This disclosure relates generally to supply chain management, and more particularly relates to method and system of managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise.
Background
[002] Generally, realization of benefits may be critical to any transformation program for enterprises. Therefore, benefits led approach to transformation has underpinned the delivery of benefits in many successful transformation programs across a wide range of industries and business functions. The realization of benefits may depend on various critical factors, such as, without limitations, identified benefits are relevant to the organization and achievable in terms of current performance and realistic target performance. there is a clear accountability for each identified benefit, ownership of the benefits is built throughout a program lifecycle, benefits remain a focus of program governance and are integrated into solution and business change design, and the benefits are tracked, monitored and managed as part of ‘Business as Usual’ after project implementation.
[003] Accordingly, there is a need for method and system for managing supply chain in an extended enterprise with a predefined objective.
SUMMARY
[004] In an embodiment, a method of managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise is disclosed. The method comprises identifying at an exception resolving stage, for each of a plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for a predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the first target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations. The method further comprises identifying at a delivery performance stage for each of a plurality of delivery performance operations, second target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the second target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations. The method further comprises identifying at an inventory management stage for each of a plurality of inventory management operations, third target data for the predefined objective. The third target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations. The method further comprises identifying at a traceability and tracking stage for each of a plurality of traceability and tracking operations, fourth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fourth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations. The method further comprises identifying at a goods availability management stage for each of a plurality of goods availability management operations, fifth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fifth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations. The method further comprises managing the supply chain of a plurality of supply chain partners by generating a transformation program with the predefined objective, based on the first target data, the second target data, the third target data, the fourth target data, the fifth target data and input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using a common digital platform.
[005] In an embodiment, a system for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise is disclosed. The system may include a processor and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor. The memory may be configured to store processor-executable instructions. The processor-executable instructions, on execution, cause the processor to identify at an exception resolving stage, for each of a plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for a predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the first target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations. The processor instructions further cause the processor to identify at a delivery performance stage for each of a plurality of delivery performance operations, second target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the second target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations. The processor instructions further cause the processor to identify at an inventory management stage for each of a plurality of inventory management operations, third target data for the predefined objective. The third target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations. The processor instructions further cause the processor to identify at a traceability and tracking stage for each of a plurality of traceability and tracking operations, fourth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fourth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations. The processor instructions further cause the processor to identify at a goods availability management stage for each of a plurality of goods availability management operations, fifth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fifth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations. The processor instructions further cause the processor to manage the supply chain of a plurality of supply chain partners by generating a transformation program with the predefined objective, based on the first target data, the second target data, the third target data, the fourth target data, the fifth target data and input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using a common digital platform.
[006] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[007] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.
[008] FIG. 1 is a block diagram that illustrates an environment for a supply chain management system for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[009] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram that illustrates an exemplary supply chain management system, in accordance with an embodiment.
[010] FIG. 3 is a block diagram that illustrates.an exemplary scenario for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
[011] FIG. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates an exemplary method for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[012] Exemplary embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. While examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. Additional illustrative embodiments are listed below.
[013] The following described implementations may be found in the disclosed method and system for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise. The disclosed system may be referred as supply chain management system. Exemplary aspects of the disclosure may provide the supply chain management system that facilitates smooth functioning of multiple partners in an extended enterprise. The extended enterprise corresponds to a self-organizing network of firms that combine their economic output to provide products and services offerings to the market. The disclosed system articulates a robust benefit realization supply chain platform in the extended enterprise that comprises of a supply chain with multiple inbound partners, multiple outbound partners and logistics partners. In conventional supply chain management systems, each partner would interact with Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) alone. In contrast to the conventional supply chain management systems, a common digital platform of the disclosed supply chain management system may be used by the OEM and each partner of the supply chain for mutual interaction for sharing selected pieces of information and transactions.
[014] The disclosed supply chain management system may enrich network, for example, Partner’s Partner (that is, level 2 Partners) and few facilitating agencies also join the network to create a bigger ecosystem. Such ecosystem may encourage co-creation and innovation and may help the OEM to get an edge over competitors. The disclosed supply chain management system facilitate interaction among partners and OEMs remain the central focus point, thereby creating an eco-system of partners to foster higher levels of collaboration and co-creation. The disclosed supply chain management system facilitates overall efficiency to increase benefits for OEMs and supply chain partners.
[015] The disclosed supply chain management system facilitates a better network between a plurality of partners and OEMs to produce and distribute a specific product to a final buyer with a supply chain visibility landscape as compared to the conventional supply chain management system. Such network includes different activities, people, entities, information, and resources.
