My Article Published: “Role of Software Tools in Supply Chain Optimization”

My Article titled “Role of Software Tools in Supply Chain Optimization” has been published today on MBASkool.com. You can read it here:

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Role of Software Tools in Supply Chain Optimization
By: Kumar Rahul

http://www.mbaskool.com/business-articles/operations/192-role-of-software-tools-in-supply-chain-optimization.html

Here is a small URL for the same: http://lnkd.in/FZ5tkZ

The article builds on my experiences during working on supply chain optimization software packages and in my interactions with many 3PLs (third party logistics services providers) in India. While interacting with many 3PLs and also their clients, I noticed a level of discomfort in using the latest software tools for supply chain design and optimization. They wanted to do the same thing using Excel. And I knew for sure that it was not possible to achieve the same result without using the advance tools enabling them. I have attempted to summarize my thoughts in this article.

Do read and if possible comment/discuss, like, or recommend.

- Rahul

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Industry status for Logistics Sector in India - Why Not

CII has long ago asked for an 'industry' status for Logistics Sector in India. So have asked so many industry bodies, companies and business leaders.

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As they said, an industry status would facilitate in removing bottlenecks and sorting policy issues; it would create better image for industry; and would achieve better access to finance.

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My question is: Why do you think government of India doesn't grant logistics and SCM sector an industry status? And if we are not an industry, then where do we fit in?

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- Rahul

SCM Best Practices

“Supply Chain Management Best Practices” (Second Edition)
By David Blanchard
Wiley Best Practices; John Wiley & Sons, Inc

The book identifies some of the world’s best supply chains, and discusses why they are so in case format. Companies like Dell, Boeing, P&G, Apple, or Pfizer have very unique solutions to their unique supply chain challenges. The book mentions the AMR research which identified world’s 10 best supply chains in 2009. Apple topped it and Dell stood second. The author also identifies the top metrics which can be used to measure supply chain effectiveness and finds that inventory turnover is perhaps the best of those. It’s highly recommended for all supply chain practitioners and interested business managers.

- Rahul