surprisingly forthcoming about how Celanese developed these capabilities at ARC Advisory Groups 29th Annual ARC Industry Leadership Forum. The company has 55 manufacturing sites across the world. The chemical industry has a complex supply chain.

Negotiating Skills 181

Negotiating Skills Supply Chain Design Software Modeling Software Supply Chain Planning Software 181

Logistics Viewpoints

SEPTEMBER 19, 2023

Supply chain resiliency and sustainability are top priorities for CEOs today. To achieve these goals, corporate leadership must focus on two key areas: shift from internally focused supply chains to collaborative supply networks and actively design their supply chains.

Supply Chain Design Software 293

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Design Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software 293

RFgen

DECEMBER 19, 2024

Data-driven forecasting improves purchasing and cuts storage expenses. Consider solar panels and other renewable energy sources. Adopting renewable energy sources reduces reliance on fossil fuels and contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. Which warehouse performance metrics should be tracked?

Optimal Sourcing 97

Optimal Sourcing Optimization Software Waste Reduction Inventory Reduction 97

Supply Chain Shaman

OCTOBER 5, 2018

At the Supply Chain Global Summit 2018 , Francois discussed the impact of digitalization, Industry 4.0, and L’Oréal’s approach to business that has allowed the company to continuously rank as a Supply Chains to Admire winner for four consecutive years. Supply Chains to Admire Methodology.

Case Study 329

Case Study Inventory Reduction Study Agile and Lean Supply Chain 329

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 28, 2020

When I started my business in 2012, I frequently wrote about the future using the moniker of Supply Chain 2020. We had just recovered from a recession, and my goal was to help supply chain leaders create a better supply chain by the end of the decade. At that time, Supply Chain 2020 seemed so far away.

Supply Chain Planning Software 418

Supply Chain Planning Software Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling 418

Supply Chain Shaman

JANUARY 9, 2024

Today, we published The Supply Chains to Admire for 2023. Nvidia, Northrup Grumman, PACCAR Inc, PCA (Packaging Corporation of America), ResMed, Rockwell Automation, Ross Stores, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) Company, Tempur-Pedic, TJX, Toro, Toyota, West Pharma, United Tractors, and Urban Outfitters. I admit it.

Supply Chain Planning Software 386

Supply Chain Planning Software Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Planning Gartner 386

RFgen

NOVEMBER 27, 2024

Ever feel like your supply chain is a tangled mess of spreadsheets, frantic phone calls, and last-minute scrambles? It’s the key to transforming your supply chain from a source of frustration into a well-oiled, profit-generating machine. You’re not alone. That’s where data analytics comes in.

Optimal Sourcing 98

Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Optimization Modeling Inventory Reduction 98

SYSPRO Smarter ERP

MAY 26, 2025

In the fast-paced world of smart manufacturing, making quick, accurate and informed decisions is essential. Real-time decision-making, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) , is revolutionizing smart manufacturing processes. That said, manufacturers need to take several steps to successfully enable these technologies.

Manufacturing Procurement 68

Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing Inventory Management Software Predictive Analytics Software 68