Kemet Corp is just one of thousands of companies that manufacture components such as inductors, filters, capacitors, relays, sensors and more. If your organization also maintains a footprint in this industry, you already realize the importance of the supply networks that bring raw materials and parts to your factories. Improving this delivery system can only benefit your company, enhancing efficiency, minimizing disruptions and maximizing customer satisfaction.
Improve transparency
Manufacturing modern tech items such as smartphones involves thousands of moving parts, from physical components to primary, secondary and tertiary suppliers. With this degree of juggling taking place, you should ideally be able to track every component as it winds its way through your supplier network and eventually into your hands for manufacture. Maximum visibility requires that your suppliers are able to check your inventory status in real time so that they can make modifications accordingly if extra products are required. It also helps your internal team in forecasting stock needs into the near and even more distant future, thus enabling you to work with your accounting department in financial resource allocation.
Investigate integrating robotic technologies into your model
Automating your own warehouses or urging your suppliers to do so can, under the right circumstances, lead to greater efficiency and profits. Determining if robotics make sense for your organization involves a good deal of brainstorming, forecasting and discussion among all stakeholders, including your current warehouse managers. During these sessions, one topic that must be covered is how the automated devices will be maintained, including the costs and human resources involved.
Regularly confer with your IT team
Information technology specialists are often overlooked when movers and shakers set about making decisions. This is a critical oversight because these professionals have unparalleled access to knowledge about current and emerging software that can automate manual processes and maximize efficiency and transparency. In an industry where collaboration in real time is more important than ever, listen to what your IT folks have to say, and investigate the practicality of implementing the recommendations they make.
Spruce up your training
Kinks in your supply network can stem from outside factors, but that is not always the source. Shoddy or outdated staff instruction can also lead to detrimental communication and knowledge lapses that can stymie your manufacturing progress. Regularly review your instruction manuals, and conduct an occasional survey of new employees. If there are knowledge gaps or if morale seems low, take corrective action.
Create a continuous project plan
Your supply chain is a dynamic network, and so should be the strategies for making it better. To that end, treat supply chain management as an ongoing priority. Frequently examine your distribution protocols, communication channels, emerging risks and long-term goals, tweaking any of these when necessary.
Your supply chain is a multi-faceted and complex organism. For that reason, maintaining it is a hands-on process that evolves over time. This is a priority you cannot afford to avoid addressing.
