Supply chain management transformation provides fast access to relevant and accurate information. This timely supply chain information can pay off handsomely in lower costs, less inventory, improved throughput, shorter cycle times, and the highest levels of customer service. The very essence of supply chain management is effective information and material flow throughout a network of customers and suppliers (Donover, 2010).
In order for Riordan Manufacturing to gain/or maintain its place as a cutting edge manufacturing company. Riordan must extend their management of physical logistics to address the entire supply chain process, from supplier to buyer, in order to shorten product life cycles, increase competition, and meet the heightened expectations of customers. There are clear opportunities for making supply chains more cost effective, more transparent and more responsive to improve customer service.
Four key areas are critical for effective supply chain improvement: process, measurement, information management and technology. Best practice in these areas includes (Provey, 2009): A. Integrating internal functional processes and systems across the enterprise. This includes the physical supply chain execution and management processes: * Customer service management * Demand management * Materials and Production planning * Logistics and inventory management * Order Fulfillment * Sourcing and Procurement * Supplier management * Product development and commercialization
B. Collaborating with suppliers and customers, involves sharing information and integrating intercompany processes to improve resource utilization and