What is the supply chain? This term refers to the sequence of processes involved in the production and distribution of a commodity.
Getting the supply chain right is an immeasurable advantage for companies, but it can also be a big problem if it does not work well especially in the modern world, where consumers expect to receive goods faster than ever before.
The supply chain is defined as the entire process of producing and selling commercial goods; it includes every stage: from the supply of materials and the manufacture of goods to their distribution and sale. Successfully managing supply chains is essential for any company that hopes to emerge as well as compete.
Logistics and supply chain: why is management so important?
An efficient and optimized supply chain is essential for a company to fulfill customer orders. But if managed properly, it can also result in much lower costs and a faster production cycle. Supply chain is thus a generic term representing product development, procurement, production, and logistics. Without it, companies run the risk of reducing their customers and losing a competitive edge in their respective industries.
A well-functioning supply chain turns consumers into repeat customers, this is because they are satisfied with the way the purchasing process was handled.
However, it is not only about creating the most efficient procurement process possible; it is also critical to reducing risk and ensuring that everything runs smoothly.
Each step in this process (from manufacturing sites and warehouses to transportation, inventory management, and order fulfillment) involves countless risks and possibilities to derail an entire business as well as the customer’s order.
Minimizing delays, optimizing the time of day when goods are moved, the duration of inventory, and the order shipment process are all points that can have a huge impact on the operation. Without an optimized supply chian process, an e-commerce supply chain can fall apart.
The Amazon supply chain management effect
Thanks to Amazon, modern consumers expect to receive their orders sooner than ever before. The digital marketplace continues to expand beyond the traditional retail business model every day, and as a result, customer expectations are growing. This has revolutionized the way supply chain professionals must work to ensure that orders are processed and fulfilled.
Amazon is open 24/7. Orders are processed instantly and should be sent immediately upon collection from the warehouse. With next-day delivery and even same-day delivery, the giant has completely redefined the way supply chains operate.
How to be attractive in such a complex market? Thanks to a large competent and trained fleet.
Supply chain what it is: all the roles in the chain
The chief procurement officer (CPO) is an executive role within the supply chain, focusing on procurement and chain management for a company. A CPO will focus on costs, ensuring that they remain under control and constantly looking for ways to reduce them. It will also ensure that the company’s procurement procedures are all in line with internal and external compliance guidelines, paying attention to compliance with government and corporate requirements.
The chief logistic officer (CLO) manages the transfer of goods or services offered by a company to facilitate smooth operations. He/she will ensure that the correct products are shipped in accurate quantities within the stipulated time frame and also provide logistical support to senior management in relation to challenges the company may face.
Operations Manager is a related figure who is responsible for improving and optimizing supply chain practices, which is also essential in a growing global market where success can be difficult to achieve.
In conclusion, we can say that the functions of a supply chain include product development, marketing, multiple multichannel operations, flawless distribution, and excellent customer service. Are you prepared?
