By nature, supply chains are very susceptible to disruption. This is because an issue in one area rapidly has an impact on other areas in the same chain. While it is impossible to avoid supply chain disruption entirely, there are strategies for preparing for disruption and minimizing its impact. In a rencet article for Thomasnet, Zachary Smith proposes six such strategies:
- Prepare for Emergencies – Have contingency plans in place for a wide variety of potential scenarios.
- Maintain Full Visibility – A thorough understanding of the entirety of your supply chain will help you understand and deal with any disruptions that occur.
- Communicate Clearly and Completely – In the midst of disruption, it is important that everyone be on the same page in order to resolve the issue speedily.
- Focus on Customer Satisfaction – Your goal should be for your customers to not even know that disruption has occurred. In the event that it does impact them, be transparent about what has occurred and compensate them generously for the trouble.
- Audit for Vulnerabilities – This is especially important if the disruption that occurs is not something that you considered when you prepared for emergencies in step one.
- Document Thoroughly – Create a detailed emergency plan and be sure to keep it updated with any changes you implement or new policies you develop.
For more details, read the article in full at Thomasnet.
