Supply Chain Business Response to Covid-19 - Sobel Network Shipping Co., Inc.

Supply Chain Business Response to Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic has dramatically impacted the world and altered the operation of supply chains forever. The response to e-commerce surges has impacted business dramatically.

During the pandemic disruption, the supply chain experienced a severe shortage of labor. The growing demand for eCommerce had already started to deplete the labor pool, but the pandemic made things even worse.

Impact of Covid-19 on Supply Chains

As regions of the globe went under shelter-in-place orders and complete lockdowns, the need for eCommerce items skyrocketed. Everyone was shopping from home and required front door delivery. The challenges to meet the needs became even more critical.

Other Factors that Impacted the Supply Chain

Other factors that started to hurt the supply chain were the need for many family members to take time off due to illnesses, school closures, and care for sick family members. A severe labor shortage started to occur. The influx of orders continued, but the lagging labor supply started to make things exceedingly difficult.

Combining Industries

Many businesses specialized in more than one industry. They tend to have tier own set of handling requirements and quality controls to maintain the integrity of the products managed. Each one required a specialized team. However, the supply shortage was forced to change. Businesses had to unite all of their industries by interrogating all teams in the various industries. Greater flexibility was needed. Labor had to be flexed across the entire business to meet the needs of all industries.

Fine-Tuning Cross Collaborations

Initially, cross collaborations between industries and facilities were challenging. Consistent open communication channels helped staffing stay up-to-date and meet the challenges as they occurred.  There were no more separate facilities or industries but a single business that needed to function like a well-oiled machine.

 

Creating a Teamwork and a Can-Do Attitude

Businesses had to inspire a can-do attitude with their team to create an environment of success. Everyone needed to focus on being team-oriented and willing to assist each other to achieve the company’s common goals.

Recap on Providing Service in Supply Chains

Companies found that the following things were required to continue providing top-notch service:

  • Collaboration: Successful cross-collaboration between all faculties. When necessary, move team members from industry to industry and make sure all aspects of the supply chain for each are adequately staffed.
  • Open Communication: Continue maintaining communications between all business channels and rapidly meet additional staffing needs when they arise or figure out a way to function by sharing staff or swapping.
  • Create a Positive Culture: Creating a positive ‘can do’ attitude between employees and staff is essential to the business’s success. Without a collaborative group of individuals willing to help each other through the tough times, the business will start to run into problems, and morale falters.
  • Technology: Businesses must continue to utilize the newest technology to create a seamless transition between all aspects of operation and personnel.

Covid-19 has impacted how supply chains respond, and the business practices have changed things dramatically. Despite the challenges, innovative ideas and practices have arisen that will continue to help benefit companies.