Most manufacturers today outsource some aspects of their manufacturing operations to third-party specialists. And, to realize cost advantages and open new markets, manufacturers have increasingly outsourced on a global basis. Over the last several years, most manufacturers have built very sophisticated, multi-tier and multi-enterprise supply networks consisting of distribution centers, 3PLs, contract manufacturers, suppliers and the like.
While the advantages have benefited manufacturers, it hasn't been without its complications. Extended supply networks create substantial obstacles in terms of supply chain visibility and coordination. The role of the brand owner has shifted dramatically from directly controlling all aspects of operations performance to having to coordinate demand planning, supply chain planning and response to unplanned events across multiple sites and partners. This coordination absolutely requires visibility into the globally distributed supply chain to understand the manufacturing commitments and capabilities of the network.
