How to Choose the Right Supply Chain Management Solutions for Business

Having the appropriate supply chain management (SCM) system is crucial to ensuring that your operations function smoothly and effectively in today's competitive business environment. You can manage important elements of your supply chain with the use of SCM software, including inventory levels, orders, transportation expenses, and more. In 2023, there will be a plethora of possibilities, making it challenging to decide which one is ideal for your company's requirements. In this blog post, we will review some of the top Supply Chain Management Solutions on offer and 8 questions to ask when selecting a solution for your organization.

8 Key Considerations for Choosing Supply Chain Management Solutions

There are a few important criteria that should be taken into account before choosing a specific SCM system for your company. These include:

1. Does your current tech stack support it?

2. Can we trust the vendor's reliability and expertise?

3. How much of it can be configured?

4. Is the software based on a cloud platform or is it installed locally on-premise?

5. What advanced analytics capabilities does it have?

6. Does it have good customer support?

7. Are the reviews good overall?

8. Is it integrated with ERP systems?

What to consider when choosing supply chain management?

Does Your Current Tech Stack Support It?

It is important to ensure that your existing tech stacks, such as ERP, CRM, and other software applications, are compatible with the SCM solution you are considering. If they don’t integrate then it could mean a lot of wasted time and money trying to make them work together.

Can We Trust the Vendor's Reliability and Expertise?

A reliable vendor is essential to ensure your business has the best SCM solution. Make sure to look out for vendors with good customer feedback, a proven track record, and technical support capabilities.

How Much of It Can Be Configured?

It’s important to think about how much flexibility you need when it comes to customizing the supply chain management software. Look for a solution that is simple to use and can be customized to your specific company needs because some solutions might not have all the capabilities you want.

Is the Software Based on A Cloud Platform or Is It Installed Locally On-Premise?

Your company needs will determine the deployment approach you use in a significant part. Consider your options carefully before deciding since cloud-based solutions may be less expensive and simpler to manage than conventional on-premise systems. However, they may also be missing some functionality or expose you to security threats.

Is It Integrated with ERP Systems?

Is It Integrated with ERP Systems?

Your company may operate more effectively by integrating your SCM system with additional software programs like customer relationship management (CRM) or enterprise resource planning (ERP). Verify that the solution you select is appropriate for these kinds of systems.

What Advanced Analytics Capabilities Does It Have?

Advanced analytics can provide valuable insights into how effectively your SCM system is operating. Look for a solution with powerful analytics capabilities that can help you identify issues, improve performance and maximize efficiency.

Does It Have Good Customer Support?

Good customer service is essential when selecting an SCM solution. Make sure the vendor offers a range of support options such as live chat, email, or phone assistance so you can quickly get answers to any questions or problems that arise.

Are the Reviews Good Overall?

It’s important to read through user reviews before making a decision on which supply chain management software to use. Look out for ratings from existing customers and see what they have to say about their experience with the product. This will give you an indication of whether it’s a quality solution or not.

Review of Top 3 Supply Chain Management Solutions

Now that you know what to look for when choosing a supply chain management software, let’s take a look at some of the top options on offer in 2023:

Oracle SCM Cloud

The software called Oracle SCM offers various applications that can be integrated with modular or integrated setups, depending on the operation needs. It supports procurement, planning, logistics, and lifecycle management.

Pros

• An intuitive and configurable user interface for effortless navigation

• Keep your cloud constantly updated with seamless upgrades

• Feel secure with an enhanced security architecture

• Streamline your workflow for increased efficiency

Cons

• The integration process is reviewed to be difficult.

• It does not offer flexible reporting options.

• The tool has limited options for customization.

Blue Yonder

Blue Yonder is a platform that helps companies improve their business planning and execution, make independent decisions, and enhance their customers' experiences. It provides modules for manufacturing and retail planning, store operations, and collaborative category management.

Pros

• Save time by automating tedious and complex tasks

• Enhance operational efficiencies with customizable user options

• Increase ROI with comprehensive integration capabilities

• Quickly and easily navigate multiple tools and options

Cons

• The implementation process takes a significant amount of time.

• Slow response time in providing support solutions.

• It is hard to use for beginners.

Epicor SCM

Epicor SCM is a module available in Epicor’s Prophet 21, Eclipse, and Kinetic distribution and manufacturing products. It is a service-oriented architecture-based platform that provides a range of solutions to users. By using it, users can achieve complete visibility across the value chain. This helps in coordinating the consumption of raw materials and finished products effectively.

Pros

• Streamline your workflow and save time with easy-to-use features

• Get powerful reports quickly to analyze customer behavior for the more effective operation

• Navigate the application effortlessly for a more seamless user experience

• Customize to meet your needs

Cons

• There have been reports from several users regarding slow system performance, which is negatively impacting overall productivity.

• The support provided is insufficient for complex issues.

• The process of installation, implementation, and upgrading is found to be difficult.

• Many reviewers have mentioned bugs in the system that may disrupt users.

Overall Review of Supply Chain Management Solutions in 2023

Overall Review of Supply Chain Management Solutions

There aren’t any supply chain management solutions that work for everyone. It's crucial to thoroughly consider the advantages and disadvantages of each choice before deciding. Software with strong analytical capabilities, excellent customer service, system integration, and flexibility for software customization are things to look for.

You should also examine user reviews to confirm that the tool is appropriate for your company. Depending on your demands, Oracle SCM Cloud, Blue Yonder, and Epicor SCM are all reliable options that provide a variety of capabilities.

In the end, it's crucial to thoroughly investigate each choice to decide which supply chain management system is best for you. You may select a supply chain management system that satisfies your requirements by being aware of your demands and exploring your possibilities.

Conclusion

For firms trying to boost productivity and cut expenses, supply chain management solutions may be a priceless resource. To make sure you get the proper software, take into account the deployment methodology, sophisticated analytics features, customer support choices, and user reviews.

A managed supply chain ensures seamless coordination between suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and customers by leveraging advanced technologies, data analytics, and collaborative platforms. Furthermore, in today's globalized business landscape, a global trade platform acts as a digital ecosystem that facilitates international trade.

It provides a centralized platform for businesses to connect, collaborate, and conduct transactions on a global scale. Through features like automated documentation, customs compliance, and secure payment systems, a global trade platform enhances supply chain visibility, simplifies cross-border logistics, and enables businesses to tap into new markets, thereby fostering global trade growth and expansion.