The uncertainty surrounding the supply chain and its variations often leave manufacturers operating in the unknown. Understanding that it can be extremely challenging to read and forecast something as complex as the global supply chain, it’s important that organizations prepare for the worst. Rather than worrying about supply chain disruption, plan for it as if it’s a normal occurrence. Create a “what if” plan that addresses as many possible scenarios as you can for your organization. This allows you to pinpoint areas of weakness. Knowing where you can get the materials you need should a supplier run out allows you to have a game plan when something goes wrong. This lays credence to the importance of a network to meet your manufacturing needs. This network shouldn’t be purely transactional. Make it a relationship. Be sure that you are valuing your entire network, from your employees to the suppliers. Understand their business so that you can anticipate their continued ability (or limitations) to meet your needs. Build strong relationships that create a clear communication line, as these can help weather the supply chain storm. Hoping to learn more about how organizations are taking supply chain irregularities and finding ways to create value? Be sure to review the information found within the resource coupled alongside this post.
