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Supply Chain Digitalization Consultant at SupplyOn: Taking responsibility and shaping the future of the supply chain

An interview with Christian Poetzel, Manager Consulting Supplier Management at SupplyOnThe role of digitalization consultant is more important today than ever before - especially in supply chain management. At SupplyOn, exciting career paths are opening up for people who want to actively shape the digital transformation of global supply chains. Christian Poetzel, Manager in the Consulting division, gives an insight into his day-to-day work, describes the skills required in this role and shows what development opportunities are open to consultants at SupplyOn.What does your everyday life as a Manager in Consulting look like?Christian: We support companies in digitizing their supplier relationships and making them more sustainable. My team and I help to make data in complex supply chains transparent and to optimize processes in a targeted manner. Together with our customers, we create the basis for greater efficiency and stability in their supply chains.My job as a manager is to create the framework conditions so that my team can successfully implement projects. This includes analyzing processes, identifying potential and implementing our digital software solutions together with our customers.No two days are the same: sometimes the focus is on internal coordination, sometimes we work closely with our customers on strategic projects. The focus is always on the question of how we can translate specific requirements into tailor-made digital solutions. The variety of topics makes the work not only varied, but also very exciting.What key skills does a consultant need in the field of supply chain digitization?Christian: Clear, structured communication and a good feel for different perspectives are important skills - both internally and externally. Close cooperation with our customers requires us to understand complex requirements and present them in an understandable way. It is important to develop viable solutions in a team and with the customer.In addition to strong communication skills, personal responsibility and a solution-oriented approach are required. The digital transformation in supply chain management is constantly evolving. Anyone who is open to change and enjoys learning new things is in good hands with us. We encourage independent action and expect our consultants to take responsibility - right from the start. Maria-Pia Drago and Xiurong Cai, for example, show what this looks like in everyday life in their experience report “Taking Ownership”.At a professional level, you need a certain affinity for IT and experience in project management. Our daily tasks include planning, coordinating and implementing our digital solutions for international customers. Structured process thinking is also important in order to analyze and sustainably improve complex supplier processes. These skills help us to drive forward the digital transformation of our customers in a targeted manner.What career paths does SupplyOn Consultants offer in the field of digitalization?Christian: At SupplyOn, there are many opportunities to actively shape your own career path. If you start as a Consultant Digitalization, you can specialize in a specific area - such as transport management, supplier relationship management or quality management. These specializations offer the opportunity to delve deeper into a specialist area and establish yourself as an expert.With increasing experience, the tasks and responsibilities grow. Many colleagues initially take on smaller projects or sub-projects and later manage comprehensive programs for our customers. The transition to a management role is often gradual - as was the case with my colleague Kathrin. She started as a working student, later managed several projects in parallel and is now a manager at SupplyOn.There are exciting global projects for anyone looking for international collaboration. Working closely with global teams is part of our everyday life. It is important to us that everyone finds an individual path that suits their own strengths and goals - whether in an expert role or as a manager. In any case, SupplyOn offers the opportunity to actively shape the digital transformation and take on responsibility.Why is SupplyOn an attractive employer for consultants in digitalization?Christian: At SupplyOn, we create an environment in which thinking and shaping are expressly encouraged. Our consultants make decisions where their professional expertise lies - in the team and directly in the project. This gives them room to contribute their own ideas, develop solutions and implement them together with our customers.Our collaboration is based on team spirit and co-creation. The focus is on our customers' requirements and the development of sustainable solutions. This opens up new perspectives and the opportunity to continuously develop your own skills.At the same time, we attach great importance to individual development. Whether through targeted further training, new tasks in a different role or the next step towards leadership - we encourage and support you on your path. Those who work for us have the opportunity to really make a difference.What appeals to you most about your leadership role?Christian: I am particularly motivated by the opportunity to accompany and support my team. It is an enriching task to create a framework in which people can develop their skills and take on responsibility. I find it fulfilling to see how colleagues take on new tasks and contribute their own ideas.I also love the impact we have with our work. We support our customers in making their supply chains more efficient and creating transparency - and thus make a tangible contribution to their business success. The variety of projects, collaboration with international teams and the dynamics of digital transformation ensure that no two days are the same. This mix of strategic responsibility, teamwork and variety is what makes this role so appealing to me.You can find more insights into leadership and responsibility here: Vibrant leadership culture

