InventoryManufacturing TipsSupply Chain Decoupling Inventory: Protecting Orders With Strategic Supplies Every manufacturer knows how quickly things can go sideways. A delayed shipment here, equipment trouble there, and suddenly your whole operation falls behind. Decoupling inventory takes a different approach. By placing buffer stock at key production points, manufacturers can absorb these shocks without losing their delivery commitments to meet demand. By Steve Maurer, IME 15 min read
Manufacturing TipsSupply Chain Lead Time in Manufacturing: A Complete Guide to Types, Strategies, and Optimization Some manufacturers hit every delivery date. Others constantly scramble with delays. What’s the difference? It might just be how you estimate and manage lead times. By Steve Maurer, IME 15 min read
InventoryManufacturing TipsSupply Chain Packaging Management: Workflows, Inventory, and Tools Packaging is as much a part of production or shipping workflows as assembly, picking, or any other step in a product’s routing. Modern manufacturing software takes this into account, offering built-in functionalities that make packaging management a breeze. By Mattias Turovski 13 min read
Manufacturing Tips Quality Control in Manufacturing – An SMEs Guide One quality issue can mean angry customer calls, costly returns, and damage to relationships you’ve worked years to build. For small manufacturers in various industries, the stakes are particularly high. Here’s how to keep quality problems from becoming business problems without breaking your budget. By Steve Maurer, IME 14 min read
AccountingInventoryManufacturing Tips Inventory Costs – Types, Examples, and Tips to Manage Them Inventory costs make up a substantial part of any manufacturing or distribution company’s total expenses. But the purchase price is just the beginning—storage, handling, and opportunity costs add up fast. Getting a handle on these expenses directly impacts your bottom line, profit margins, and competitive position. By Steve Maurer, IME 18 min read
Manufacturing TipsProduction planning What Is BOM Version Control? BOM version control is the process of managing and tracking changes made to a bill of materials. It is essential for ensuring smooth operations in environments where the BOM is continuously updated. By Madis Kuuse 7 min read
Manufacturing TipsProduction planning The Small CPG Brand’s Guide to Co-Manufacturing and Co-Packing For many growing CPG brands, outsourcing is the key to scaling up without investing in massive facilities or specialized equipment. While co-manufacturers and co-packers facilitate growth, they also introduce new challenges. By Madis Kuuse 6 min read
InventoryManufacturing Tips Warehouse Organization – 10 Best Practices for Small Businesses There are many moving parts to running a profitable business. One critical but often overlooked component is an efficient warehouse operation. Here’s why it’s important, along with 10 warehouse organization tips to optimize and keep it running smoothly. By Steve Maurer, IME 13 min read
InventoryManufacturing Tips What Is Dead Stock and How to Avoid It? Dead stock, also called dead inventory, happens when materials, components, or products lose their purpose. Understanding the causes of dead stock helps you prevent costly tie-ups of cash and space. Dead stock management starts with recognizing the warning signs. By Steve Maurer, IME 12 min read