Protect Your Supply Chain During a Pandemic by Using Automation

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StrategyDriven Tactical Execution Article |Supply chain|Protect Your Supply Chain During a Pandemic by Using AutomationIn 2004, there was a severe earthquake and subsequent tsunami that resulted in profound effects to several Asian countries, including India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Thailand and Indonesia. These were followed by hurricanes Katrina and Rita in the U.S. as well as the Tohoku earthquake in Japan in 2011. All of these crises foreshadowed a reality that the global pandemic of 2020 confirmed: There are systemic weaknesses in most companies’ global supply chains that must be mitigated. Automation may be one of the most important solutions.

THE TRUTH REVEALED

Just what did these crises show? For one thing, they demonstrated that the just-in-time philosophy that many automobile and electronics manufacturers had adopted broke down in the face of these catastrophes. Because companies only possessed just enough parts and materials for their immediate needs, they were left high and dry when their suppliers had to close down.

Another flaw that came to the surface was lack of visibility. A manufacturer might have had a close working relationship with a STmicroelectronics product distributor, for example, yet they had only a foggy idea of the tertiary vendors who were affiliated with that company. Ultimately, this failure to undergo the long and expensive process of mapping led to greater costs and a loss of transparency when disaster struck.

THE PANDEMIC PRESENTS UNIQUE CHALLENGES

COVID-19 has changed virtually everything, including the way electronics manufacturers operate. Social distancing in a warehouse setting can be difficult, and there also may be COVID-related staff shortfalls that are causing bottlenecks. This is where technology can save the day.

AUTOMATION AND THE SUPPLY CHAIN

Automated assistants or robots never become ill, and they don’t need to adhere to physical distancing or other virus-related rules. A robot can deliver items between workers and can become a tireless assistant to an employee or team. Today’s mobile autonomous robotic cart (MARC) technology takes automation a step further. It operates simply and efficiently without the need for WiFi, yet its sophisticated inner workings enable it to take stock of its environment and easily move and manipulate items.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is another emerging innovation that can reduce disruptions and make it possible for electronics products to reach consumers and retailers in a timely fashion and in compliance with quality standards. For example, AI can be used for route planning and even for trouble-shooting and redirecting a shipment if an unforeseen event should arise. Furthermore, chatbots can communicate with suppliers, place purchasing requests, send routine correspondence to suppliers regarding regulation compliance, research and answer questions and receive and record invoices and payments. In addition, machine learning can be used to manage warehouses more efficiently.

When disaster strikes, there is no single solution or cure that will wipe it all away and restore full functionality. However, automation brings many different tools to the table that can help to prevent supply chain disruptions and mitigate the effects of the ones that do occur. As technology continues to advance, automation’s capabilities will only skyrocket.

What Laser Choices to Consider for Your CO2 Laser Machine?

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StrategyDriven Tactical Execution Article |Laser Machine|What Laser Choices to Consider for Your CO2 Laser Machine?When someone decides to buy a CO2 laser cutter, they will find a lot of choices. All these options can lead to some confusion. For example, some people don’t know the definition of a hobby laser and what they should look for when buying it.

For those who seem to be in this boat, keep reading. Along with looking at reviews, like https://www.nyccnc.com/we-bought-a-boss-laser/, consider some of the factors listed here.

Portability

Before buying a laser cutting machine, it is a good idea to consider how and where it will be used. For example, if it will be used in a fixed location, portability may not be anything to worry about. However, for someone who wants to take the machine to craft shows or other events, portability is a must-have.

One of the best things about hobby lasers is that they are usually portable. It is possible to take them on the road and put them on a sturdy table close to a power supply. This is going to allow a person to make custom items, regardless of where they go.

The only issue with portability is that a person is going to be limited to the total workspace the machine offers. Usually, hobby machines are going to have a workspace that spans about 20” by 12”. There are some that will have access panels to work with longer materials, but this is not always the case. If an individual knows they need to cut 36” long pieces of wood, they should look for another option.

Functionality

When buying anything, the first question to consider is how it will be used. Usually, there are two categories that someone is going to fall into: a professional or a hobbyist.

A hobbyist is a crafter or artist who is looking for something they can use for small-scale production. For example, they may want to start an Etsy shop or even participate in craft shows and events. Or, they could want a laser cutter to make unique gifts for friends and family members. If this is the case, then a hobby machine is the perfect option.

However, for those who plan to run a full-time business in a workshop that gets a lot of use, a hobby machine will probably not offer the power or speed that is needed. If goals are production-based, then professional cutters will be able to handle the workload on a bigger scale.

Range

A hobby laser will usually come with additional, optional accessories that can be used for unique projects. For example, it is possible to use a rotary for engraving on a curved object, such as a champagne glass or bottle. There are other accessories that can be considered too. Those options include different focus lenses, which allow for different variations of detail and speed to more easily individualize projects. It is important to remember that not all hobby lasers will offer these options, which means that, if someone knows they want to engrave on wine bottles, they should make sure the laser provides this option.

