World-class on-time-delivery and quality numbers are directly related to an evolving computerized value-chain system that can automatically process as many as 5000 customer-demand changes daily across 6000 part numbers, and adjust schedules and supplier deliveries to match. Roughly two decades ago, large integrated manufacturers developed the concept of vendor alignment - orienting vendor capacity, capability and performance criteria to the needs of the purchaser. This represented the first iteration of a process leading to a more focused, qualified and capable vendor base. Later, the concept was extended to the process of strategic sourcing - taking the benefits of vendor alignment and extending sourcing decisions to include material considerations, freight considerations, capacity analysis and a more directed sourcing process. The data revolution had made it to manufacturing.
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