Specifying Supply Chain Design

A contractor building a custom house will work closely with the owner and his or her architect. AAftthin the constraints determined by the building site and local codes, almost anything is possible in the floor plan. 

As customers, if we are going to buy something, we must first decide what we want from our purchase. How many bedrooms should we have in that new house Do we want a big car or a small one How will we use a new computer For routine tasks will we require a low-end computer, or will we nm programs like graphics design that require a high-end machine  

The producers of these products have to guess or make assumptions about what we want in the way of houses, cars, and computers. Unfortunately, we often start our search with an I ll know when I see it attitude. So no amount of market research can assure a successful product. 

Likewise, supply chains often develop without the benefit of conscious design. All too often they are built over hme, and decisions are made without an overall blueprint. This chapter describes ways to avoid this situation. 

---

On a conceptual level, approach this process not as a singular activity, but as a collective effort. While the design team often has the responsi-bihty for material specification, the sourcing team plays a major role as well, which is not just in negotiating supply contracts with material suppliers and/or distributors, but in managing the overall logistics of the supply chain as well. One could specify the most perfect thermoplastic material in the world, but it will not improve the performance of your product one iota if that material cannot be sourced. 

Special-purpose components may be specified when enhanced flexibility and reduced wear is required. Hardened sprocket teeth, special tooth design, and barrel-shaped rollers are available for special needs. Light-duty drives are sometimes supplied with nonmetallic chains on which no lubrication should be used. 

---