Technology integration for Supply Chain Asset Utilization
The advent of technology solutions have made the communication & availability of data a key value addition to managing supply chains. The slew of application typically deployed across the supply chain involve DRP, MRP or ERP solutions. Recently organisations have found utility of connecting the "shop floor to the top floor" through the use of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). Tracking & Tracing of inventory has increased due to Radio Frequency Identification (RFID).
One the probable ways to improve strategy, planning & execution of good inventory management across the organisation can be through integrating these two pieces of independent technology solutions. MES integrated with RFID has shown sustainable benefits of improved visibility to inventory. Hence the focus of best in class supply chain adopting MRP & RFID due to various competitive reasons has shifted from "Why" to implement to "How" to implement the integration solution. This involves establishing priorities leading into identification of what requires to be changed. The activities for implementing such a solution need to involve data capturing of on-hand stock, pipeline stock, storage & fleet locations.
MES integrated with RFID can lead to,
- Improved market responsiveness, reduce inventory
- Building supply chain visibility
- Reduction in vendor lead time
- Minimize cost & maximize customer satisfaction
- Loading planning components in a time phase manner
Such solutions will provide managers the needed tools to improve inventory. Days are not too far off when we will be presented with amazing technology application which will further improve the supply chain asset utilization.
Creating value through supply chain integration has become a potentially valuable way of securing competitive advantage and improving organizational performance, since competition is no longer between organizations, but among supply chains.
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