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

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. AI also helps with scenario modeling.

Optimal Sourcing 216

Optimal Sourcing Modeling Supply Chain Optimization Cost Reduction Strategies 216

ToolsGroup

MARCH 25, 2025

Machine learning (ML)a specialized field within artificial intelligence (AI)is revolutionizing demand planning and supply chain management. These improvements directly strengthen the bottom line, making ML capabilities an essential component of modern supply chain management software.

Supply and Demand 156

Supply and Demand Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling 156

Freightos

APRIL 23, 2025

It creates a single source of truth for your rate management, automating RFQs and streamlining the entire procurement process. billion rate data points monthly to provide the most comprehensive view of the market, helping you identify savings opportunities and make data-driven decisions.

Optimal Sourcing 227

Optimal Sourcing Benchmarking Manufacturing Procurement Procurement 227

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 4, 2021

Digital commerce efficiently requires the digitalization of many customer-facing operations and sourcing and procurement. For businesses of all sizes, the digital transformation of supply chain planning became the most important initiative. . This includes internal and external data sources.

Supply Chain Planning Software 284

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Scenario Planning Modeling 284

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. Industry 4.0.

Optimal Sourcing 195

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

Supply Chain Shaman

MARCH 27, 2023

My goal is to engage the supply chain community in a no smoke and mirrors discussion. My observation is that the supply chain community perpetuates a number of myths about planning. This post is a reflection from twenty years as an analyst in supply chain planning. What is supply chain excellence?

Supply Chain Planning Software 365

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Scenario Planning Supply Chain Design Software 365

ivalua

JUNE 9, 2025

We’ve seen AI take over everyday tools and search engines; AI in Sourcing and Procurement is becoming a strategic tool in our kit, At Ivalua, we are helping global procurement teams integrate AI across the Source-to-Pay process, bringing automation, insight, and agility to every step. This is where AI can make a huge difference.

Optimal Sourcing 130

Optimal Sourcing Procurement Solutions Purchasing Skills Procurement Analytics 130

Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 22, 2025

Sustainability isnt just a corporate goal anymoreits a supply chain requirement. Schneider Electrics new Environmental Data Program gives logistics professionals unprecedented access to carbon and sustainability metrics, covering over 70% of its product turnover. Read the full article on ARC Advisory Group.

Supply Chain Planning 151

Supply Chain Planning Data Supply Chain Sourcing Strategies 151

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. ” Hau Lee, October 2014.

Supply Chain Planning Software 377

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

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 225

Optimal Sourcing Optimization Software Price Mitigation Strategies Sourcing Strategies 225

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. Higher variability.

Supply Chain Planning Software 417

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

Logistics Viewpoints

SEPTEMBER 20, 2022

“May you live in interesting times,” widely attributed as a Chinese curse, some claim this as a blessing; whichever side you take, this is exactly what’s happening in the supply chain world since 2020, and it looks like we will be living with this blessing/curse for a while longer. Emerging Themes for Supply Chain Planning.

Supply Chain Planning Software 286

Supply Chain Planning Software Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Planning Supply Chain Software 286

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 9, 2023

Autonomous Supply Chains In this competitive environment, a CPG manufacturer needs to fight to get space on retailer shelves in each region, keep those shelves stocked, compete and collaborate simultaneously with e-commerce, and maintain its operating margins. each with discrete plans generated typically in sequential batch runs.

Supply Chain Planning Software 282

Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Forecasting Software Optimization Software 282

Freightos

APRIL 23, 2025

It creates a single source of truth for your rate management, automating RFQs and streamlining the entire procurement process. billion rate data points monthly to provide the most comprehensive view of the market, helping you identify savings opportunities and make data-driven decisions.

Optimal Sourcing 156

Optimal Sourcing Benchmarking Manufacturing Procurement Modeling 156

ivalua

MAY 29, 2025

Procurement and supply chain management are often used interchangeably—but in practice, the lines between them can blur in ways that create real friction. In this blog, we cover the key differences between procurement and supply chain management, and explain where the biggest disconnects typically occur.

Procurement Solutions 130

Procurement Solutions Optimal Sourcing Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Planning Software 130

The Logistics of Logistics

NOVEMBER 5, 2024

During his tenure in the industry, he built innovative pricing and forecasting models, leveraging internal and external data sources to improve internal decision-making and increase profitability. He was named a Pro to Know in 2021 by Supply and Demand Chain Executive.

Optimal Sourcing 246

Optimal Sourcing Freight Analytics Software Forecasting 246

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. As companies across industries have discovered, a well-optimized supply chain can drive significant improvements throughout their operations.

Sourcing Strategies 96

Sourcing Strategies Inventory Reduction Waste Reduction Expense Reduction 96

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 27, 2025

Five years ago, we all thought the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the most disrupted supply chain landscape we would ever see. Since then, supply chain disruptions and volatility have only increased. The pace and scope of supply chain disruption are beyond human cognition, manual analysis, and consumer-grade spreadsheet tools.

