The sales order is one of the most critical signals in demand and supply management because it represents committed customer demand. It isn't a projection but an order the company must fulfill. In a well-run supply chain, the sales order becomes the anchor that aligns demand with supply decisions as it ties customer needs with planning, inventory, and operations.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson shares practical insights on how manufacturers should think about performance metrics to make critical operational and strategic decisions that drive supply chain success.
While the personnel who show up at your door might not be wearing actual white gloves, the term “white glove delivery” conveys the impression of a premium service delivered with concierge-like professionalism and attention to detail. It is defined less by speed and more by service depth, especially for high-value, bulky, or complex products.
Tariffs continue to cause great stress in the financial markets and with certain industries. In fact, it divides manufacturers from distributors, logistics, and goods movement industries largely dependent on imports and trade.
There are significant opportunities for companies to grow as they expand manufacturing in the U.S. to mitigate risk in the global supply chain, support the significant rise in mining and commodity businesses to fuel electronics and artificial intelligence and take advantage of rising consumer sentiment, reduced tax rates, and the improving economy.
Artificial intelligence and advanced semiconductors dominate investment and product cycles. Supply chains are not just evolving; proactive executives are reshaping supply chains with resilient, regional, and ready-to-scale strategies.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains why sales forecasting must start with customers. By talking directly with customers, reviewing their forecasts, evaluating quotes, watching trends and incorporating demand plans into their SIOP process, manufacturers can plan to support growth and reliably meet customer expectations.
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.
For companies to be profitable, demand and supply must be closely aligned. When they are not, inefficiencies, excess inventory, missed shipments and margin erosion follow. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains why aligning demand and supply is key to an efficient supply chain—and why the most effective way to achieve it is through a disciplined SIOP process.
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.
