Corvita Group - Blog #Supply Chain

A Compass for Your Supply Chain: Navigating the TMS Selection Process

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:41:59 -0400

In the current state of modern supply chain management, investing in the right Transportation Management System (TMS) is akin to purchasing a compass. That compass leads organizations through the intricacies of logistics, optimizing operations, enhancing visibility, and driving efficiency. But the journey to finding the perfect TMS involves a careful and strategic selection process to ensure it is a tool that aligns perfectly with your supply chain goals.

Defining Your Navigation Points: Key Considerations in TMS Selection

Understanding Your Needs: The foundation of TMS selection lies in understanding your organization's unique requirements. Identify pain points, challenges, and areas that require optimization within your supply chain. Whether it's route planning, carrier management, cost control, or real-time visibility, your TMS should address these needs effectively.
Scalability and Flexibility: A TMS should be a long-term investment, capable of growing with your organization. Consider your expansion plans and the scalability of the chosen solution. A flexible TMS can adapt to changing business dynamics and future demands.
Integration Capabilities: Your TMS shouldn't exist in isolation. It should seamlessly integrate with your existing software systems, WMS’s ERP’s, CRM’s, and other tools. Integration ensures a cohesive flow of information across your entire ecosystem.
Ease of Use and User Experience: A user-friendly interface is pivotal for successful TMS implementation. A TMS that is intuitive and requires minimal training ensures smoother adoption by your team.
Visibility and Analytics: In the age of data-driven decision-making, a TMS should provide comprehensive visibility into your supply chain processes. Robust analytics and reporting capabilities empower you to make informed choices.

Plotting Your Course: Steps in the TMS Selection Process

Requirements Gathering: Collaborate with key stakeholders across your organization to outline your TMS requirements. Consider input from logistics, IT, finance, and operations teams to ensure a comprehensive understanding.

Market Research: Survey the TMS landscape to identify potential solutions that align with your requirements. Explore reviews, case studies, and industry reports to gauge the effectiveness of different systems.

Vendor Evaluation: Shortlist TMS vendors that match your criteria. Engage in detailed discussions, presentations, and demos to understand how each solution addresses your needs.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Analysis: Beyond the initial investment, analyze the TCO over the system's lifespan. Consider factors like implementation costs, training, support, and potential upgrades.

Pilot Implementation: Before a full-scale rollout, consider a pilot implementation. This allows you to test the TMS with a smaller subset of your operations, ensuring a smoother transition.

Corvita Group: Your Navigational Partner

Selecting the right TMS is more than a transaction; it's a strategic decision that shapes your supply chain's future. Corvita Group, with our industry expertise and vast knowledge of the latest available transportation technology, is unparalleled in our ability to select a TMS that best aligns with your organization’s operations and desired future-state. But our services go beyond just technology selection; we also provide the following services to provide a “one-stop-shop” experience:

•Implementations

•Integrations

•Training

•Hypercare

•Custom Development

•Ongoing Support

Setting Sail Toward Excellence

The TMS selection process is a critical juncture in your supply chain journey. With the right TMS as your compass and Corvita Group as your navigator, you can set sail toward a future where optimized logistics, enhanced visibility, and operational excellence become your reality.

Seamless Transition to Exel's TMS: How Corvita Group Ensured Smooth Implementation for Exel Supply Chain Logistics

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 10:32:42 -0400

Exel Supply Chain Logistics, a leading supplier of Logistics and Transportation Services in the United States, was awarded a large section of business from a national manufacturer of household and commercial building products. Exel Supply Chain Logistics needed to quickly move the business to their licensed TMS without disrupting the current flow of their new customer’s business. Because of Corvita Group’s extensive knowledge of multiple TMS platforms, Exel Supply Chain Logistics looked to Corvita to help them with this transition.

“With Corvita Group’s support, the move to Exel’s TMS was implemented and ready under a tight timeline. We appreciate Corvita’s capability to quickly take ownership of this implementation, providing a seamless transition to our TMS. Our customer appreciated the smooth transition and training Corvita Group brought to the end users allowing for our customer to continue business as normal.” states Lisa Hunt, President of Exel Supply Chain Logistics.

