Abstract :
This paper describes three different approaches to identifying both what to do and where to start the supply chain improvement. The choice of approach depends upon the current supply chain situation including factors such as supply chain maturity, level of change required, and propensity for risk. The three approaches are: 1) to model the whole supply chain 2) to sample the failure points 3) to map the product journey. The first approach centres on detailed modelling of the extended supply chain, covering all aspects, providing comprehensive picture, from which to make both strategic and operational improvements. The second approach samples discrete elements of the supply chain in a ´snap-shot´, identifying specific opportunities for improvement based on experience of fail points. The third approach focuses on analysis of one product (and the information associated with it) as it journeys through the supply chain, and designing the whole supply chain from a product perspective.
