Advanced Logestics
Advanced Logestics
OCTOBER 2025
SUBMITTED TO: Mr.Tadesse G.
Group members
1. Emebet Tamiru
2. Kayriya Muktar
3. Mahider Ayana
Contents
Chapter 6 Managing cross functional drivers in supply chain management ........................................ 6
6.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 6
1. Logistical Drivers.............................................................................................................................. 6
2. Drivers of Cross-Functionality ...................................................................................................... 7
Summary of Supply Chain Drivers ................................................................................................... 8
6.2 managing logistical and cross functional drivers ........................................................................... 9
2. Inventory Management ....................................................................................................................... 10
3. Management of Transportation ........................................................................................................... 10
4. Logistical Driver Integration............................................................................................................... 11
2. Management of Sourcing .................................................................................................................... 13
3. Control of Prices ................................................................................................................................. 15
4. Cross-Functional Collaboration and Leadership................................................................................. 16
5. Risk Management and Agility ............................................................................................................ 17
6.3 Importance of managing cross functional drivers in supply chain................................................ 18
1. Increased Productivity..................................................................................................................... 18
2. Better Ability to Make Decisions.................................................................................................... 18
3. Quicker Reaction to Shifts in the Market ........................................................................................ 18
4. Increased Customer Satisfaction .................................................................................................... 18
5. Cutting Expenses ............................................................................................................................ 19
6. Innovation and Continuous Improvement ....................................................................................... 19
7. A more robust corporate culture ..................................................................................................... 19
8. Ecological Methods......................................................................................................................... 19
9. An edge over competitors ............................................................................................................... 19
10. Risk Management ......................................................................................................................... 20
6.4 Challenges of managing cross functional drivers in supply chain .................................................... 20
1. Siloed Departments ......................................................................................................................... 20
2. Coordination Complexity ................................................................................................................ 20
3. Problems with Data Integration ...................................................................................................... 20
5. Limited Leadership Support............................................................................................................ 21
6. Difficulties with Performance Measurement .................................................................................. 21
7. Complexity of the Supply Chain ..................................................................................................... 21
8. Overwhelming Information............................................................................................................. 22
9. Risk Management ........................................................................................................................... 22
10. Strategy Alignment ....................................................................................................................... 22
Chapter VII: Sustainability Issues in Supply Chain Management .............................................................. 23
1. Environmental Sustainability .............................................................................................................. 23
a. Green Manufacturing Practices ....................................................................................................... 23
b. Efficient Resource Usage and Waste Management ........................................................................ 23
c. Carbon Footprint Reduction in Logistics ........................................................................................ 24
2. Social Sustainability............................................................................................................................ 24
a. Ethical Sourcing of Raw Materials ................................................................................................. 24
b. Community Impact and Patient Safety ........................................................................................... 25
c. Promoting Access to Medicines ...................................................................................................... 25
3. Economic Sustainability ..................................................................................................................... 25
a. Cost Efficiency through Lean Supply Chain Management ............................................................. 25
b. Affordable Access to Medicines ..................................................................................................... 26
c. Building Resilient Supply Chains ................................................................................................... 26
4. Regulatory Compliance and Sustainability ......................................................................................... 27
a. Compliance with Environmental Regulations ................................................................................. 27
b. Good Distribution Practices (GDP) ................................................................................................ 27
5. Energy Efficiency in Cold Chain Logistics ........................................................................................ 27
a. Energy-efficient Cold Storage Solutions .................................................................................... 28
6. Sustainable Packaging ........................................................................................................................ 28
a. Reducing Plastic Waste ................................................................................................................... 28
7. Supply Chain Resilience and Climate Change.................................................................................... 29
a. Climate-resilient Infrastructure ................................................................................................... 29
Chapter VIII: Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Management – Performance Measures ................................ 30
1. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Management .......................... 30
a) On-Time In-Full Delivery (OTIF) .............................................................................................. 30
b. Inventory Turnover ..................................................................................................................... 30
c) Order Cycle Time ....................................................................................................................... 31
d) Lead Time ................................................................................................................................... 31
e) Perfect Order Rate....................................................................................................................... 31
2. Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control Measures ..................................................................... 32
a. Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Compliance ....................................................................... 32
b. Good Distribution Practices (GDP) Compliance ............................................................................ 32
c. Adverse Event Reporting ................................................................................................................ 32
3. Cost and Efficiency Performance Measures ....................................................................................... 33
a. Cost per Unit ................................................................................................................................... 33
b. Total Supply Chain Costs ............................................................................................................... 33
c. Waste Reduction ............................................................................................................................. 33
4. Supply Chain Resilience and Risk Management ................................................................................ 34
a. Supply Chain Risk Mitigation Index ............................................................................................... 34
b. Supplier Reliability ......................................................................................................................... 34
c. Supply Chain Flexibility ................................................................................................................. 34
5. Sustainability and Environmental Performance Measures ................................................................. 35
a. Carbon Emissions............................................................................................................................ 35
b. Energy Efficiency ........................................................................................................................... 35
c. Waste Management ......................................................................................................................... 35
6. Customer Satisfaction and Service Levels .......................................................................................... 36
a. Order Accuracy ............................................................................................................................... 36
b. Customer Satisfaction Index ........................................................................................................... 36
Conclusion .................................................................................................................................................. 37
Reference .................................................................................................................................................... 38
Chapter 6 Managing cross functional drivers in supply chain management
6.1 Introduction
Drivers are the main elements or aspects that affect the supply chain's overall effectiveness
and performance in supply chain management. They assess how well the supply chain can
satisfy corporate objectives including cost reduction, responsiveness, and flexibility, as well
as how well it can react to client demand.
