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Research indicates that collaboration tools significantly improve on-time deliveries by enhancing communication and transparency between buyers and suppliers. For instance, the use of Collaborative Planning, Forecasting, and Replenishment (CPFR) has shown positive results. By sharing demand forecasts, sales trends, and inventory levels, both suppliers and buyers can synchronize their operations, resulting in reduced lead times and better delivery performance. This ensures that suppliers can adjust their production schedules according to real-time demand, thus improving on-time deliveries. CPFR minimizes waste and optimizes production and transportation schedules, ultimately enhancing supply chain efficiency - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42452-020-2468-y).

Moreover, McKinsey research found that companies using digital collaboration methods such as real-time data sharing, cross-functional engagement, and transparency in supply chain operations see improvements in trust and synchronization between parties. This enhances the supplier’s ability to meet delivery deadlines, reducing potential delays (Sourch).

Using the IDAS.AI Supplier Portal tools for PO collaboration, real-time tracking and reporting

The supplier portal allows suppliers to manage their customer orders. They can confirm purchase orders, propose changes, input current lead time, stock levels and WIP (Work in process) for parts and update expected arrival dates.

Suppliers can also handle partial shipments by entering expected quantities, creating up to five balance delivery lines for any order. The platform allows suppliers to continuously update the status of their orders and shipments and enter reasons for delays.

In addition, buying organizations can share their forecasts (36 months) to ensure that suppliers will have the required capacity. The solution supports various replenishment processes: direct (due date or need date), kanban, and consignment (incl. VMI).

Suppliers can send shipment requests and allow buyers to approve them, thereby controlling inbound inventory levels. After authorized, Suppliers can obtain shipment labels (incl. bar codes) and print them. The solution can use the shipment information provided by suppliers (Airway bill/BOL) to connect with 3rd party databases and get updates on shipments and ETA.

It is worth noting that suppliers can use IDAS to plan and schedule their production. Suppliers can define the various manufacturing steps for each part. Therefore, they can plan these steps based on when parts need to be shipped, what inventory there is, and how many are needed for their customer. This also allows the customer to get real time updates and follow up on manufacturing progress at the supplier facility.

IDAS also supports real-time communication. A so-called timeline feature enables suppliers and buyers to communicate and document the history of order-related interactions.

All confirmations and changes are reviewed on the buyer side and integrated in their ERPs to update records.

Overcoming these obstacles requires proactive communication strategies, clear expectations, appropriate technologies, and a commitment to building strong relationships with suppliers.