By Deborah Bell


Optimization of supply chains means being responsive and efficient at the lowest cost. This approach enables a business to increase profit margins or reduce expenditure. Supply chain optimization must focus on comprehensive changes since one production function will affect the operations of the others. However, an increase in the cost of one function can be overlooked if there is a general reduction.

Top among the best proposals is to think globally yet act locally. This is a strategy to tap into profitable and efficient tactics elsewhere yet retain the advantage of local incentives, materials, infrastructure, etc. This integration allows you to take advantage of both worlds so that goods and services can be accepted locally yet bear the hallmark of international standards. Localized materials, incentives and infrastructure are always cheaper thus advantageous to use.

Maintain your focus on core strengths with the possibility of outsourcing all other functions. Some tasks that are not related to your business only bother and take up your time as well as resources. Some of these functions include freighting, distribution, information technology, etc. While internal resources appear to operate best, outsourcing repetitive tasks allows you to concentrate and thus improve on your signature product.

Collaboration between players within the channel enables optimized operations. Players like retailers, distributors, suppliers, manufacturers, etc must be ready to work together. This involves sharing information and data to enable better inventory management and forecasting. The availability of data simplifies production and makes it easier to predict the market. This will reduce waste and increase certainty when projecting profits. This is the best strategy for long term planning.

Mobile technology is a revolution that is changing different operation environments. Similar benefits will be experienced within your chain when you adapt the technology. Some of the functions that require mobile technology intervention include marketing, monitoring, field management and customer service. This technology allows direct contact with the client which builds trust and loyalty. With direct feedback, a manufacturer can provide personalized services and products and at the same time get unfiltered feedback.

An open and responsive chain will deliver better results. Use channels such as social media to get response from clients faster as well as communicate about your product offering. Such channels are cost effective yet have a wide reach and can be used to increase sales. Your clients will also feel that you are listening to their issues and thus will remain loyal to your brand.

Do not be hesitant to change your strategy when it has been overtaken by time or is not working. Look for new ways of serving your customers, delivering goods, manufacturing, etc. Such changes should have a long term view. The initial cost might be higher but long term savings out of an efficient production unit, delivery channel, product design, etc will be admirably rewarding. Innovation and creativity offer the best optimization rewards.

Each product or service is unique. This makes supply chains different. Such differences must be captured and appreciated in the strategies you adapt. Identify the unique features of your channel as shaped by the products you are offering. All opportunities that lie within this channel must be maximized. The idea is to find customized ways to achieve efficiency and reduce cost.




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