Supply chain drivers are the key factors that influence and determine the performance of a
supply chain.
They are categorized into two broad types:
o Logistical Drivers and Cross-Functional Drivers.
o Each type has several components that directly affect the efficiency, cost, and
responsiveness of the supply chain.
1. Logistical Drivers
These drivers are focused on inventory management, effective logistics, and the operational and
physical aspects of moving items. The following are the three main logistical drivers:
A. Facilities
Definition: The raw materials, things in production, and completed commodities that a
business keeps on hand to satisfy consumer demand are referred to as inventory
Role: Maintaining supply and demand equilibrium requires effective inventory
management. While having too little inventory causes stockouts and lost sales
opportunities, having too much inventory raises holding expenses.
Illustrations: Safety stock guarantees product availability in the event of supply chain
interruptions or surges in demand. Just-in-time (JIT) inventory lowers holding costs and
eliminates excess stock.
C. Transportation
Definition: Transportation is the process of moving goods from one place to another,
either to the final consumer or inside the company's supply chain.
Role: Delivery cost, dependability, and speed are impacted by transportation
decisions. While slower, more economical means may result in longer lead times,
faster transportation can be more responsive but can also be more costly.
Illustrations: Sea freight is slower but more cost-effective than air freight, which is
quick but costly. Delivery time and fuel expenses can be decreased by streamlining
delivery routes.
2. Drivers of Cross-Functionality
The integration of different departments, procedures, and technology throughout the
supply chain is the focus of these drivers. They concentrate on the management of
data and choices. The following are the three main cross-functional drivers:
Information
Definition: Information is the data and analytics that are utilized to make choices
about inventory levels, production schedules, and demand projections in the supply
chain.
Function: Improving coordination, lowering uncertainty, and facilitating improved
decision-making are all made possible by effective information management. The
responsiveness and efficiency of the supply chain are improved when the appropriate
information is shared at the appropriate moment.
Illustrations: Improved coordination and prompt handling of delays are made
possible by real-time cargo tracking. Tools for demand forecasting aid in improving
inventory control and production scheduling.
B. Purchasing (sourcing)
Driver Description
Logistical Drivers
Cross-Functional Drivers
Optimizing the flow of goods, cutting costs, and raising customer satisfaction all depend
on managing logistical factors in the supply chain. Transportation, inventories, and
facilities are the main logistical factors. A thorough examination of how to successfully
handle each of these logistical drivers may be found below.
1. Management of Facilities
As the sites for production, storage, and distribution, facilities are essential to the supply chain.
A. Setting and Design
Site Selection: To reduce transportation costs and raise service standards, pick key sites
for manufacturing facilities, distribution hubs, and warehouses. Think about being close
to main transportation networks, suppliers, and customers.
Layout Optimization: Create facility design that decrease travel distances within the
building, speed up handling times, and enable effective workflows. Apply concepts like
Lean or Six Sigma.
B. Capacity Management
Capacity Planning: Assess current and future demand to establish the optimal capacity
for each facility. Ensure that facilities are neither over nor under-utilized to avoid
inefficiencies.
Scalability: Implement adaptable facility designs that can be quickly expanded or
changed to changing business needs, such as seasonal demand changes.
c. Technology Integration
Automation: Use automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), conveyor systems,
and robotics to increase efficiency and reduce labor costs in warehousing and
manufacturing facilities.
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): Implement WMS software to manage
inventory levels, track shipments, and optimize order fulfillment processes. This allows
for real-time visibility into inventory and operations.
2. Inventory Management
Reducing expenses, guaranteeing product availability, and preserving the proper supply
and demand balance all depend on efficient inventory management.
