OPSdesign’s Consultants, Engineers, and Analysts are supply chain logistics subject matter experts, authors, and speakers. We have written books, have been published in respected trade journals and business magazines, and are frequent speakers at leading supply chain conferences. Check back here often for our latest insights on trending supply chain logistics topics.
Manufacturing is Resurging but Struggling to Fill Roles
Over the past few decades, many politicians have promised to bring manufacturing back to the United States. Ironically, it’s not a politician that has helped...
Read More
Evolution of Barcodes: From Linear to Two-Dimensional and Gs1
Barcodes have become integral to modern society, revolutionizing how we track and manage products. Their evolution has been remarkable from their humble beginnings as linear...
Read More
Geographic Center of Gravity (GOC) Distribution Network Modeling
Geographic center of gravity (GOC) computer models balance inbound/outbound freight costs (ocean, rail, container, truckload, LTL, parcel, and white glove) with strategic service levels to...
Read More
The Greening of U.S. Trucking
While the focus on electric vehicle trucking remains strong, the middle-of-the-road solution hydrogen power trucking is still in play, too. Yet, as demand for zero-emissions...
Read More
Progress For The Port of Baltimore
It’s been just over a month since the Key Bridge in the port of Baltimore was hit by a cargo ship and collapsed under the...
Read More
Develop An Effective SOP For Better SCM
Effective supply chain management involves countless steps and developing a standard operating procedure (SOP) is valuable for every step. Establishing SOPs can streamline your supply...
Read More
OTIF – Beating On Time In Full Thresholds
For suppliers of a large retailers, OTIF thresholds are likely here to stay. For the past several years, suppliers to companies like Walmart and Kroger...
Read More
Faster Internet Speeds are on the Horizon
Faster internet speeds are on the horizon thanks to a breakthrough in wavelength technology. In a landmark achievement that promises to reshape the landscape of...
Read More
Role of the 5th Percentile Woman in Designing Workstations
The 5th percentile woman should be a reference point for the ergonomic design of warehouse operations. In the dynamic landscape of modern warehouses, the design...
Read More
The Future of the Supply Chain
The future of the supply chain is poised to undergo significant transformation, driven by advancements in technology, shifts in consumer behavior, and the imperative to...
Read More
Shipping Costs Set to Increase
Shipping costs are set to increase sharply following several recent market disruptions. Ground transportation is a costly part of supply chain management. When combined, expenses...
Read More
Storage Racks for Today and Tomorrow
Storage racks are perhaps the least glamorous part of a warehouse, but they are the workhorse and serve a valuable role in the supply chain....
Read More
Autonomous Shipping Is Under Consideration
In several states, trials are underway on the nation's highways to see how well autonomous shipping works in the form of commercial trucks and how...
Read More
The Power of RFID In A Modern Supply Chain
Consumers are more demanding than ever, and every segment of the modern supply chain can agree on that. Managing those growing expectations and demands is...
Read More
Cargo Theft Is A Growing Problem
Supply chains fight back by implementing tools to prevent widespread cargo theft. Product shrinkage, whether inside the warehouse or from a tractor-trailer, has always been...
Read More
Navigating The Quake: Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience In The Semiconductor Industry
The recent earthquake that shook Taiwan has sent ripples through the global semiconductor industry, amplifying concerns about the fragility of the intricacy of the supply...
Read More
Turn Reactive Initiatives into Proactive Engines of Innovation
Turn reactive initiatives into proactive engines of innovation by engaging independent supply chain consultants and fostering ongoing advisor relationships to proactively navigate the evolving supply...
Read More
Warehouse Mechanization and Automation Strategies
Companies are using warehouse mechanization, automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness. However, adopting these technologies requires careful consideration and...
Read More
Warehouse Safety Systems: 5 Key Factors
Warehouse safety is essential for protecting personnel and assets. The bustling environment of these facilities, often characterized by the movement of goods, heavy machinery, and...
Read More
Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore: Supply Chain Disruptions
The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore is going to cause additional supply chain disruptions. Recent cargo ship accidents may lead to more conversations...
Read More
Stacking GMA Pallets: Determining the Best Configuration
Want to know the best configuration for stacking GMA pallets, maximizing space utilization, ensuring stability, and optimizing warehouse operations? Use this step-by-step approach to help...
Read More
Power Grid Availability and Warehouse Site Selection
In an era of technological advancements, power grids' availability and reliability have taken center stage. The significance of power grid availability and load in warehousing...
Read More
AR and VR in the Supply Chain
This white paper serves as a guide to the role of AR and VR in the supply chain. Integrating augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality...
Read More
Using Geofencing Technology for Supply Chain Optimization
Using geofencing technology to trigger automated actions or notifications can greatly improve supply chain operations. This real-time tracking and event-triggering capability make geofencing a powerful...
