Design for supply (DFS) and supply-chain problems — Part 4: How procurement technology supports DFS

Design for supply (DFS) is a critical framework to ensure that products sold to customers actually reach and delight customers. In part 1 of this Spend Matters PRO series, we unpacked DFS, looking at what it means for procurement professionals. We also looked at why the way to practice DFS has to change. Part 2 focused on the challenges and opportunities related to adapting DFS to today’s world. Then, in part 3, we analyzed a use case: the semiconductor shortage in the automotive industry because the lessons that can be learned from it are applicable beyond that industry and that supply category.

In this last installment in the series, we will look at procurement technologies and providers that support and enhance DFS. Our intention is not to cover every aspect because DFS relies on a broad range of procurement activities and capabilities (supplier management, sourcing, supply chain, etc.). Instead, we want to focus on specific areas that are cornerstones of the demand-supply-product alignment that is at the heart of a successful DFS program.