[016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram that illustrates an environment 100 for a supply chain management system for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The environment 100 includes a supply chain management system 102, a server 104, a user device 106, and a communication network 108. The supply chain management system 102 may be communicatively coupled to the server 104 and the user device 106, via the communication network 108. A user 110 may be associated with the supply chain management system 102 or the user device 106.
[017] The supply chain management system 102 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and/or code that may be configured to manage a supply chain of partners in an extended enterprise. In accordance with an embodiment, the supply chain management system 102 may host a software application to manage the supply chain in the extended enterprise. The supply chain management system 102 may include a common digital platform with programs to interact with the software application. The supply chain management system 102 may also include a library that stores commands for communicating with an interface (e.g., a cloud API) for common digital platform. For example, the cloud API is used to collect data from various supply chain partners in the extended enterprise.
[018] The supply chain management system 102 may be further configured to manage the supply chain of supply chain partners by generating a transformation program with the predefined objective, based on different types of target data and input data captured from the supply chain partners using a common digital platform of the supply chain management system 102. In accordance with an embodiment, the transformation program may correspond to a strategic roadmap for each of the plurality of supply chain partners.
[019] By way of an example, the supply chain management system 102 may be implemented as a plurality of distributed cloud-based resources by use of several technologies that are well known to those skilled in the art. Other examples of implementation of the supply chain management system 102 may include, but are not limited to, a web/cloud server, an application server, a media server, and a Consumer Electronic (CE) device.
[020] The server 104 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and/or code that may be configured to store, maintain, and execute one or more software digital platforms, programs and one or more databases. The server 104 may be configured to store a plurality of application events that occur internally during interaction among the supply chain partners and OEMs on the common digital platform of the supply chain management system 102. In accordance with an embodiment, the server 104 may include a database to store various types of data, such as, but not limited to, target data and input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using the common digital platform of the supply chain management system 102.
[021] Although in FIG. 1, the supply chain management system 102 and the server 104 are shown as two separate entities, this disclosure is not so limited. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the entire functionality of the server 104 may be included in the supply chain management system 102, without a deviation from scope of the disclosure.
[022] The user device 106 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and/or code that may be configured to provide input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using the common digital platform of the supply chain management system 102 for generating the transformation program with the predefined objective to the supply chain management system 102. In accordance with an embodiment, the user device 106 may implement the common digital platform of the supply chain management system 102. As one example, the user device 106 may interact with the software application on the supply chain management system 102 via the communication network 108 when the software application is hosted by the supply chain management system 102.
[023] The functionalities of the user device 106 may be implemented in portable devices, such as a high-speed computing device, and/or non-portable devices, such as a server. Examples of the user device 106 may include, but are not limited to, a computing device, mobile phone, smart phone, or a laptop. In accordance with an embodiment, the user device 106 and the supply chain management system 102 are disparately located. In accordance with an embodiment, the supply chain management system 102 and the user device 106 may be embodied as a single entity.
[024] The communication network 108 may include a communication medium through which the supply chain management system 102, the server 104, and the user device 106 may communicate with each other. Examples of the communication network 108 may include, but are not limited to, the Internet, a cloud network, a Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) network, a Personal Area Network (PAN), a Local Area Network (LAN), or a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN). Various devices in the environment 100 may be configured to connect to the communication network 108, in accordance with various wired and wireless communication protocols. Examples of such wired and wireless communication protocols may include, but are not limited to, a Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Zig Bee, EDGE, IEEE 802.11, light fidelity(Li-Fi), 802.16, IEEE 802.11s, IEEE 802.11g, multi-hop communication, wireless access point (AP), device to device communication, cellular communication protocols, and Bluetooth (BT) communication protocols.
[025] During operation, a user (such as, a supply chain partner) associated with the user device 106 may request the common digital platform implemented on the supply chain management system 102 to provide a strategic roadmap with a predefined objective, via the communication network 108. In response to the request for providing the strategic roadmap with the predefined objective, the supply chain management system 102 may be configured to identify at an exception resolving stage, for each of a plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for a predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the first target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations.
[026] The supply chain management system 102 may be configured to identify at a delivery performance stage, for each of a plurality of delivery performance operations, second target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the second target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations.
[027] The supply chain management system 102 may be further configured to identify at an inventory management stage, for each of a plurality of inventory management operations, third target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the third target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations.
[028] The supply chain management system 102 may be further configured to identify at a traceability and tracking stage for each of a plurality of traceability and tracking operations, fourth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fourth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations.
