Webinar Recap: Overcoming the Challenges of Fragmented Supply Chains

Managing clinical trial supplies has become increasingly complex for sponsors and CROs, especially as trials grow in scale and sophistication. In a recent webinar moderated by Jason Dean, experts Andy Hinks and Vanessa Wickett explored the challenges of forecasting and GxP inventory management and shared how integrated solutions can address these issues.

Here are the key highlights. 

The Challenge: Forecasting and Planning Issues 

Andy began by outlining common obstacles organizations face in clinical trial supply management: 

• Limited Forecasting Accuracy: Difficulty predicting supply needs often results in overstocking or critical shortages. 

• Manual Processes: Dependence on spreadsheets or siloed tools increases the risk of errors and inefficiency. 

• Collaboration Barriers: Teams struggle to share accurate, real-time data, slowing decision-making and delaying trials. 

The Challenge: GxP Inventory Management Complexities 

Vanessa added to the conversation, highlighting specific hurdles in inventory management: 

• Dependence on Third-Party Systems: Many organizations rely on external vendors, causing delays when systems are unavailable. 

• Training Burden: Managing multiple systems with differing workflows demands extensive onboarding efforts. 

• Fragmented Visibility: Globally distributed supplies often lead to limited oversight and data retrieval challenges. 

• Inconsistent Reporting: Fragmentation creates non-standardized reporting formats, complicating data interpretation and decision-making. 

The Solution: Integrated Forecasting and Inventory Platforms 

Andy and Vanessa emphasized that modern, integrated platforms are transforming how organizations handle supply chain challenges. Key benefits include: 

• Accurate Forecasting: Advanced analytics deliver precise, data-driven predictions, minimizing waste and shortages. 

• Streamlined Processes: Centralized systems reduce reliance on manual workflows, saving time and reducing errors. 

• Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time data sharing fosters seamless communication among stakeholders. 

• Global Inventory Visibility: Consolidated views of supplies ensure teams can access critical data anytime, anywhere. 

• Standardized Reporting: Unified systems provide consistent reporting formats, empowering better, faster decisions. 

Conclusion: Empowering Supply Chain Excellence 

With the right tools, clinical trial sponsors can overcome the challenges of forecasting and inventory management. Integrated platforms deliver the accuracy, visibility, and efficiency needed to manage global supplies effectively, ensuring trials stay on track and on budget. 

Missed the discussion? Watch the replay: 

Contact our team to learn more about how these solutions can transform your supply chain operations and improve trial outcomes.