Demand Prediction
A. Precise Prediction:
To forecast consumer demand, use statistical techniques, historical data, and market
analysis. To improve forecasting accuracy, include feedback from customer service,
marketing, and sales.
Cooperation:
Safety Stock: Keep the right amount of safety stock on hand to reduce the chance of
stockouts, taking lead times and demand fluctuations into account.
Merchandise Turnover: To gauge how rapidly merchandise is sold and restocked, track
inventory turnover ratios. By cutting back on surplus inventory and streamlining
replenishment processes, try to increase turnover rates.
D. Systems for Inventory Control
Just-in-Time (JIT): Use JIT inventory techniques to cut down on excess inventory and
holding costs. To guarantee on-time delivery, this strategy necessitates careful
cooperation with suppliers.
Cycle Counting: To keep precise inventory records and promptly spot inconsistencies,
perform routine cycle counts. This procedure lowers the possibility of stockouts and
increases inventory accuracy.
3. Management of Transportation
One of the most important logistical factors influencing the dependability, cost, and speed
of transporting items through the supply chain is transportation.
A. Modes of Transportation and Choice
Mode Selection: Consider cost, speed, capacity, and service levels while evaluating
various modes of transportation (such as air, sea, train, and road). Select the option based
on cost considerations and consumer expectations
Intermodal Transportation: To reduce expenses and increase delivery effectiveness,
take into account intermodal options that integrate several modes of transportation.
B. Optimization of Routes
Route Planning Software: Take into account variables like traffic patterns, delivery
windows, and fuel prices while using route optimization software to identify the most
effective delivery routes.
Dynamic Routing: Put into practice dynamic routing techniques that instantly modify
routes in response to shifting circumstances, such traffic, bad weather, or delays.
C. Management of Carriers
Supply Chain Management (SCM) Software: Use SCM software to improve decision-
making by integrating data from all logistical drivers and provide operational visibility.
Data-Driven Insights: Use data analytics to learn more about logistics performance,
spot inefficiencies, and make wise choices that improve the efficacy of the supply chain
as a whole.
C. Ongoing Enhancement
Kaizen and Lean Practices: Encourage staff members to point out inefficiencies and
suggest fixes in order to promote a culture of continuous improvement. Put Lean
approaches into practice to save waste and boost productivity.
Performance Reviews: To find opportunities for improvement, evaluate operational
procedures and logistics performance on a regular basis. Utilize benchmarks and metrics
to evaluate performance and promote ongoing improvements.
Managing cross functional drivers
1. Management of Information
Data Visibility: To give real-time access to important supply chain data, like inventory
easier, make sure all departments have access to the same data.
Collaborative Tools: Put in place collaboration tools that let departments talk about
information across departments, tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and collaborative
forecasting models that aggregate data from several departments, such as sales,
marketing, and finance. Including inputs from several departments’ aids in balancing
Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP): To match supply chain operations with
corporate goals, hold frequent S&OP meetings where cross-functional teams examine
Advanced Analytics: Examine vast amounts of supply chain data using artificial
intelligence (AI) and predictive analytics techniques. These technologies can assist in
assessing supply chain risks, forecasting market demand, and refining pricing and
sourcing tactics.
time, unit cost, and supplier lead times are a few examples.
2. Management of Sourcing
Purchasing components, raw materials, and services from vendors is referred to as
complies with CSR (corporate social responsibility) and sustainability objectives. Teams
from production, procurement, and law must collaborate to make sure suppliers follow
Supplier Audits: Conduct routine supplier audits to ensure adherence to quality and
sustainability standards. Involve the finance, legal, and sourcing departments to guarantee
trends. Pricing plans that are in line with supply chain capabilities and market conditions
Responsive Pricing: Make use of dynamic pricing models that modify prices in
response to lead times, inventory levels, and variations in demand. To make sure that
prices represent the realities of the supply chain today, the finance, marketing, and sales
teams must work together.
Cost-Plus Pricing: A "cost-plus" model, in which pricing is correlated with production
and procurement expenses, is the foundation of pricing strategies in some industries.
Finding cost-cutting measures that enable more competitive pricing while preserving
profitability can be facilitated by cross-functional teams.
B. Discounts and Promotions
Market Sensitivity: Establish region-specific prices that take into account local taxes,
exchange rates, and market conditions by collaborating across functional boundaries. To
keep prices competitive in local markets and reflect costs, supply chain teams need to
work with regional offices, marketing, and finance.
Take into account taxes and tariffs: Match pricing plans withTo keep prices
competitive in local markets and reflect costs, supply chain teams need to work with
regional offices, marketing, and finance.
Tax and Tariff Considerations: Make that pricing plans are in line with international
supply chain activities, particularly in markets where tax laws or tariffs are subject to
change. To cut costs, make sure pricing models account for these variances and optimize
supply chain paths.