Reesi Moore, Partner, Technology & Client Services at Corvita Group, added this statement, “Corvita’s implementation methodology and our extensive knowledge of Exel’s TMS allowed us to quickly implement, support and train Exel employees through this transition. We also appreciate the opportunity to continue supporting Exel Supply Chain Logistics as they grow their business. “

The dynamic collaboration between Corvita and Exel, along with Corvita Group’s implementation experience, were vital components in Corvita becoming a long-term partner for Exel Supply Chain Logistics. If you are looking for Supply Chain systems support, please contact Corvita Group for a review of your operational needs.

The Value of Change Management and Process Improvement

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 09:03:24 -0400

Introduction

As the supply chain landscape continues to evolve, organizations face the constant challenge of adapting to change and improving their processes to stay competitive. Change management and process improvement are two aspects that must be embraced to navigate these challenges successfully. Change management focuses on effectively managing and guiding individuals, teams, and organizations through transitions, while process improvement aims to enhance operational efficiency and optimize workflows.

In this post, we explore the concepts of change management and process improvement, understanding their significance and key challenges associated with them. We also delve into how Corvita Group's Value Expedition assists businesses in overcoming these challenges while driving a successful transformation.

Understanding Change Management

What is Change Management?

Change management refers to the structured approach and strategies employed to transition individuals, teams, and organizations from their current state to a desired future state. It involves planning, implementing, and adjusting effectively to minimize resistance and maximize positive outcomes. Change management focuses on both the people and organizational sides of change, recognizing that successful transformation requires the support and commitment of individuals throughout the organization.

Why is Change Management important for businesses?

Change is an inherent part of the business environment, driven by factors such as technological advancements, market dynamics, competitive pressures, and internal improvements. Without an effective change management strategy, organizations risk resistance from the end-user, decreased productivity, and even failed initiatives. Having the right strategies in place can help organizations navigate these challenges.

What are the Key Challenges in Change Management?

Change management is not without its hurdles. Organizations often encounter resistance from employees who are reluctant to embrace change. This can be due to fear, uncertainty, or a lack of awareness of the overarching goals. Additionally, inadequate communication and stakeholder engagement, poor planning, and inadequate resourcing can impede the process. Understanding these challenges is crucial in implementing strategies to ensure a smooth transition within the organization.

Process Improvement: Enhancing Operational Efficiency

What is Process Improvement?

Process improvement involves the systematic examination, analysis, and enhancement of existing business processes to increase efficiency, productivity, and performance. It aims to eliminate waste, streamline workflows, and optimize resource utilization. By optimizing processes, organizations can achieve cost savings, improve customer satisfaction, reduce errors, and enhance their competitive advantage.

What are the benefits of Process Improvement?

Process improvement offers numerous benefits to businesses across industries. Some key advantages include:

1. Increased Efficiency: By eliminating bottlenecks, redundancies, and non-value-added activities, process improvement helps organizations operate more smoothly and efficiently. It reduces unnecessary delays, optimizes resource allocation, and enhances productivity.

2. Cost Savings: Streamlining processes and eliminating waste can result in significant cost savings for organizations. Process improvement identifies areas of inefficiency, helps reduce operational expenses, and maximizes the utilization of resources, leading to improved profitability.

3. Enhanced Quality: Process improvement focuses on identifying and rectifying process flaws. Through the implementation of standardized and optimized processes, organizations can consistently deliver high-quality products or services to their customers.

4. Improved Customer Satisfaction: Increased efficiency enables organizations to deliver products or services on time while meeting customer expectations. This leads to a seamless customer experience that yields higher customer satisfaction, loyalty, and positive word-of-mouth.

5. Agility and Adaptability: Process improvement fosters a culture of continuous improvement and agility within organizations. It enables them to respond quickly to market changes, customer demands, and emerging trends. Organizations that embrace process improvement can adapt and stay competitive in dynamic business environments.

How to identify Process Improvement Opportunities

To effectively improve processes, organizations should identify opportunities for enhancements. This involves:

1. Process Mapping and Analysis: Mapping out current processes and analyzing them in detail to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement. This leads to a comprehensive understanding of the end-to-end process.

