Supply chain management is evolving
Michael Bittner has written a good article (free registration required) entitled “Supply chain management is evolving toward Interedependent Supply Networks” over at Technology Evaluation Centers (TEC).
One of the key things Michael talks about is the need for greater sharing of information and collaboration amongst supply partners. I’ve talked to several customers in the last week or so where this theme has been core to the discussion (one customer talked about the need for a “glass pipeline” of information).
Contract manufacturers need this between them and their suppliers to be more responsive to change. OEMs actually need it more in some respects because they are now responsible for managing a virtual company that includes suppliers, 3rd party logistics providers, contract manufacturers, etc. So, while they may not directly execute these functions, they are still the ultimate point of accountability to their customers. The only way to effectively manage this complex network of partners is to provide key decision makers with a glass pipeline of information and the proper tools to respond effectively to the myriad of changes they are getting hit with every day.