Supply Chain Planning Software 330

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Network Software Logistics Network Optimization Software Predictive Analytics Software 330

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 4, 2022

A large multinational is undergoing an impressive supply chain transformation that will run through 2023. While the company has several different goals, two key focuses are improved agility and resilience, and more autonomous planning. A Complex Supply Chain. This manufacturer already has business continuity plans in place.

Supply Chain Transformation 261

Supply Chain Transformation Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Scenario Planning 261

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 1, 2023

That’s why staying on top of the latest supply chain planning trends is so important – they can make all the difference when it comes to staying competitive, reducing costs, and meeting your customers’ needs. Here are some highlights from these trends in 2023 and implications on supply chain planning.

Supply Chain Planning Software 272

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Supply Chain Software 272

Enchange Supply Chain Consultancy

JUNE 10, 2025

Do Set Clear KPIs and Governance Structures : Establish transparent metrics for sales, coverage, and service levels. Regular reviews and joint business planning foster accountability and trust. Do you use Joint Action Planning with your distributors? I would also love to hear your thoughts!

Waste Reduction 165

Waste Reduction Vendor Strategies Inventory Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies 165

Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 11, 2025

While not a comprehensive free trade agreement, the deal introduces select changes that will affect transatlantic supply chains, particularly in automotive, metals, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. beef from 1,000 to 13,000 metric tons , removing the 20% tariff within that limit. including those from the UK.

Negotiating Skills 151

Negotiating Skills Pharmaceutical Cost Reduction Strategies Price Reduction 151

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 7, 2025

Digital twins are emerging as digital transformation accelerators for supply chain and logistics organizations seeking enterprise-level visibility, real-time scenario modeling, and operational agility under disruption. Introduction: Why Digital Twins Matter Now The pressure on supply chains has never been greater.

Sourcing Strategies 218

Sourcing Strategies Modeling Supply Chain Design Software Warehousing 218

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

SCMDOJO

OCTOBER 30, 2024

The global supply chain landscape is undergoing significant transformations, influenced by rapid technological advancements, shifting consumer expectations, and the intricacies of international commerce. Developing Analytical Skills Data analysis is at the heart of effective supply chain management.

Supply Chain Planning Software 97

Supply Chain Planning Software Analytics Software Forecasting Software Predictive Analytics Software 97

Supply Chain Shaman

OCTOBER 16, 2023

Let me start by saying that t he process is not a panacea to solve all supply chain ills. Clear operating strategy and definition of supply chain excellence across plan, source, make and deliver. Clear operating strategy and definition of supply chain excellence across plan, source, make and deliver.

S&OP 390

S&OP Supply and Demand Forecasting Supply Chain Design Software 390

Kinaxis

FEBRUARY 3, 2020

by Jay Muelhoefer Today’s global supply chain leaders know to expect the unexpected. The impact isn’t completely clear nor is the timeline, making planning even more difficult. A bad prognosis for sequential planning. That’s not enough time for the slow, sequential planning processes that many organizations use today.

Supply Chain Planning Software 278

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Software Supply Chain Planning 278

Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 23, 2024

This year, a recurring theme that I saw was about using supply chain data to improve the customer experience across the entire value chain. Here are the ones that stood out to me, especially as it relates to supply chain data. This new dashboard gives retailers a lot of supply chain data to see where they stand.

Supply Chain Planning Software 298

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Supply Chain Planning Modeling 298

Supply Chain Brain

JUNE 17, 2025

SCB Feature Report From DPW: What’s Next for AI in Supply Chain? That’s because the promise of artificial intelligence for supply chain operations is huge. It could do more to accelerate the journey of supply chain operations from the backroom to the boardroom than any other change. trillion to U.S.

Supply Chain Planning Software 100

Supply Chain Planning Software Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Software 100

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. Difficulty tracking their ESG progress due to a lack of data.

Material Savings 317

Material Savings Waste Reduction Resource Reduction Supply Chain Design Software 317

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. The reason? A Case Study.

Procurement Analytics 369

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

ToolsGroup

AUGUST 20, 2019

More and more businesses are hopping on the outsourcing bus and letting the experts take the wheel to drive supply chain planning processes. Several years ago ToolsGroup pioneered business process outsourcing (BPO) as an alternative to in-house supply chain planning (SCP). Those companies also reduced planning spend.

Supply Chain Planning Software 214

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Gartner Supply Chain Software 214

DELMIA Quintiq

APRIL 15, 2020

This spike in home deliveries disrupts supply chains and increases planning complexity for retailers and express companies. There’s a battle to win and retain consumers at the last mile, but the many moving and interdependent parts of last mile operations are making it the most complex and expensive part of the supply chain.

Supply Chain Planning Software 271

Supply Chain Planning Software Optimal Sourcing Optimization Software Supply Chain Planning 271

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 22, 2021

Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) as a process has been around since the 1980’s. While the terminology evolved, the underlying thesis of S&OP has stayed the same, i.e., bridge the divide between sales forecasts and operational plans while respecting the budget. Does this mean at some point in time we move on from S&OP?

S&OP 284

S&OP Supply and Demand Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Design Software 284

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

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. Efficient supply chains may not be the most effective. I am currently writing the Supply Chains to Admire report for 2020.

Agile and Lean Supply Chain 362

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