SCM Insights

Reduce costs: optimize production timing and quantities depending on demand and capacity

In today's competitive economy, the efficient management of production processes is a key success factor. Companies are faced with the challenge of planning production times and quantities in such a way that they both meet demand and minimize costs. But how can this balancing act be achieved?In this article, we look at how matching demand and capacity is the key to cost optimization and how our software solution with its powerful simulation and optimization feature makes a decisive contribution to this.The basics: Why are production timing and quantities so important?A company's production is closely linked to several factors: Demand, available capacity, storage costs and delivery times. Inefficient planning can have serious consequences:Overproduction leads to increased storage costs and a risk of write-offs if products become obsolete or are not sold.Underproduction, on the other hand, causes supply bottlenecks that result in lost sales and possible damage to customer relationships.Optimizing production timing and quantities helps to minimize these risks and at the same time reduce costs along the entire value chain.Key factors for optimization1.Demand forecastThe basis of all production planning is a precise forecast of demand. This includes analyzing historical sales data, taking seasonal fluctuations into account and observing market trends. Modern technologies such as machine learning and big data can make a significant contribution here by identifying patterns and correlations more quickly and accurately.2.Capacity managementProduction capacity is often limited by resources such as machines, personnel and materials. Companies must ensure that they utilize their capacities optimally without risking overtime, expensive production relocations or high machine wear and tear.Flexible capacity models - such as shift systems or external production partners - offer scope to cushion peaks in demand.Cost factors also play a decisive role.Our solution: Simulation feature for flexible "what-if" analysesThe complexity of modern production planning is often complicated by uncertainties and dependencies in the supply chain. Our software solution addresses this problem with an integrated simulation feature that offers customers and suppliers alike enormous added value.With this feature, companies can flexibly and efficiently carry out "what-if" analyses to evaluate possible scenarios:How does a sudden increase in demand affect the number of my alerts?What happens if a supplier delays a delivery?What production quantity minimizes the total costs for a given stock limit?How critical would a temporary reduction in capacity be?The simulation provides answers to these questions in real time. That way you can:Recognize bottlenecks at an early stage and take action before they occur.React flexibly to external influences, such as seasonal fluctuations or market changes.Increase efficiency by finding the optimal balance between production, storage and transportation costs.AI-supported suggestions for optimizing production planning can almost completely relieve you of the manual effort of demand and capacity planning.The interactive visualization and the ability to share simulations with your partners bring all stakeholders together to make informed decisions and jointly develop an optimally coordinated strategy.Based on these parameters, our tool determines optimized production planning and even provides insights into the basis on which decisions were made.

SCM Insights

Key takeaways from the webinar: How Bosch Rexroth runs modern Demand Capacity Management (DCM) in 2025

