Supply chain and manufacturing
Learn how technology can optimize your supply chain, logistics and manufacturing processes. Explore how the internet of things, AI and blockchain are bringing new efficiencies and how ERP software can help with supply chain operations and improve product delivery. Here you'll also find overviews on important supply chain management concepts.
Top Stories
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News
25 Oct 2024
IFS exec: Moving to cloud creates sustainability benefits
In this Q&A, IFS' chief sustainability officer discusses how sustainability efforts make good business sense but noted that companies struggle with managing all the data. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Oct 2024
4 use cases for machine learning in the supply chain
Use cases for machine learning in the supply chain are inventory and warehouse management, equipment maintenance, supplier management and cost savings. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Oct 2024
Sustainability and ESG glossary: 52 terms to know
Sustainable strategies require basic understanding of the fundamentals. Business leaders and IT teams can benefit from this list of essential sustainability terms and ESG concepts. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Oct 2024
In defense of a digital circular economy
Digital tech can potentially help companies follow the circular economy model, but critics point out possible issues as well, including continuing demand for plastics. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Oct 2024
6 use cases for big data in manufacturing
Manufacturing big data use cases are demand forecasting, supply chain optimization, quality control, production line improvement, customer data analysis and pricing optimization. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Oct 2024
Learn how manufacturing data is collected
Collecting manufacturing data via IoT sensors, RFID tags or AI can point to bottlenecks, potential cost reductions and more. Learn about the top 6 data collection technologies. Continue Reading
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News
16 Oct 2024
IFS ups its industrial AI, sustainability capabilities
IFS Cloud 24R2 includes new industrial AI capabilities and a sustainability module. Analysts like the company's practical approach to AI, but customers need questions answered. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Oct 2024
AI use cases in manufacturing
Initially slow to adopt digital transformation, manufacturers are recognizing the power of AI technologies as they seek ways to cut costs, boost productivity and improve products. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Oct 2024
How digital twins can help support sustainability
Digital twin technology shows promise as a sustainability tool-- but it's no panacea. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Sep 2024
What is PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act)?
PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act, sometimes seen as Plan, Do, Check, Adjust) is a repetitive four-stage model for continuous improvement in business process management. Continue Reading
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News
19 Sep 2024
Plex adds connected worker capabilities to MES
Connected worker capabilities are now part of the Plex smart manufacturing platform, designed for manufacturers to address worker shortages and improve safety and productivity. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2024
What is business sustainability?
Business sustainability, also known as corporate sustainability, is the management of environmental, social and financial concerns by a company to ensure responsible, ethical and ongoing success. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Sep 2024
What is Blue Yonder (formerly JDA Software)?
Blue Yonder, formerly JDA Software, is a software and consultancy company that specializes in selling supply chain management products and services to businesses. Continue Reading
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News
12 Sep 2024
AI and sustainability on tap for Oracle Cloud applications
Oracle unveils new capabilities for AI use cases, smart manufacturing and sustainability for Oracle Cloud SCM applications at Oracle CloudWorld this week. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Sep 2024
8 reverse logistics KPIs that can help you measure success
Supply chain leaders should consider using several reverse logistics KPIs to measure their company's performance. Learn how these metrics can improve customer satisfaction. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Aug 2024
What is demand shaping?
Demand shaping is an operational supply chain management (SCM) strategy where a company uses tactics such as price incentives, cost modifications and product substitutions to entice customers to purchase specific items. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2024
Importance of data analytics in manufacturing and use cases
Data analytics can help manufacturing leaders make more informed decisions when planning for the industry's future. Learn about analytics' importance. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Aug 2024
What is Open Platform Communications (OPC)?
Open Platform Communications (OPC) is an interoperability standard for secure data exchange in industrial automation and other areas. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Aug 2024
What is machine learning? Guide, definition and examples
Machine learning is a branch of AI focused on building computer systems that learn from data. Continue Reading
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News
15 Aug 2024
As AI evolves, manufacturing will face an old data problem
New capabilities in AI technology hold promise for manufacturers, but companies should proceed carefully until issues such as data quality are resolved. Continue Reading
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Video
14 Aug 2024
An explanation of Industry 4.0 use cases
Industry 4.0 can be used across a number of industries, including retail, food service and cybersecurity. Continue Reading
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Video
14 Aug 2024
An introduction to Industry 4.0
Here are the basics of Industry 4.0 -- the fourth industrial revolution -- featuring AI, IoT and cloud technologies. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Aug 2024
7 benefits of using a 3PL provider for reverse logistics
A 3PL with experience working with supply chain partners and expertise in returns can help simplify a company's operations. Learn more about how a 3PL helps with reverse logistics. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Aug 2024
What is greenwashing?
