Optimizing your supply chain 

Effective management of your supply chain can improve how you do business.

In simple terms, supply chain management is the coordination of all your activities related to filling client orders, from pre-production to delivery of the product. During this process, components of the product will change hands many times, from your suppliers to manufacturing, to storage, to shipping and, eventually, to the point of delivery and consumption. So, how does a small business begin this chain of command? Here are some ideas on developing and implementing a good supply chain management model.

Supply chain model

When implementing a supply chain management system, you should consider looking for ways to improve efficiency in the following types of activities:

• Forecasting and planning the balance of supply and demand
• Sourcing of raw materials
• Manufacturing, storing and delivering your product
• Handling possible product returns
• Dealing with feedback on customer service and improving your process, if needed

Where do you start?

Here are some ideas on implementing a supply chain management process for your business.

• Improve collaboration with your buyers and suppliers by sharing information to modify or improve your manufacturing processes
• Keep inventory levels low by using just-in-time manufacturing or made-to-order products
• Outsource your manufacturing, if needed, to lower costs
• Invest in technology that will quickly transfer your requirements to suppliers and improve your time to market
• Use information technology to forecast sales, procurement, purchase, orders, shipments, deliveries, and so on
• Engage in dynamic discounting with suppliers
• Use customized software solutions to help manage your supply chain system process

The supply chain management process is a series of relationships between your business and other organizations. Any changes you make to your supply chain management process should be a positive experience for all concerned, in order to keep a good long-term relationship with both suppliers and customers.

Resources

Learn more about supply chain management and access resources that can help you improve your supply chain management.

• Supply Chain and Logistics Association

  Find out how you can improve your supply chain management skills with education, research and networking opportunities.

• FleetSmart

  Find out how to make your fleet or trucking business more productive and how to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

• Supply Chain Collaboration Program
  Applies only to: Alberta

  Learn how to build stronger, collaborative relationships with your supply chain partners. Follow-up coaching is included.

• Linking in to Global Value Chains

  From exporting to outsourcing and more, see how global value chains help your business compete on the global stage. Learn the options, tools and resources that can help.