Modern companies often use dated supply chain management technologies, including wired devices acquired through vendors that don’t communicate effectively. These obsolete supply chain management methods cause multiple issues to arise in all areas of the supply chain, from warehouse and distribution management to transportation management, yard management, and labor management. There are too many channels of communication that can get dropped in a supply chain without the proper management tools. The good news is that wireless mobile device costs are becoming increasingly more affordable for businesses like yours.
1. Streamlined, leaner supply chain needed
Challenges in supply chain management include slender margins and additional competitors, shorter product lifecycles, and increased customer expectations. These challenges can be addressed through a lean, streamlined supply chain. Enterprise mobility can help you achieve the ideal supply chain management solution.
2. Enterprise mobility and its impact on supply chain management
Enterprise mobility allows supply chain management personnel to access data and information at any time and from any place. When supply chain managers have information available to them at the tap of a finger, they are easily able to see the problem points that occur in the supply chain and then can work to take the necessary steps to solve the issues. In this way, enterprise mobility increases supply chain functionality and productivity. It also leads to higher levels of employee efficiency. The results lead directly to improved customer satisfaction.
3. Improved visibility and traceability
Supply chain visibility and traceability are vital within today’s market. With new recall restrictions and reporting laws in place, traceability is crucial. For enterprises whose products are not within markets subject to recalls, visibility and traceability are still central to delivering optimal customer service to consumers.
Wireless devices used in supply chain management, such as tablets, cell phone applications, and voice picking technologies improve both enterprise visibility and traceability. Handheld devices feature applications that can capture information regarding dispatching, driver and route progress tracking, and location and event reporting. With these applications, supply chain transportation managers will know where all of their drivers are and if they are on schedule. Handheld computers and RFID readers are capable of updating inventory information in real-time and all but eliminate inventory errors and wait-time required for updates.
4. Changes for workers and consumers
Your employees, from managers to general laborers, will feel the positive effects of mobile enterprise supply chain management. General laborers will find their jobs a little easier with mobile devices in their hands, directly leading to increased productivity from floor employees. Managers will be able to run reports, follow inventory, and track the productivity of their staff more efficiently.
Additionally, consumers will note an increase in order and shipping accuracy and a decrease in packing costs. Returns management will be more efficient and there will be an overall decrease in cost, errors and handling time. All of this will add up to an increase in satisfied customers and, ultimately, an increase in return business.
Mobile enterprise supply chain management is key for a competitive edge. Without it, many companies will fall behind the curve of competitors who are implementing mobile technology management solutions. Don’t find yourself behind. Think about mobile supply chain management solutions today.
