Top 15 Supply Chain Management Interview Questions

Preparing for the Interview

To adequately prepare for a supply chain manager interview, one must engage in thorough research, self-assessment, and practice. This allows candidates to showcase confidence, knowledge, and expertise in supply chain management during the interview.

Conduct Comprehensive Research

Obtaining a deep understanding of the company and its supply chain operations is crucial for interview success. Review the organization's website, publications, and social media to grasp its vision, strategy, and supply chain policies. Industry sources can provide information on trends and benchmarks in supply chain management.

Know your Resume and Skills

Ensure familiarity with your resume, specifically your supply chain-related experiences and achievements. This helps justify your qualifications for the role. Reflect on your skills and how they align with the job requirements; be prepared to discuss your proficiency in supply chain management software, analytical skills, and problem-solving capabilities.

Understand Key Concepts and Terminologies

Applicants should have a strong command of core supply chain concepts and terminologies. Understand elements such as procurement, logistics, inventory control, demand and supply planning, and risk management. In addition, stay updated on important industry regulations.

Practice Behavioral Interview Questions

Many supply chain manager interviews comprise behavioral questions, which assess your responses to specific workplace situations. Develop relevant examples from your experience to demonstrate capabilities like leadership, teamwork, conflict resolution, and decision-making. The STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, and Result) is useful for structuring your responses.

Prepare Informed Questions

Asking well-thought-out questions during the interview underscores your interest in the role and company. Consider posing queries related to supply chain strategy, internal collaboration, technology implementation, and career growth opportunities.

Plan for Presentation

A professional appearance and demeanor are vital during the interview. Dress professionally, arrive punctually, and maintain eye contact and a friendly tone during the conversation. Note your body language, as it conveys your confidence, enthusiasm, and ability to interact effectively with others.

In conclusion, preparing for a supply chain manager interview requires extensive research, self-assessment, and practicing responses to potential questions. By engaging in these activities, you can increase the chances of securing the position and advancing your career in supply chain management.

Key Area 1: Planning and Strategy

The first key area of supply chain management is planning and strategy, which involves evaluating and selecting suppliers, determining inventory policies, and forecasting customer needs. This process is critical for fulfilling customer requirements and ensuring a seamless flow of goods from production to consumers. By having a well-defined plan in place, organizations can minimize delays and maximize efficiency.

Key Area 2: Procurement and Sourcing

Procurement and sourcing form the second key area in supply chain management. Here, companies partner with suppliers to acquire raw materials, components, supplies, or services. In addition to selecting suppliers, this area encompasses negotiating contracts, managing supplier relationships, and overseeing the ordering process. A well-managed procurement and sourcing strategy can yield cost savings, quality goods, and a shorter time to market.

Key Area 3: Production and Manufacturing

The third key area is production and manufacturing, focusing on transforming raw materials into finished goods. Efficient production and manufacturing lead to reduced lead times, faster delivery, and lower production costs. This area also includes product design, plant location decision-making, and technology implementation to streamline the manufacturing process.

Key Area 4: Logistics and Transportation

Logistics and transportation form the fourth key area, encompassing the movement of goods from suppliers to manufacturing plants, between facilities, and to customers. Efficient logistics can reduce transportation costs, facilitate timely deliveries, and optimize warehouse operations. This area also includes selecting and managing transportation and logistics service providers to ensure goods are delivered on time and in good condition.

Key Area 5: Customer Service and Demand Management

The fifth key area, customer service and demand management, involves understanding and anticipating customer needs to ensure product availability and timely delivery. A well-executed demand management strategy balances customer demand with supply chain capabilities. This process includes forecasting demand, determining order quantities, and handling returns and exchanges as needed.

In conclusion, the five key areas of supply chain management – planning and strategy, procurement and sourcing, production and manufacturing, logistics and transportation, and customer service and demand management – are crucial for organizations to effectively manage their supply chains. By focusing on these key areas, companies can optimize their operations, reduce costs, improve customer satisfaction, and ultimately, gain a competitive advantage in the market.