2. Data Analysis: Utilizing data and performance metrics to identify bottlenecks, variations, and areas with the highest impact on performance. Data-driven insights provide objective evidence for decision-making and prioritize improvement efforts.

3. Engaging Employees: Involving employees who are directly involved in the process to gain insights and perspectives. Their expertise and front-line knowledge are valuable in identifying opportunities and implementing changes effectively.

4. Benchmarking and Best Practices: Studying industry benchmarks and best practices to understand the performance standards and identify areas where organizations can adopt proven strategies for improvement.

How can Corvita Group help businesses through Change Management and Process Improvement?

Corvita Group's Value Expedition offers a comprehensive and strategic approach to drive organizational change and process improvement. The Value Expedition assesses the current state of operations and technology, identifying areas of improvement, and develops a roadmap for enhancing operational efficiency and achieving business goals. The engagement brings together Corvita Group's expert consultants and industry-leading methodology to guide organizations through a transformative journey.

How does the Value Expedition support Change Management?

1. Assessing the Current State of Operations and Technology: The Value Expedition begins by conducting a thorough assessment of the organization's current operations and technology landscape. This includes evaluating existing processes, systems, and infrastructure to identify gaps, inefficiencies, and areas in need of improvement. By understanding the organization's current state, Corvita Group consultants can develop targeted strategies for change management.

2. A “Bottom-Up” Approach: We value the input of business end-users and believe their insights are critical for successful change management. Through our Value Expedition, we actively involve them in the assessment process, seeking feedback on current operations and technology. This inclusive approach ensures that solutions consider end-user needs and drives higher user acceptance.

3. Developing a Scalable Technology Infrastructure: As part of the Value Expedition engagement, Corvita Group works with organizations to create a scalable infrastructure that supports their current and future technology needs. This involves analyzing system capabilities, evaluating integration requirements, and designing a robust and flexible architecture. The Corvita Group mantra is that technology should ALWAYS be there to facilitate and NEVER hinder business operations; by aligning technology investments with business goals, organizations can drive innovation, enhance agility, and adapt to an ever-evolving market.

4. Aligning Technology with Business Goals: Corvita Group recognizes the importance of aligning technology initiatives with overarching business goals. During the Value Expedition engagement, consultants work closely with organizations to understand their vision, objectives, and key performance indicators (KPIs). By mapping technology solutions to business goals, the Value Expedition helps organizations achieve strategic alignment, maximize value creation, and drive sustainable growth.

How does the Value Expedition support Process Improvement?

1. Analyzing Current Processes and Identifying Gaps: The Value Expedition places a strong emphasis on analyzing current processes to identify areas for improvement. Corvita Group consultants conduct detailed process assessments, mapping out existing workflows, and identifying bottlenecks, redundancies, and inefficiencies. By understanding the root causes of process gaps, the Value Expedition lays the foundation for effective process improvement initiatives.

2. Applying Industry Best Practices: Drawing on extensive industry knowledge and best practices, Corvita Group brings valuable insights and expertise to process improvement efforts. We
leverage industry benchmarks, proven methodologies, and our ‘bottom-up’ approach to help clients optimize processes through technology and operations alignment.

3. Creating the Efficiency Compass for Continuous Improvement: As a result of the Value Expedition engagement, Corvita Group develops an Efficiency Compass for organizations. This strategic roadmap serves as a guide for continuous improvement, outlining the steps, actions, and milestones required to achieve identified goals. The Efficiency Compass incorporates recommendations for process optimization, technology enhancements, and organizational changes, providing organizations with a clear path towards operational excellence.

Conclusion

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, embracing change and continuous improvement is essential for organizations to thrive. By fostering a culture of innovation, organizations can unlock their full potential, drive efficiency gains, and deliver exceptional value to customers. Embrace change, invest in process improvement, and partner with Corvita Group to embark on a transformative journey towards operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Remember, change is not a one-time event but a continuous journey towards excellence. Start your journey with Corvita Group's Value Expedition and together we can achieve meaningful results that drive operational excellence throughout your supply chain while ensuring alignment between your technology and operations.