In our recent webinar, "How Bosch Rexroth runs modern Demand Capacity Management (DCM) in 2025," key experts from Bosch Rexroth provided comprehensive insights into managing today's increasingly complex and volatile supply chains. Here are the extensive highlights from the session, which offer valuable lessons and practical strategies for other manufacturing companies:1. Comprehensive Integration of Digital PlatformsBosch Rexroth emphasized the importance of fully integrating digital platforms across their entire operational ecosystem. By employing these integrated systems, Rexroth has achieved seamless real-time collaboration with global suppliers, thus gaining complete visibility and control over their supply chain. This integrated approach addresses critical challenges such as data fragmentation, inconsistent supplier communication, and slow decision-making, enabling manufacturers to swiftly adapt to changing market demands and conditions.2. Transparency and Analytics for Enhanced Decision MakingBosch Rexroth demonstrated their sophisticated use of transparency and predictive analytics powered by SupplyOn’s advanced tools. Predictive analytics enables fast demand simulation, proactive capacity management, and the ability to swiftly respond to potential disruptions. Other manufacturing companies facing uncertainties such as demand volatility and unexpected supply chain interruptions can leverage predictive analytics to anticipate changes, optimize resource allocation, and strengthen overall supply chain resilience.3. Agile Supply Chain ProcessesA significant challenge highlighted by Bosch Rexroth was the difficulty in maintaining responsiveness amid unpredictable demand changes and supply disruptions. To address this, they have developed highly agile supply chain processes underpinned by robust and continuous supplier collaboration. By emphasizing flexibility, Bosch Rexroth has successfully managed unexpected fluctuations, avoiding inventory shortages and excesses, thus ensuring customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Manufacturers can adopt similar agile methodologies to enhance responsiveness and flexibility in their supply chains.4. Real-Time Supplier Collaboration with Capacity TrackerBosch Rexroth specifically detailed their strategic use of SupplyOn’s Capacity Tracker, a crucial tool for achieving real-time supplier collaboration and capacity monitoring. This innovative tool allows Rexroth to identify potential bottlenecks early, proactively manage supplier performance, and significantly reduce lead times. Other companies can implement similar real-time tracking solutions to improve supplier responsiveness, minimize disruptions, and achieve more reliable forecasting.5. Automation and Process OptimizationBosch Rexroth extensively highlighted the importance of automation in overcoming labor-intensive, error-prone manual processes. By automating routine operations, Rexroth has significantly improved operational efficiency, reduced human error, and enhanced overall process accuracy. Automation frees their teams to focus on strategic initiatives, driving innovation and long-term improvements. Manufacturers should view automation not merely as a method for cutting costs but as a strategic enhancement for operational effectiveness and competitive advantage.Additional Challenges AddressedDuring the webinar, Bosch Rexroth also discussed several additional challenges faced in modern supply chain management:Data Complexity and Integration: Managing disparate data sources and integrating them effectively was identified as a common struggle. Rexroth’s digital integration strategy demonstrates the importance of centralized data management.Supply Chain Visibility: Gaining complete visibility throughout the supply chain is essential but often difficult due to fragmented systems and disconnected suppliers. Bosch Rexroth's implementation of real-time tracking and analytics provides a clear example for other manufacturers.Resource Allocation: Efficient resource allocation in response to fluctuating market conditions requires sophisticated analytics and predictive capabilities, which Rexroth successfully addresses through advanced analytics.What Other Manufacturing Companies Can LearnManufacturing companies aiming for excellence in supply chain management can significantly benefit from adopting Bosch Rexroth’s comprehensive and proactive strategies. Integrating digital platforms, employing predictive analytics, fostering agility, enhancing real-time supplier collaboration, proactively managing international trade risks, and leveraging automation collectively lead to tangible outcomes. These include improved forecast accuracy, reduced lead times, increased operational efficiency, and measurable return on investment.

Inside

LOVE TO LEAD: Tips from a product owner – How effective leadership succeeds in an agile environment

