What’s at the Core of Supply Chain Execution Convergence?

Last month, I sat down with Adrian Gonzalez of Talking Logistics to discuss what supply chain execution convergence is and provide tips for implementing it in your enterprise. Here are the top take-aways from our conversation.

What is supply chain execution convergence?
More than just a buzzword, supply chain execution convergence allows for better collaboration and optimization between each team or silo in the enterprise. Rather than optimizing individual operations – transportation, manufacturing, etc. – it optimizes the end business game to get the most benefit.

A lot of businesses go through levels of optimization, but businesses are asking the question of where do we go next in terms of visibility and collaboration? Instead of hitting a wall of “we can’t get any better,” this allows enterprises to keep growing and stay highly competitive. Another major factor is that executives are facing pressure to make bigger decisions, faster to stay ahead of the curve.

What are the best practices for implementing supply chain convergence?
Kewill customers tend to get their internal orders in place before seeking help from an outside party. This involves getting colleagues aligned, proving the value of convergence and getting financials in order. The first thing to do is to look at the extent of supply chain execution convergence and understand the impact on systems and support. Then, you can start to look at outside parties that can also see the bigger picture and support the direction.

What is the impact on the way technology – specifically software – is being developed and deployed?
Businesses still have many options, from a “one-system fits all” to a best-of-breed approach – however there is always a right way for a particular business. Kewill operates on a best-of-breed approach to optimize each customer’s TMS solution as best as possible and allow each of those to work in tandem together. This is especially important to ensure that nothing is being adversely affected, and also to allow for any necessary course-corrections.

Is there a core element of a convergence environment?
Visibility is certainly a huge factor, but transportation is at the center of every point of the supply chain, manufacturing and shipping process, and really is the core.

What implication does the dynamic environment have for TMS moving forward?
It begins by not just implementing because it is the new buzzword, but really taking stock of where you are as an enterprise today and bringing people together to start thinking about a converged platform. Then the opportunity comes from mapping out the process and making sure you have the system support you need, before getting people aligned and moving forward with connecting the people, process and systems. Once that is solidly in place, you can move that forward to connect with like-minded business partners.