[029] The supply chain management system 102 may be further configured to identify at a goods availability management stage, for each of a plurality of goods availability management operations, fifth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fifth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations.
[030] The supply chain management system 102 may be further configured to manage the supply chain of a plurality of supply chain partners, by generating a transformation program with the predefined objective, based on the first target data, the second target data, the third target data, the fourth target data, the fifth target data and input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using the common digital platform.
[031] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram 200 of the supply chain management system 102, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 2 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1. With reference to FIG. 2, there is shown a supply chain management system 102 that includes a processor 202, a memory 204, an input/output (I/O) device 206, a network interface 208, an application interface 210, a database 212, an identification module 214, and a supply chain management module 216. The processor 202 may be communicatively coupled to the memory 204, the I/O device 206, the network interface 208, the application interface 210, the database 212, the identification module 214, and the supply chain management module 216.
[032] Computer-executable instructions may include, for example, instructions and data configured to cause the processor 202 to perform a certain operation or a set of operations associated with the supply chain management system 102. The functions or operations executed by the supply chain management system 102, as described in FIG. 1, may be performed by the processor 202. In accordance with an embodiment, additionally, or alternatively, the operations of the processor 202 are performed by various modules, namely, the identification module 214, and the supply chain management module 216.
[033] The memory 204 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that may be configured to store instructions executable by the processor 202. Additionally, the memory 204 may be configured to store program code of the software application that may incorporate the program code for the supply chain management system 102. The memory 204 may be configured to store any received data or generated data associated with storing, maintaining, and executing the supply chain management system 102 used for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise. Examples of implementation of the memory 204 may include, but are not limited to, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), Hard Disk Drive (HDD), a Solid-State Drive (SSD), a CPU cache, and/or a Secure Digital (SD) card.
[034] The I/O device 206 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that may be configured to act as an I/O interface between a user (such as, a supply chain partner) and the supply chain management system 102. The I/O device 206 may include various input and output devices, which may be configured to communicate with different operational components of the supply chain management system 102. The I/O device 206 may be configured to communicate data between the supply chain management system 102 and one or more of the server 104 and the user device 106.
[035] As described in more detail below, data received by the I/O device 206 may include, without limitation, input data that is captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using a common digital platform, and other data compatible with the supply chain management system 102. Data provided by the I/O device 206 may include, without limitation, the first target data that comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations, the second target data that comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations, the third target data that comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations, the fourth target data that comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations, the fifth target data that comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations, and the like. Examples of the I/O device 206 may include, but are not limited to, a touch screen, a dashboard, a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a microphone, and a display screen.
[036] The network interface 208 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and/or code that may be configured to facilitate different components of the supply chain management system 102 to communicate with other devices, such as the server 104, and the user device 106 in the environment 100, via the communication network 108. The network interface 208 may be configured to implement known technologies to support wired or wireless communication. Components of the network interface 208 may include, but are not limited to an antenna, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, one or more amplifiers, a tuner, one or more oscillators, a digital signal processor, a coder-decoder (CODEC) chipset, an identity module, and/or a local buffer.
[037] The network interface 208 may be configured to communicate via offline and online wireless communication with networks, such as the Internet, an Intranet, and/or a wireless network, such as a cellular telephone network, a wireless local area network (WLAN), personal area network, and/or a metropolitan area network (MAN). The wireless communication may use any of a plurality of communication standards, protocols and technologies, such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA), LTE, time division multiple access (TDMA), Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) (such as IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g, IEEE 802.11n, and/or any other IEEE 802.11 protocol), voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-MAX, Internet-of-Things (IoT) technology, Machine-Type-Communication (MTC) technology, a protocol for email, instant messaging, and/or Short Message Service (SMS).
[038] The application interface 210 may be configured as a medium for a user to interact with the supply chain management system 102. The application interface 210 may be configured to have a dynamic interface that may change in accordance with preferences set by the user and configuration of the supply chain management system 102. In accordance with an embodiment, the software application may be connected to the common digital platform of a software of the supply chain management system 102 using an application-specific API layer for the common digital platform.
[039] The database 212 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that may be configured to store program instructions executable by the processor 202, the identification module 214, and the supply chain management module 216, operating systems, and/or application-specific information, such as application-specific databases. The database 212 may include a computer-readable storage media for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such computer-readable storage media may include any available media that may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, such as the processor 202, the identification module 214, and the supply chain management module 216.