How do you strengthen your leadership skills as a product owner?Michael Hübner, Senior Product Owner at SupplyOn and change agent of the “LOVE TO LEAD” initiative, shares his experience of how to lead effectively in an agile environment - and the role of SAFe and self-development in this. Michael, which management approaches are particularly important to you as a product owner in an agile environment?Michael: A key point for me is the clear communication of goals. As a product owner, I have the task of formulating the vision for the product in such a way that it becomes tangible for the entire team. At the same time, it is essential that I am always available to clarify questions or remove obstacles.Agile working also means that we remain flexible and can react quickly to changes. The Scaled Agile Framework helps me enormously here, as it provides structures that create orientation even in dynamic project situations. Another important element is trust: I trust my team and give the developers the space to make their own decisions. This not only boosts motivation, but often leads to creative and innovative solutions. How do you implement effective leadership techniques in your role as Product Owner?Michael: I attach great importance to communicating decisions transparently and clearly defining priorities. The product backlog is my central tool to ensure that the entire team has the same focus.I also see my role as coordinating collaboration between the stakeholders. I not only talk to our developers, but also to customers, the UX team and other departments. This interaction is crucial in order to develop products that actually meet our customers' requirements.Another important management tool is regular feedback. In both retrospectives and reviews, I encourage my team to talk openly about challenges. This allows us to continuously improve. The positive error culture at SupplyOn is particularly helpful here. How has the “LOVE TO LEAD” initiative supported you in your development from Product Owner to Senior Product Owner?Michael: For me, LOVE TO LEAD is more than just an understanding of leadership - it is a real compass that has helped me to further develop my role as a Product Owner. The value of Self-development is particularly important to me. It encourages me to continuously work on my skills, be it through further training or taking on more complex projects.The opportunity to contribute to the development of leadership principles as a change agent has also given me a new perspective on leadership. It was exciting to see how our principles apply not only to disciplinary managers, but to all employees - regardless of their position. This experience has motivated me to take on more responsibility myself and to support my team even more. What role does the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) play in your leadership work and how does it help you to structure leadership tasks?Michael: The Scaled Agile Framework gives us the tools we need to manage complex projects effectively. One highlight is the quarterly PI planning, where we sit down with all the teams involved and set the goals for the next three months. This shows how important it is to have clear management structures.SAFe gives us a stable structure that is still flexible enough to meet dynamic requirements. For me as a product owner, this means prioritizing the requirements from my area in such a way that they not only meet our internal goals, but are also aligned with the needs of our customers. The principles of LOVE TO LEAD, such as Long-term thinking and Customer value, are an enormous support in making decisions that are sustainable and add value. Tips for aspiring product ownersWork continuously on your further developmentActively use feedback to shape your careerTake on responsibility and face challengesFurther insights: Interview with Maria-Pia Drago - “Taking Ownership at Work”Everyday life of a PO: Interview with Dominik Halamoda

Inside · Technology

Intelligent support: More than just a hotline

Since its launch more than six years ago, the SupplyOn Support Center has been very popular among users. With more than a million clicks per year, it offers users a comprehensive range of help pages, tutorial videos and individual customer portals. But that's not all - the support portal is constantly evolving and setting new standards in digital support. Groundbreaking technologies for maximum efficiencyThe SupplyOn Support Center uses the latest technologies and intelligent services to resolve support queries faster and more accurately than ever before.✅ AI-powered problem analysis: Artificial intelligence recognizes patterns and analyzes support cases in real-time to provide targeted solutions.✅ Semantic search: Users find relevant answers and solutions in seconds thanks to intelligent algorithms that understand natural language and deliver contextual results.✅ Observability: Our proactive monitoring components analyze user behavior and automatically derive improvements.✅ Proactive notifications: Early warnings alert users to potential problems before they occur, helping to prevent outages.✅ Omnichannel support: Users can get help through a variety of channels, including the AI-powered chatbot, the self-service portal, email, or phone.The next stage of evolution: AI-powered assistance botThe next major milestone is the introduction of an intelligent AI assistance bot. This will be integrated directly into the application and will use linked customer data to provide personalized assistance in real-time. Rather than being reactive, the bot will automatically recognize what help a user needs and proactively suggest solutions.Features of the new AI assistant botAutomatic error detection and correction: The system identifies potential problems at an early stage and offers solutions before the user needs to take actionPersonalized recommendations: Based on previous requests and usage data, AI suggests customized supportSeamless application integration: Users no longer have to switch between different systems-the bot provides help right where it's neededAdvanced speech and text processing: Using state-of-the-art NLP technologies, the bot understands natural language and provides accurate answers in real-timeConclusion: A next-generation support experienceThese innovations make the SupplyOn Support Center one of the most advanced of its kind. It goes far beyond traditional support to provide an intelligent, seamlessly integrated and proactive help experience. Users benefit from faster solutions, intelligent error prevention and unique, personalized support.The future of support is here - and it's smarter than ever!

