Supply Chain Mapping
Definition
Supply chain mapping is the process of documenting and visualizing the entire pathway through which goods, information, and resources travel from the source of raw materials to the final delivery to the end consumer. It involves detailing each stage of production and distribution, unveiling nodes and links in the supply chain network, and identifying key stakeholders such as suppliers, manufacturers, transporters, and customers. The mapping includes representing these elements on a map, which helps organizations gain a clearer understanding of the structure and dynamics of their supply chain, enabling better decision-making and optimization strategies.
What is Supply Chain Mapping?
Supply Chain Mapping is a critical process that provides comprehensive insights into how products are sourced, produced, manufactured, transported, and delivered. By plotting nodes (entities) and edges (connections) across geographies and processes on a visual map, supply chain mapping reveals bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and potential risks within the supply chain. It helps stakeholders understand the flow of materials and information, assess supplier performance, visualize the impact of various nodes on the entire chain, and improve the supply chain resilience. This spatial representation aids in strategic planning, risk management, and response to disruptions by showing the geographical distribution and interactions between different supply chain components.