[040] The database 212 may store various types of data associated with the supply chain management system 102. The database 212 may generally be stored in the memory 204 and may be accessed for managing the supply chain in the extended enterprise. By way of example, and not limitation, the database 212 may use computer-readable storage media that includes tangible or non-transitory computer-readable storage media including, but not limited to, Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices (e.g., Hard-Disk Drive (HDD)), flash memory devices (e.g., Solid State Drive (SSD), Secure Digital (SD) card, other solid state memory devices), or any other storage medium which may be used to carry or store particular program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and which may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. Combinations of the above may also be included within the scope of computer-readable storage media.
[041] The identification module 214 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that may be configured to identify at an exception resolving stage for each of a plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for a predefined objective, identify at a delivery performance stage for each of a plurality of delivery performance operations, second target data for the predefined objective, identify at an inventory management stage for each of a plurality of inventory management operations, third target data for the predefined objective, identify at a traceability and tracking stage for each of a plurality of traceability and tracking operations, fourth target data for the predefined objective, and identify at a goods availability management stage for each of a plurality of goods availability management operations, fifth target data for the predefined objective.
[042] The supply chain management module 216 may include suitable logic, circuitry, and/or interfaces that may be configured to manage the supply chain of the plurality of supply chain partners by generating the transformation program with the predefined objective, based on the first target data, the second target data, the third target data, the fourth target data, the fifth target data and the input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using the common digital platform.
[043] FIG. 3 is a block diagram that illustrates.an exemplary scenario for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 3 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.
[044] With reference to FIG. 3, there is shown a block diagram 300 with a cloud enabled supply chain analytics layer 302 of the supply chain management system 102, a cloud enabled supply chain integration layer 304 of the supply chain management system 102, a cloud broker platform 306, a partner 308 from a first enterprise, a partner 310 from a second enterprise, a partner 312 from a third enterprise, and an OEM system 314.
[045] The supply chain management system 102 may be configured to provide a platform enabled eco system of partners, such as, the partner 308 from the first enterprise, the partner 310 from the second enterprise, the partner 312 from the third enterprise, and the OEM system 314 that facilitates interaction in multiple ways and value creation through collaboration and co-creation for fostering a relationship. The positive impact generated by such an ecosystem leads to higher Key Performance Indicator (KPI) values and results in higher revenue generation and savings.
[046] As illustrated in FIG. 3, in the new paradigm of extended enterprises, various partners (308-312) and OEMs (such as, OEM system 314) form a network and interact with each other. The fundamental difference between the conventional supply chain management system and the disclosed supply chain management system 102 is that in the new paradigm, partners interact among themselves and also with the OEMs, while in the conventional paradigm each partner used to interact with the OEM alone.
[047] Typically, in a supply chain with extended enterprise, OEMs are the central focus of any analysis as the OEMs deal with partners for various purposes. As an example, for procurement, the OEMs interact with strategic and transactional suppliers. For manufacturing, the OEMs interact with a contract manufacturer. For logistics, the OEMs interact with 3PL (third-party logistics) and 4PL (fourth-party logistics). For planning, interaction takes place between the OEMs and all sorts of partners. In accordance with an embodiment, the OEMs may also interact with all sorts of service providers, like Independent Software Vendor (ISV) and consulting partners. Such interactions are based on a symbiotic approach where the OEMs and partners get benefited.
[048] In accordance with an embodiment, data may be collected from the supply chain partners (310-312) and the OEM system 314 in the extended enterprise using the cloud API through the cloud broker platform 306. In accordance with an embodiment, the data may be collected from the supply chain partner 308 in the extended enterprise using the cloud API through the cloud enabled supply chain integration layer 304. In accordance with an embodiment, types of cloud may correspond to public, private or hybrid. Examples of cloud services on the cloud enabled supply chain analytics layer 302, the cloud enabled supply chain integration layer 304, and the cloud broker platform 306 may include, but are not limited to, enterprises resource planning (ERP) services, Infrastructure as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), and managed services.
[049] Further, the data moves to the cloud enabled supply chain integration layer 304 of the supply chain management system 102 from the cloud broker platform 306. In accordance with an embodiment, such data may include inventory data namely, inventory movement cost data, inventory stockout revenue loss data, and inventory excess cost data. Such data may also include reduction in working capital. In accordance with an embodiment, OEM sales data may be collected from the OEM system 314 and aggregated at overall supply chain level for all the partners at the cloud enabled supply chain integration layer 304 of the supply chain management system 102. In accordance with an embodiment, revenue increase data may be collected from the OEM system 314.
[050] In accordance with an embodiment, the cloud enabled supply chain analytics layer 302 of the supply chain management system 102 may be configured to identify different types of target data (first target data, second target data, third target data, fourth target data, and fifth target data) from the data collected by the cloud enabled supply chain integration layer 304 of the supply chain management system 102.
