Since supply chain management is the point of operations that not only determines distribution efficiency but also the quality of the product a customer buys, it is arguably one of the most important business areas in any idustrial facility.
Supply chain management is a key component of productivity, which has necessitated a paradigm shift in the process in which it is done. The adoption of modern technology to enhance efficiency and accountability within the supply chain has been one of the most significant changes.
Modern business is being revolutionized by computer chain management, which is allowing for better visibility and tracking. This technology allows for real-time monitoring of the entire chain including shipping and invoicing. A steady rise in portable supply chain technology is also providing an invaluable ability to monitor the supply chain using wireless technology with smart phones, GPS devices and tablets.
Of course, the flexibility in tracking and monitoring the entire chain being offered to logistical managers is the key take away from this revolutionary technology. Supply managers can now make adjustments on the fly which averts disruptions in the supply chain, which then enhances customer satisfaction.
Many companies are leveraging logistical management software to improve productivity in the supply chain and enable real-time monitoring of the warehousing and distribution process.
In other words, integrating technology in supply chain management ensures:
- Reduction in operational costs
- Improved efficiency through reduction of errors
- Greater customer satisfaction on the other end.
To appreciate the need for supply chain management (SCM) technologies, consider these 5 practical innovations that have been adopted by industry leaders:
- Radio Technology
There is no doubt that one of the greatest headaches for any supply chain manager is the increase in anomalies when an order is in transit. This not only leads to losses but will also eventually have a negative impact on a brand. If a product is lost during transit, the supplier not only bears all the costs, but will also have to bear with the ensuing cost of disruption. By adoption of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, a company can effectively monitor every product in both the production and supply lines. RFID places chips on all items, which helps employees to quickly detect any anomalies in an order. This is an innovative way of correcting a problem before it ruins the entire supply chain.
- Advanced Weighing Technology
One of the greatest encumbrances in the supply chain is in the weighing process. Efficiency is too often greatly compromised by the use of outdated truck scales being used in most industrial facilities. Luckily, modern technology includes the ingenious onboard truck scales, allowing for seamless operations when access to platform scales is not available. The scales enhance productivity by measuring payload weight and the truck’s gross weight to ensure a truck carries the maximum weight right from the point of loading while also saving time and money. The onboard truck scales have also been adopted as a safety guarantee to ensure operators within a warehouse, for instance, only carry the allowed weight on their lifts.
- Social Media Revolution
There are over 1.3 billion active Facebook users monthly. With such numbers, it makes more sense for modern businesses to optimize their supply chain operations by leveraging the power of social media. It is an ingenious way to open more channels and remain in touch in real-time with all stakeholders in the supply chain. This process makes it easy to respond to questions, report in real-time about incidences in the supply chain, report price changes, and also enhance visibility of the company.
- Transport Management Software
Computerized supplies management is the future of the business as these systems help to integrate all operation from one panel. Additionally, it is now possible to have such a panel in your mobile device -- meaning you can organize your inventory data, manage shipping, monitor distribution and create an electronic bill of landing, all in the comfort of your office or while on the go. These features not only help enhance customer experience but also reduces errors in the entire process.
- Data Analytics
The information age, as the 21st century has aptly been labeled, is due to the amount of data readily available at any moment. Every new tool is generating copious volumes of intelligence driving data, which the supply chain management can use effectively. Think of all sources of data from RFID, customer surveys, CRM transactions and call center logs and you appreciate that supplies management will soon be driven by big data just like the modern stock exchange market.
The whole idea of adopting technology in supplies management is to simplify the process, thus eliminating redundancy. By allowing a seamless process, modern technology will not only help reduce costs but also minimize the risks imminent in the supply chain. This innovative way to stay ahead of the competition will allow you to enhance customer satisfaction and improve efficiency.
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