Leveraging Technology for Assessment, Benchmarking, and Quality Control : Solution Essays

In the digital age, moving products along the supply chain through multiple members is made easier with the right tools to coordinate the effort and provide real-time data. There are even new devices available to fight counterfeiting and theft at every stage. Whether determining the proper inventory in distribution centers or lead time needed for ordering to maintain minimum levels without running out of stock, customer satisfaction and cost savings are desired outcomes. Supply chain management software can measure expected travel time at each destination based on weather and other factors; movement within warehouse, distribution centers, or fulfillment centers; and progress to the final consumer in last mile delivery. The interconnected nature of players within the chain depends on software and technology that are compatible. Some member groups are implementing standards that allow cross-carrier tracking. Benchmarking can be established at the macro and micro level down to an individual employee’s productivity.