Developing Seamless Integrations: BNSF Logistics and Corvita Group's Success Story

Wed, 24 May 2023 09:46:56 -0400

BNSF Logistics, a leading transportation and logistics company offering comprehensive supply chain solutions across various industries through their extensive rail, trucking, and intermodal network, faced the challenge of integrating their proprietary transportation management system, QUEST, with Capacity Marketplace platforms. They needed to expand their existing API and JSON payloads and create new connections. With their development team at max capacity, they sought assistance from Corvita Group, experts in building integration layers between internal systems and external platforms.

Corvita Group partnered with BNSF Logistics to develop the integration layer, connecting QUEST software to a single-capacity marketplace platform. The successful collaboration expanded to include more capacity marketplace connections and even additional integrations beyond those platforms.

Brittany Bemben, VP of Digital Freight Services at BNSF Logistics, praised the partnership, stating that “Corvita Group had become an extension of the BNSF family. We value their unique perspective on the transportation industry and the end-user experience. Together, we have built an integration layer designed to bring data and details together to support our operational team.”

“The collaboration between our teams has been wonderful. From day one of the project, we have been treated like part of the BNSF team. The blend of expertise between both companies, with open and honest communication as a foundation, led to a successful engagement that came in on time and under budget,” states Marla Childress, EVP of Operations for Corvita Group.

BNSF Logistics and Corvita Group continue their fruitful partnership, working towards an industry-leading capacity marketplace experience for their users.

Overcoming Obstacles in WMS Deployment within Intricate Supply Chain Settings

Tue, 16 May 2023 11:43:26 -0400

Introduction

Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are essential tools for enhancing efficiency and productivity in supply chain operations. However, incorporating a WMS in a complex and constantly changing supply chain landscape can be challenging. In this article, we discuss various factors that could impede successful WMS implementation and provide practical solutions to help businesses overcome these challenges and thrive.

Ensuring Data Quality and Seamless Integration

A key concern during WMS implementation is the presence of inaccurate, inconsistent, or unreliable data. This can lead to errors, delays, and discrepancies in the WMS's performance. Furthermore, integrating data from multiple systems can be complicated due to differences in data formats, standards, and protocols.

To address these challenges, organizations should initiate a comprehensive data audit, cleaning, and mapping process before implementing a WMS. Establishing and enforcing robust data governance and quality control procedures is also imperative.

Insights

•Conduct data audits: Examine and validate existing warehouse data to identify inaccuracies, inconsistencies, and redundancies.

•Perform data cleansing: Correct errors, resolve inconsistencies, and eliminate redundancies by standardizing data formats and updating information.

•Map data: Match data fields and formats between WMS and other systems to ensure compatibility and smooth data exchange.

•Establish data governance: Define data ownership, responsibilities, and policies to maintain data integrity and quality over time.

•Implement quality control procedures: Periodically conduct data audits, use automated validation tools, and establish a feedback loop for continuous improvement.

Facilitating Change Management and Workforce Training

Resistance to change can arise from warehouse staff, managers, and other stakeholders due to shifts in operational procedures and newly defined roles. The situation can be exacerbated if management lacks the necessary leadership and support to implement change effectively.

To overcome these hurdles, involve employees and stakeholders throughout the WMS implementation process. Clearly communicate the advantages and expectations of the new system, provide extensive training and coaching, and address any concerns that may arise.

Insights

•Involve employees and stakeholders: Engage warehouse staff and other stakeholders throughout the WMS implementation process to ensure buy-in and facilitate collaboration.

•Communicate benefits and expectations: Clearly convey the advantages of the new WMS and outline expectations for improved performance and efficiency.

•Provide comprehensive training: Offer extensive training programs covering new processes, technologies, and best practices to ensure staff can effectively utilize the WMS.

•Offer coaching and support: Provide ongoing coaching, guidance, and resources to help employees adapt to the new system and overcome challenges.

•Address concerns and issues: Actively listen to employee feedback and concerns, and address them promptly to ensure a smooth transition and minimize resistance to change.

Striking the Right Balance between Customization and Scalability

Finding the optimal balance between customization and scalability can be a significant challenge during WMS implementation. Over-customization may restrict scalability, while inadequate customization can negatively impact operational efficiency.