[051] In accordance with an embodiment, the first target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations, the second target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations, the third target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations, the fourth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations, and the fifth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations. In accordance with an embodiment, the benefit data comprises summation of increase in sales data and reduction in working capital data. In accordance with an embodiment, the cost data comprises investment in Manpower, Information Technology (IT) and infrastructure.
[052] In accordance with an embodiment, the cloud enabled supply chain analytics layer 302 of the supply chain management system 102 may be configured to perform Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) to calculate Internal Rate of Return (IRR) for measuring Net present Value (NPV) and Payback Period for benefit realization to manage the supply chain in the extended enterprise.
[053] FIG. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates an exemplary method for managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 4 is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1- FIG. 3. With reference to FIG. 4, there is shown a flowchart 400. The operations of the exemplary method may be executed by any computing system, for example, by the supply chain management system 102 of FIG. 1. The operations of the flowchart 400 may start at 402 and proceed to 404.
[054] At 402, for each of a plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for a predefined objective may be identified. In accordance with an embodiment, the identification module 214 may be configured to identify at an exception resolving stage for each of the plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for the predefined objective.
[055] In accordance with an embodiment, the first target data may comprise benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations. In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of exception resolving operations may comprise at least one of a predictive notification for delay in order shipment, and an alternate supply source operation. By way of an example, the plurality of exception resolving operations may include time to replenish inventory based on the inventory reduction data, time to full recovery (such as, trend analysis across various time buckets), outlier demand spike, asset sizing mismatch, and shipment delay.
[056] In accordance with an embodiment, the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations may comprise at least one of inventory reduction data, increased sales data, and asset sizing data. In accordance with an embodiment, the cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations may comprise at least one of software investment data and manpower investment data.
[057] In accordance with an embodiment, the responsible supply chain partners for resolving exceptions in extended enterprise may include, without limitation, demand planner, channel manager, logistics planner and supply planner.
[058] Relevant use cases which the responsible supply chain partners may cover in the area of resolving exceptions are Stock Out situation and Overstock situation at Plants, Distribution Centers, Dealers, Warehouses In multi echelon or multi stage scenario, predictive notifications for delay in shipment, identifying alternate supply source to replenish in storing or a manufacturing location, lot expiry of finished goods at Plant, Distribution Centers, Dealers, Warehouses.
[059] At 404, for each of a plurality of delivery performance operations, second target data for the predefined objective may be identified. In accordance with an embodiment, in accordance with an embodiment, the identification module 214 may be configured to identify at a delivery performance stage for each of the plurality of delivery performance operations, the second target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the second target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations.
[060] In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of delivery performance operations may comprise at least one of a shipment visibility from each of a set of locations associated with goods, a predictive notification for delay in order shipment, real time and estimated time for order delivery, and impacted transactions analysis for the delay in order shipment.
[061] In accordance with an embodiment, the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations may comprise at least one of finished goods inventory reduction data and the increased sales data. In accordance with an embodiment, the cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations may comprise at least one of software investment data and manpower investment data.
[062] Generally, the perfect order fulfillment rate is directly calculated as the percentage of perfect orders delivered on-time and in full quantity. Components or areas of perfect order covers items delivered in full quantity and on-time against the requirement, right documentation and in the perfect and right condition. In the extended enterprise, the real-time supply chain visibility and cohesion and collaboration with partners with proactive and decisive intelligent outcomes in multiple scenario planning come with correct decisions making. The supply chain management system 102 plays an important role in the extended enterprise situation in providing resilient, connected, smart, intelligent, self-guided and proactive supply chain solutions that enables enterprises (including supply chain partners) to digitalize their supply chain functions across strategic directions, planning, procurement, manufacturing, inventory, fulfillment, logistics, distribution and after-market. This landscape in predominantly cloud based.
[063] Improvement in delivery activities and performance are enabled through shipment visibility from all plant locations, and warehouse locations where the visibility can be achieved from all possible nodes, highly possible predictive notifications and alert for delay in shipment and possible disruption and indications of failure and slippage, real time estimated and calculated estimated time and predicted time of shipments and visibility, Cost, Benefit, Impact analysis of impacted transactions and delayed shipments and consignments and sales orders.
[064] At 406, for each of a plurality of inventory management operations, third target data for the predefined objective may be identified. In accordance with an embodiment, the identification module 214 may be configured to identify at an inventory management stage for each of the plurality of inventory management operations, the third target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the third target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations.
