jeudi 29 décembre 2016

What Factors Would Affect Distribution Network Design?

By Carl Cox


In the recent past, logistics managers have found themselves faced with new product lines, more expectations from clients and other dynamic demands. And as supply chains continue to evolve, handling these elements in the right manner could make a huge difference in business. To remain competitive, entities have been forced to reconfigure logistics operations to handle the ever-changing requirements. Paying attention to significant elements while doing this is the key to effective distribution network design.

Because the modern business climate is largely unpredictable, a flexible approach is required when developing a logistics network. Planning for likely (and unlikely) shifts in the supply chain profile should drive the formulation of policies and equipment specifications as well. This way, firms are able to create an integrated yet simple network that makes it easy to take advantage of emerging opportunities.

In a global marketplace, it's always important to have the right product, at the right place at the right time. After all, this is what a demand-driven supply chain is about. Successful firms have focused on an end-to-end strategy that streamlines the flow of both incoming raw materials and outbound finished products.

Just as government policy has an effect on business, logistics managers have an obligation to be involved and aware of laws that involve their niches. Rules on taxation, infrastructure and labor are constantly changed on all levels of government. Without the right input, uninformed decisions could dramatically affect supply chain operations. So it's important to not only familiarize yourself in the regulations, but also take up an active role in the formulation of these policies.

The days of keypunching in logistics activities and arduous paperwork are fast becoming a distant memory. In today's digital world, information needs to be delivered precisely and promptly. Modern distribution execution systems come packed with standardized features and real-time interfaces. To keep up, you need to invest in industry-tailored programs that will facilitate smoother processes.

Businesses that aren't able to speedily fulfill orders can't be competitive for long. An efficient, quick supply chain is highly critical, especially in this digital era. From vendor compliance to execution systems, your entire logistics network needs to keep pace with current e-commerce speeds. Streamlining your distribution nodes would greatly help in matching your clients' expectations. Besides, you'll be better placed to account for the increased inventory turnover, short product lives and other elements that characterize modern commerce.

Upholding accountability within a logistics department is critical for a number of reasons. And this requires establishing performance benchmarks, exploring improvement opportunities and constantly tracking resources. Also necessary is a form of reward for exceptional performers. However, care must be taken that any incentives are tied to something that benefits the entire organization.

To ensure the success of your network design project, it would be advisable to engage experienced consultants. Such professionals will help you gather high quality data, validate models and come up with a practical structure that works well for your business. Remember that no two logistics networks can be the same; the design will always vary depending on factors like costs, the market and external environment. Hiring a specialist is thus critical in facilitating a successful redesign process.




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