Industry News

Driving innovation in pharmaceutical supply chains

SupplyOn gained valuable insights from participating in the Pharma Supply Chain & Security World 2025, which took place from March 12–13 at the Hilton London Kensington. This premier event brought together global leaders, innovators, and decision-makers to address challenges and transformative opportunities in pharmaceutical supply chains. The conference emphasized streamlined operations, advanced technologies, and sustainable strategies to build a resilient ecosystem, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and adaptability from manufacturing to distribution.Addressing key business needs in pharma with SupplyOn solutionsDuring the event, SupplyOn engaged with leading pharmaceutical manufacturers, logistics providers, and technology partners to discuss the most pressing industry challenges. Our participation reinforced our commitment to delivering tailored supply chain solutions that address these critical business needs:1. Enhancing data integration and traceabilityMany pharmaceutical companies highlighted difficulties in data transparency and traceability, which are crucial to ensuring compliance and maintaining quality standards. Many companies struggle with fragmented data, inconsistent supplier information, and limited visibility across complex supply networks.This is where SupplyOn comes in by offering precisely what is needed: SupplyOn’s traceability solutions address these issues by enabling seamless quality data collection, structured material certification management, and comprehensive supply chain mapping. By integrating supplier production quality measurements, ensuring compliance with material-level certification requirements, and facilitating N-tier mapping for risk management, SupplyOn provides a robust and transparent framework for data-driven decision-making. This approach allows pharmaceutical companies to streamline compliance, reduce operational risks, and establish a resilient, data-driven supply chain.2. Mitigating supply chain risks and ensuring compliancePharmaceutical companies operate in a highly regulated environment where supply chain disruptions and compliance failures can have severe consequences. Ensuring proactive risk management and rapid incident response is critical to maintaining operational stability and regulatory adherence.SupplyOn can support pharmaceutical companies in strategic risk management and crisis response by providing solutions that enable risk identification at the supplier and product group level, while also facilitating real-time incident tracking at the part number level. This structured approach helps companies anticipate and mitigate potential risks, assess their immediate impact, and implement effective response and recovery measures when disruptions occur. With these capabilities, pharmaceutical companies can enhance supply chain resilience, minimize operational risks, and ensure compliance with industry regulations, ultimately safeguarding business continuity in a highly dynamic environment3. Leveraging AI for supply chain optimizationArtificial Intelligence (AI) emerged as a major area of interest, as companies sought ways to automate repetitive tasks, analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, and enhance decision-making. The discussions highlighted how AI-powered solutions could help reduce operational time and costs, improve forecast accuracy, and eliminate bottlenecks in supply chains. SupplyOn’s AI-driven supply chain management tools can help pharmaceutical companies with its predictive analytics anticipate demand shifts, avoid disruptions, and accelerate time-to-market for critical medicines.A successful event with valuable industry insightsThe Pharma Supply Chain & Security World 2025 provided valuable insights into industry needs and pain points, while also offering a platform for networking and collaboration. SupplyOn’s participation allowed us to connect with key decision-makers and gave us new valuable insights that can drive innovation and efficiency in pharmaceutical supply chains.We look forward to continuing these conversations and supporting the pharmaceutical industry with cutting-edge supply chain solutions that enhance transparency, security, and efficiency across the entire value chain.

SCM Insights

The future of companies is integrated planning: why S&OP and IBP need external data sources

