Ask the Experts

Ask the Experts

• Can MRP be successful without 98 percent inventory accuracy?

  Effective MRP requires prioritizing inventory accuracy and true troubleshooting over a reliance on safety stock and other compensating factors.  Continue Reading

• What is perpetual inventory and why does it matter?

  To ensure an accurate inventory balance, don't overlook the practice of perpetual inventory. Here's what you need to know.  Continue Reading

• How do we account for WIP inventory?

  It may require a manual process, but WIP inventory can – and should -- be tracked to ensure accountability.  Continue Reading

• What is your best advice for integrating software applications?

  Ian Charles, CFO of Host Analytics, advises to invest time in scoping and consider future needs when integrating software applications.  Continue Reading

• What features are best in a global transportation management system?

  Global functionality is available in the TMS market, but you should look beyond marketing materials and scrutinize your options carefully.  Continue Reading

• Is a change in logistics needed to support an omnichannel strategy?

  Having a game plan with alternatives and costs already known will allow you to influence a customer's omnichannel strategy to your advantage.  Continue Reading

• Is my warehouse system ready for an omnichannel strategy?

  An expert outlines key factors to consider when readying your warehouse system for an omnichannel strategy.  Continue Reading

• Is it possible to outsource transportation management systems?

  An expert explores two ways to outsource transportation management systems.  Continue Reading

• How can distribution requirements planning help inventory management?

  An expert explains how distribution requirements planning can help companies gain better control over their inventory and prevent shortages.  Continue Reading

• Which technologies do companies need to support product as a service?

  While companies may be considering the product as a service trend, most will need to make some profound changes to their technology infrastructure -- and their perspective on product lifecycle management -- to make the new model work.  Continue Reading

• What kind of warranty management software do manufacturers need?

  In addition to simplifying administrative tasks, warranty management software can help companies improve customer relationships. An expert outlines the technology and best practices needed for a better warranty management process.  Continue Reading

• How does wearable tech fit manufacturing needs?

  What are the most feasible, near-term applications of wearables in manufacturing and the supply chain?  Continue Reading

• When does it make sense to deploy a demand signal repository?

  A demand signal repository can aggregate sales data to help business users make better short-term demand planning decisions. But is a DSR right for your needs?  Continue Reading

• Why should companies consider ERP consolidation?

  Many companies use a mix of disconnected ERP systems and poorly integrated third-party applications that block efficiency and increase costs. An expert explains how to start consolidating ERP.  Continue Reading

• Which demand planning tools are right for your company?

  Should companies use the built-in planning capabilities of an ERP system, or select from best-of-breed demand planning tools? An expert debunks some myths about the pros and cons of each, and outlines best practices for choosing the right approach.  Continue Reading