The Right Supply Chain

Most controlled NPI processes ensure that supply chain decisions and commitments are managed at the appropriate time in the development programme. Supplier selection, launch planning and distributor training are all coordinated to achieve a smooth and professional ‘right first time’ launch.

At Bubble we believe that the challenge is not just about getting the supply chain right: it is about getting the right supply chain. Too often, supply chain design is left until the product characteristics have been determined. The organisation then asks ‘How are we going to use our existing resources to make this product efficiently?’ instead of asking at the outset ‘What is the ideal product and supply chain combination?’.

Dell famously raised the bar by introducing their direct sales model. They eliminated the middlemen and all associated finished stock, whilst gaining greater access to their end customers. However, this would never have been achieved with the prevailing PC design.  The strategy required a design mandate to deal with configuration in batch sizes of one.

So we strongly believe there is far more benefit to be had from an NPI process than managing an on-time launch. It’s the opportunity to challenge the entire supply chain model and transform the absolute level of service and cost.  It’s the only chance to raise the bar.