Supply chain management in the cloud: making the unplannable plannable

Cloud-based working is changing and strengthening all processes in companies. Regardless of how stable on-premise supply chain management is, cloud-based supply chain planning offers many advantages. These include basic scalability and better connectivity of supply chain networks. For mature supply chains, there is also the option of an ecosystem with integrated planning and execution processes. All of this is handled via a single platform with a common data structure. 

But what are the requirements for an appropriate solution? Jürgen Hindler, Senior Manager Sales Development & Strategy SCM at Oracle, explains which functions should definitely be included. 

Segmentation as a starting point for orchestration 

An optimal cloud solution for supply chain planning divides the supply chain into different segments. This process is based on various parameters, such as geographical regions and the matching needs of different customers. Ideally, employees can also take factors such as agility and resilience into account when subdividing each segment. This all adds great value to organizational processes. Companies can then plan precisely according to segment, better fulfill specific requirements and take dependencies into account. As a result, the quality, robustness and speed of the entire supply chain increase. 

Focus on cooperation with suppliers 

Companies need a cloud solution that enables integrated planning - planning that takes into account and coordinates all aspects of demand, supply and inventory. Such coordination requires close cooperation with suppliers and the exchange of all relevant information. It is therefore important to be able to integrate partners and other systems in the supply chain into the solution. The more functions are available for collaboration, the better the planning of business processes will be. There may not be an immediate need for some functions, but if this changes, companies will be prepared. 

Always find a successful solution 

The decision support provided by a cloud solution also plays a major role. The right technology offers ready-made analyses, guided problem solutions and intelligent recommendations. This helps employees to make decisions more easily and plan efficiently. They can quickly find the optimal solution for every situation. 

Key criterion speed 

Delivery delays repeatedly cause major problems for companies. An innovative cloud solution for supply chain planning enables employees to identify problems at an early stage and resolve them quickly. With the right supply chain management, they gain a comprehensive overview of their own supply chain and see changes in real time. There should also be functions to identify possible alternatives in the event of deviations from the plan and to analyze the likely impact on the business. On this basis, companies can always react flexibly to new developments and inform all stakeholders directly. 

Smart logistics: automated, efficient and scalable 

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) promises even greater success in supply chain planning. It automates decisions based on business success and ensures this. A corresponding cloud solution not only takes measures, but also executes them itself. This increases efficiency and gives employees more time for strategic tasks. Scaling is also much easier in the future. 

Achieving all goals in the long term 

"Companies continue to face major challenges in logistics. With the right cloud solution for supply chain planning, they can master all tasks and gain an enormous competitive advantage over the competition," says Jürgen Hindler. "The ideal solution supports strategic as well as tactical and operational planning. It enables employees to monitor processes in real time and adapt plans. Together, they create the conditions for a successful digital transformation of the supply chain." 

Source: www.oracle.com