In 2002 Emerson Process Management, a business of Emerson Electric, was selected as the top vendor for process automation solutions by Sasol, one of South Africa's largest industrial companies (Emerson, 2002). As such, it will need an efficient supply chain for this business, and for all its businesses in South Africa. A crucial role will be played by a supply chain which can respond quickly to changes in customer demand (Mayor, 2004). The system must use the latest computer technology to achieve this goal. Using lean operating practices and manufacturing principles enables agile supply chains to accommodate or bypass disruptions smoothly. The system also has to be transparent, so managers can look into the system when necessary and make adjustments to keep manufacturing and delivery processes aligned with customers' needs, as well as with the company's bottom line.
The sensing abilities of the organization need to be kept sharp to detect and respond to changes in its supply chain (Mayor, 2004). This means looking beyond the shop floor. Every step of production and sales is part of the supply chain, with streamlining and automation at every step from design to repair needed to keep the supply chain moving. Identifying and addressing quality problems in the early stages of the design phase eliminates problems in down the line. There needs to be a unified interface and infrastructure for transactions between suppliers and the manufacturing division in South Africa. Data gathering and sharing is essential, as is putting it to timely and effective use. The company needs to get close enough to its suppliers to know when shortage and overages are happening so it can respond accordingly. Good communications all along the way is the key to good supply chain management.
Emerson News. (2002). Emerson selected as top vendor by Sasol: Will supply Greenfield Process Automation Solutions over next five years. Retri
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