In a recent conversation with MSA Safety, we explored the transformative benefits of LeanDNA's Supplier Connect and Write Back features. These tools are designed to streamline the purchase order (PO) process, automate routine tasks, and enhance collaboration between buyers and suppliers.
Enhancing Collaboration with Supplier Connect
“With mass customization, globalization, consumer expectations, etc, the supply chain has gotten more and more complex. Which is why it's really important, now more than ever, to have close collaboration and communication to ensure timely procurement of components and materials and everything is on time for your production needs,” said Jared Ruffing, Solutions Engineer at LeanDNA.
With Supplier Connect, suppliers can log directly into your LeanDNA site, view relevant and powerful supply chain data, and update their order statuses. Suppliers can chat directly with buyers, add shipping statuses, commit dates and tracking numbers directly through LeanDNA. This smooth collaboration within a trusted system will spare your team time on the phone or email chasing down basic information.
Introducing LeanDNA Write Back
LeanDNA Write Back is a game-changer for supply chain management. This feature, now available to all LeanDNA customers, automates the process of updating ERP systems with supply order details entered into LeanDNA. By eliminating double work, Write Back frees up valuable time for buyers to focus on more strategic tasks. This capability not only reduces manual workload but also ensures that your ERP data is always up-to-date and accurate.
“Write Back eliminates a time consuming task for buyers. It is a critical task, but now we can get our planners better, quicker information in an automated way.” -Eric Blanton, Sr. Global Purchasing Manager at MSA Safety
Real-World Impact: MSA Safety’s Experience
MSA Safety, an early access customer, has already seen the benefits of LeanDNA Write Back.
They were hoping to find a way to reduce the manual workload associated with PO confirmations, a task that consumed 40 hours each week. By implementing LeanDNA Write Back, they automated the process of updating their ERP systems with supply order details entered into LeanDNA. This two-way capability not only eliminated double work but also enabled MSA Safety’s buyers to delegate tasks more efficiently, freeing up valuable time for more strategic activities.
In addition to the saved time, the MSA Safety team highlighted the changes in their operations after implementing Supplier Connect and Write Back, such as enhanced supplier communication, dynamic priority management, and increased team visibility throughout their entire organization.
“LeanDNA allows us to communicate not only with our suppliers, but also with our production folks. So if a buyer is out, usually the supplier has that information already plugged into LeanDNA with the commit date, a tracking number, or even what quantities they have already shipped.” - Keith Tardivo, Sr. Supply Chain Specialist at MSA Safety
Key Benefits of LeanDNA Write Back & Supplier Connect
- Automated Updates: Capture commit dates from your suppliers for write back to your ERP, resulting in a more robust clear-to-build and shortage reporting.
- Risk Management: Review risky dates and collaborate with suppliers to avoid shortages, ensuring a more stable supply chain.
- Improved Collaboration: Use real-time chat features to communicate with internal teams and external suppliers, reducing the need for lengthy email threads.
LeanDNA continues to innovate, with exciting updates on the horizon. Soon, you will be able to place, adjust, or cancel POs with a simple request process that writes back to your ERP in a few clicks. Suppliers will also have the ability to clearly and easily acknowledge, confirm, revise, and download POs.
LeanDNA Write Back and Supplier Connect are powerful tools designed to streamline supply chain management and enhance collaboration. By automating manual tasks and improving communication, these features empower manufacturers to operate more efficiently and effectively.
Discover how LeanDNA can transform your supply chain operations and book a demo today.
Already a customer? Talk to your account management team about implementing Supplier Connect and Write Back in your organization.
