Supply Chain Shaman

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

The output was just not helpful. With fixed models and hard-wired data feeds, teams could not adjust the planning systems to use consumption data or market indicators. Next Steps: Start to model demand based on market data to align the organization on baseline demand. Instead, rethink the model and the approach.

Supply Chain Planning Software 303

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Supply and Demand Procurement Analytics 303

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

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

RFgen

DECEMBER 19, 2024

But between rising costs, complex logistics, and the constant struggle to optimize space and labor, staying ahead can feel like an uphill battle. Warehouse optimization isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a lifeline for businesses seeking to thrive in the demanding world of modern commerce. Ready to get started?

Optimal Sourcing 97

Optimal Sourcing Optimization Software Waste Reduction Inventory Reduction 97

Supply Chain Shaman

JANUARY 2, 2023

A large consumer products manufacturer with nine Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) instances and several divisions wanted to discuss forecasting. The Company focused primarily on retail planning and wanted to extend its capabilities into a consumer products manufacturing solutions offering. Definition. Merriam-Webster. Bear with me.

Supply and Demand 391

Supply and Demand Modeling Demand Planning Supply Chain Planning Software 391

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 company runs some plants, and some are operated by third parties.

Negotiating Skills 181

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

Supply Chain Shaman

NOVEMBER 11, 2020

Globally ten percent of jobs are in manufacturing, while 37% are associated with supply chain management. They are impatient that they know more about pizza’s status for lunch before their zoom meeting than the inbound shipment status for their critical manufacturing run. Reflection. The supply chain career is new.

Supply Chain Design Software 322

Supply Chain Design Software Procurement Solutions Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Planning Software 322

Logistics Viewpoints

MAY 19, 2022

Operational innovations like the invention of containers led to the huge growth in global value chains, and today 95% of manufactured goods move on ships. Analytical techniques like linear programming can create the mathematically “optimal” plan, but these methods must be implemented well to avoid creating other challenges.

Optimal Sourcing 300

Optimal Sourcing Modeling Supply Chain Optimization Optimization Software 300

The Logistics & Supply Chain Management Society

FEBRUARY 15, 2021

In the cloud, companies can deploy resources on an as-needed basis, rather than invest in additional servers and storage capacity that they may only need for a short time. Centralized information eliminates data silos and strengthens information sharing through real-time communication (instead of point-to-point data transmission).

Supply Chain Planning Software 298

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Prescriptive Analytics Software Predictive Analytics Software 298

SYSPRO Smarter ERP

MARCH 13, 2025

Advances in automation, sensors, analytics, and other technologies have made significant changes in manufacturing. A modern manufacturing ERP system will make use of these technologies so that their benefits can be realized. Two major transformational changes have occurred in manufacturing.

Manufacturing Procurement 52

Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software 52

Supply Chain Shaman

JANUARY 30, 2025

following the reporting of fourth-quarter results. The Salesforce.com model is primarily a pipeline management tool suitable for discrete markets but not process manufacturers. The models are just too different.) Customers will migrate off of the Logility platform onto newer flow-based outside-in models.

Supply Chain Planning Software 199

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Modeling Modeling Software 199

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 30, 2021

When the ball drops on Times Square to welcome in 2022, the employees at the Port of Long Beach will celebrate moving 9 M TEUs in imports: a 26% increase year-over-year. Not only did the cost increase, but variability tripled. The dramatic increase in cost is a major factor in inflation: driving the 11.5% I am worried.

Supply Chain Design Software 452

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Supply Chain Software 452

Supply Chain Shaman

JULY 23, 2023

I never republished the report, because not enough has changed to warrant it.) The report centers on the concept of moving from inside-out to outside-in technologies. At the time, one of the people (let’s call him Noel) that I great respect for in the industry called me to say, “Lora, I don’t get it.

Supply Chain Planning Software 351

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Planning Scenario Planning Modeling 351

Supply Chain Shaman

JUNE 23, 2020

I write for this blog, craft reports from research for our newsletters, create blogs for Linkedin, and build articles for Forbes. .” This type of response is just not helpful. Grounded during this pandemic, and unable to interact with clients in person, I try to write 3,000 words a day. ” When this happens, I sigh.

