Creating strong print supply chains is crucial today. Markets are uncertain and quickly changing. Yossi Sheffi’s piece explains how supply chain problems have grown. This is due to longer supply chains, products coming out faster, and market changes. The COVID-19 pandemic, worker shortages, and sticky supply chains have made this issue even more clear. In fact, most manufacturers have felt big disruptions, according to the Manufacturing Leadership Council.
PwC’s 2022 survey supported this. It showed over two-thirds of US manufacturers are dealing with supplier issues. Even though global supply chain problems might get better, we’ll still have issues with supplies through 2023. To deal with this, companies need to work on making their supply chains stronger.
The Importance of Resilience in Print Supply Chains
Resilience is key in handling risks from supply chain issues in printing. With current challenges, every part of the print value chain is struggling. Manufacturers must update how they manage supply chains. They have to work on breaking down silos to build resilience.
This involves getting different parts of the business, like sales, design, and operations, to join forces. They need to see and understand what each other is doing. This allows for smoother decision-making and better responses to problems.
Planning for when things go wrong is also vital. Manufacturers need to sort out what could happen and how bad it might be. They then prepare to tackle these issues head-on. This proactive approach can really improve how they deal with setbacks.
Also, having a system where everything is connected and visible in real-time is crucial. It means setting up a network that lets information flow fast between suppliers, warehouses, and clients. This way, problems can be spotted and solved quickly.
By following these steps, companies can make their print supply chains more resilient. This helps keep things running smoothly, even when faced with challenges.
Strategies for Building Resilient Print Supply Chains
To make print supply chains strong, a smart plan is key. This includes working across departments and sharing what each team does. Teams come together, helping each other reach shared goals and make the chain tougher.
Planning for troubles is also very important. Companies should know what could go wrong, how it would hurt, and plan to fight back. Being ready helps deal with problems, making the supply chain less likely to break.
Putting customers first is crucial too. Companies must keep in touch with customers and let them know if there might be any delays. This shows honesty and helps everyone solve problems together, keeping the printing chain running smoothly.
Finally, having everything connected and visible right away is big. Companies can build a system that links everyone fast, showing what’s happening with suppliers and customers. New tech like AI can help too, making it easier to make smart choices and avoid risks.
