Supply Chain Shaman

JANUARY 8, 2024

Note to the reader: we selected these metrics for the balanced scorecard for the analysis after work with Arizona State University to understand which metrics, in combination, most closely correlated with market capitalization. My reply to my friend is that “The supply chain is a complex non-linear system.

Supply Chain Design Software 243

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Modeling Software Supply Chain Network Software 243

The Logistics of Logistics

OCTOBER 29, 2024

They recognized that many other 3PLs would have the same problem, so they created RocketFuel , a recharge metering system that ensures upfront payments for every shipment with an automated metering system. Seamless Integration: Integrates with most Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and accounting software for smooth operation.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 245

Logistics Network Optimization Software United Kingdom 3PL Supply Chain Software 245

Supply Chain Shaman

APRIL 2, 2025

The issue is that when companies optimize functional metrics, they throw the supply chain out of balance and sub-optimize value. Planners evolved in the 1980s when planning systems were not scalable and memory was expensive. The most efficient supply chain (in terms of lowest cost) is not the most effective. The reasons are many.

Optimal Sourcing 195

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

Logistics Viewpoints

DECEMBER 18, 2024

Critical practices include: Circular Supply Chains: Designing systems that minimize waste and emphasize recycling and reuse. Innovative tools provide actionable insights and improve operational efficiency Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI systems optimize routing and demand forecasting, reducing energy consumption and empty miles.

Optimal Sourcing 270

Optimal Sourcing Material Savings Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software 270

Logistics Viewpoints

NOVEMBER 6, 2024

Similarly, UPS uses its ORION system, which integrates real-time and historical data to optimize delivery routes, saving fuel and enhancing delivery reliability. Compatibility with legacy systems adds another layer of complexity, as older data formats and technologies can complicate seamless integration.

Supply Chain Planning Software 297

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Predictive Analytics Software Optimization Software 297

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 10, 2025

All of this points to a larger issue: systems that perform well under stable conditions but lack the flexibility to respond when those conditions change. For example, AI-enabled systems can monitor global trade activity, policy changes, and even weather patterns to flag emerging risks before they impact operations.

Optimal Sourcing 216

Optimal Sourcing Modeling Cost Reduction Strategies Supply Chain Optimization 216

Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 15, 2025

Balancing these priorities requires investment in robust auditing systems, supplier education, and long-term partnerships that emphasize shared values. Public Reporting: Publishing sustainability reports and ethical compliance metrics to highlight progress and areas of improvement.

Supply Chain Planning Software 298

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Sourcing Strategies Optimal Sourcing 298

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 27, 2025

A disruption at any point in the global logistics network including the average of 12 touch points from shipment packaging to final delivery can prove disastrous for profits, service levels, customer loyalty, and other key metrics. With the global e-commerce market predicted to reach $8.1

Supply Chain Planning Software 331

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Network Software Logistics Network Optimization Software Predictive Analytics Software 331

Precoro

NOVEMBER 11, 2024

On top of that, we’ll break down how to approach selecting the right centralized purchasing system for your business needs. Signs your company needs a centralized purchasing system Key benefits of centralized procurement How to efficiently implement centralized procurement Frequently Asked Questions What is centralized purchasing?

Pricing Training 105

Pricing Training Expense Reduction Price Reduction Purchasing Training 105

Supply Chain Shaman

APRIL 27, 2022

The supply chain is a complex non-linear system. At each company, there is a relationship between the metrics of growth, margin, inventory, customer service, and asset strategy. For the purpose of this article, I will use Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) as the proxy metric to discuss asset utilization.) My learning?

Procurement Analytics 353

Procurement Analytics Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software 353

RFgen

DECEMBER 4, 2024

We’ll examine the key components of efficient supply chains, explore essential performance metrics, and uncover the fundamental drivers that influence efficiency. Production: Efficient production systems maximize resource utilization through standardized procedures.

Sourcing Strategies 96

Sourcing Strategies Inventory Reduction Waste Reduction Expense Reduction 96

ToolsGroup

APRIL 7, 2025

Why Traditional Stock Management Fails During Disruptions When unexpected disruptions occur, conventional inventory systems fail to adapt quickly enough, resulting in costly delays, critical shortages, excessive overstock, and damaged customer relationships.

Inventory Reduction 156

Inventory Reduction Modeling Optimization Software Supply Chain Optimization 156

ToolsGroup

MARCH 25, 2025

Modern ML-powered demand planning systems simplify this by analyzing multiple factors simultaneously – product trends, competitive pricing, market conditions, and social media activity – to uncover patterns in promotional events and quantify their precise effect on sales.

