You're managing a supply chain process. How can you prevent risks from escalating?

Conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential threats and their root causes. Use techniques such as supply chain mapping, probability modeling, and value at risk (VaR) analysis to prioritize risks based on their likelihood and potential impact

Perhaps implied, however worthwhile calling out. Getting buy in from your people & building a safety culture together plays a key role in building momentum and having positive sustainable impact. Whilst it’s wonderful to have at hand the latest hazard data capture and risk performance reporting tools, in my experience, if you haven’t taken your people on the journey as to WHY safe behaviours are important to the business, its customers & other stakeholders, WHAT a safe operating culture looks like (ie. business standards) and HOW we intend to mobilise, monitor, recognise and reward safe behaviours, the best intentions across systems, processes and procedures will fall short, undermining business sustainability & commercial performance.

Supply Chain Risk Management starts with mapping your supply chain. You must know your risk exposure and footprint to determine risks.

Hazards... that's the negative side of the story. Don't forget the abundance of opportunities that are also out there, these are risks but with potentially different outcomes. Use more advanced techniques such as horizon scanning to get a wider perspective as to what is happening for what might happen, in the wider context.

First, identify high-impact suppliers. Conduct what-if scenarios to ensure a mitigation plan exists and is understood by the team designated to handle the disruption. This should include accurate stakeholder and supplier contact information plus alternate souring protocols. Those companies that can respond quickly are the winners.

Regularly perform stress tests to evaluate the supply chain's resilience under various disruption scenarios. Identify weak points and develop contingency plans to address them. Use advanced technologies like AI and blockchain to enhance visibility and traceability across the supply chain. Automate routine tasks to increase efficiency and reduce the risk of human error.

You need to ensure you have reliable data, I hear so many people talk about data and using technology, but the fact is we need to have the baseline skills and reliable insights to drive optimal decisions. Remember: We're only as strong as our weakest link, so be fearless when making decisions on diversifying your supply chain, dealing with uncertainty, and adjusting stock levels.

This is the game changer. When you have high levels of effective collaboration, supported by clear, honest and unambiguous communication, you're 80% of the way there. It's a reflection of a strong culture and commitment to working with your extended enterprise partners to achieve collective success.

Let's not forget when we're talking about the supply chain and our partners we also need to ensure heir teams are just as well, or even better trained, than our own teams. Remember: some of our risks arise in our supply chains, our suppliers and partners are the first line of defence on those risks stemming from their activities and organisations, and they own those risks. We can't manage what we don't know!

Engage in scenario planning exercises to anticipate and prepare for potential supply chain disruptions. Develop contingency plans for a range of scenarios, including natural disasters, geopolitical events, and supplier failures, to ensure the organization is prepared to respond effectively.

To prevent risks from escalating in a supply chain process: 1. Identify potential risks: Conduct thorough risk assessments. 2. Implement mitigation strategies: Develop and implement plans to address identified risks. 3. Monitor and review: Regularly review and update risk assessments and mitigation plans. 4. Collaborate with stakeholders: Work closely with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders. 5. Diversify suppliers: Reduce dependence on single suppliers. 6. Contingency planning: Develop backup plans for potential disruptions. 7. Visibility and transparency: Maintain clear visibility into supply chain operations. 8. Real-time tracking: Track shipments and inventory in real-time.