Supply Chain Design Software 299

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Analytics Software Optimization Software 299

Supply Chain Shaman

JULY 1, 2014

CRM and SRM functionality did not fit the needs for manufacturing-based companies (CRM was too lightweight. And SRM functionality, while automating indirect procurement, did not address the larger needs to automate direct material purchasing for a manufacturer.) My Predictions. Tips for the Road: A) Cloud.

Supply Chain Design Software 327

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Analytics Software Predictive Analytics Software 327

RFgen

JANUARY 16, 2025

Keeping track of all your moving parts in manufacturing is a tall order. Spreadsheets just don’t cut it anymore. That’s where manufacturing inventory management software comes in. It’s not just a nice-to-have; it’s the key to staying competitive.

Inventory Management Software 52

Inventory Management Software Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Planning Software Optimization Software 52

Supply Chain Shaman

SEPTEMBER 13, 2023

Given your expertise, I’d love to hear what alternatives you recommend for better demand forecasting and real-time visibility beyond what’s commonly adopted today.” I know that your primary focus is procurement. In a recent blog post, I was challenged by Anna. ” Anna, this blog post is for you.

Supply and Demand 402

Supply and Demand Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Demand Planning 402

Supply Chain Shaman

SEPTEMBER 22, 2021

As Allyson presented her story of working for multiple consumer products companies, with very advanced technologies (demand sensing, advanced automation of forecasting, data lakes and descriptive analytics), she spoke of why at the end of the day, the most important technology that she uses is Excel. The question is, “Why?

Optimal Sourcing 221

Optimal Sourcing Analytics Software Supply Chain Planning Software Procurement Analytics 221

Precoro

MARCH 27, 2025

Rising costs, supply chain chaos, and economic swings put businesses under enormous pressure to protect their margins. According to McKinsey & Company, procurement accounts for 50% to 80% of a company’s cost base. That’s why organizations zero in on strategies to achieve procurement cost reduction. 

Cost Reduction Strategies 45

Cost Reduction Strategies Price Reduction Expense Reduction Vendor Strategies 45

QAD

FEBRUARY 4, 2025

Its All About the Game Plan The Super Bowlmore than just a game, its an American tradition with global reach. For 58 years, food and beverage and consumer goods manufacturers have battled for dominance, from chips and wings to soda, beer, party supplies, and even aluminum foil for food storage and DIY trophies.

Manufacturing Procurement 52

Manufacturing Procurement Beverage Inventory Reduction Optimal Sourcing 52

RFgen

NOVEMBER 13, 2024

In today’s business world, real-time data isn’t just nice to have; it’s essential. Mobile inventory management is a digital solution that combines a mobile inventory app with cloud-based software to track, manage, and optimize inventory in real-time.

Inventory Management Software 96

Inventory Management Software Real-time Visibility Inventory Reduction Inventory Management 96

Logistics Viewpoints

FEBRUARY 2, 2024

In some sort or another, Punxsutawney Phil has been predicting the weather since 1890, and let’s just say that his record is iffy at best. Higher labor costs and lower package demand resulted in fourth-quarter sales and 2024 guidance that missed analysts expectations. And now on to this week’s logistics news.

Cost Reduction Strategies 300

Cost Reduction Strategies Inventory Reduction Logistics Network Optimization Software Manufacturing Procurement 300

SYSPRO Smarter ERP

AUGUST 2, 2023

As members of one of the most highly regulated industries in the world, medical device manufacturers face numerous challenges. From stringent quality standards to comprehensive documentation requirements, Class 1 and 2 manufacturers must navigate a complex landscape to ensure compliance and product excellence.

Manufacturing Procurement 98

Manufacturing Procurement Procurement Analytics Analytics Software Optimal Sourcing 98

Supply Chain Shaman

JANUARY 9, 2024

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. Most supply chain leaders are stuck in their own paradigms. I admit it.

Supply Chain Planning Software 310

Supply Chain Planning Software Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Planning Gartner 310

Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 26, 2021

While lean manufacturing and just-in-time were game-changing concepts when they were introduced, agility and resilience must be taken to an entirely new level post pandemic. Natural disasters. Geopolitical events. Tariffs and trade regulations. The rise of ecommerce. The growing influence of social media.

Agile and Lean Supply Chain 293

Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Strategy 293

Logistics Viewpoints

FEBRUARY 11, 2021

Over the years, cost and efficiency ruled the supply chain agenda. At the same time, the Chief Purchasing Officer (CPO) has taken on a pivotal role by securing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to protect the workforce and direct materials when primary sources fail.