Shared Objectives: Create KPIs and shared goals that direct the various departments
toward a single supply chain objective, including enhancing customer happiness,
cutting lead times, or cutting expenses overall.
Cross-Functional Teams: Form cross-functional groups to address important supply
chain projects. To guarantee that all viewpoints are represented, these teams should
have representatives from the following departments: sales, marketing, production,
logistics, finance, and procurement.
B. Integration of Technology
ERP Systems: Put in place integrated ERP systems that facilitate seamless data
management software.
objectives with the supply chain strategy as a whole, senior leadership can encourage
Teams for Cross-Functional Risk: Create cross-functional risk management teams that
are capable of evaluating risks from several perspectives, including operational, market,
and supplier risks, and creating plans to mitigate them.
Scenario Planning: Create and model various supply chain disruption scenarios and
guarantee cross-functional cooperation in creating backup plans, like production shifts or
alternate sources.
B. Developing Quickness
Responsive Supply Chains: Establish flexible supply chains that can react fast to shifts
in market conditions, supplier interruptions, or demand. Cross-functional teams can
collaborate to provide adaptable logistics, real-time data analysis, and flexible production
scheduling.
Flexible Contracts: Create contracts with suppliers and consumers that permit flexibility
by collaborating with the legal, procurement, and finance departments.
6.3 Importance of managing cross functional drivers in supply chain
Achieving operational excellence and preserving a competitive edge in the supply chain
need effective management of cross-functional drivers. Here is a thorough examination of
the significance of handling these drivers well:
1. Increased Productivity
Simplified Procedures: By ensuring that many departments—such as sales,
production, logistics, and procurement—are in sync, cross-functional management
promotes more efficient procedures and less duplication.
Improved Resource Utilization: When departments work together, inefficiencies are
found and eliminated, resulting in better resource use and lower expenses.
8. Ecological Methods
Integrated Sustainability Initiatives: By fostering cross-functional cooperation,
sustainable supply chain practices are developed and implemented, more successfully
satisfying social and environmental obligations.
Standards and Compliance: When departments work together, it is easier to manage
adherence to ethical and sustainable standards, which lowers the risk of non-
compliance with regulations.
2. Coordination Complexity
o Diverse areas: It can be difficult and time-consuming to coordinate efforts across
multiple areas, including marketing, production, logistics, and procurement. Processes,
deadlines, and priorities may vary by department.
Resource Allocation: When departments vie for scarce resources, it can be difficult to
allocate resources (material, financial, and human) among functions.
9. Risk Management
o Risk Identification: While cross-functional cooperation is necessary for a thorough risk
assessment, departments may fail to recognize hazards in their respective domains,
resulting in vulnerabilities that go unchecked.
o Response Coordination: It can be difficult to coordinate a response across functions in
the event of a disruption. Confusion may result from disparate procedures and priorities
among departments.
Sustainability has become a pressing concern in pharmaceutical supply chain management due to the
industry's significant impact on environmental resources, public health, and economic systems.
The pharmaceutical supply chain involves a series of complex processes, from raw material sourcing,
manufacturing, packaging, and transportation to the final distribution of medicines.
Each stage has sustainability challenges and opportunities that companies must address to maintain long-
term viability while minimizing negative impacts.
1. Environmental Sustainability
The pharmaceutical industry consumes vast amounts of resources such as energy, water, and raw
materials. It also produces large quantities of waste, including chemical by-products, packaging waste,
and unused medications.
Environmental sustainability in this context means reducing the ecological footprint across the entire
supply chain.
Example:
Pfizer’s Sertraline Production: In their manufacturing of sertraline (an antidepressant), Pfizer employed
greener chemistry, reducing water use by 88% and solvent waste by 93%. This shift not only minimized the
company’s environmental footprint but also reduced operating costs.
Reducing waste is a key priority in making the pharmaceutical supply chain more sustainable. In many
countries, unused or expired medications are improperly disposed of, leading to pollution of water bodies and
soil. Implementing effective reverse logistics helps mitigate this problem by encouraging the return of unused
medications to manufacturers for proper disposal or recycling.
Example:
Reverse Logistics for Expired Drugs: Companies like CVS Health have systems that allow customers to
return expired or unused drugs for proper disposal. This reduces the environmental impact of improperly
discarded pharmaceuticals.
Transportation of pharmaceuticals involves significant fuel consumption and emissions. Optimizing delivery
routes, adopting greener modes of transport (e.g., electric vehicles), and reducing unnecessary trips contribute
to a lower carbon footprint.
Example:
GSK’s Solar-Powered Facilities: GlaxoSmithKline has installed solar panels in its distribution centers to
power operations, decreasing reliance on non-renewable energy sources.
