When should you reach out for help? By a supply chain expert

In the dynamic and complex world of supply chain and logistics, recognising when to seek professional assistance is crucial. We sat down with North Star Projects very own Darren Chaisty to gain insights on the tell-tale signs that indicate it’s time to consult with a supply chain expert.

Recognising the Signs of Trouble

Darren explains that clients often recognise the need for assistance when they encounter significant disruptions within their operations. "If customers are not getting what they want, production lines are screaming and shouting because goods aren't arriving on time, or items are going missing, these are clear signs of underlying problems," Darren notes. These disruptions create a lot of noise and irritation, indicating that something is seriously wrong.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as Red Flags

While anecdotal evidence can highlight issues, Darren emphasises the importance of formal indicators. "If an organisation has a solid operating model with management control and effective reporting, their KPIs will tell the story. When KPIs are heading in the wrong direction—cost per pick increasing, efficiency decreasing, inventory inaccuracies causing issues—these are quantifiable signs that something is amiss," he explains. Additionally, failing audits and rising costs are major indicators that necessitate professional intervention.

Planning for New Warehouses

When it comes to planning a new warehouse, Darren advises considering these factors from the very start. "Designing the warehouse efficiently is crucial, but it's equally important to establish operational processes to avoid future problems. The earlier the operating design is implemented, the better, as this can help shape how the warehouse will function and adapt," he states. Early involvement of a consultancy like North Star can prevent potential operational mismatches and ensure smooth functioning from day one.

When to Seek Help

So, when exactly should You reach out for help? Darren’s advice is straightforward: "As soon as they start seeing things not performing as expected, they should reach out. If they don't have the in-house capability to solve these problems, or if the in-house team isn't effectively addressing the issues, it's time to ask for help." Often, the initial problem statement isn’t the actual issue, and a thorough assessment can reveal the root cause. This might be resolved quickly or require more fundamental changes.

The Impact of Early Intervention

Darren shares an example to illustrate the importance of early intervention. "We've had clients who involved us from the very beginning of their warehouse planning. This allowed us to influence critical decisions like the placement of rest areas, charging stations for material handling equipment, and overall workflow design. Early involvement helps avoid making assumptions that don't hold up during actual operations," he explains.

Final Advice

Darren’s final advice for potential clients is clear: "Don't wait until problems escalate. The sooner you reach out for help, the sooner we can work together to identify and fix the issues, ensuring your operations run smoothly and efficiently."

Key indicators to look out for:  

1. Internal and External Noise
2. Performance Metrics Deteriorating
3. Audit Failures
4. Operational Disruptions
5. Rising Costs
6. Declining KPIs

By recognising the signs and engaging a supply chain consultancy early, organisations can avoid costly mistakes and enhance overall performance, whether dealing with existing operational issues or planning new projects.

If you're having issues within your business and want advice, Contact North Star Projects for a free consultation and find out how Darren and his team can help.