5 principles to build a strategic supply chain

Discussing supply chain as a strategic element of a hospital's processes has been a growing trend as healthcare systems are looking to the supply chain for cost-cutting opportunities.

When formalizing a strategic plan, Alpharetta, Ga.-based MedAssets offers the following five guiding principles.

1. Involve key stakeholders and make sure everyone's voices and needs are heard, including internal customers, external customers and executive leaders.

2. Retrieve finite data instead of relying on assumptions or "gut feelings." Instead, invest the time into research and to help determine next steps.

3. Be honest when identifying operational strengths and weaknesses. Acknowledging potential obstacles in the planning stages will help shape the plan and spur the team to be proactive in solving challenges.

4. Be clear and direct in language instead of using buzz words and acronyms. Use specific and direct language when discussing plans and expectations.

5. Communicate the goals and objectives of the plan throughout the organization. Take this time to demonstrate how the goals of the strategic supply chain plan align with the organization's greater mission and strategy.

More articles on hospital supply chain:

GHX secures $5B in supply savings over past 5 years
5 best practices for supply chain leaders
How women in the supply chain are poised for C-suite success

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