Greenwashing refers to the act of making false or misleading claims about the positive environmental impact that a company, product or service has on the environment. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2024
What is the bullwhip effect?
The bullwhip effect is a supply chain phenomenon describing how small fluctuations in demand at the retail level can cause progressively larger fluctuations in demand at the wholesale, distributor, manufacturer and raw material supplier levels. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jul 2024
8 top inventory management software products
Inventory management software can help companies manage their supply chain in a turbulent world, but using the right product is crucial. Learn more about which software to choose. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Jul 2024
Manufacturing ERP vendors on a shopping spree
Looking to strengthen their platforms, midmarket ERP vendors have recently snapped up smaller tech companies that add industry-specific functionality and advanced technologies. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jul 2024
What is electronic data processing (EDP)?
Electronic data processing (EDP) refers to the gathering of data using electronic devices, such as computers, servers and internet of things (IoT) technologies. Continue Reading
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Definition
24 Jul 2024
What is inventory management?
Inventory management is the component of supply chain management that tracks and supervises noncapitalized assets -- or inventory -- and stock items. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jul 2024
What is computer-aided software engineering (CASE)?
Computer-aided software engineering (CASE) describes a broad set of labor-saving tools and methods used in software development and business process modeling. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jul 2024
Sustainability ranks low on list of supply chain priorities
Organizations are placing less importance on sustainability efforts in the supply chain, as they try to balance short-term business results with long-term sustainability goals. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jul 2024
remote terminal unit (RTU)
A remote terminal unit (RTU) is a microprocessor-based electronic device used in an industrial control system (ICS) to connect hardware to a distributed control system (DCS) or supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Jul 2024
Companies reassess generative AI in supply chain tech
GenAI and other tech is being used to tackle supply chain challenges such as high costs and disruption, but organizations are often slowing GenAI projects for more complex uses. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jul 2024
Guide to supply chain management
Wars and pandemics offer stark evidence of how global supply chains can break apart. Effective supply chain management can restore order -- and maintain it in normal times. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Jul 2024
Benefits, use cases for blockchain in the supply chain
Blockchain's ability to record each supply chain link can help companies improve various aspects of operations, but uses of the technology brings challenges as well. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Jul 2024
7 of the top order management software products
Order management software can help companies meet consumers' needs faster and more efficiently. Learn about some of the top order management software on the market. Continue Reading
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Report
28 Jun 2024
8 of the top supply chain management career paths
Learn the most popular career paths in supply chain management, including logistics manager and supply chain manager, and the education required to secure those roles. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jun 2024
7 supply chain resilience strategies to use now
Weather events, geopolitical unrest and other disruptions are occurring more frequently. These seven supply chain resilience techniques can help manage them. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Jun 2024
6 steps toward more sustainable supply chain practices
In the quest toward greater supply chain sustainability, leaders must get strategic about operations and take the long view. Here's what to do. Continue Reading
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Conference Coverage
17 Jun 2024
SAP Sapphire 2024 news, trends and analysis
SAP showcases new Business AI applications and continues to make the case for S/4HANA Cloud as the future of SaaS-based ERP innovation and digital transformation. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jun 2024
Epicor acquires Kyklo, adding product info management to ERP
Epicor continues its buying spree with PIM vendor Kyklo, enabling manufacturers and distributors to gain visibility into what customers are buying and why. Continue Reading
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Tip
13 Jun 2024
5 cybersecurity risks and challenges in supply chain
Supply chains have a range of connection points -- and vulnerabilities. Learn which vulnerabilities hackers look for first and how leaders can fend them off. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Jun 2024
6 top supply chain risks for companies to mitigate
As supplier relationships become increasingly complex and major disruptions continue, it pays to understand the top supply chain risks. Here are six and how to manage them. Continue Reading
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Definition
10 Jun 2024
G-code
G-code (also known as geometric code or RS-274) is the most prevalent programming language for computer numerical control (CNC) machines used in computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM). Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2024
9 advantages and disadvantages of digital twin technology
Digital twin technology can potentially improve manufacturing operations, but some factors could make it difficult to implement. Learn more advantages and disadvantages. Continue Reading
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News
17 May 2024
MuleSoft integration tackles EDI supply chain data issues
Salesforce integrates EDI data into its platform for users who deal with many suppliers -- or distributors -- with MuleSoft in an attempt to solve an age-old integration snafu. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 May 2024
Industry 4.0
Industry 4.0 refers to the fourth industrial revolution and the cyber-physical transformation of manufacturing. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Apr 2024
6 ways to improve your reverse logistics
An efficient item returns process can help improve customer loyalty. Learn how to improve your reverse logistics strategy and foster long-term customer satisfaction. Continue Reading
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News
26 Apr 2024
Microsoft, SAP add more AI to manufacturing, supply chain
