Every June, the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP), along with Penske Logistics, presents its Annual “State of Logistics Report.” But this past year was unlike any before it. Faced with the unenviable task of summarizing the unexpected twists and hairpin turns of 2020, the report authors from the global consulting firm Kearney chose an apt title: “Change of Plans.” Even the most forward-looking companies had to throw out their strategic playbook in 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic upturned the economy and snarled global supply chains.
We are certainly in a place where we are facing significant complexity and change. Even before the onset of COVID, geopolitical shifts and new tariffs became problematic for many supply chains around the world. Then the pandemic exposed the need for redundancy and for better supply chain resiliency planning. These challenges may seem daunting, but they also provide an opportunity to innovate.
As the economy tries to rebound, we are finding that everybody is faced with a challenge of one kind or another. The ability to move raw materials and finished goods is seriously constrained by a shortage of transportation capacity, not just in the United States but worldwide.
Supply chains certainly got a rude awakening when they realized not only could their suppliers not supply the raw materials they needed but also those suppliers had issues with their own suppliers. We simply didn’t know enough about the risks involved in those supply chains and the consequences should something happen.
We are also seeing a talent shift. People are moving from one company to another, seeking new opportunities. The demand for supply chain professionals has never been greater. That will probably continue in perpetuity.
Through it all, we here at CSCMP have been with you, providing access to all our resources, so that you can enhance your knowledge of supply chain best practices. The “State of Logistics Report,” for example, is complimentary for all CSCMP members as an exclusive member benefit and is available for purchase by nonmembers. For more information, click here.
Another key resource is our upcoming EDGE Supply Chain Conference and Exhibition (cscmpedge.org), which takes place September 19–22 in Atlanta, Georgia. We are confident that the EDGE conference will provide you with a broader, deeper vision of the profession as well as an opportunity to participate in relevant learning programs and networking activities. What you learn there will hopefully inspire you and enhance your personal and organizational development. I personally hope to see you there.