Just recently, I attended the S&OP Summit in Amsterdam – the leading conference on Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP). My aim was to find out about the new possibilities and developments in S&OP and IBP so that I could show SupplyOn customers the added value of integrating planning and execution. Strategic planning has always been at the heart of a successful company. Processes such as S&OP and IBP (Integrated Business Planning) provide a structured framework for this. But despite decades of further development, many companies are still struggling with the same challenges: data silos, a lack of proof of added value and internal resistance. It is particularly striking how little consideration has been given to integrating external data sources into these processes.The importance of S&OP and IBP for companiesS&OP and IBP help to align a company's strategic, operational and financial plans. They are designed to create transparency, make data-based decisions and increase agility in the market. Companies that successfully implement these processes benefit from:More efficient operations through coordination between departmentsBetter forecasts through a unified view of supply and demandHigher resilience to market changes and risksBut the key to truly integrated planning lies not only in internal collaboration, but also in the ability to take external influences into account at an early stage.External data: the missing piece of the puzzleIn an interconnected world, external factors such as market trends, supply chain disruptions, geopolitical events and weather conditions have a significant impact on corporate planning. Companies that integrate external data sources into their S&OP and IBP processes have a clear competitive advantage:Better demand forecasting: Data from suppliers, customers and third-party providers help to predict demand more accuratelyProactive risk management: early warning systems based on external data sources can identify disruptions in the supply chain more quicklyOptimization of the supply chain: real-time data on traffic, inventory levels and production capacities enable more efficient resource allocationData quality as a basic requirementA crucial factor for success is the quality of the data. Companies must ensure that their internal and external data sources:Consistent and alignedReal-time capable or at least available in real timeTransparent and comprehensibleThis requires not only technological investments, but also organizational changes. Teams need to be trained, processes adapted and a data-driven corporate culture fostered.The path to integrated planning of the futureTo realize the full potential of S&OP and IBP, companies should follow these steps:Break down data silos: A central platform for integrating internal and external data is essential.Demonstrate added value: The benefits of integrated planning solutions must be clearly communicated to overcome internal resistance.Prioritize external data: Partnerships with third-party providers, integration of suppliers, e.g. via SupplyOn, and technologies such as AI and machine learning can help to use external data more effectively.Continuous improvement: S&OP and IBP are not static processes. They must be regularly reviewed and adapted to new market conditions.ConclusionThe future of successful S&OP and IBP projects lies in the integration of external data sources, such as those provided by SupplyOn for capacity or risk management. By taking this step early on, companies not only create the basis for better decisions, but also strengthen their competitiveness in an increasingly complex and dynamic world. It is time to fully exploit the potential of data – for truly integrated planning and sustainable success!

Technology

Seamless UI upgrade: experience a smarter, more intuitive Invoicing solution

After two years of intensive work, the time has finally come: SupplyOn Invoicing has been completely redesigned. Since mid-2024, all users have been working on the new user interface. This measure was a decisive step towards user-friendliness and technical modernization. What sets the new interface apart? And what were the key success factors for its successful implementation?A technological milestoneThe new user interface is based on Google Material Design, a modern design system that not only looks good but also sets the highest standards in terms of user-friendliness and performance. This makes Invoicing technologically state of the art and ideally equipped for future requirements. Material Design is now the new SupplyOn standard for a seamless user experience.The highlights of the new interface include:Simplified operation and improved navigation that accelerate work processesFunctional enhancements, such as faster and easier error handlingStep-by-step introduction of AI-based rules, which simplify data entry through automatic pre-fillingHigh-performance loading times, enabling efficient and seamless workThe Path to the perfect solution: users in focusThroughout the project, we actively engaged with users:Conducted numerous user interviews to identify needs and validate improvement suggestionsHosted feedback sessions and Supplier Community Events to continuously optimize the interface and ensure the best possible user experienceThrough this close collaboration, we ensured that the new interface is not only modern in appearance but also meets the real-life demands of daily usage.The Transition: Gradual and SeamlessThe migration to the new user interface was carried out step by step to ensure a smooth and secure transition.Option to switch back: During the rollout phase, users had the ability to switch between the old and new interfaces to familiarize themselves with the changes.Phased rollout: The new interface was rolled out in multiple stages, allowing early identification and resolution of potential challenges. This approach helped maximize the value of the new interface and ensured a seamless transition.The result: enthusiastic user feedbackSince mid-2024, the new user interface has been live – and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Users particularly praise:The clear and modern designThe increased efficiency in daily tasksThe high adaptability of the application to individual needsA look into the futureWith the new interface, SupplyOn Invoicing is well prepared for the coming years. Users can expect regular updates to integrate new functions and features and to further improve the user experience.

