How to Accommodate More Disruptions to the Supply Chain
It seems like every day we hear about a new disruption to the supply chain. A factory in China shuts down, a hurricane knocks out a factory in the Gulf Coast, a truckers’ strike blocks goods from getting to market – the list goes on and on. So, how can factory operations planning accommodate these disruptions? In this blog post, we will discuss some strategies that can help you keep your factory running smoothly, even in the face of disruptions!
Good factory operations planning is at the core of success, especially in the face of supply chain disruptions and COVID-19 outbreaks. But what is “Good” factory operations planning?
There are many factors to consider when planning for factory operations. But, at its core, good factory operations planning is about being able to anticipate disruptions and having a plan in place to keep the factory running smoothly.
One of the first things you can do to accommodate more disruptions is to automate as much of your factory as possible. This will help you minimize the impact of disruptions, because automated processes can often continue even when there are disruptions in other parts of the supply chain. For example, if a supplier is late with a shipment of raw materials, an automated factory can often continue production using materials that are already on hand.
Another way to accommodate more disruptions is to have multiple suppliers for critical components. This way, if one supplier is unable to deliver, you can source the components from another supplier. This strategy is often used in the automotive industry, where suppliers are located all over the world to minimize the impact of disruptions.
Finally, good factory operations planning also involves having a well-trained workforce that is able to adapt to changes in production. For example, if a factory needs to switch from producing one product to another, a well-trained workforce will be able to quickly learn the new process and start producing the new product. Always remember, there is NO SUBSTITUTE for good people. Even automation only enhances the output of good people in your operation; it does not replace them.
Always remember: have a plan in place to keep your factory running smoothly, even in the face of disruptions! Automate as much of your factory as possible to help minimize the impact of disruptions and train a flexible workforce that can adapt to changes in production. These strategies will help you accommodate more disruptions and keep your factory running smoothly. So next time there’s a disruption to the supply chain, you’ll be prepared!