Yes! We found the good supply chain solution that will bring glory to the company!
We will be drastically reducing our costs, streamline our deliveries and optimize our structures.
Most probably this statement is backed up by a good initial process driving towards that decision. However, are you sure to have the ability to implement this solution? Asking this critical question is of great value knowing that many senior people and managers have been dismissed due to the lack of capability to go from A to B.
Still too many top guys do work out of their marble tower without having a realistic view on the business. Field experience and knowing the context is a mandatory requirement to do things as the best student of the class. So, use your helicopter view, feel the temperature, communicate properly and swim into reality.
Hereby some key points to consider being successful in the implementation field:
• What information is required and from whom?
• Who are the key people to be involved?
• What would be the consequential damages if not handled correctly?
• What are the major bottleneck(s)?
• What is the critical path to be followed?
• Is this project supported by top management?
• Who is the budget owner?
• Are the overall savings worthwhile to start with it?
• Do you generate extra internal costs with this move?
• Is there a risk of hitting the final customer?
• Is the type of process generally accepted?
• Do you have comparable examples of previous exercises?
• Is the environment ready for change?
• Are you working in a conservative or a more progressive context?
• What are the defined expectations and roles for all parties concerned?
• Is this only one of many other similar projects (multiplication effect)?
• Are there any cultural business barriers you might expect?
Make sure to incorporate all this into the first waves of your supply chain solution BEFORE you make a decision. Gathering this data might even convince you not to start with the development of your strategic thoughts anyway.
Avoid bouncing your head against the wall! Understanding were the walls are located is a good start … unless you are a fan of headaches!
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