Learn how to source

You may be a seasoned Procurement professional, or a developing Buyer faced with the new challenge of managing the transition of a product from one revision status to another. 

You may feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the situation particularly, if you have multiple stocks and supply chains delivering to multiple locations around the globe.

You need to be aware of the substantial costs and risks involved during the transition and the impact this may have on both the end customer, as well as a range of colleagues from different disciplines in the business.

There are multiple factors that may need to be considered when implementing an engineering change. Having someone who has managed such changes in front of you will help you to validate your thoughts and open your mind to potential risks and possibilities.

Being aware of alternative ideas, situations and real-life occurrences will help you to shortcut the guesswork and cut through to solutions that may make substantial reductions in lead time and cost, making it clear to your superiors that you are organised, well prepared, knowledgeable and trusted in being able to handle complicated supply chain problems in the future.

By working through a well thought out process you will be able to effectively breakdown the problem, organise yourself in a structured way, engage with both internal and external stakeholders effectively, reduce costs and lead times, lessen the disruption to your customers and elevate your standing and recognised worth with your colleagues.

• Map the supply chain process and confirm the impacts.
• Engage with the right people at the right time in a coordinated and controlled way.
• Ensure there is effective communication and understanding between all parties.
• Produce a detailed plan of actions that all may follow and apply.
• Document all activities and record vital information for quality assurance, future decision making and system improvement.

Don’t waste valuable time starting from scratch, start using the experience of another to accelerate your progress and achieve success in your career.