[065] In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of inventory management operations may comprise at least one of anticipation and visualization of goods demand at each of the set of locations associated with goods, a visibility and control of on hand inventory at each of the set of locations, modeling and monitoring of minimum and maximum inventory level, alerts and exceptions for no stock, over stock, near stock out and low stock stages. In accordance with an embodiment, the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations may comprise at least one of the inventory reduction data, and working capital reduction data.
[066] In accordance with an embodiment, the inventory reduction data comprises finished goods inventory reduction data, raw material inventory reduction data, and work in progress inventory reduction data. In accordance with an embodiment, the cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations may comprise at least one of software investment data and manpower investment data.
[067] Visualization and control of movement and flow of goods and material in the complete supply chain is an essential requirement in the extended enterprise. Visibility and control is important in multi echelon inventory where safety stock inventory and cycle inventory levels at plants and warehouse and various storing locations of multi-level suppliers (level1, level2 and more) and customers (dealers, distributors and retailers) and logistics services provider (3PL and 4PL) should be visible and actionable decision can be taken based on the situation.
[068] Visualization of movement and flow of goods from suppliers to factory to warehouses to various types of customers including dealers and distributors and retailers are the essential requirement of inventory visibility. Visibility in inventory in delivery performance are enabled through means and capability to anticipate and visualize the demand for finished goods and components at the manufacturing locations, all warehouses and dealer location, visibility and control of on hand inventory ( safety stock + cycle inventory) at manufacturing locations, warehouse locations and warehouses supplier locations, understanding and capability to model and monitor Minimum and Maximum inventory level and Re-Order point inventory level in manufacturing and warehouses locations, to generate alerts and exceptions for no stock, over stock, near stock out and low stock situation.
[069] The predicted overstock inventory situation and predicted no stock situation and predicted under stock inventory situation in the multistage scenario will help adjust inventory from the nearest available location. Inventory can be used very wisely and judiciously resulting in reduction in inventory level and working capital in the overall supply chain.
[070] At 408, for each of a plurality of traceability and tracking operations, fourth target data for the predefined objective may be identified. In accordance with an embodiment, the identification module 214 may be configured to identify at a traceability and tracking stage for each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations, the fourth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fourth target data may comprise benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations.
[071] In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of traceability and tracking operations may comprise at least one of tracking and tracing of serial-controlled items, lot-controlled items, batch-controlled items, items expiry details, items inbound movement, items outbound movement, and proactive alert messages. In accordance with an embodiment, the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations may comprise at least one of the inventory reduction data, the increased sales data, and the asset sizing data. In accordance with an embodiment, the cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations may comprise at least one of software investment data and manpower investment data.
[072] In the extended enterprise, a supply chain visibility dashboard of the supply chain management system 102 may be configured to provide real-time visibility of stocked material, in-transits material and exact inventory positions at various supply chain nodes. Tracking and tracing the physical movement of goods through various supply chain nodes may be done through visibility dashboard of the supply chain management system 102. To ensure estimation and calculated view of finished goods demand details by geography and location supply site details to satisfy the demand. This has the ability to manage the deviation through proactive alerts which are initiated when rules and systems are not followed and violated for shipments, inventory, planning, demand and supply. The supply chain management system 102 dashboard drill-down and detailed view may allow users or decision makers to visualize transactions and related details for measuring and monitoring real time KPI value tracking and comparing against benchmark values.
[073] The activities of track and trace functionalities are enabled by track and trace of serial controlled items, lot-controlled items and batch-controlled items, track the expiry details with various proactive alerts and notifications for actions, and track and trace of lot and attributes for inbound and outbound movement.
[074] At 410, for each of a plurality of goods availability management operations, fifth target data for the predefined objective may be identified. In accordance with an embodiment, the identification module 214 may be configured to identify at a goods availability management stage for each of the plurality of goods availability management operations, the fifth target data for the predefined objective. In accordance with an embodiment, the fifth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations.
[075] In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of a traceability and tracking operation from the plurality of traceability and tracking operations and a goods visibility operation. In accordance with an embodiment, the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of the inventory reduction data, the increased sales data, and the asset sizing data.
[076] In accordance with an embodiment, the cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of software investment data and manpower investment data.
[077] At 412, the supply chain of a plurality of supply chain partners may be managed. In accordance with an embodiment, the supply chain management module 216 may be configured to manage the supply chain of a plurality of supply chain partners by generating a transformation program with the predefined objective, based on the first target data, the second target data, the third target data, the fourth target data, the fifth target data and input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using a common digital platform.