To achieve the right balance, assess the warehouse's current and future needs and select a WMS that offers the appropriate level of customization and scalability.

Insights

•Assess warehouse requirements: Evaluate current and future needs, such as inventory types, storage configurations, picking methods, and performance indicators.

•Choose a flexible WMS: Select a WMS with customizable features that can be tailored to specific operational needs and preferences.

•Prioritize essential customizations: Focus on customizations that directly impact core warehouse operations and provide the most significant benefits.

•Plan for future growth: Consider how the WMS can handle fluctuations in volume, demand, and complexity, such as seasonal peaks or new markets.

•Monitor and adjust: Continuously evaluate the WMS's performance and adapt customization and scalability as needed to ensure optimal efficiency and effectiveness.

Addressing Technology and Security Considerations

Another challenge during WMS implementation is ensuring that the technology and security aspects of the system are both well-designed and well-maintained. Technology and security issues can cause disruptions, downtime, or breaches in warehouse operations.

Select a WMS equipped with the most up-to-date and appropriate technology and security features. Regularly test, monitor, and update the system to mitigate potential risks.

Insights

•Select appropriate technology: Choose a WMS equipped with the latest and most suitable technology solutions, including hardware, software, and network infrastructure.

•Prioritize data security: Ensure the WMS has robust security features, such as encryption, authentication, authorization, and backup capabilities.

•Regular testing: Conduct routine tests to identify vulnerabilities, verify system functionality, and evaluate the effectiveness of security measures.

•Monitor system performance: Track the WMS's performance to detect and address potential issues, such as disruptions, downtime, or breaches in warehouse operations.

•Update and maintain the system: Implement regular updates and maintenance to keep the WMS secure, reliable, and up-to-date with industry standards and best practices.

Promoting Innovation and Continuous Improvement

Capitalizing on innovation and optimization opportunities in WMS implementation can be challenging. Adopting cutting-edge technologies and solutions to improve WMS functionality and performance is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.

To address this challenge, investigate and assess the feasibility of incorporating advanced WMS features and functions. Continuously measure and analyze the WMS's performance to drive improvement.

Insights

•Assess feasibility: Evaluate the potential benefits, costs, and implementation challenges associated with incorporating new WMS features and functions.

•Encourage continuous improvement: Foster a culture of ongoing optimization by regularly reviewing and refining WMS processes and outcomes.

•Measure performance: Utilize key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor the WMS's effectiveness and track the impact of innovations on warehouse operations.

•Implement feedback loops: Create a system for gathering and analyzing feedback from employees and stakeholders to drive continuous improvement and promote innovation.

Conclusion

Integrating a WMS into a complex and dynamic supply chain environment can be filled with challenges, but with careful planning and preparation, businesses can successfully navigate these obstacles. By focusing on data quality and integration, change management, customization and scalability, technology and security, and fostering innovation and optimization, organizations can effectively implement WMS to bolster warehouse efficiency, customer satisfaction, and overall supply chain performance.

Corvita Group Partners with Avectous to Enhance WMS Implementation and Support Services

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 07:53:08 -0400

Corvita Group is pleased to announce its strategic partnership with Avectous, a leading provider of warehouse management solutions. As part of this partnership, we will be offering our consulting, implementation, and support services to Avectous' clients to enhance their supply chain experience.

Our extensive knowledge and experience in supply chain management software implementation and support uniquely position us to deliver exceptional assistance to Avectous' customers. This partnership will allow Avectous to further strengthen their WMS implementation and support services, providing their clients with a seamless and successful experience.

"Avectous’ workflow design and clean UI make it one of the most user-friendly WMS solutions I’ve come across." said Kevin Holmes, CEO of Corvita Group Inc. "It is a scalable and feature rich platform that fits many of the industry’s needs. We look forward to collaborating with the Avectous team in delivering innovative solutions and the highest level of service and support."

“Avectous is excited to partner with Kevin Holmes and the Corvita Group. We look forward to this highly skilled tech team with WMS implementation expertise helping Avectous scale rapidly and onboard many more B2B, DTC & 3PL clients.” - Bob Davidson, VP of Sales & Partner Relations

About Avectous

Avectous offers a cost-friendly, configurable suite of products that can transform complex warehouse and selling challenges into competitive advantages. Their software is compatible with various types of businesses and offers API integration through multiple channels.

