Supply Chain Lessons from the Great Toilet Paper Crisis of 2020
August 28, 2021 We’re all beginning to feel the first of many pandemic-induced aftershocks in the supply chain. Chicken, lumber, steel, fuel, computer parts, even ketchup, are all in short supply right now as producers catch up with demand. With no short-term end in sight, the biggest question on everyone’s minds is how to manage through supply chain disruptions.
If there is one take-home lesson from the great toilet paper scare of 2020, it’s that while in short supply for a while, toilet paper did become available again. In that light, I offer you seven suggestions to help you survive your supply chain shortages until things return to normal.
Keep Calm and Carry On
Now is not the time to react to the situation from a place of anxiety and desperation. Don’t panic. Stay the course. We’ve all seen the challenges caused by panic-induced buying and scarcity-induced mindsets. No one benefits. Taking a haphazard, fear-ridden approach to the current challenges won’t end well for your business. Do your best to prepare for the long haul with a clear head, and make sound decisions.
Figure Out the Impact
You need to understand the short- and long-term implications of the current supply chain situation for your operation. When might supply chain issues impact you financially? What products, workers, and skills are critical to keep you in business? What is the situation with your suppliers?
Be Flexible
Rigidity is not your friend for sourcing inputs and other needed supplies. You’ll need to be receptive to substitutions when possible and practice patience and cooperation with your suppliers. This will involve some planning to order earlier and get out ahead of potential problems. More than that, get creative and frugal. Can you stretch your current inventory of supplies a little longer? How about repurposing resources you already have on hand to buy you some time?
Shore Up Your Workforce
Able-bodied workers are at a premium right now, and global and local supply chains still rely heavily on human talent to keep things moving. One of the best things you can do is to look after the mental and physical health of your existing workforce.
Embrace New Work Models
When was the last time you examined where and how work gets done at your operation and for what purpose? It might be time to throw out traditional work models in favor of new ones that keep your team engaged and productive. Automation has a play here, too, as you seek to make the best use of your workforce.
Leverage Your Digital Capabilities
Let data-driven insights aid in your decision-making. Metrics, real-time data, analytics, and other digital tools can give you a clear view of exactly what is happening at your operation, enabling a prompt, informed response from you when disruptions occur.
Communicate, Communicate, Communicate
Keep communication lines open with your team and be transparent about supply chain challenges. Talk with your suppliers about your needs and any problems they might be encountering that could impact your business. Keep your customers apprised of potential challenges ahead of time and provide them with solutions whenever possible.
There are several actions you can take in addition to the ones mentioned here. Think each one through carefully, as they will have far-reaching impacts on your workflow and workforce. And remember, this is also your opportunity to mold the future of your business in positive ways. Happy growing!
Subscribe to eNewsletter