Manufacturing Procurement 274

Manufacturing Procurement Sourcing Strategies Pharmaceutical Procurement Solutions 274

Supply Chain Shaman

JANUARY 31, 2022

Companies that viewed the pandemic as another risk management event will struggle the most with Q1 and Q2 earnings reports. Companies that viewed the pandemic as another risk management event will struggle the most with Q1 and Q2 earnings reports. Focus on Cost. The US GDP in 2021 grew at an unexpected rate of 5.7%

Procurement Analytics 221

Procurement Analytics Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Planning Software Optimal Sourcing 221

ivalua

NOVEMBER 29, 2022

In recent years, the overall state of Procurement has been bolstered by increased proficiency, expanding engagement, and a growing direct impact on operations. And they’re not the only ones—other department heads are also increasingly budget-conscious, creating a new opportunity to partner with procurement for better budget management.

Procurement Analytics 130

Procurement Analytics Metrics Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing 130

SYSPRO Smarter ERP

NOVEMBER 18, 2024

For example, an ERP for automotive distributors needs to include not just a standard sales function but also allow for automotive-specific processes like call-offs and contract pricing, as well as other processes like returns and lot traceability. There are several business processes that an ERP must have to support automotive distribution.

Automotive 98

Automotive Optimal Sourcing Purchasing Skills Manufacturing Procurement 98

Supply Chain Shaman

FEBRUARY 14, 2022

I wrote my first report on Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) while sitting on the floor in the Atlanta airport in 2005 when I was an AMR Research analyst. I wrote many reports on airport floors in those days–electrical plugs were just too scarce.) Sales and Operations Maturity Model from 2005-2008.

S&OP 195

S&OP Supply and Demand Procurement Analytics Manufacturing Procurement 195

Precoro

FEBRUARY 26, 2025

Within this setup, an ERP procurement module helps companies make purchases and manage suppliers. Numbers speak louder: According to Procurement Tactics’ top procurement trends in 2025 , 83% of CPOs prioritize digitization.   Keep reading to learn: What Is ERP in Procurement?

Procurement Solutions 45

Procurement Solutions Optimal Sourcing Procurement Analytics Manufacturing Procurement 45

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 7, 2023

Today, I speak at the North American Manufacturing Association, Manufacturing Leadership Conference, in Nashville on the use of data to improve supply chain resilience. Background The Council of Supply Chain Resilience met for the first time this month. Here I share some insights from my research. The reason? My conclusion?

Supply Chain Design Software 333

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Supply Chain Software 333

Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 8, 2022

Visibility solutions allow real-time asset tracking across the entire distribution network. This enables improved estimated arrival times of goods. Based on ARC Advisory Group’s new global market report, the five largest providers of TES, listed alphabetically, are Descartes, E2open, FourKites, Infor Nexus, and project44.

Rail Software 273

Rail Software Real-time Visibility Supply Chain Network Software Supply Chain Planning Software 273

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 17, 2022

This shortage and sudden uptick in demand weren’t something that most can manufacturers were prepared for. Many breweries were also reported to be paying premiums to purchase cans just to meet their immediate needs. Continued scarcity and overbuying have led to a perennial shortage. What Caused Can Supply-Demand Mismatch.

Packaging 293

Packaging Food Manufacturing Procurement GEP 293

ToolsGroup

MAY 17, 2022

We’re inching toward the time of year when sweltering heat can only be quenched by one experience–a dunk in a cool, crisp, clean swimming pool. A combo of pandemic-related increased demand, and the tragic destruction of a key chlorine manufacturer have led to 2022’s swimming pool chlorine shortage. Image source: Cape Analytics.

Purchasing Skills 367

Purchasing Skills Louisiana Manufacturing Procurement Las Vegas 367

Logistics Viewpoints

FEBRUARY 7, 2022

Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, has been around in one shape or form for a while. Well, 3D printing’s next big act could be manufacturing large metal objects. More SKUs available from local warehouses could also mean quicker replenishment cycles parts that are purchased infrequently. This vision has not been realized.

Manufacturing Procurement 284

Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Design Software Purchasing Skills Supply Chain Software 284

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. So what to do?

Supply Chain Planning Software 282

Supply Chain Planning Software Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Planning Forecasting Software 282