2. Social Sustainability
Social sustainability refers to the human and societal impact of the pharmaceutical supply chain. This includes
labor practices, community health and safety, and the ethical implications of sourcing, manufacturing, and
distribution.
Pharmaceutical companies rely on the global supply chain for sourcing raw materials, which may come from
regions with different labor laws and environmental standards. Ensuring ethical sourcing means using
suppliers that adhere to fair labor practices, promote worker safety, and protect local environments.
Example:
Fair Labor Standards for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs): The pharmaceutical industry sources
many APIs from countries like India and China. Companies must ensure that these suppliers follow ethical
labor practices, such as providing fair wages and safe working conditions.
b. Community Impact and Patient Safety
The production and distribution of pharmaceuticals should prioritize the safety and health of patients and
communities. In some cases, counterfeit drugs can enter the supply chain, posing serious risks to patients.
Ensuring authenticity and traceability through technologies such as block chain helps to maintain the
integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
Example:
Block chain for Drug Traceability: Companies like Merck are using block chain technology to enhance the
traceability of pharmaceuticals, reducing the risk of counterfeit drugs entering the supply chain.
Pharmaceutical companies have a responsibility to ensure that medicines are accessible, especially in low-
income regions. Access to medicines is a crucial component of social sustainability. Programs that focus on
tiered pricing (where drug prices are adjusted based on the income level of the country) and donations can
significantly enhance access.
Example:
Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance: This organization works with pharmaceutical companies to provide vaccines to
low-income countries at reduced prices or through donations. This helps ensure equitable access to life-saving
medicines, which is a vital aspect of social sustainability.
3. Economic Sustainability
Economic sustainability in pharmaceutical supply chains is about achieving profitability while maintaining
affordability, optimizing resources, and building resilient supply chains that can withstand market fluctuations
and disruptions.
Pharmaceutical companies can reduce costs and increase efficiency through lean logistics, which focuses on
eliminating waste, reducing lead times, and optimizing inventory management. By minimizing excess
inventory, overproduction, and unnecessary transportation, companies can lower costs and improve their
sustainability.
Example:
Novartis’ Lean Manufacturing: Novartis has implemented lean management techniques, streamlining its
supply chain to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and cut costs while ensuring timely delivery of medications.
Economic sustainability must also ensure that essential medicines remain affordable, particularly in
developing regions. High drug prices can limit access, negatively impacting public health. Partnerships and
initiatives to lower costs for underserved populations contribute to sustainable economic practices.
Example:
Roche’s Access to Oncology Medicines: Roche offers tiered pricing models and patient assistance programs
to ensure that cancer treatments are accessible to patients in developing countries, aligning economic
sustainability with patient care.
The pharmaceutical supply chain is vulnerable to disruptions, including natural disasters, political instability,
and global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. To build resilience, companies must diversify
suppliers, develop contingency plans, and invest in flexible supply chain designs that can quickly adapt to
changing conditions.
Example:
AstraZeneca's Resilient Vaccine Supply Chain: During the COVID-19 pandemic, AstraZeneca rapidly
adapted its supply chain by diversifying suppliers and production sites across different countries to ensure the
uninterrupted supply of its vaccine.
4. Regulatory Compliance and Sustainability
Pharmaceutical companies operate under stringent regulations, which influence how they approach
sustainability. These regulations cover environmental impact, health and safety standards, and ethical business
practices.
Pharmaceutical companies are required to adhere to local and international environmental regulations,
including reducing emissions, managing waste, and controlling chemical pollutants. These regulations ensure
that companies are held accountable for their environmental impacts.
Example:
European Union Emission Trading Scheme (EU ETS): Pharmaceutical companies operating in Europe
must comply with the EU ETS, which sets limits on greenhouse gas emissions and promotes the use of
cleaner technologies to reduce carbon footprints.
GDP guidelines govern the handling, storage, and transportation of pharmaceutical products to ensure their
quality and safety. Sustainability efforts must ensure that these practices are adhered to while also minimizing
environmental impact.
Example:
Cold Chain Logistics for Vaccines: The storage and transportation of vaccines in temperature-controlled
environments require significant energy. Companies are adopting sustainable practices by using energy-
efficient cold chain systems that comply with GDP standards while reducing environmental impact.
A significant portion of the pharmaceutical supply chain involves cold chain logistics, where temperature-
sensitive products such as vaccines and biologics must be stored and transported at specific temperatures. The
energy consumption of cold chain logistics can be substantial, so improving energy efficiency is essential for
sustainability.
a. Energy-efficient Cold Storage Solutions
Cold storage facilities are adopting new technologies to reduce energy consumption. Solar-powered cold
storage units, for instance, use renewable energy to maintain the necessary temperatures for pharmaceuticals
without relying on traditional energy sources.
