Logistics & IT
Logistics & IT
Learning Objectives
Appreciate the overall importance of information to supply chain management. Understand the role of information technology in the supply chain.
along with materials and money, must readily flow across the supply chain to enable the planning, execution, and evaluation of key functions. participant in the supply chain needs relevant information to make effective forecasts and operational decisions. supply chain information technologies support timely, cost-efficient sharing of information between suppliers, manufacturers, intermediaries, logistics services providers, and customers.
Each
Existing
is the lifeline of business, driving effective decisions and actions. It is especially critical to supply chain managers because their direct line of sight to supply chain processes is very limited. wide variety of information is needed for a supply chain to perform as anticipated.
must be accessible, relevant, accurate, timely, and transferable
information
Timely
Transferable
Data must be collected and synchronized so that it can be used by skilled individuals in the planning and execution of supply chain processes. Data collection of relevant information is needed at every point in the supply chain. Data synchronization focuses on the timely and accurate updating of item information within and across enterprises. Functional expertise in each organization will be enhanced by access to the synchronized data.
Planning
Execution Supply chain execution tools and suites carry out key tasks from the time an order is placed until it is fulfilled. This orderdriven category of software focuses on the day-to-day activities required to buy, make, and deliver the materials that flow through the supply chain. Event Management Supply chain event management tools collect data in real time from multiple sources across the supply chain and convert them into information that gives business managers a clear picture of how their supply chain is performing.
ERP systems are multimodule application software platforms that help organizations manage the important parts of their businesses.
ERP systems branch out to include supplier relationship management, customer relationship management, and other supply chain components, the connections between SCIS and ERP grow stronger. ERP system provides a mechanism for supply chain members to efficiently share information
Source SAP AG
Data Standardization
Coordinating and sharing information across the supply chain can be a significant challenge. EDI provides interorganizational, computer-to-computer exchange of structured information in a standard, machine-processable format. XML is a robust, logically verifiable text format based on international standards. It provides a flexible way to create structured, common information formats and share both the format and the data via the Internet, intranets, and other networks
RFID is an automatic identification method. RFID tags consist of a microchip and a printed antenna that can be packaged into many forms, such as a label, or imbedded in between the cardboard layers in a carton or product packaging. Unique product identification information, in the form of a universal electronic product code (EPC) identifying the manufacturer, product category, and individual item, is stored on these 96-bit tags. RFID technology costs must continue to decline to make product tagging economically feasible; equipment issues such as reader range, sensitivity, and durability must improve; the case for supplier return on investment of RFID mandates must be made; and consumer privacy issues must be resolved.
These integrated, flexible networks of companies, technology tools, and processes focus on customers and their changing requirements. An effective ASCN can respond to changes in real time, allowing the network to prevent or minimize supply chain problems. ASCNs help meet the growing need for supply chain connectivity and collaboration, two key information issues. Connectivity provides visibility.