I helped to kick off a SAP Bootcamp for my APICS (#1 trade association for supply chain management) chapter in combination with our partner, Cal State University, San Bernardino. Cal State University San Bernardino is one of the only universities I am familiar with that teaches students about ERP systems (enterprise resource planning) and provides hands-on exposure. Certainly, ERP systems are the backbone of how manufacturers and distributors run their business, and SAP happens to be the #1 ERP system. Thus, we are very excited to be partnering with such a progressive team.
We had students from other universities and supply chain professionals in attendance including several from surrounding chapters – obviously the session attracted people to drive considerable distances on a Saturday morning. Partnerships are not always ideal (and often require hard work and upfront communication); however, finding ones where 1+1=56 can be well worth the effort.
One tip to implement this week:
What partnerships do you have in place? Take a few minutes to gather your team and think about strategic partnerships. I’ve found them to yield significant benefits and create employee loyalty. After all, who doesn’t like to be a valued member of a partnership that is achieving great results? Think about customers: can you develop a partnership with additional members of your supply chain for a mutual benefit? For example, can you use your customer’s warehouse to reduce lead times and/or create transportation efficiencies? How can you make that a win-win? The same holds true for your suppliers? START by thinking about what you can offer your supply chain partner. Undoubtedly, they will think about how they can make it a win for you as well. How about your banking partners and other trusted advisors? Local colleges and universities? Think outside the box for accelerated results.