Supply chain management (SCM) is key to making sure products are delivered efficiently and effectively from suppliers to customers. By sticking to certain principles, you canmake your supply chain more cost-effective, improve customer satisfaction and more! But what are the principles of supply chain management? Let’s get into it.

The seven principles of supply chain management

Segment customers based on their service needs

One of the 7 principles of supply chain management is to segment customers based on specific service needs. It’s beneficial for businesses to recognise the different requirements and preferences of customers, from understanding and analysing customers’ behaviours and demands to tailoring their services.. This results in a more personalised service, boosting customer satisfaction!

Customise logistics network

To keep things running smoothly and quickly, it’s essential for businesses to have a flexible logistics network that meets the needs of their customers. This involves using different distribution strategies and transportation methods for each customer to make sure products/materials or other deliverables arrive on time and in a cost-effective way, no matter their location or order size.

Listen to market signals

Implementing demand planning and forecasting processes that respond to real-time market signals is crucial for effective supply chain management. This highlights the importance of using accurate and up-to-date information from customers and markets.

Listening to market signals can help your business cut down on overproduction, reduce stockouts and maintain good inventory levels. It can also help your business to be more responsive to changes in customer demands, keeping them happy and loyal to you.

Differentiate products close to the customer

Holding off on product differentiation until the last possible moment in the supply chain can be a smart move, which can help to reduce inventory costs and flexibility. This usually involves delaying the final stages of production until customer orders have been received. But why else is this beneficial? Well, companies can offer a higher level of customisation while maintaining lower inventory levels.

Strategic sourcing

Developing a strategic approach to sourcing materials and services is key to building a strong and reliable supply chain. Strategic sourcing involves identifying and developing long-term relationships with key suppliers, negotiating good terms, and making sure the quality and consistency of supplies stays top-notch.

Get it right, and strategic sourcing can boost quality, reduce costs, and mitigate risks associated with supply disruptions. By building strong partnerships with suppliers, companies can foster innovation, improve product quality, and Keep everything flowing smoothly!

Technology strategy

Did you know that leveraging technology across the entire supply chain can really improve performance? This includes investing in integrated IT systems, automating processes, and utilising data analytics to gain insights and make smarter decisions.

Performance measures

Making sure the all-important performance metrics for your supply chain are covered, from suppliers to customers, can help you to stay aligned with goals. You should focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) like overall supply chain efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profit.

Choose Smas Worksafe for your supply chain management

Investing in Supply Chain Management services can be incredible for your business, and help take it to the next level! At Smas Worksafe, we’re committed to helping businesses like yours streamline their supply chain management and find the very best contractors quickly, making the process as efficient and reliable as possible.

We also offer SSIP Accreditation and Worksafe PQQ packages to help you tick off those compliance boxes.

Fill out an enquiry form and request a quote today to start your journey towards a safer construction site. Or you can contact us and our team of experts will be able to offer you advice to get the right solution for your business.