Read More
Leveraging Cycle Counting to Achieve 99.9% Inventory Accuracy
Avoid shutting down operations for days by breaking inventory audits into smaller portions using cycle counting on a regular schedule. Learn the advantages and strategies...
Read More
Supply Chain and Distribution Leaders: Examining Top Qualities
Let's look at the Supply Chain and Distribution Leaders and what makes them tick. Are you looking for help navigating complex supply chain challenges, optimizing...
Read More
Integration of Micro Warehouses in the Retail Supply Chain
The strategic adoption of micro warehouses in the retail supply chain is a testament to the industry's commitment to innovation and efficiency. It is important...
Read More
Cubic Velocity by SKU and Cubic Inventory by SKU
The incorporation of cubic velocity by SKU and cubic inventory by SKU marks a significant leap forward in the realm of warehouse management. Do the...
Read More
Optimizing Supply Chains: Digital Transformation, Risk Management & Data Analytics
Optimizing supply chains to achieve real-time visibility, adapt to disruptions, and make informed decisions that drive sustainable growth is the goal of every supply chain...
Read More
Mechanization, Automation and Robotics in Supply Chain Operations
In an era where efficiency and competitiveness define success, the integration of mechanization, automation, and robotics within warehousing operations has emerged as a critical strategy...
Read More
Using Digital Twins in Supply Chain Modeling
What are digital twins and how can they make the supply chain more efficient? As the supply chain becomes ever more digitized and automated, companies...
Read More
Uses for Generative AI in the Supply Chain
Let's look at uses for generative AI in the supply chain. From manufacturing to warehousing, transportation and end customers, supply chain partners are figuring out...
Read More
Supply Chain Professionals: Skills to Master for Success
In the intricate world of modern business, supply chain professionals hold a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of goods and services....
Read More
5 Major Types of Robotics in the Supply Chain
Robotics in the supply chain, whether at manufacturing sites or in distribution centers, aren’t new. But their rapid adoption over the past few years is....
Read More
Supply Chain Jobs are Proving Difficult to Fill
Openings for supply chain jobs are everywhere but filling these vacancies has been a challenge. Whether in the cab of a long-haul truck or on...
Read More
Supply Chain Resiliency Through Efficient Distribution Networks
The field of supply chain management has evolved significantly in recent years, with businesses recognizing the importance of building resilient and efficient distribution networks. As...
Read More
Autonomous Vehicle Trucking: California Pushes Back
In the middle of a continuing truck driver shortage, autonomous vehicle (AV) trucking can sound like a good solution. Many transportation companies recognize this and...
Read More
Optimizing Your WMS: Focusing on the 3 Ps
The past few years have taught the supply chain lessons in agility - it’s a necessity for doing business in an ever-changing landscape. When you...
Read More
Modex 2024: A Gateway to Supply Chain Innovation and Education in Atlanta
Modex is the premier trade show dedicated to material handling, logistics, and supply chain technology. The landscape of supply chain management is rapidly evolving, driven...
Read More
Autonomous Ride-Hail Services are Revolutionizing Mobility
Autonomous ride-hail services are reshaping the transportation landscape as we know it. Companies such as Honda, GM, Cruise, Zoox, and others are at the forefront...
Read More
Labor Shortage Persists in Supply Chain Operations
The labor shortage is still alive and well in supply chain operations and every warehouse manager and supply chain manager can tell you that finding...
Read More
Boosting Warehouse Efficiencies
Among the many facets of supply chain management, the warehouse ranks among the highest places to focus on boosting warehouse efficiencies. With the right processes...
Read More
Warehouse Workstations: Designing High-Efficiency Ergonomic Solutions
Efficient warehouse operations are integral to the success of any logistics and supply chain system. The design of warehouse workstations in key areas such as...
Read More
The Return of JIT (Just In Time) Inventory?
Just when retailers declared the era of Just in Time (JIT) inventory over, there’s a rumor of a resurgence. But will it look the same...
Read More
Maritime Shipping Disruptions Continue
The maritime shipping situation in the Red Sea continues to escalate, and the fallout is becoming a major supply chain disrupter. Houthi rebels continue to...
Read More
Right-Sizing Inventory
The wild supply chain swings of the past four years have given managers plenty to consider when it comes to managing inventory. Where the just-in-time...
Read More
White house Council On Supply Chain Resilience: How To Secure The New Government Funding
The White House recently announced the creation of its White House Council on Supply Chain Resilience. It promises millions of dollars in investments to strengthen...
Read More
Team Building Strengthens Supply Chain Organizations
Let's explore the importance of team building in supply chain organizations and explore how it contributes to enhanced productivity, innovation, and overall success. In the...
Read More
Autonomous Mobile Robots: An Integration Checklist
Robotics like autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are becoming increasingly important members of warehousing teams, especially in light of the labor...
Read More
Strengthening the Food Supply Chain
The food supply chain is a fragile ecosystem. We don’t have to tell you that food prices at the grocery store remain high and that...
Read More
