Supply Chain Efficiency

The supply chain is an essential part of any business’s operations, and as such, requires careful management. Ensuring that you have the right supplier connections in place and that you can get products to customers in a timely manner can make all the difference in your long-term profitability. Of course, with so many factors and parties in play, supply chain management can be quite the challenge.

Here are a few strategies you can use to improve your overall efficiency.

#1. Update Your Software

Manual data entry can be cumbersome and inaccurate. Because of this, more and more facilities are using supply chain management software to automate common error-prone tasks. For example, when you integrate RF-SMART to NetSuite, each time a warehouse employee scans a barcode, the information is automatically sent to the management software. You will have access to real-time information so you always have a clear picture of important metrics like inventory levels and shipping status.

Software applications can be customized for specific industries, such as wholesale distribution, automotive manufacturing, construction, or even life sciences. Features like location levelling or bin management functionality make these tools ideally suited for partially automating your processes.

#2. Focus on In-House Training

Your company is only as efficient as the people who work for it. Because of this, you should ensure that your team is receiving the training and support they need to maximize their efficiency. For example, providing training for new automation tools will ensure faster adoption of these time-saving devices.

It is a good idea to regularly review training procedures and goals with warehouse management staff. Look for areas where inefficiency exists, and try to find ways to address them. While setting goals is helpful, be careful not to set up exhausting goals that burn out your workers.

#3. Improve the Distribution Network

A successful supply chain doesn’t just depend on what happens inside your warehouse — it also relies on the distribution network as a whole. All parts should work in sync to ensure great results for your customer. If your delivery partners frequently experience delays, you may wish to find someone more efficient. If communication between the warehouse team and upper-level leadership is lacking, you should re-evaluate how you share information. Taking a big-picture approach will help you identify key changes for the future.

Conclusion

You may not be able to control every factor that influences your supply chain, but you can leverage your available resources to improve what you can control. By re-evaluating partnerships, automating select tasks, and improving the efficiency of your in-house team, you can deliver far greater results.