Global supply chains cannot escape the influence of China. From trade tensions to geopolitical risks and shifting alliances, manufacturers face increasing challenges in how to source, produce and deliver from China. Global supply chain experts, Lisa Anderson and John Tulac, discuss the path forward and strategies for success.
U.S. labor productivity soared at a 4.9% rate in the most recent quarter as compared to the typical annualized rate of 2% during the current business cycle. We are seeing productivity gains across the board as manufacturers utilize predictive processes such as SIOP and advanced technologies such as AI, robotics, and the automation of processes and better utilization of ERP.
As supply chains have increasingly become more complex with greater risks, volatility, and costs, digitizing with smart supply chains has become integral to success. Smart supply chains powered by AI are helping industrial producers improve forecasting, streamline operations, and increase their bottom line.
Manufacturing has been in contraction for the last few years, while geopolitical risks are heightened and tariffs have created additional uncertainty, yet the future is starting to look bright. Investments and expansions are picking up. The most successful manufacturers will position for success by preparing for opportunities, mitigating risks and building resiliency and capabilities.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson outlines three priorities for the year ahead. These priorities set the foundation for resilience, growth and sustained success in an increasingly complex environment.
Continuous improvement has been the backbone of operational excellence for decades—but today’s pace of change has surpassed it. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains why manufacturers must move beyond traditional continuous improvement and embrace collaborative innovation.
Medical products manufacturing is gaining momentum as companies want to build resilience to mitigate risk in the supply chain. Executives have realized that they must better control their end-to-end supply chain to ensure supply as geopolitical risks, vulnerabilities, and disruptions continue to arise while tariffs also push companies to build domestic capacity.
Although it starts with a depressing state of affairs for manufacturers, there is vast opportunity on the horizon. Manufacturing investments have been pouring into the U.S. and the three pillars of economic success are trending positive. Companies must prepare to scale and for success.
Supply chains are plagued with geopolitical, cyber and supply chain risks. Companies have been focused on building resiliency and efficiency; however, as important as it is to be agile and profitable, it is no longer enough. Forward-looking companies are focusing on predictability, scalability, and customer value.
Priorities that power the triple bottom line of social, environmental and financial performance are gaining momentum. Sustainable advancements, smart manufacturing and advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence are trending as they can deliver win-win improvements, supporting profitable growth and success.
