Planning is a macro view Planning roles have always been analytical, but there is now an increasing emphasis on working with system applications and tools to assist the integration of transaction data with annual budgets or ERP outputs. With the increasing ease of re-running Operational models, the objective of Planning appears to be output that is accurate and fast. But … Read More
The role of Logistics within the Supply Chains group
The role of each function The previous blogpost identified that the Aim of a Supply Chains group is to provide ‘Competitive Availability’ of products and services. This is achieved through implementing the Objectives of the principal Supply Chains operational functions, consisting of Procurement, Operations Planning and Logistics. The driver for each function is: Objective of Logistics The operational activities for … Read More
Themes that will influence the design of supply chains
Short-term noise Change happens continuously through our lives, but most is not important and we absorb the changes into what we do. Sometimes a change is heralded as a ‘new’ way, but there is insufficient momentum for change, so enthusiasm dies and things return to the old way. For example, during the Covid pandemic, many retailers and manufacturers changed from … Read More
Adaptation through the Supply Chains for Climate Change
COP28 climate conference The meeting in Dubai has concluded, and the limited outcomes are unlikely to make a substantial difference to the expected climate change for the planet. The current emphasis on Mitigation through decarbonising supply chains is insufficient. It will therefore also require Adaptation (or resilience), to protect citizens and organisations against an adverse climate. However, because Climate Change … Read More
Collaboration in Planning makes better Supply Chains
The heart of a business Planning as a collaborative process is the heart of a business. The engine to make Planning and Scheduling happen is Operations Planning, a function within the Supply Chains group (Procurement, Operations Planning and Logistics). The Planning process is Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP). S&OP can be implemented in any organisation that requires a structured process … Read More