The ever-evolving business model is based on the orchestration of information and human capital—this harmonious combination must be delivered in a clear, concise format. More so, the barrage of information in the operation of any business must be tempered with how the delivery mechanism is designed. Without a delivery format and effective distribution system, information can become lost to the abyss. Training companies can solve that issue when they implement methodologies proven to elevate the benefits of supply chain management learning.
With globalization, the field of competition has increased and the marketplace changes at a much more rapid pace. In order to maintain a forefront position on the knowledge curve, companies, namely multinational corporations, need to create a learning atmosphere conducive to capturing the knowledge and skill sets needed to advance a supply chain learning model. The challenge is incorporating learning methodologies into the supply chain without impeding the current supply chain mechanics.
Supply chain learning models play a pivotal role in the optimization of supply chain management; more simply, supply chain learning models are the orchestration within the supply chain cycle. Agility and responsiveness become quintessential terms in supply chain optimization, yet at the root of it is the element of learning. Each supply chain learning model may differ, but here are seven essential basics to the supply chain structure:
- Create for cultures – One of the challenges for the multinationals includes handling the diversity of multiple cultures and seasons. Certain parameters and guidelines need to be made.
- Collaborate – Share “best practices” captured in the learning model and release them to the supply chain value streams.
- Communicate – Both internal and external communications must clearly illustrate who, what, when, where, and how. Additionally, benefits need to be well defined and expectations need to be set.
- Implement – The methods for broadcasting the learning content and tracking its application are a must.
- Innovate – Look for common ground or synergies in the supply chain. Determine if supplier groups work in conjunction relative to timing to optimize delivery (for example, bottles, labels, and caps).
- Sustain through measurement – Sustaining the learning network requires a consistent scheduling. Required due outs and reports of progress and cost avoidance need to be captured and tracked.
- Compete – The supply chain becomes the harmony within any business model; any interruption or threat weakens its competitiveness.
Initiative success is a result of synchronous collaboration between finance and accounting, engineering, operations (learning), maintenance, health/safety, and quality. Global leaders bear the responsibility of engaging all departments, soliciting feedback, and delivering the critical information through training models. Best-in-class organizations that are examples of supply chain optimization have demonstrated the ability to tap into the importance of learning models as a basic element of the decision-making process.