Pandemic Lesson: Supply Chain Resilience Needs More Attention

After a year of dealing with the manufacturing fallout from COVID-19, many organizations are going into 2021 with a new priority – rethinking and strengthening their supply chain strategies. According to a recent report from the Capgemini Research Institute surveying 1,000 supply chain executives, 66% of organizations have said their supply chain strategy will need to change significantly to adapt to the new normal, and only 14% expect a return to pre-pandemic operations. Organizations across multiple sectors including retail, manufacturing, and life scientists pointed to the value of flexibility and agility in their supply chains, in order to react quickly to a potential disruption, as they learned the hard way during the pandemic. Challenges highlighted include:

• Shortages of critical parts/materials – 74%
• Delayed shipments and longer lead times – 74%
• Difficulties adjusting production capacity due to fluctuating demand – 68%, and
• Difficulties planning in response to volatile levels of customer demand – 68%.

To rebuild and revitalize their supply chains, a full 77% of organizations said they’re accelerating their investments in supply chain sustainability (particularly logistics and manufacturing) over the next three years. BCM professionals can learn how to manage and mitigate their organization’s supply chain risks with DRI’s half-day online workshop, Business Continuity for Supply Chain Management. The course will cover strategies for managing business continuity in your supply chain and teach you how to apply supply chain management to your business continuity management program. You’ll hear from experts, view compelling video content, participate in interactive Q&As, and test your knowledge – knowledge that is critical to your employer as well as your professional growth. 4 continuing Education Activity Points (CEAPs) may be awarded towards recertification if applicable. Click here to register.