Example:
Solar-powered Cold Storage: Companies like Biocon are investing in solar-powered cold storage facilities,
reducing their reliance on fossil fuels and lowering operational costs.
b. Energy-efficient Transport
Using hybrid or electric vehicles for the distribution of temperature-sensitive products further reduces carbon
emissions. Route optimization tools also ensure that the most efficient delivery paths are used, reducing fuel
consumption.
Example:
Electric Delivery Vehicles: DHL has integrated electric vehicles into its logistics operations for the delivery
of pharmaceuticals, particularly in urban areas, reducing emissions and aligning with its sustainability goals.
6. Sustainable Packaging
Pharmaceutical packaging contributes significantly to waste, often consisting of non-recyclable materials. The
move toward sustainable packaging includes reducing plastic use, adopting biodegradable or recyclable
materials, and designing packages that minimize waste.
Many pharmaceutical products are packaged in plastic, which is not biodegradable and often ends up in
landfills or oceans. Companies are now moving toward biodegradable alternatives or minimizing the amount
of plastic used in packaging.
Example:
Biodegradable Blister Packaging: Some companies are exploring biodegradable blister packaging for tablets
and capsules. Novartis has initiated research into developing such sustainable packaging solutions.
Beyond plastics, pharmaceutical companies are switching to materials that are easier to recycle or that
degrade naturally without causing harm to the environment.
Example:
Johnson & Johnson’s Sustainable Packaging Initiatives: Johnson & Johnson is reducing packaging waste
by using recyclable and biodegradable materials and has set ambitious goals to minimize packaging-related
waste across its global operations.
Climate change poses significant risks to the pharmaceutical supply chain. Extreme weather events, rising
temperatures, and shifting climate patterns can disrupt supply chains, affect transportation routes, and damage
infrastructure.
a. Climate-resilient Infrastructure
Building climate-resilient supply chains involves investing in infrastructure that can withstand extreme
weather conditions and planning for disruptions by developing alternative transportation routes and suppliers.
Example:
Hurricane-proof Warehouses: Pharmaceutical companies in hurricane-prone areas like the Gulf of Mexico
are investing in climate-resilient warehouses designed to withstand extreme weather, ensuring the continued
supply of essential medications during disasters.
Chapter VIII: Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Management – Performance Measures
Performance measures in pharmaceutical supply chain management (PSCM) are critical for ensuring
that medications are delivered efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulatory standards.
The pharmaceutical supply chain is characterized by its complexity and stringent regulations, necessitating
robust measurement systems to evaluate performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that
resources are utilized effectively.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are quantifiable metrics that organizations use to gauge their
performance against strategic objectives. In the pharmaceutical supply chain, KPIs help monitor
critical processes, enhance efficiency, and ensure patient safety.
Definition: OTIF measures the percentage of customer orders that are delivered on time and in the full
quantity requested. It reflects the reliability of the supply chain and is crucial in the pharmaceutical
sector, where timely delivery of medications can significantly impact patient health.
Importance: High OTIF rates are essential for maintaining customer trust and ensuring that patients
receive their medications when they need them. Delays or incomplete deliveries can lead to severe
health consequences.
Example: Pfizer regularly monitors OTIF metrics across its global distribution network to ensure that
hospitals and pharmacies receive their orders promptly. They have implemented advanced forecasting
and inventory management systems to improve their OTIF rates, which have been particularly
important during the COVID-19 pandemic when vaccine distribution was critical.
b. Inventory Turnover
Definition: This KPI measures how many times inventory is sold and replaced over a specific period.
It helps companies assess how effectively they manage stock levels and respond to market demand.
Importance: A higher inventory turnover rate indicates efficient inventory management, reducing
holding costs and minimizing the risk of product expiration, especially for pharmaceutical products
with limited shelf lives.
Example: Novartis tracks inventory turnover closely to ensure that their products are moving
efficiently through the supply chain. By leveraging just-in-time inventory practices, they reduce excess
stock, thereby freeing up warehouse space and minimizing costs associated with unsold inventory.
Definition: Order cycle time measures the total time taken from order placement to the delivery of
products to the customer. This includes processing time, picking, packing, and shipping.
Importance: Reducing order cycle time is crucial for improving customer satisfaction and meeting the
urgent needs of patients, especially for critical medications.
Example: AstraZeneca uses advanced logistics solutions and real-time tracking systems to minimize
order cycle times. By optimizing their fulfillment processes, they have been able to significantly
reduce delivery times for critical medications during health emergencies.
d) Lead Time
Definition: Lead time refers to the total time taken to procure, manufacture, and deliver a product. It
encompasses all stages of the supply chain, from raw materials to the end customer.
