As companies outsource their manufacturing operations, they increase the number of tiers in the supply chain, greatly reducing their supply chain visibility and making them dependent on remote suppliers for operations performance results. To be truly effective, supplier collaboration needs to go far beyond the tactical exchange of data. Key suppliers must be brought into the decision-making process, so that brand owners can exchange early warnings and help resolve supply chain risk issues.
This paper discusses the value of a closer and more collaborative relationship with key suppliers and what is required to make that happen.