[078] In accordance with an embodiment, the plurality of supply chain partners in the extended enterprise comprises at least one inbound partner, at least one outbound partner, at least one logistic partner and an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). In accordance with an embodiment, each of the plurality of supply chain partners interact amongst each other for information and operation transactions. In accordance with an embodiment, the transformation program corresponds to a strategic roadmap for each of the plurality of supply chain partners.
[079] In accordance with an embodiment, the input data comprises inventory data and OEM sales data, wherein the inventory data corresponds to working capital reduction data and the OEM sales data corresponds to increased sales data, wherein the inventory data further comprises at least one of inventory movement cost data, inventory stockout revenue loss data, and inventory excess cost data.
[080] Furthermore, one or more computer-readable storage media may be utilized in implementing embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. A computer-readable storage medium refers to any type of physical memory on which information or data readable by a processor may be stored. Thus, a computer-readable storage medium may store instructions for execution by one or more processors, including instructions for causing the processor(s) to perform steps or stages consistent with the embodiments described herein. The term “computer-readable medium” should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals, i.e., be non-transitory. Examples include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, hard drives, CD ROMs, DVDs, flash drives, disks, and any other known physical storage media.
[081] It will be appreciated that, for clarity purposes, the above description has described embodiments of the disclosure with reference to different functional units and processors. However, it will be apparent that any suitable distribution of functionality between different functional units, processors or domains may be used without detracting from the disclosure. For example, functionality illustrated to be performed by separate processors or controllers may be performed by the same processor or controller. Hence, references to specific functional units are only to be seen as references to suitable means for providing the described functionality, rather than indicative of a strict logical or physical structure or organization.
[082] Although the present disclosure has been described in connection with some embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the specific form set forth herein. Rather, the scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the claims. Additionally, although a feature may appear to be described in connection with particular embodiments, one skilled in the art would recognize that various features of the described embodiments may be combined in accordance with the disclosure.
[083] Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements or process steps may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may possibly be advantageously combined, and the inclusion in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. Also, the inclusion of a feature in one category of claims does not imply a limitation to this category, but rather the feature may be equally applicable to other claim categories, as appropriate.

CLAIMS

What is claimed is:
1. A method (400) of managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, the method (400) comprising:
identifying (402) at an exception resolving stage, by a supply chain management device, for each of a plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for a predefined objective, wherein the first target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations;
identifying (404) at a delivery performance stage, by the supply chain management device, for each of a plurality of delivery performance operations, second target data for the predefined objective, wherein the second target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations;
identifying (406) at an inventory management stage, by the supply chain management device, for each of a plurality of inventory management operations, third target data for the predefined objective, wherein the third target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations;
identifying (408) at a traceability and tracking stage, by the supply chain management device, for each of a plurality of traceability and tracking operations, fourth target data for the predefined objective, wherein the fourth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations;
identifying (410) at a goods availability management stage, by the supply chain management device, for each of a plurality of goods availability management operations, fifth target data for the predefined objective, wherein the fifth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations; and
managing (412) the supply chain of a plurality of supply chain partners, by the supply chain management device, by generating a transformation program with the predefined objective, based on the first target data, the second target data, the third target data, the fourth target data, the fifth target data and input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using a common digital platform.

2. The method (400) of claim 1, wherein the plurality of supply chain partners in the extended enterprise comprises at least one inbound partner, at least one outbound partner, at least one logistic partner and an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and wherein each of the plurality of supply chain partners interact amongst each other for information and operation transactions.

3. The method (400) of claim 1, wherein the transformation program corresponds to a strategic roadmap for each of the plurality of supply chain partners.

4. The method (400) of claim 1, wherein:
the plurality of exception resolving operations comprises at least one of a predictive notification for delay in order shipment, and an alternate supply source operation;
the plurality of delivery performance operations comprises at least one of a shipment visibility from each of a set of locations associated with goods, a predictive notification for delay in order shipment, real time and estimated time for order delivery, and impacted transactions analysis for the delay in order shipment;
the plurality of inventory management operations comprises at least one of anticipation and visualization of goods demand at each of the set of locations associated with goods, a visibility and control of on hand inventory at each of the set of locations, modeling and monitoring of minimum and maximum inventory level, alerts and exceptions for no stock, over stock, near stock out and low stock stages;
the plurality of traceability and tracking operations comprises at least one of tracking and tracing of serial-controlled items, lot-controlled items, batch-controlled items, items expiry details, items inbound movement, items outbound movement, and proactive alert messages; and
the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of a traceability and tracking operation from the plurality of traceability and tracking operations and a goods visibility operation.