Supply and Demand 156

Supply and Demand Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling 156

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 13, 2021

Their focus on technology for the sake of digital–doing the same things faster or hands-free–stalled out because of the lack of investment in human work systems. “Why would we invest in making current systems faster without recognizing the fundamental disconnects??? . What Does It Mean For Work Systems?

Cost Reduction Strategies 382

Cost Reduction Strategies Price Mitigation Strategies Supply Chain Strategy Supply Chain Design Software 382

RFgen

NOVEMBER 27, 2024

Connected technology transforms traditional supply chains into dynamic systems capable of real-time decisions and proactive problem-solving. Inventory Management Systems Integrated inventory management systems use data analytics to keep ideal stock levels.

Optimal Sourcing 98

Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Optimization Modeling Inventory Reduction 98

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 15, 2022

Functional Metrics. With the implementation of transactional systems, the focus was on measuring and controlling functional metrics like the lowest manufacturing cost or purchase price variance in procurement. Few consultants understand the supply chain as a complex non-linear system. False Beliefs.

Manufacturing Procurement 396

Manufacturing Procurement Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Procurement Analytics 396

RFgen

NOVEMBER 20, 2024

Understanding Modern Warehouse Mobility Solutions for Enhanced Warehouse Productivity Mobile warehouse solutions combine portable devices, specialized apps, and real-time data systems to boost operational efficiency. Paperless Warehouse Management System Going paperless with mobile devices streamlines task management.

Inventory Reduction 98

Inventory Reduction Inventory Management Software Waste Reduction Cost Reduction Strategies 98

ToolsGroup

JANUARY 21, 2025

To address these return-driven challenges, the industry is moving away from siloed solutions toward integrated systems that seamlessly connect Merchandise Financial Planning , Assortment Planning , Allocation , and Demand Forecasting.

Supply Chain Planning Software 156

Supply Chain Planning Software Forecasting Software Inventory Reduction Price Reduction 156

Logistics Viewpoints

APRIL 21, 2021

What is the Perfect Delivery Metric? Improving on this metric will always involve a focus on people and processes, but often also includes implementing new, more robust, supply chain applications. The wrong metrics drive suboptimal behaviors and metrics can often be manipulated.

Sourcing Strategies 306

Sourcing Strategies How To Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software 306

Supply Chain Shaman

FEBRUARY 18, 2021

The systems–based on shipment and order data–were out of step with the market. With fixed models and hard-wired data feeds, teams could not adjust the planning systems to use consumption data or market indicators. In addition, build a planning master data management system. I love the metaphor of watermelon metrics.

Supply Chain Planning Software 303

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

Supply Chain Shaman

DECEMBER 28, 2020

The SAS forecasting system implemented in 2019 was not tested for model accuracy. It is my hope that we can side-step political discussions demonstrated in my stories and ground the problem solving in scientific methods to understand the properties of data, the potential of supply chains through modeling, and the alignment of metrics.

Supply Chain Planning Software 418

Supply Chain Planning Software Forecasting Forecasting Software Modeling 418

Supply Chain Shaman

SEPTEMBER 3, 2018

We consistently see that companies focused on functional excellence–a focus within a functional silo like manufacturing, transportation or distribution– or singular metrics– like inventory or costs– underperform against their peer groups. Reward teams for cross-functional metrics.

Supply Chain Planning Software 329

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Agile and Lean Supply Chain Supply Chain Software 329

Taulia

DECEMBER 6, 2024

How are companies rethinking their liquidity management strategies in response to the recent degradation across major working capital metrics? In the wake of economic uncertainty, many companies have experienced a degradation in key working capital metrics.

Inventory Reduction 52

Inventory Reduction Forecasting Software Supply Chain Planning Software Optimization Software 52

RFgen

DECEMBER 19, 2024

It’s about building adaptable systems, establishing clear performance indicators, and implementing processes that can handle growth spurts and market fluctuations. Advanced Automation Systems: Seamless integration of automation is essential for digital manufacturing. Upgrades and expansions may be necessary.

Material Savings 92

Material Savings Sourcing Strategies Resource Reduction Inventory Reduction 92

Supply Chain Shaman

APRIL 18, 2023

For organizations layered in functional metrics and driving a cost agenda, this is a tough nut to crack. During the pandemic, companies struggled with planning systems turning off the optimizers, and using the technology as a system of record. To accomplish this goal avoid hardwiring planning platforms to transactional systems.