SCM Insights

Pack-to-Stock: Pack today, ship later

Packing goods for shipping poses greater challenges for suppliers than might be assumed at first glance. In terms of processes and systems, this step is usually linked to delivery, but this is only the case in reality in a few cases. Many companies pack directly after the manufacturing process or quality control and then store the customer-specific packaged containers until dispatch.SupplyOn has developed the "Pack-to-Stock" module to ensure an end-to-end digital process - and thus support all parties involved in their digitalization strategy. The module decouples the packaging process from the creation of the Advanced Shipping Notification (ASN). Users can pack and label the goods directly after production and later assign the pre-packed materials to an outbound delivery without any additional manual input.Digital twin with all relevant informationThe core of Pack-to-Stock is the ability to all important product-relevant information such as production, expiry and use-by date, batch number, software or hardware revision, etc. before production. Packaging orders can be created with reference to a material number, an order or a delivery call-off. The system supports the transmission of packaging instructions, which are automatically saved in the system. Pack-to-Stock calculates the number of single packs and handling units required based on the planned production quantity and allows the required single pack and HU warehouse labels to be printed directly. It thus forms a digital twin with all relevant information on the goods stored in the warehouse.The module also offers all the important functions for adapting the digital twin to the produced and packaged containers. This means that the fill quantity of individual containers and the structure of the packs can be efficiently adapted to reality at any time. Production faults and quality control results can also be easily mapped in the system.Easy assignment of a deliveryPicking and delivery planning can be carried out as before in merchandise management and the warehouse management system. The creation of the delivery in Supply Chain Collaboration (SCC) also takes place unchanged on the basis of the previous documents (purchase orders or delivery call-offs). What is new is that pre-packed material can be easily assigned to the outbound delivery by scanning the package or handling unit ID. With the assignment, all part-specific information is also automatically transferred to the delivery.The system also supports all forms of mixed scenarios, such as the delivery of pre-packed and non-packed materials and the manual creation of additional handling units. The assignment of pre-packed materials to an outbound delivery prevents duplicate entries or input errors. In particular, the transfer of information already entered before production considerably reduces the time required for delivery and avoids duplicate entries without loss of information. The complete packaging information, both one- and two-stage, is transmitted to the customer and enables easy, fully automatic electronic goods receipt.Inventory made easyPowerful inventory functions make it possible to maintain an overview, scrap entire batches in the event of quality problems or track when which items were delivered.The Pack-to-Stock module offers the flexibility required to adapt the packaging process to internal processes. This allows you to map your customers' requirements in shipping without additional effort and print all the labels required for material identification and shipping.

Technology

Observability: A step towards 100% SLA availability

In today's digital world, high service level agreements (SLAs) are a key competitive advantage. When using internet platforms, customers expect them to operate without interruption. For many businesses, even short downtimes can have serious consequences. Of course, no technology is immune to failure. So 100% availability is a very ambitious goal. A key component in achieving this goal is the implementation of observability as a core principle of system monitoring and optimisation.What is the key success factor of observability for 100% availability?Unlike traditional monitoring systems, monitoring methods are usually "reactive". In the worst case, this means that a failure is only detected when it has already occurred. A comprehensive observability strategy detects potential problems before they cause failures. Teams quickly identify and resolve anomalies in metrics like latency or memory usage.If a problem occurs, observability helps to quickly identify the possible cause. Traces provide precise information about where delays or errors occur, while logs provide the necessary details to analyze the cause. By continuously analyzing system metrics and logs, bottlenecks and vulnerabilities are detected before they affect availability. This means that optimization is proactive. In practice, logging an application is a major challenge. Logging data must be defined and implemented by the application developers together with the operating units, among others. Here, the DevOps concept plays an important role again, which must be implemented “hand in hand” in practice. Observability should therefore be an integral part of the DevOps workflow.Modern IT systems often use microservices that run in both the cloud and on-premises data centers, with different teams managing them based on the application. Observability creates transparency and provides a better understanding of dependencies and potential vulnerabilities in these complex architectures, promoting a culture of continuous optimization.Challenges in implementing observabilityThe most common problems include selecting the right tools for analyzing mass data. Key technologies include APM (application performance monitoring) tools with AI functions developed specifically for observability. Due to the high volumes of data generated by monitoring, it is necessary to use high-performance databases and event bridges to bundle events and provide detailed control over the delivery of messages to different recipients.ConclusionObservability is an indispensable tool for companies striving for the highest availability. It is not a one-off task, but an ongoing process. It enables organisations not only to react to problems when it is too late, but also to counteract them proactively. Teams can overcome potential organizational resistance by clearly communicating the benefits and added value. The investment in observability pays off: it increases the stability and performance of systems, bringing you a decisive step closer to the goal of 100% SLA availability.

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