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.
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.
Global supply chains started a full transformation in 2025 spurred on with geopolitical risk and encouraged by tariffs, and the pace accelerates as the New Year kicks off with geopolitics dominating the conversation and fundamentals making a comeback. We review learnings from the prior year and priorities for success in 2026.
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.
As we close in on year-end, successful manufacturers are focused on executing proactive plans. Learn about the strategies the best companies are using to accelerate the pace and separate from the pack. The ability to scale, provide customer value and gain EBITDA will drive success in the New Year.
A holiday message from Lisa Anderson and LMA Consulting Group. We expect significant opportunities for manufacturing and proactive executives with agile, regional supply chains, proactive processes such as SIOP, artificial intelligence and a focus on talent will thrive.
The value of MRP (material requirements planning) remains intact no matter the company size or industry. Determining how to automate the process, utilize the MRP system and potentially further enhance it with artificial intelligence and advanced technologies can yield powerful results.
Smart proactive companies are moving supply chains from global to local - or regional at a minimum. Yet the best companies are doing that while also focusing on resiliency. Our best clients are getting ahead of the pack with proactive strategies to move towards local with resiliency.
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.