About Corvita Group

At Corvita Group, we specialize in the alignment between operations and technology, helping clients optimize their transportation operations. With over 150 years of combined leadership experience, we have a proven track record of delivering results for our clients.

We are thrilled to partner with Avectous and look forward to delivering exceptional value to their clients by combining our extensive expertise in supply chain consulting with their cloud-based, fully integrated fulfillment technologies.

For more information, please contact:

Kevin Holmes

Corvita Group Inc.

(919) 691-2008

Kevin.holmes@corvitagroup.com

What is a Supply Chain Strategy?

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 09:17:10 -0400

Supply chain strategy is about more than just logistics. It's about optimizing your company's performance in three key areas: cost, service, and sustainability. As a business owner or manager, it's important to understand what your company's supply chain strategy is, why it matters, and how you can use it to help your business succeed.

The supply chain strategy is the overarching plan for how your organization will use its time, money, and people to achieve its goals. It defines how you'll prioritize getting products from point A to point B efficiently and effectively. Supply chain management refers specifically to inventory control, procurement, distribution, and all related activities that support sales growth within the business.

The importance of supply chain strategy:

Supply chain strategy is important for a number of reasons. Businesses need to develop a supply chain strategy when they understand the following:

Why they have a supply chain in the first place, and what their goals are for it.
How they will execute their supply chain strategy.
What risks may arise during execution and what contingency plans they have in place if something goes wrong.

Developing a Supply Chain Strategy

Before you start on your supply chain strategy, it's important to define the supply chain issue. If you don't know what your goal is, it will be difficult to determine if you're making progress in achieving it. Supply chain strategies are most effective when they are grounded in a specific problem or issue that needs to be addressed.

For example, your company is entering the market for a new product that requires significant investment in manufacturing plants and equipment. The primary challenge you face is demand forecasting: Can you accurately predict how many units of this new product will be purchased by customers?

The secondary challenge is to design and implement a strategy for your supply chain: How should you source materials? Where should the materials be manufactured? What transportation methods should be used to deliver those materials where they need to go?

The tertiary challenge- and perhaps the most difficult of all- is determining how best to execute that strategy. For example, you might have determined that it makes sense from an efficiency standpoint to manufacture your products overseas instead of domestically; but if you do so, how can you ensure quality control while still meeting customer expectations in terms of delivery times and cost effectiveness?

There are many different types of goals that can be set during this stage of developing a supply chain strategy; however, we highly recommend setting tangible goals with 3-6 month time frames so that you have something concrete by which success can be measured over short periods of time consistently throughout implementation (rather than focusing exclusively on long term impact).

How to Execute a Supply Chain Strategy

To execute your supply chain strategy, you'll need to:

Develop a strategy by defining the problem you're trying to solve, identifying possible solutions and establishing criteria for evaluating each solution.
Develop a plan for implementing the solution based on the resources available and any constraints that may apply. This can include setting goals, identifying key players, and assigning tasks or responsibilities for implementation of the plan.
Evaluate outcomes using metrics as well as qualitative methods such as interviews with stakeholders, surveys of customers or focus groups with employees and suppliers.

A solid supply chain strategy can help you in three key areas

Reduce costs-

A well-thought-out supply chain strategy will help your company reduce its purchasing costs by ensuring that the right product is purchased at the right time, and in the right quantity, from the appropriate source. The result? You pay less for products and services, which means more money left over for important things like employee bonuses or growth initiatives.

Improve customer satisfaction-

By improving your ability to anticipate customer demands, you can also improve their level of satisfaction with your service as a whole—and thus gain further market share over competitors who aren't as organized when it comes to ordering new products and keeping them on hand for customers' needs! This is good news for everyone involved because higher sales numbers mean better revenue streams than before.

Improve inventory management-

A solid supply chain strategy allows businesses to better manage their inventory through careful planning based on historical data trends related specifically back toward production capacity thresholds established during earlier stages such as “what kind of product do we need?" How many units will go out? When should they go out? In order words - how long should each phase last before moving onto another phase?

