Supply chain execution has grown increasingly more challenging as companies have expanded their supplier and customer bases internationally. The true extent of globalization, along with the fragility of logistics networks and capacity flows, have been thrown into stark relief by the effects of COVID-19.

Over the last few decades, manufacturers have cycled through various supply chain approaches to synchronize their manufacturing and business strategies from time-based and “lean” to more flexible models like “sense and respond.” But not all businesses have successfully met the challenges.

Globalization exposes supply chains to more uncertainty, more risk, and more change. It’s become necessary for companies to account for everything from regional holidays and ocean weather patterns to geo-political turmoil and currency fluctuations into their planning strategies. The year 2020 introduced yet another disruptive element: global pandemic response.