The C-Suite is responsible for all decisions regarding the overall operation and success of warehouses, logistics networks, and supplier partnerships. C-Suite decisions in the supply chain can mean the difference between saving money or hemorrhaging profit margins. Warehouse Managers need to understand this fact, how disconnects between managers and executives adversely affect the supply chain, how integrated systems may help, and what the benefits mean for the success of an organization, explains Supply Chain 24/7.

The Problem: Disconnects Exist Between Warehouse Managers and C-Suite Executives

Stereotypes when communicating with C-Suite executives remain the driving force behind the disconnect between Warehouse Managers and executives. Warehouse Managers are focused on moving product, and although supply chain executives have the same goals, they may not always express their needs to Warehouse Managers. Furthermore, Warehouse Managers may not have access to the information supply chain executives want and need. Thus, both parties function as independent groups, avoiding collaboration and increasing risk to the supply chain. However, there is a solution.

The Solution: Integrated Systems and Advanced Reporting Enable Better Decisions

As explained by Supply Chain Quarterly, collaboration is not something that simply exists in warehouse management; it is built on dedication, attention to detail, and demand for transparency. Warehouse Managers seeking to improve collaboration and warehouse operations should follow these steps:

• Collaborate in areas where parties understand each other.
• Share information, even when it may be useful to other parties, to avoid hostility.
• Choose supply chain partners based on capability, value, and strategic goals.
• Invest in the right systems and team members.
• Create an incentive-based performance management system.
• Focus on the long-term goal.

Each of these steps has something in common, the need for systems and people to work together. In the modern warehouse, this is known as integration. Integrated systems are the foundation for all collaboration, ranging from worker activities to C-Suite decisions in the supply chain, based upon reporting from Warehouse Managers and other supply chain partners.

The Reward: Collaboration and Other Key Benefits of Better C-Suite Decisions

When C-Suite executives and Warehouse Managers work together, employee turnover decreases and productivity, read “order fill rate,” increases, notes Specific benefits derived from collaboration include:

• Easier understanding and approval of budgets.
• More communication increases transparency.
• Collaborating C-Suite members will understand the role of a strong IT presence in the modern warehouse.
• Warehouse Managers have the authority to make decisions affecting the warehouse floor.
• Better demand variability is the key to success during peak shopping seasons.
• More information and collaboration improve marketing and promotional initiatives.
• Stakeholder support ensures all service requirements are met, reports.

Help Your C-Suite Executives Make Better Decisions Through Integrated, Modern Systems

C-Suite executives are only as effective as the level of communication and collaboration between them and other employees. Warehouse Managers must work to improve collaboration, provide the right information, and follow through with all decisions made by C-Suite executives. By working together and integrating systems, this goal can be achieved. Learn more about how your organization can improve executive-manager relationships and enable better C-Suite decisions in the supply chain.

Veridian can help you realize your supply chain success. Fill out the contact information below in order to schedule a consultation call with one of our supply chain professionals.