5. The method (400) of claim 1, wherein:
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations comprises at least one of inventory reduction data, increased sales data, and asset sizing data;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations comprises at least one of finished goods inventory reduction data and the increased sales data;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations comprises at least one of the inventory reduction data, and working capital reduction data, wherein the inventory reduction data comprises finished goods inventory reduction data, raw material inventory reduction data, and work in progress inventory reduction data;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations comprises at least one of the inventory reduction data, the increased sales data, and the asset sizing data; and
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of the inventory reduction data, the increased sales data, and the asset sizing data.

6. The method (400) of claim 1, wherein:
the cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations, each of the plurality of delivery performance operations, each of the plurality of inventory management operations, each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations, and each of the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of software investment data and manpower investment data.

7. The method (400) of claim 2, wherein the input data comprises inventory data and OEM sales data, wherein the inventory data corresponds to working capital reduction data and the OEM sales data corresponds to increased sales data, wherein the inventory data further comprises at least one of inventory movement cost data, inventory stockout revenue loss data, and inventory excess cost data.

8. A system (102) of managing a supply chain in an extended enterprise, the system comprising:
a processor (202); and
a memory (204) communicatively coupled to the processor (202), wherein the memory (204) stores processor-executable instructions, which, on execution, causes the processor (202) to:
identify, at an exception resolving stage, for each of a plurality of exception resolving operations, first target data for a predefined objective, wherein the first target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations;
identify, at a delivery performance stage, for each of a plurality of delivery performance operations, second target data for the predefined objective, wherein the second target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations;
identify, at an inventory management stage, for each of a plurality of inventory management operations, third target data for the predefined objective, wherein the third target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations;
identify, at a traceability and tracking stage for each of a plurality of traceability and tracking operations, fourth target data for the predefined objective, wherein the fourth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations;
identify, at a goods availability management stage, for each of a plurality of goods availability management operations, fifth target data for the predefined objective, wherein the fifth target data comprises benefit data and cost data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations; and
manage the supply chain of a plurality of supply chain partners by generating a transformation program with the predefined objective, based on the first target data, the second target data, the third target data, the fourth target data, the fifth target data and input data captured from the plurality of supply chain partners using a common digital platform.

9. The system (102) of claim 8, wherein the plurality of supply chain partners in the extended enterprise comprises at least one inbound partner, at least one outbound partner, at least one logistic partner and an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), wherein each of the plurality of supply chain partners interact amongst each other for information and operation transactions, wherein the transformation program corresponds to a strategic roadmap for each of the plurality of supply chain partners, and wherein the input data comprises inventory data and OEM sales data, wherein the inventory data corresponds to working capital reduction data and the OEM sales data corresponds to increased sales data, wherein the inventory data further comprises at least one of inventory movement cost data, inventory stockout revenue loss data, and inventory excess cost data.

10. The system (102) of claim 8, wherein:
the plurality of exception resolving operations comprises at least one of a predictive notification for delay in order shipment, and an alternate supply source operation;
the plurality of delivery performance operations comprises at least one of a shipment visibility from each of a set of locations associated with goods, a predictive notification for delay in order shipment, real time and estimated time for order delivery, and impacted transactions analysis for the delay in order shipment;
the plurality of inventory management operations comprises at least one of anticipation and visualization of goods demand at each of the set of locations associated with goods, a visibility and control of on hand inventory at each of the set of locations, modeling and monitoring of minimum and maximum inventory level, alerts and exceptions for no stock, over stock, near stock out and low stock stages;
the plurality of traceability and tracking operations comprises at least one of tracking and tracing of serial-controlled items, lot-controlled items, batch-controlled items, items expiry details, items inbound movement, items outbound movement, and proactive alert messages;
the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of a traceability and tracking operation from the plurality of traceability and tracking operations and a goods visibility operation;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations comprises at least one of inventory reduction data, increased sales data, and asset sizing data;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of delivery performance operations comprises at least one of finished goods inventory reduction data and the increased sales data;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of inventory management operations comprises at least one of the inventory reduction data, and working capital reduction data, wherein the inventory reduction data comprises finished goods inventory reduction data, raw material inventory reduction data, and work in progress inventory reduction data;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations comprises at least one of the inventory reduction data, the increased sales data, and the asset sizing data;
the benefit data associated with each of the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of the inventory reduction data, the increased sales data, and the asset sizing data; and
the cost data associated with each of the plurality of exception resolving operations, each of the plurality of delivery performance operations, each of the plurality of inventory management operations, each of the plurality of traceability and tracking operations, and each of the plurality of goods availability management operations comprises at least one of software investment data and manpower investment data.