We were invited by a large copier and printer manufacturer in the US, to investigate why test groups were having problems with the sourcing and management of test materials.
We started by visiting 35 different test groups to identify why they were having problems. Below is a list of the main problems these groups identified and the actions we have taken to rectify these:
| 1 | Problem Each group was ordering separately and sometimes having to order from twenty different suppliers. This resulted in each group raising 20 orders, dealing with 20 invoices and receiving 20 different freight costs. |
| Answer We produced a contract covering the products needed within the different groups, creating a single point of contact for all products. |
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| 2 | Problem Long lead times resulted in the product being Air freighted and also increased amount of stock being ordered, for 'just in case' situations. |
| Answer The majority of the stock is available to be shipped within three days, or, if it is a special product, we have dedicated staff that will source these ASAP. |
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| 3 | Problem Product being produced at different mills even though the part number is the same. This resulted in a loss of continuity. |
| Answer We filter the products for mill origin and age before shipping |
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| 4 | Problem Product arriving damaged and contaminated making it unfit for the needs of a testing department. |
| Answer We have 10 years experience in handling and exporting paper for test purposes, ensuring it arrives in first class condition. |
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| 5 | Problem Product being held up by customs because of lack of country of origin identification. |
| Answer All cartons are now stamped in the UK with country of origin before being shipped. |
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Problem Surplus stock left when test plans are changed. |
| Answer Using a central store the majority of product remaining can be passed on to another group for testing. We gained enough knowledge of the types of products being used to set up a local warehouse near the site. Using stock from this store, we can now deliver 92% of the papers being tested within 3 working days. By utilising this facility, the client also saves $250,000 dollars annually on Air freight costs. |
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