Importance: Shortening lead time enhances supply chain responsiveness, allowing companies to
quickly adapt to changes in demand and minimize stockouts.
Example: Moderna focused on minimizing lead times during the COVID-19 pandemic by scaling up
production and establishing strategic partnerships with suppliers, ensuring a rapid supply of vaccines
to meet global demand.
Definition: This KPI measures the percentage of orders delivered without any issues, including the
right product, correct quantity, complete documentation, and timely delivery.
Importance: Achieving a high perfect order rate is essential for ensuring customer satisfaction and
maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
Example: Johnson & Johnson employs sophisticated logistics software to track perfect order rates
across its supply chain, allowing them to identify and rectify issues promptly, thereby maintaining
high service levels.
2. Regulatory Compliance and Quality Control Measures
Given the highly regulated nature of the pharmaceutical industry, compliance with quality standards
and regulations is paramount. Pharmaceutical companies must implement rigorous quality control
measures throughout their supply chains.
Definition: GMP encompasses regulations and guidelines that ensure pharmaceutical products are
consistently produced and controlled according to quality standards. These practices cover all aspects
of production, including raw materials, hygiene, equipment, and training.
Importance: Compliance with GMP is vital for ensuring product safety and efficacy, which is critical
for maintaining public trust and avoiding costly recalls or legal issues.
Example: Roche implements comprehensive GMP compliance protocols at all its manufacturing
facilities. Regular audits and inspections are conducted to ensure adherence to GMP standards,
minimizing the risk of quality issues in their products.
Definition: GDP guidelines ensure that pharmaceutical products are stored, transported, and
distributed under conditions that maintain their quality and integrity. This is particularly important for
temperature-sensitive products like vaccines and biologics.
Importance: Ensuring compliance with GDP helps prevent product degradation, which could
compromise patient safety and result in financial losses for companies.
Example: Sanofi employs temperature-controlled logistics and real-time monitoring systems to
comply with GDP requirements for its vaccine distribution, ensuring that products maintain their
required temperature throughout the supply chain.
Definition: This involves monitoring and reporting any negative side effects or safety concerns
associated with pharmaceutical products. Companies are required to report adverse events to
regulatory authorities to ensure patient safety.
Importance: Timely adverse event reporting is critical for addressing safety concerns and maintaining
regulatory compliance. It also helps companies improve their products and mitigate risks.
Example: GSK maintains a robust pharmacovigilance system to track and report adverse events
associated with its medications, ensuring swift action is taken to address any safety issues.
Managing costs effectively is crucial for the sustainability and profitability of pharmaceutical
companies. Efficiency measures help identify opportunities for cost reduction while maintaining
product quality.
Definition: This measure assesses the total cost incurred to produce and deliver one unit of a
pharmaceutical product. It encompasses manufacturing, distribution, and overhead costs.
Importance: Reducing the cost per unit enables companies to offer competitive pricing while
maintaining profitability, which is especially important in a highly competitive market.
Example: Boehringer Ingelheim continually evaluates its production processes to lower the cost per
unit for its medications, employing automation and process optimization strategies to enhance
efficiency.
Definition: Total supply chain costs include all expenses related to procurement, production,
transportation, and distribution. Monitoring these costs is essential for identifying inefficiencies and
improving profitability.
Importance: Keeping total supply chain costs under control allows companies to invest in innovation
and improvements, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Example: AbbVie conducts regular analyses of total supply chain costs to uncover inefficiencies and
streamline operations, resulting in cost savings that can be reinvested in research and development.
c. Waste Reduction
Definition: Waste reduction measures the effectiveness of efforts to minimize waste in the production
and distribution processes. This includes material waste, energy waste, and inefficiencies in processes.
Importance: Reducing waste not only lowers operational costs but also enhances the environmental
sustainability of pharmaceutical operations.
Example: Merck has implemented lean manufacturing practices to significantly reduce waste in its
production lines, leading to lower costs and a smaller environmental footprint.
Pharmaceutical supply chains face various risks, including disruptions from natural disasters,
geopolitical issues, and public health emergencies. Resilience measures help companies prepare for
and respond to these challenges.
Definition: This index measures the preparedness of a company to handle disruptions, assessing
factors such as supplier diversity, contingency planning, and crisis management protocols.
Importance: A high risk mitigation index indicates a company’s ability to adapt quickly to unforeseen
circumstances, ensuring continuous supply and minimizing disruptions.
Example: Bayer evaluates its supply chain risk mitigation index regularly, ensuring that it has robust
contingency plans and alternative suppliers in place to maintain operations during disruptions.
b. Supplier Reliability
Definition: Supplier reliability measures the consistency and dependability of suppliers in delivering
raw materials and APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients) on time and to the required quality
standards.
