Is your visibility on your supply chain sufficient?
Process manufacturers face various challenges when it comes to traceability and visibility. Larger manufacturers often have dedicated teams and technology, while SMBs may find themselves limited in resources.
Traceability and visibility are critical components for quality control, supply chain management, and operational efficiency, making it essential that manufacturing SMBs overcome these challenges.
How to achieve full traceability in process manufacturing?
Traceability is the ability to track and trace products throughout their lifecycle, from their origin to their final destination, including all the processes they undergo. Implementing full traceability can be a complex process, but it is necessary.
Companies can take these steps to achieve full traceability:
- IDENTIFY KEY TRACEABILITY DATA
To achieve complete traceability, manufacturers must pinpoint essential data points for each product, such as raw materials, production processes, packaging, labeling, and quality results. They should also identify the processes that demand the greatest traceability. - CHOOSE A TRACEABILITY SYSTEM
Manufacturers have multiple traceability options, such as manual tracking, barcode, and RFID. The selected system must capture, store, and report essential data while offering real-time supply chain visibility. - STANDARDIZE PROCESSES
To ensure accurate and consistent traceability data capture, standardizing processes is crucial. Manufacturers must create SOPs for each process, including traceability data collection and recording, and review them regularly to maintain their relevance and effectiveness. - TRAIN STAFF
To ensure that traceability data is captured accurately, companies should train their staff on the importance of traceability and how to capture and record traceability data. This training should cover the chosen traceability system, the SOPs for each process, and any relevant regulatory requirements. - MONITOR AND ANALYZE DATA
Process manufacturers must monitor and analyze the traceability data that is collected. This data can be used to identify trends, patterns, and potential issues that may impact product quality or regulatory compliance. - COLLABORATE WITH SUPPLIERS AND CUSTOMERS
Companies should work with their suppliers to ensure they provide the necessary traceability data for the raw materials they supply. They should also work with their customers to understand their requirements and ensure their products meet them.
Benefits of supply chain visibility
Implementing a technological solution can help SMB process manufacturers overcome these challenges and achieve various benefits.
IMPROVED QUALITY CONTROL
Complete traceability detects quality issues for SMBs to adjust production or recall shipped products.
INCREASED EFFICIENCY
Supply chain visibility identifies bottlenecks and inefficiencies, reducing costs and optimizing operations.
ENHANCED CUSTOMER SERVICE
Full traceability provides real-time information about orders and shipments, improving customer communication.
IMPROVED REGULATORY COMPLIANCE
Full traceability throughout the supply chain helps manufacturers comply with regulations and avoid costly fines and reputational damage.
Opportunities of supply chain visibility
Implementing a supply chain visibility solution can provide companies various opportunities to improve their business operations. Here are a few examples:
GREATER COLLABORATION WITH SUPPLIERS
Real-time inventory, production, and delivery data enhance collaboration between manufacturers and suppliers.
INCREASED ACCESS TO NEW MARKETS
Visibility into product movement across borders helps manufacturers expand into new markets, comply with regulations, and avoid customs delays or issues.
IMPROVED SUSTAINABILITY
Supply chain visibility provides data on environmental impact, helping manufacturers reduce
their carbon footprint and identify areas for improvement.
For more insights on how to face the most pressing challenges in process manufacturing , download our ebook.