At the Hannover Messe industrial show, Microsoft debuted Fabric AI for OT and IT data, and the copilot template for factory operations; SAP unveiled AI capabilities for manufacturing. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Apr 2024
How to create a simple supply chain map
A simple supply chain map can give insight into various areas, such as critical business challenges. Learn why manufacturing companies should use this essential tool. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Apr 2024
5 use cases for edge computing in manufacturing
Edge computing's capabilities can help improve various aspects of manufacturing operations and save companies time and money. Learn some potential use cases. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Apr 2024
Industrial 3D printing matures but faces steep climb ahead
Industrial 3D printing vendors are bolstering their products just as use cases and factors such as supply chain disruptions show the technology's usefulness. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2024
6 industrial metaverse use cases for manufacturing
Industrial metaverse use cases for manufacturing include facility design and employee training, though adoption of the technology is still in its early stages. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Mar 2024
AI a top trend for supply chain, but experts urge caution
AI is being adopted for company supply chains, but organizations should guard against hype and assess the business value and feasibility of these applications. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2024
4 AI use cases for quality control in manufacturing
Learn how the integration of AI and machine learning into manufacturing processes can help organizations meet quality control needs, such as defect detection and waste reduction. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Mar 2024
5 challenges of using AI in manufacturing
Some manufacturers might find integrating AI into existing operations to be a complex process. Learn key strategies to help solve these challenging issues before implementation. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2024
digital thread
A digital thread is a data-driven communication framework that connects traditionally siloed elements in manufacturing processes and provides an integrated view of an asset throughout the manufacturing lifecycle. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Mar 2024
warehouse management system (WMS)
A warehouse management system (WMS) consists of software and processes that allow organizations to control and administer warehouse operations from the time goods or materials enter a warehouse until they move out. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2024
transportation management system (TMS)
A transportation management system (TMS) is specialized software for planning, executing and optimizing the shipment of goods. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Mar 2024
supplier relationship management (SRM)
Supplier relationship management (SRM) is a systematic approach to evaluating and partnering with vendors that supply goods, materials and services to an organization, determining each supplier's contribution to success, and developing strategies to improve their performance. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Mar 2024
digital twin
A digital twin is a virtual representation of a real-world entity or process. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Mar 2024
supply chain analytics
Supply chain analytics refers to the processes organizations use to gain insight and extract value from the large amounts of data associated with the procurement, processing and distribution of goods. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Feb 2024
Augmented reality vs. virtual reality vs. mixed reality
Learn about AR vs. VR vs. MR as well as how companies in various industries are using these extended reality technologies to potentially improve their operations. Continue Reading
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News
29 Feb 2024
QAD ERP makes platform play with ITP
The new QAD Industrial Transformation Platform initiative is designed to provide customers with the applications and processes to become more adaptive and resilient. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Feb 2024
7 generative AI use cases in supply chain
Generative AI's demand forecasting and inventory optimization abilities, among others, can help companies meet their goals. Learn how the technology can align with these efforts. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2024
edge analytics
Edge analytics is an approach to data collection and analysis in which an automated analytical computation is performed on data at a sensor, network switch or other device instead of waiting for the data to be sent back to a centralized data store. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Feb 2024
ABC classification
ABC classification is a ranking system for identifying and grouping items in terms of how useful they are for achieving business goals. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Feb 2024
supply chain management (SCM)
Supply chain management (SCM) is the optimization of a product's creation and flow from raw material sourcing to production, logistics and delivery to the final customer. Continue Reading
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News
13 Feb 2024
Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM adds to logistics management
New applications in Oracle Fusion Cloud SCM for transportation and trade management are intended to help companies manage logistics networks and deal with supply chain disruptions. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Feb 2024
supply chain finance
Supply chain finance is a set of technology-enabled business and financial processes that provides flexible payment options for a buyer and one of their suppliers at lower financing costs. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Feb 2024
digital manufacturing
Digital manufacturing is a technology-based approach to production that links different data silos and processes in the manufacturing lifecycle so that stakeholders can make better business decisions both comprehensively and at each step. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Feb 2024
work in progress (WIP)
Work in progress (WIP) refers to the number of tasks or projects that are currently in the process of being completed. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Feb 2024
material requirements planning (MRP)
Material requirements planning (MRP) is a system for calculating the materials and components needed to manufacture a product. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2024
reverse logistics
Reverse logistics is the set of activities that is conducted after the sale of a product to recapture value and end the product's lifecycle. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Feb 2024
value chain
A value chain is a concept describing the full chain of a business's activities in creating a product or service -- from initial receipt of materials through its delivery to market. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2024
