Operations Current Event

Many companies are implementing a new type of supply chain known as high speed bespoke supply chain that has several challenges and barriers to implementation. This is not intended to replace existing supply chain models, it is to add on to it.

A goal of implementing this type of supply chain is to be able to provide customers with fast and customizable products while also gaining insight on market trends. If many people are ordering similar customizable products, this can indicate a trend that a company can later mass produce. Another goal is to reduce excess inventory and its associated overhead costs. This is done by producing low demand products, or parts only when orders are placed, rather than keeping them in stock

This model has been made possible through advancements in 3D printing and robotics. Some of the barriers include operational because 3D printing is still in its early stages, another is financial because it can be costly to implement due to costs associated with learning to implement it, and also finding channels to distribute the customizable products directly to customers.

To overcome some of the barriers adding the high-speed bespoke supply chain create, companies could use already established e-commerce delivery infrastructures in their country to deliver their customized products quickly and efficiently. This would eliminate the need to develop own delivery system. Another option is to use local delivery