A Supply Chain Strategy Right for You

It's critical to develop your supply chain strategy as part of a clear business strategy that takes into account all relevant aspects of your organization. When done correctly, the result will be a supply chain that is optimized for both cost and value, allowing you to better meet customer needs.

Need help planning or executing your supply chain strategy? Contact us with the link below and we'll be happy to assist you!

Determining if a New Technology is Aligned with Your Business Strategy

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 11:52:21 -0400

Technology and Business Strategy Alignment

When evaluating new technology for your business, it is critical to have a firm grasp on your company’s current state and a vision for the future. This level of awareness, coupled with a strategic plan, will play a key role in developing the requirements for any technology considerations. For example, a low to mid-market shipper is looking to purchase a Transportation Management System (TMS). This shipper has heard a lot about the value of implementing a TMS and how it can help them grow in the space, but there are many software options available. How will they know which TMS to choose? Because a technology implementation can be a large expense, the ideal solution will be the TMS that aligns with their business strategy and can also adapt to meet their business requirements as they grow. To determine this, the shipper will need to identify their current functionality needs.

When identifying functional requirements, considerations should extend from the executive business strategy to the end user who is responsible for execution. Quite often the day-to-day challenges that face end users are lost, or not considered when evaluating (and implementing) new technology. Businesses should consult their front-line users and middle managers while discussing any new strategic technology initiative. This ensures that the top-level vision aligns with solution capabilities for the end user to execute effectively. Many people refer to this as a “bottom up” approach.

When reviewing day-to-day operational needs, the minutiae can derail an entire strategy. Take for an example, a multi-provider Supply Chain Execution (SCE) solution being implemented across TMS, OMS and WMS. The OMS receives the orders and sends them to the TMS to be optimized for parcel, LTL and TL shipments and routing, which is then sent to the WMS to be picked and packed. However, due to the way the warehouse is setup for pick and pack, their workflow and integration dataflows have to be matched to the existing infrastructure. If not, there will be an immense level of location level change in infrastructure and workflow changes that is unnecessary. Capturing this level of requirement in the evaluation and planning phase is critical to confirm solution capabilities and the proper data flows. Without a substantial understanding of this flow from front-line users, the project can easily be derailed.

Once the current functionality requirements from the executive level to the end-user are met, businesses should then compare the technology’s offerings to their projected future state. If a shipper currently only requires LTL functionality, but plans to incorporate TL in the future, does it make sense to invest in a technology that can only support LTL? We will discuss this in further detail, as we continue our deep dive into topics of consideration when making a business software selection.

Resource Constraints and Skill Shortages in 2020

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 09:50:37 -0500

Businesses and supply chains worldwide have had to face new challenges this year as local and national governments implement new regulations to combat the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Adhering to these regulations, resolving supply chain disruptions, and re-evaluating processes have understandably been the primary focus of organizations in 2020. However, addressing these challenges have forced many businesses to stretch existing resources to fill in the gaps; shifting focus away from their core business. While this may fair well as a short-term solution, knowledge gaps, along with exhausted resources can lead to inefficiencies that can cost businesses big in the future.

Subjects that are having the greatest impact on resources within supply chains are:

Technology

In March of 2020, as governments around the world began putting regulations in place in an effort to control the spread of Covid-19, supply chain disruptions began to surge. These disruptions had the greatest negative impact on organizations that did not already have a strong technology mix in place, to give the visibility needed to make data driven adjustments. As businesses adopt new technologies for higher efficiency and visibility, it is likely that they will lack resources that have the required expertise necessary to optimize the technology.

Working Remotely

According to research done by FlexJobs.com and Global Workplace Analytics, remote work has increased by 44% from 2014 to 2019. And in an effort to deal with growing workplace health concerns, many more workers have transitioned to working from home in 2020. While there have been huge advancements in remote communication technologies, limitations do still exist. Employees, working from home, can often feel isolated and less a part of the team. They may also find it difficult to prioritize tasks. These limitations can put remote workers at a disadvantage when it comes to collaboration and adjusting to new technologies and processes.

