Ford Motor Company Supply Chain Strategy Case Report
Ford Motor Company Supply Chain Strategy Case Report
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As director of Supply Chain Systems, I have decided to implement portions of the new supply chain strategy of Virtual Integration and strategies from companies like Dell. Although there are several key differences between the companies, Dell’s virtual integration strategy can be applied to Ford’s supply chain operation. A modification of the virtual integration system currently used by Dell could be applied to Ford’s dependent supplier base, distribution system, dealerships and divisions. Special care will need to be taken to address the unique dependency of our custom Tier 1 supplier. The management of lower tier suppliers of general or generic components would be more effectively suited by the standard procedures used by Dell.
If we at Ford could find a solution to the obstacles of virtual integration, it could make our supply chain run smoothly with less bottlenecking, inventory, and better overall performance. Managers could overcome the complex and error-prone manual process of forecasting and procuring parts which would result in reduced OTD lessen costs and enhance customer satisfaction.
ISSUE IDENTIFICATION
Senior Executives have asked how Ford should use the emerging information technologies and ideas from new high-tech industries to change the way we interact with Suppliers. We must find ways to improve the Supply Chain management and to increase shareholder value and Supply Chain responsiveness. Specifically we are looking at how Dell manages their Supply Chain and incorporates the virtual integration strategy. A decision is required before the next meeting with the VP of Quality and Process Leadership.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS
Ford’s Supply Chain is based on Vertical Integration and Outsourcing strategy, this has created a complex supply chain, increasing inventory and OTD (Order to Delivery Times). The reorganizational efforts to date; JIT, TQM, SMF; have
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As director of Supply Chain Systems, I have decided to implement portions of the new supply chain strategy of Virtual Integration and strategies from companies like Dell. Although there are several key differences between the companies, Dell’s virtual integration strategy can be applied to Ford’s supply chain operation. A modification of the virtual integration system currently used by Dell could be applied to Ford’s dependent supplier base, distribution system, dealerships and divisions. Special care will need to be taken to address the unique dependency of our custom Tier 1 supplier. The management of lower tier suppliers of general or generic components would be more effectively suited by the standard procedures used by Dell.
If we at Ford could find a solution to the obstacles of virtual integration, it could make our supply chain run smoothly with less bottlenecking, inventory, and better overall performance. Managers could overcome the complex and error-prone manual process of forecasting and procuring parts which would result in reduced OTD lessen costs and enhance customer satisfaction.
ISSUE IDENTIFICATION
Senior Executives have asked how Ford should use the emerging information technologies and ideas from new high-tech industries to change the way we interact with Suppliers. We must find ways to improve the Supply Chain management and to increase shareholder value and Supply Chain responsiveness. Specifically we are looking at how Dell manages their Supply Chain and incorporates the virtual integration strategy. A decision is required before the next meeting with the VP of Quality and Process Leadership.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND ROOT CAUSE ANALYSIS
Ford’s Supply Chain is based on Vertical Integration and Outsourcing strategy, this has created a complex supply chain, increasing inventory and OTD (Order to Delivery Times). The reorganizational efforts to date; JIT, TQM, SMF; have