You’ve derived tremendous value from your supply chain software, but you’re wondering if you’ve outgrown it. Read on to learn how you can tell if you’re ready for a new supply chain software.

Is it Time to Replace Your Supply Chain Management Software?

Many manufacturing firms have had supply chain softwares in place for quite some time. And, while these softwares are providing significant value in terms of increased operational productivity, improved cost-efficiency, and enhanced product quality, many companies wonder if its time to upgrade to a more powerful and robust supply chain application.

How do you know if you are ready for a bigger and better supply chain software? As yourself the following questions:

Is my Current Systems Scaling Well as my Organization Grows?
As your supply chain operations expand, your supply chain software will need to do the same. For example, the addition of new employees will require increased user capacity, the opening of new facilities will require better site-to-site integration and complete visibility into activities across all locations, and new relationships with additional suppliers, distributors, and other partners will require more advanced collaboration capabilities. If the existing supply chain software you have can’t support your growth strategy, then its time for a switch.

Does it Support Complex Outsourcing Strategies?
Many supply chain softwares are great for managing supply chains when the majority of key stakeholders exist within the boundaries of an organization. But, as manufacturing firms grow, they often outsource numerous critical functions to third-party providers. This approach helps the business keep its focus on its core competencies, while dramatically cutting costs.

If your company will begin outsourcing key supply chain functions any time in the near future, you’ll need to take a close look at your existing supply chain application to make sure it has the features needed to support your new business model.

How Quickly and Accurately can I Forecast Demand?
As the demand for a company’s products increases, their ability to predict the volume of incoming sales orders, and adjust production output levels accordingly to satisfy those orders becomes more and more critical. But, not all supply chain packages offer the same caliber of forecasting capabilities. If your inability to accurately forecast sales is hindering your ability to properly plan for anticipated demand, then its time to consider replacing your current supply chain application.

Do You Need Real-Time Alerts?
A shipment is due from a supplier, but has not yet arrived. A distributor’s truck has broken down, and will be late delivering products to a retail store. Quality assurance processes have detected unacceptable defect levels on a certain production line.

How Quickly do you Need to Know?
Some – but not all – supply chain softwares include dynamic event management capabilities. These features allow users to set pre-determined threshold levels for specific business conditions, and receive instantaneous alerts when those levels are reached. If time is of the essence, and you need to know immediately when problems occur in your supply chain operations, then you’ll need to look for a supply chain package that includes event management functionality.