7 best practices for inventory management
Efficient inventory management can help retailers and other companies improve their operations. Learn some best practices for balancing supply and demand. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Jan 2024
5 advantages of using inventory management software
Discover some of the advantages of using inventory management software, including helping companies minimize costly errors and prevent theft. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Jan 2024
engineering bill of materials (EBOM)
An engineering bill of materials (EBOM) is a product recipe structured from the design standpoint, rather than the manufacturing standpoint. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jan 2024
reshoring
Reshoring is the process of bringing back manufacturing or production operations to their country of origin or a nearby region. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2024
5 important inventory management software features: A list
Some of the most important inventory management software features are inventory tracking and reports and analytics capabilities. Here's the full list. Continue Reading
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News
19 Jan 2024
New IFS CEO talks next phase of growth for ERP provider
In this Q&A, IFS CEO Mark Moffat discusses the next steps the company is taking to become an AI-centric industrial software provider that focuses on asset-heavy industries. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Jan 2024
product data management (PDM)
Product data management (PDM) is the process of capturing and managing the electronic information related to a product so it can be reused in business processes such as design, production, distribution and marketing. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Jan 2024
sales and operations planning (S&OP)
Sales and operations planning (S&OP) is a process for better matching a manufacturer's supply with demand by having the sales department collaborate with operations to create a single production plan. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Jan 2024
20 common problems with inventory management
Some problems with inventory management that companies frequently face include ordering errors and lack of warehouse space. Learn how to prevent these issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Jan 2024
MRP vs. ERP: Understand the differences and similarities
Did you know today's ERP systems evolved from yesterday's MRP systems? Learn the differences, including functions, applications and benefits -- and how they work together. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Dec 2023
traceability
Traceability, in supply chain traceability, is the ability to identify, track and trace elements of a product or substance as it moves along the supply chain from raw goods to finished products. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Dec 2023
vendor-managed inventory (VMI)
Vendor-managed inventory (VMI) is an inventory management technique in which the supplier of goods, usually the manufacturer, is responsible for optimizing the inventory a distributor holds. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Dec 2023
supply chain risk management (SCRM)
Supply chain risk management (SCRM) is the coordinated efforts of an organization to help identify, monitor, detect and mitigate threats to supply chain continuity and profitability. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Dec 2023
service lifecycle management (SLM)
Service lifecycle management (SLM) describes the strategy and software for managing the maintenance and repair of products and maximizing the profit opportunities from these activities. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Dec 2023
WMS vs. IMS: Learn the differences between the two systems
A WMS streamlines warehouse operations, while an IMS focuses solely on inventory management. Discover how these systems can work together to streamline warehouse processes. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Dec 2023
What role do ERP systems play in supply chain management?
ERP is involved in every major step in manufacturing products and delivering the right ones to consumers. Here's an overview of its key SCM modules and features. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Dec 2023
go-live (go live)
Go-live is the time at which something becomes available for use. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Dec 2023
WMS vs. WCS vs. WES: Learn the differences
Companies often implement a WMS, then potentially add a WCS or a WES later. Learn more about WMS, WCS and WES as well as the differences between the three systems. Continue Reading
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News
30 Nov 2023
Accenture, SAP partner on supply chain visibility
A partnership between Accenture and SAP builds supply chain capabilities on SAP IBP that enables organizations to identify and respond to changes in supply, demand and inventory. Continue Reading
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News
29 Nov 2023
White House unveils plan to build supply chain resilience
New Biden administration actions for supply chains include a cross-governmental council, use of the Defense Production Act for essential medicines, and data sharing and analytics. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Nov 2023
inventory turns (inventory turnover)
Inventory turns, also referred to as inventory turnover and inventory turnover ratio, are a popular measurement used in inventory management to assess operational and supply chain efficiency. Continue Reading
- Definition 22 Nov 2023
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Feature
20 Nov 2023
Digital tech tops supply chain trends list for 2024
Supply chain professionals want more technologies such as AI for visibility and traceability in 2024; however, sustainability and reshoring are long-term strategies. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Nov 2023
WMS vs. OMS: Learn the differences between the two systems
While WMS streamlines warehouse processes, OMS can help improve order management and customer data tracking. Discover more about the differences between WMS and OMS. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Nov 2023
7 tips for implementing a transportation management system
Implementing a transportation management system can be a challenging process, so supply chain leaders should follow some best practices to ensure success. Learn more. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Nov 2023
MES vs. ERP: What are the differences?
MES software focuses on manufacturing processes, while an ERP system focuses on company operations. Learn more about the differences between MES vs. ERP. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Nov 2023
digital supply chain
A digital supply chain is a supply chain whose foundation is built on web-enabled capabilities. Continue Reading