According to the Institute of Supply Management (ISM), manufacturing is gaining strong momentum with the fourth month in a row in expansionary territory. Exports are gaining as well with the trade deals. Smart manufacturers are preparing to scale profitably and better utilize AI-enabled systems and technologies.
Supply chain transformations and upgrades require the improved use of ERP. There is no doubt about it - ERP is the backbone of supply chain performance. Clients come to us to improve performance (typically profitable growth, customer service, and cash flow), and the better utilization of ERP was a key part of 100% of these clients and was required to deliver bottom line results.
When inventory accuracy fell to 85% and confidence in cost accounting declined, the company partnered with LMA Consulting Group to assess and optimize its ERP system. By improving data integrity, redesigning processes, and enhancing system utilization, inventory accuracy increased to 99.8%, profitability visibility improved, and leadership gained the insights needed to make better business decisions.
Crime is no way to make a point, but many in the logistics field can understand the frustration. The Ontario warehouse arsonist was allegedly angry about pay. But that's not the way to demand a raise. Logistics companies have to be competitive with the rest of the country even though there are high costs and regulations in the state.
As volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA) increase, leaders who embrace what is possible will succeed. Instead of looking for roadblocks and considering them insurmountable, look for options, alternate paths, and creative solutions.
When a custom manufacturer questioned whether it needed a new ERP system, LMA Consulting Group conducted an assessment that revealed a better path forward. By improving Sage ERP utilization, strengthening business processes, enhancing quoting translation capabilities, and providing strategic advisory support, the company improved performance, avoided a costly ERP replacement, and positioned itself for a successful sale.
Planning is becoming more complex, but smarter planning makes the difference. In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson outlines three key planning challenges manufacturers are facing today - and three ways to address them.
In this Supply Chain Byte, Lisa Anderson explains what defines smart warehousing today: optimizing pick velocity; leveraging automation, robotics and advanced technologies; and managing energy and electricity demands. These factors are critical to improving efficiency, controlling costs and supporting customer service as volumes grow.
Executive leaders value partners who can balance strategic vision with practical execution. Through decades of experience, deep industry expertise, and an extensive professional network, Lisa Anderson and LMA Consulting Group help organizations navigate challenges, identify opportunities, and achieve sustainable business results.
Lisa Anderson has been named one of the Top 50 Thought Leaders in Manufacturing for 2026 by Consult Clarity. These folks are recognized as influential voices shaping the future of manufacturing across areas such as digital transformation, operational excellence, supply chain strategy and Industry 4.0.