Importance: Reliable suppliers are essential for maintaining uninterrupted production and ensuring
product quality.
Example: Eli Lilly conducts thorough audits and performance reviews of its suppliers to assess their
reliability, ensuring that they can meet the company’s stringent quality requirements.
Definition: Flexibility measures how quickly a supply chain can adapt to changes in demand, supply
shortages, or regulatory requirements. A flexible supply chain can quickly adjust production schedules
and shift resources as needed.
Importance: High flexibility allows pharmaceutical companies to respond rapidly to market changes,
ensuring that they can meet customer demands even in challenging situations.
Example: Teva Pharmaceuticals enhanced its supply chain flexibility during the COVID-19
pandemic by diversifying its supplier base and establishing additional production sites, ensuring a
continuous supply of critical medications.
a. Carbon Emissions
Definition: Carbon emissions measure the total greenhouse gases produced across the supply chain,
including manufacturing, transportation, and distribution.
Importance: Reducing carbon emissions is essential for minimizing environmental impact and
meeting sustainability goals.
Example: Novo Nordisk tracks its carbon emissions and has set ambitious targets to achieve carbon
neutrality by 2025, transitioning to renewable energy sources for its production facilities.
b. Energy Efficiency
Definition: Energy efficiency measures the amount of energy consumed during manufacturing,
storage, and transportation processes. Improving energy efficiency helps lower costs and reduce
environmental impact.
Importance: High energy efficiency not only reduces operational costs but also aligns with corporate
social responsibility goals and regulatory requirements.
Example: Amgen has implemented energy-efficient technologies in its production facilities, achieving
a 23% reduction in energy use, which contributes to their sustainability initiatives.
c. Waste Management
Definition: Waste management measures the effectiveness of efforts to minimize waste generated
during manufacturing and distribution processes. This includes managing hazardous waste and
implementing recycling programs.
Importance: Effective waste management helps companies comply with environmental regulations
and enhances their reputation among stakeholders.
Example: GlaxoSmithKline has set a goal to reduce packaging waste by 25% by 2025 by using
recyclable materials and minimizing excess packaging in its products.
Customer satisfaction is paramount in the pharmaceutical industry, where patient safety and timely
access to medications are critical. Measuring service levels helps companies evaluate their
performance in meeting customer needs.
a. Order Accuracy
Definition: Order accuracy measures the percentage of orders delivered without errors. A high order
accuracy rate ensures that customers receive the correct medications in the right quantities.
Importance: Accurate orders are vital for maintaining trust with healthcare providers and patients, as
errors can have serious health consequences.
Example: Bristol-Myers Squibb uses automated systems to verify orders before shipment,
maintaining a high order accuracy rate and ensuring that customers receive the correct products.
Definition: This index measures the overall satisfaction of customers with the products and services
provided. It includes factors like delivery times, product quality, and customer support.
Importance: High customer satisfaction is critical for repeat business and building long-term
relationships with healthcare providers.
Example: Takeda conducts regular surveys to gauge customer satisfaction, using the feedback to
identify areas for improvement in service delivery and product quality.
Conclusion
Organizations must manage cross-functional supply chain drivers to improve overall performance,
responsiveness, and efficiency. This entails creating a collaborative culture, making technological
integration investments, and cultivating strong leadership support. Organizations can develop a supply
chain that is more responsive and agile by concentrating on efficient facilities management, inventory
control, and transportation techniques. A high-performing supply chain requires the coordinated
management of cross-functional factors, such as pricing, sourcing, and information. A company's overall
cost structure, responsiveness, and flexibility are all impacted by striking a balance between these factors,
and this has an effect on customer satisfaction and competition. Organizations can align their objectives,
enhance performance, and achieve long-term success in the dynamic market environment of today by
encouraging collaboration across functions.
Sustainability issues in the pharmaceutical supply chain are multifaceted, requiring careful consideration
of environmental, social, and economic factors. By adopting greener technologies, ensuring ethical
practices, and building resilient and efficient supply chains, pharmaceutical companies can enhance their
sustainability while continuing to deliver life-saving medications globally.
Performance measures in pharmaceutical supply chain management are vital for ensuring efficiency,
safety, and regulatory compliance. By monitoring key indicators such as delivery times, cost efficiency,
regulatory compliance, and sustainability, pharmaceutical companies can optimize their supply chains,
enhance operational outcomes, and improve patient satisfaction. The ability to adapt to changes, reduce
waste, and maintain high levels of customer service is essential for long-term success in the highly
competitive pharmaceutical industry. By prioritizing these performance measures, companies can better
serve patients and contribute to overall public health.
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