Power

Usually, a hobby laser is going to come equipped with a 40-watt CO2 laser tube. With this amount of power in place, it is possible to cut a quarter of an inch of most types of non-metal materials, such as acrylic, wood, fabric, and others. If a project requires someone to cut material that is thicker or if they need to cut metal, a more powerful laser is needed. This means that a bigger machine needs to be purchased.

Reputation

There are more than a few options and players in the laser cutter market. However, with some time and effort, it is possible to find the right machine. While it may seem daunting at first, it does not have to be.

It is a good idea to consider the reputation and history of each of the companies and manufacturers that are being considered. For example, how long have their machines been available on the market? What do real users of these machines have to say about them? One of the best ways to cut through all the confusion is to see what type of rating the business has from the Better Business Bureau. This will provide insight into if any complaints have been filed against the company relating to the tools and machines that are sold.

However, finding a reputable seller goes beyond their BBB rating. It is also a good idea to look at the variety of tools they offer and what third-party review sites, such as Yelp, say. This provides even more insight about the company and if they should be trusted with an investment of this size.

It is also a good idea to find out if the seller offers any type of guarantee or warranty. This is going to ensure that if issues arise, the seller will be there to fix the problem regardless of what it is.

Test Them Out

When it comes to buying a new tool or machine, it is always a good idea to test out how they work before moving forward with the purchase. If possible, find a friend or someone else who has the device being considered. Ask them if it would be possible to use it. This is the best way to figure out if a person is going to be able to use the device for their project needs.

Finding the Right Laser Cutter

When it comes to finding the right laser cutter, there are more than a few factors to consider. Be sure to keep the information here in mind, which is going to help ensure that the right cutter for the job is found and purchased.
Remember, the right cutter for one person may not be right for someone else. This is why it is so important to use the tips and information here to find the cutter that meets a person’s needs regardless of the project they plan to use the cutter for.

How Has Pharmaceutical Distribution Adapted In Recent Years?

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StrategyDriven Tactical Execution Article |Pharmaceutical Distribution|How Has Pharmaceutical Distribution Adapted In Recent Years?In the year of 2020, there have been several changes that have revolutionised the world we live in with several companies now becoming completely remote, there are several elements that have changed including the medical industry. With the pharma industry changing at the hands of Covid-19, just how much has actually changed within the industry?

Industry Globalisation

When looking at some of the ways that the industry is expanding, it is important to look at the globalisation that has taken place. With several medications being sent to Europe and other parts of the world there has been a huge number of deliveries sent to many different parts of the world. Though this has taken about 10 years for this to happen, this is a trend that is set to continue in 2020.

New Technology For Drug Manufacturing

In addition to the globalisation of the industry, there has also been a vast amount of technology in pharmaceutical distribution helping to improve the manufacturing process. This has revolutionised the industry as it has enabled the manufacturing of medication to be improved with faster and more accurate manufacturing times. This has revolutionised the industry as it has allowed for much more medication to be manufactured and sent to wholesalers in order to keep up with supply and demand at this unusual time. This is a trend that is set to continue in 2021 as brand-new technology is brought to light that can improve the industry at this time.

Improve Supply Chains

In addition to drug manufacturing, several elements have improved the supply chain. With management software being generated specifically for the distribution of medication, this has made sure that orders are being tracked. This not only makes sure that there is improved communication between the manufacture and the distributor, but it can also make sure that deliveries are much faster than ever before. This is great for the expansion of the industry, as it enables as it has enabled you to improve supply chains and make the process much easier than ever before to make it stand out.

Increased Medication As A Result Of Covid-19

The final way that distribution has adapted is the increased supply and demand. This has meant that many pharmaceutical distributors have had to step up their delivery options to make sure that every delivery is met. With the supply and demand increasing as a result of Covid-19, medication such as paracetamol and other cold medicines have been very popular with many, therefore the distribution of this medication has had to be improved. In addition to this, there are several medications needed to be sent to pharmacies in order to ensure that patients can get the medication that they need even during the lockdown period.

With this in mind, there are several ways that the industry has adapted in recent years making it stand out at this time. How do you think that the distribution method will change in the next 10 years?

What is Multimodal Shipping?

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StrategyDriven Tactical Execution Article |Multimodal Shipping|What is Multimodal Shipping?When you ship items from your warehouse, you likely place them on a truck and send them on their way. Not all shipments stay on the ground the whole time, though. An increasing number of transportation providers are implementing multimodal transport to improve the efficiency of their operations and get shipments to their destinations at a lower cost.

In the simplest terms, multimodal transport or multimodal shipping means that a single carrier uses a combination of round, air, sea, or rail transportation to move goods from one location to another. Opting for this type of shipping offers a variety of benefits to both the shipper and their clients alike, and preserves the supply chain in the face of challenges brought on by major businesses like Walmart and Amazon, as well as disruptions like those created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Multimodal vs. Intermodal Transport

Before getting into the benefits of multimodal transport, it’s worth discussing the difference between multimodal and intermodal transport.