Market Volatility

Fear, uncertainty and doubt have driven the consumer market in 2020. The combination of a global health crisis and unfavorable trade relations with China has led to shortages of raw materials, while consumer demand unpredictably surges. This volatility has caused many businesses to cut costs by furloughing, issuing lay-offs, or letting workers go completely. As markets remain unpredictable for the foreseeable future, organizations may be hesitant to invest in the onboarding process of new resources.

Conclusion

This year has been a wakeup call for many organizations concerning their supply chain. Some disruptions, such as the current global pandemic, can only be combatted by a resilient supply chain. It is important to remember that at the core of any process or technology, is a human resource. Implementations, configurations, non-automated processes, analytics, and support all require human resources and are imperative to the successful operation of a business. Economic uncertainty can sometimes prevent organizations from making long-term commitments to new hires and can lead highly qualified candidates to look elsewhere for employment. In this situation, businesses may look to a third party, such as Corvita Group, to fill in any resource or knowledge gaps. Corvita Group is a technology-neutral logistics consulting firm that also provides relief to businesses that are looking for an expert resource, without having to onboard a new FTE.

What New Challenges Will Supply Chains Face This Holiday Season?

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 09:22:20 -0400

Under the best of circumstances, customer behavior can be difficult to predict. A global pandemic, and the economic consequences it brings, can cause extreme volatility in consumer demand trends. The ability of the supply chain to adapt to these sudden market changes will be critical to a business looking to take advantage of sales opportunities, while minimizing its risk.

There is no doubt that Covid-19 has changed the way consumers have decided to purchase and receive products. According to recent data released by the U.S. Census Bureau, e-commerce was responsible for 16% of all consumer purchases in the 2^nd quarter. This is up from 11%, where the trend started near the start of the 1^st quarter. If this trend continues into the holiday season, we could see a strain on supply chains unlike anything we have experienced to date.

Some challenges that supply chains may face this holiday season include:

Inventory Supply

Before the pandemic, most manufacturers were already running at maximum capacity. Now, with many manufacturers either having to reduce staff or shut down completely, we are already seeing a slowdown in the production of everyday goods.

Warehouses and Fulfillment Centers

Much like manufacturers, warehouses and fulfillment centers are having to adapt to staffing issues and procedural changes due to Covid-19. This means that even if a product is in stock, it could still see delays during the fulfillment process.

Customer Experience

With businesses struggling to just get their products to their destinations, it is easy to overlook the customer experience. There may be product shortages and delays that cannot be helped this holiday season, but that will make customer service and communication even more important.

Some solutions to these challenges:

Increase Visibility Throughout the Supply Chain Process

Now, more than ever, it is important to understand what is taking place throughout your supply chain. Delays in production, fulfillment and shipping can ruin the customer experience. However, with high supply chain visibility, these delays can be caught early and resolved quickly. This information can also be communicated to the customer, so they are not left wondering why their package has not arrived.

Diversify Suppliers and Freight Carriers

What would happen if your supplier had to discontinue their services or there is a disruption due to Covid-19? Diversity helps to mitigate risk and helps to sustain businesses in less than ideal circumstances.

Collaborate Between Suppliers and Carriers with Technology

Due to the pandemic, remote work is becoming the standard for many companies across the country. Through technology, teams can now easily collaborate internally, as well as digitally access their carrier connections to quote and tender freight using consistent data that can be maintained for analysis.

A shift from in-store to online purchases could be the greatest challenge for supply chains this holiday season. This trend could increase demand on shipping and warehousing, causing several bottlenecks due to staffing shortages and new safety protocols. Having the right technology to increase visibility and to collaborate between a diverse set of suppliers and carriers can greatly reduce these risks. However, in many cases, organizations may not have the required resources to optimize their technology for this new market or are unsure of which technology would best satisfy their requirements. In these situations, a third party analysis, from a company with expertise on a diverse set of technologies within your industry, is recommended.

Corvita Group is a supply chain strategy, design and implementation firm with a focus on technology. We are seasoned professionals that have a combined experience of over 150 years spanning all aspects of supply chain operations. From procurement to inbound transportation, warehousing, inventory control, distribution, transportation and reverse logistics, we have the experts to address our client’s needs.