Articles
Forecast To Cash Automation
August 28, 2006
•Article: Cash Automation
A manufacturer is looking to lower its on-location inventory (reduce inventory holding costs) and improve forecast-response transactions with its overseas suppliers and 3PL partners. Response to changing customer demand was slow at best, and shortages were becoming costly in the manufacturing process. Parts were being shipped to the wrong locations using the wrong service, resulting in frequent shortages, bill disputes, and finger pointing between the three companies involved. The manufacturer's current "band-aid" solution of keeping higher levels of inventory on site was becoming a serious liability. By shifting the responsibility of maintaining inventory to the parts suppliers, the manufacturer could cut costs significantly; however, without a precise way to manage movements and orders, such a shift would be extremely risky.
The required software solution had to be able to leverage the existing ERP systems of the manufacturer and its partners, and enable XML-based electronic messaging with all parties. Finally, the software had to be able to leverage the RFID sensor network set up throughout the three facilities' entrance and exit points, and be able to use the data gathered to automate key B2B processes using the ERP system.
Click Here To Download:•Article: Cash Automation