Although both types of shipping use at least two forms of transport (for example, land and air), the primary difference is that intermodal shipping uses multiple carriers. In other words, one carrier manages the ground portion of the shipment, and then hands off the shipment to another carrier for the air transport, or vice versa. The shipper pays each carrier separately, and your reports, receipts, and tracking details will come from each carrier individually, and only deal with their portion of the journey.

Intermodal can help speed up shipments, but it can be complex to manage. That’s why many shippers are turning to multimodal shipments instead.

How Multimodal Shipping Benefits Businesses

Opting for multimodal shipping can benefit your business in a number of ways.

Reduced Costs

Although you may receive competitive rates from an intermodal shipping company, opting for multimodal can be a more cost-effective option. Transport providers often provide more competitive rates when you allow them to handle the entire shipment, and offer priority status. Multimodal shipping can also result in tax incentives for shippers. Because these arrangements typically involve making infrastructure investments, companies that opt for multimodal transport enjoy certain incentives that would not otherwise be available. Multimodal transport also reduces carbon offset costs, further reducing expenditures.

Improved Communication

In contrast to intermodal shipping, multimodal shipping only requires communicating with a single operator. The central provider manages all of the communication with the actual transportation providers, ensuring you have a single point of contact in the event there is an issue. For instance, if you receive data from an impact recorder indicating rough handling or excessive vibration, you can work with the multimodal provider to solve the problem.

Faster Delivery Times

There are times when intermodal transport may be the faster option, but multimodal transport is often the faster option. Federal regulations govern how long a single carrier can move freight in one trip under the Electronic Logging Devices (ELD) Mandate. Essentially, this only allows freight to be in motion for a certain amount of time before the operator must rest. It’s mostly applicable to trucking, but it does add time to truck transport.

When a driver can transfer a load to another form of transport, like a train, though, the shipment is able to keep moving despite those limitations. Instead of sitting idle for 24 hours or more while the truck driver rests, the shipment reaches its destination more quickly. Using multiple modes of transportation can also cut shipping time for shipments traveling long distance. For example, shipping partially by air cuts a significant amount of time, even when the last leg is handled by truck or train.

Getting the Most from Multimodal Shipping

Using multimodal shipping can be beneficial to your company, but it does require proper management. That begins with evaluating all of the modes before selecting one for your shipments. Not all shipments are well suited for all modes, and what works for other companies may not be ideal for yours.

It’s also important to connect your transportation management system with the carrier, so you can effectively monitor your shipments at every stage. All of your freight processes should be data-driven and based on real-time, contextual data collected at every step of the shipment process. Armed with this information, you can implement efficient, cost-effective shipping policies and procedures that align with your company’s strategic goals and budget.

Three Pieces of Shipping Equipment Your Business Should Consider Investing In

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StrategyDriven Tactical Execution Article | Three Pieces of Shipping Equipment Your Business Should Consider Investing InFor many businesses, shipping equipment is an afterthought. They are more concerned with their actual product, that they do not spend a lot of time thinking about the products they use to wrap up, ship up, or transport their items in. As a business owner, there are a variety of different types of shipping equipment and products that can make your life easier and help to ensure your products arrive at the destination in pristine condition. Here are a few of the pieces of shipping equipment that your business should consider investing in and how they can help to improve your business.

Custom Pallets and Skids

Pallets and skids are a base or foundation that you can stack your products on as you prepare to ship a mass load to a business or location. While pallets and skids are pretty standard, not every pallet or skid works for every product. Your products may be extremely heavy, and a traditional pallet cannot support the weight of the items you are placing on top of it. Your items may also be awkward shaped, and you may need something longer or wider than a traditional pallet or skid. Having custom pallets or skids created helps to ensure that you can properly stack your products to preparing them for shipping, without having the pallet break or run the risk of awkwardly sized items tumbling off the pallet during shipping.

Vapor Barriers

Another piece of shipping equipment that your company should consider investing in is vapor barriers. Some items are more susceptible to weather elements, including temperature changes and humidity. The humidity can get in your packaging and cause an item to rust or eat away at the finish. A vapor barrier can be custom made to fully protect your products so that they remain safe during the shipping and transportation process, no matter what type of weather elements the drive runs into.

Custom Packaging Material

The final type of custom shipping equipment that your business should consider investing in is custom packaging material. This includes boxing and foam to properly protect your items during the transportation process. Items that are not properly packaged can bounce around during transport. Your customers may get broken items. Buying custom packaging materials helps to ensure that your item is protected inside the box and the box properly fits the item being shipped or transported, to dramatically decrease the chances of damage occurring during the shipping or transport process.

There are many different types of shipping equipment that can help to make your life easier when you are shipping out the items you make and/or that can ensure that your items arrive at your buyers’ location without being damaged. If you are ready to learn more about the various types of shipping equipment that are available or you are ready to place an order for items that may be beneficial to your business, located a trusted shipping company that can help get you started.