Supply Chain Planning Software 401

Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software Optimal Sourcing Supply Chain Software 401

Supply Chain Shaman

MAY 13, 2024

How aligned do you believe your organization is to drive these metrics? Leaders align metrics and processes to focus on customer service reliability and hold all teams accountable for a balanced scorecard of Growth, Operating Margin, Inventory Turns, Return on Invested Capital (ROIC), and Orders Filled On-time and Complete (OTIF). (

S&OP 366

S&OP Supply and Demand Inventory Reduction Expense Reduction 366

Logistics Viewpoints

JANUARY 31, 2024

As regulations across the globe strengthen, the pressure to collect, report, and organize emission-related metrics has never been higher. Across the globe, requirements for stricter reporting on complex metrics are increasing.

Report 317

Report Data Material Savings Manufacturing Procurement 317

Supply Chain Shaman

NOVEMBER 21, 2023

In our discussion, we attempted to characterize and separate his performance from system issues. I was promoted to run the warehouse, and at the time, I had no experience in distribution, but was asked to run the largest distribution center in the system. The metrics were not aligned. Sometimes, this is a tough discussion.

Supply Chain Planning Software 357

Supply Chain Planning Software Inventory Reduction Supply Chain Design Software Cost Reduction Strategies 357

Logistics Viewpoints

MARCH 3, 2025

Agentic AI involves creating a system of interacting agents, each trained on a specific task or dataset. They prepare equipment for maintenance, do isolation (disconnect a piece of equipment from the flow of chemicals by closing valves), look at quality or reliability metrics, and do rounds. Al Syed elaborated. Fred agrees.

Negotiating Skills 188

Negotiating Skills Supply Chain Design Software Modeling Software Supply Chain Planning Software 188

Logistics Viewpoints

SEPTEMBER 13, 2022

Thus, organizations must make sure that data are complete, accurate, timely, and consistent as well as capture the required metrics. Data accuracy to aid in decision-making — One must have a system to draw insight from data. Such a system should be able to convert spend into emissions so that you can establish baselines.

Cost Reduction Strategies 264

Cost Reduction Strategies Supply Chain Planning Software GEP Supply Chain Network Software 264

ToolsGroup

JUNE 2, 2023

The Challenge: Siloed Inventory Data and Lack of Visibility One of the primary obstacles in inventory management is the prevalence of siloed data across multiple execution systems. The larger the company, the greater the danger of duplicative, conflicting, or siloed systems. How do they achieve this?

Real-time Visibility 294

Real-time Visibility Manufacturing Procurement Optimal Sourcing Inventory Reduction 294

Logistics Viewpoints

OCTOBER 18, 2022

This article is the second installment from Ben Smeland, Senior Software Engineer, at Lucas Systems, and continues to explore gamification in the warehouse. Leaderboards on any manner of metric are an easy example of competitive gamification. Many organizations use these to enhance transparency and encourage a little friendly rivalry.

Logistics Network Optimization Software 51

Logistics Network Optimization Software Supply Chain Software New York DC 51

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 18, 2022

In the annual report where they report on their key performance indicators (KPIs), they don’t just report on core financial metrics and the NPS, they also have people metrics. The company has shown sustained improvement on this metric. This system is using 16,000 square foot goods-to-man robotics system to automate picking.

Supply Chain Design Software 305

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Network Design Software 305

Logistics Bureau

JANUARY 21, 2025

Even if you invest in sophisticated inventory management systems, if your master data isn’t accurate, you’ll fail. If youre trying to manage 6 or more vehicles youre probably missing optimisation opportunities that a good software system would spot instantly.

Supply Chain Design Software 98

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Software Supply Chain Design 98

Logistics Viewpoints

JUNE 19, 2023

The Warehouse Management System The core system used to manage a warehouse is the warehouse management system (WMS). Automatic identification (AutoID) solutions – like scan guns or Voice Systems – is what allows a WMS to ensure the right product is picked from the right location. A true WMS is a real-time system.

Supply Chain Design Software 279

Supply Chain Design Software Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Network Software Optimization Software 279

Logistics Viewpoints

JULY 30, 2024

These KPIs, along with the critical metric of days of coverage for inventory — which measures the balance between available stock and unfulfillable demand — play a crucial role in a company’s ability to efficiently manage supply chain operations and costs while adapting to business-specific needs and market conditions.

Inventory Reduction 305

Inventory Reduction Real-time Visibility Supply Chain Planning Software Supply Chain Design Software 305

GlobalTranz

AUGUST 26, 2021

A collaborative dedicated provider can deliver on critical service metrics and adjust to demand changes, while helping eliminate unfavorable market exposure.” A system in place for centralized data will reduce the amount of verification for high-priority and frequent shipments while allowing for faster acceptance and increased throughput.?

Logistics Network Optimization Software 283

Logistics Network Optimization Software Transportation Management 3PL Optimization Software 283