Critical issues are thought provoking articles relating to strategy, legislation, technology, best practice and some of the most challenging business topics in the world of manufacturing and supply chain information technology. The articles in this section have been contributed by leading vendors, industry leaders, research analysts, trade associations and consultancies and cover a variety of topics relating to the manufacturing, warehousing, logistics, transportation and distribution marketplace across Europe. They look at market trends, improvements in technology and some thought provoking comment on all aspects of optimising and improving efficiencies throughout the supply chain from raw material to finished product.
Other important topics covered in this section concern Health and Safety in Logistics with articles from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE).Taxation, government policy, climate change, recruitment and training schemes are all covered, as well as educational opportunities at various UK logistics educational facilities such at Cranfield University.
Nov 02, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
Blog – 4flow trend monitor.
Supply chains are in constant motion – and innovation promises to speed up the rate of change. With all these developments, businesses need to know where to focus their efforts to ensure the future viability of their supply chains. The 4flow trend monitor will provide a trend outlook highlighting important developments expected to have an impact on supply chain in the next one to five years.
Nov 02, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
By Alastair Bright, freelance writer.
In the field of Battery Management Systems (BMS), the primary objective is to ensure the safety and longevity of batteries. Achieving this goal hinges on the continuous monitoring and control of a battery’s State-of-Charge (SOC) and State-of-Health (SOH).
Nov 02, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
Icertis, the contract intelligence company that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with contract lifecycle management (CLM), and World Commerce & Contracting, the global provider of independent research in commercial and contract management (CCM), have published the 2023 Benchmark Report titled CCM: The Journey to Operational Excellence.
Nov 01, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
Less than half (45.6%) of warehouse and logistics leaders see automation as necessary over the next five years, according to new research from ProGlove.
Nov 01, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
By Marc Boileau, Senior Vice President Sales and Network Operations at FourKites.
Supply chain data can give businesses real-time insights into their operations, helping them navigate challenges, optimize processes and drive competitive advantage.
Oct 31, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
New research has revealed that ‘deskless’ workers – including those working in the UK’s manufacturing sector – face regular operational issues, compounding doubts about business performance.
Oct 30, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
Special Technology Report: Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Voice-directed Picking.
Contributors include VDC Research, Gartner, Panorama Consulting, Frost & Sullivan, Cap Gemini, Aberdeen Strategy & Research, Manhattan Associates, Dakota Integrated Solutions, Ehrhardt Partner Group, Indigo Software, Renovotec.
Oct 30, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
There is a staggering $2.5 trillion global trade finance gap that mainly affects SMEs in emerging countries, limiting their ability to access new business opportunities.
Oct 30, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
St. Modwen Logistics, the UK logistics owner and developer, and property adviser Savills, has called for improvements to the planning system to support the growth of the logistics sector and encourage more development of modern, sustainable warehousing to keep pace with increasing demand.
Oct 30, 2023 <!–Comments (0)–>
Despite tentative jobs growth, small businesses experienced slow sales growth and rising late payment times in the three months to September, according to the latest data from global small business platform Xero.
Manufacturing Critical Issues
The manufacturing industry is facing a number of critical issues, including:
- Supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and geo-political tensions/war has caused widespread disruption to global supply chains, and this is having a significant impact on manufacturing. Manufacturers are struggling to get the raw materials and components they need to produce their products, and this is leading to shortages and delays.
- Labour shortage. The manufacturing industry is facing a labor shortage, as there are not enough skilled workers available to fill open positions. This is due to a number of factors, including the aging workforce, the decline of manufacturing in some countries, and the lack of educational opportunities in STEM fields.
- Rising costs. The cost of manufacturing is rising, due to factors such as the rising cost of raw materials, energy, and transportation. This is putting pressure on manufacturers’ margins and making it difficult for them to compete.
- Technology adoption. The manufacturing industry is facing the challenge of adopting new technologies, such as automation and artificial intelligence. These technologies can help manufacturers to improve efficiency and productivity, but they can also be expensive and disruptive to implement.
- Environmental regulations. Manufacturers are facing increasing environmental regulations, which are forcing them to change their production processes. This can be costly and time-consuming, but it is essential for manufacturers to comply with these regulations in order to remain competitive.
Supply Chain Critical Issues
The global supply chain has been facing a number of critical issues in recent years, including
- Labour shortages: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to labor shortages in many industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and warehousing. This has made it difficult to find and retain workers, which has led to delays and disruptions in the supply chain.
- Equipment shortages: The global supply chain is also facing shortages of equipment, such as containers, trucks, and ships. This is due to a number of factors, including the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and increased demand for goods.
- Port congestion: Port congestion has been a major issue in recent years, as ships have been waiting for days or even weeks to unload their cargo. This is due to a number of factors, including increased demand, labor shortages, and weather events.
- Demand volatility: Demand for goods has been volatile in recent years, as consumers have shifted their spending habits due to the pandemic. This has made it difficult for businesses to forecast demand and manage their supply chains accordingly.
- Natural disasters: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes, can also disrupt the supply chain. These events can damage infrastructure, disrupt transportation, and destroy inventory.
- SEO Powered Content & PR Distribution. Get Amplified Today.
- PlatoData.Network Vertical Generative Ai. Empower Yourself. Access Here.
- PlatoAiStream. Web3 Intelligence. Knowledge Amplified. Access Here.
- PlatoESG. Carbon, CleanTech, Energy, Environment, Solar, Waste Management. Access Here.
- PlatoHealth. Biotech and Clinical Trials Intelligence. Access Here.
- Source: https://www.logisticsit.com/articles/2023/10/31/supply-chain-visibility-–-a-critical-problem-solving-component