**Integration of Various Components**

The first key point in supply chain management is integration, which refers to the coordination of different parts of the supply chain to ensure smooth and efficient flow of products from manufacturers to end customers. This ensures timely deliveries, reduced inventory costs, and maximized profitability for businesses. Integration is achieved by employing established channels of communication and information sharing, effective procurement practices, and efficient transportation and distribution systems.

**Adoption of Advanced Technologies**

The second key point of supply chain management is embracing technological advancements to streamline and optimize the various stages involved. This may include utilizing solutions such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and Transportation Management Systems (TMS) to automate processes and control the flow of information between trading partners. Incorporating advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and internet of things (IoT) into supply chain management can significantly encourage data-driven decision-making, greater transparency, and enhanced responsiveness to external changes.

**Emphasis on Sustainability and Risk Management**

Lastly, the third key point of supply chain management is adopting a sustainable, risk-conscious approach to planning and execution. Supply chains must be equipped to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions, such as economic fluctuations, natural disasters, or geopolitical shifts. This can be achieved by assessing vulnerabilities, establishing contingency plans, and identifying alternative sources of materials or suppliers. Furthermore, sustainability refers to the adoption of environmentally and socially responsible practices. This entails prioritizing waste reduction and recycling, energy-efficient transport alternatives, and ethical sourcing to contribute to a greener, more responsible supply chain.

Interview Questions in Supply Chain Management

Key Areas of Focus

During interviews for supply chain management positions, employers typically focus on a candidate's knowledge, skills, and experience in various aspects of the field. This includes questions about their ability to analyze, plan, and optimize complex supply chain processes, manage relationships with multiple stakeholders, and leverage various tools and technologies for efficient operations.

Analytical Skills and Process Knowledge

A strong grasp of the principles and practices that govern supply chain management is critical for successful performance in these roles. Interview questions may probe a candidate's understanding of key concepts, such as inventory management, demand forecasting, and capacity planning. For example, interviewers may ask questions like, 'How do you determine the re-order point for a given product?' or 'What factors do you consider when forecasting demand for items with seasonal fluctuations?'

Collaboration and Communication Abilities

Effective collaboration and communication are essential components of successful supply chain management. To gauge a candidate's ability in these areas, interviewers may ask questions that require them to describe their experience working with various internal and external stakeholders, such as suppliers, manufacturers, and logistics providers. Sample questions might include, 'How do you handle supplier negotiations to achieve the best terms possible?' or 'Can you provide an example of a time when you had to collaborate with multiple teams to resolve a supply chain issue?'

Technical Proficiency

Supply chain management professionals increasingly rely on various tools and technologies to optimize processes and drive efficiency improvements. To assess a candidate's technical proficiency, interviewers may ask about their experience using specific software solutions, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, warehouse management systems (WMS), or transportation management systems (TMS). Examples of questions in this category might be, 'What is your experience with using ERP systems for demand planning and inventory management?' or 'How have you utilized WMS to streamline warehouse operations?'

Problem-solving Aptitude

Lastly, interviewers are likely to ask questions that evaluate a candidate's problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills, as supply chain management often involves identifying and addressing various challenges that arise during the execution of daily tasks. To gauge this aptitude, interviewers may present case scenarios or hypothetical situations and ask the candidate to outline their approach to resolving the issue. For example, they might ask, 'How would you address a sudden disruption in your supply chain due to a natural disaster, and what steps would you take to mitigate the impact on your organization?'

Defining the Key Questions

Fundamental supply chain management questions typically revolve around three main areas: strategic planning, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Addressing these critical aspects helps organizations to streamline their supply chain processes and maximize revenues.

Strategic Planning Questions

The first set of questions concerns strategic planning, which involves long-term decision-making and goal setting. Some essential questions to ask include: What are the company's objectives for the supply chain? How will the organization align its supply chain strategy with its broader business goals? What supplier collaborations and partnerships should be considered to optimize performance?

Operational Efficiency Queries

Operational efficiency involves the tactical management of the supply chain's day-to-day functions. Fundamental questions in this area include: How will the organization ensure timely and accurate delivery of products and services? What systems will be implemented to track and manage inventory levels? How can the company reduce waste and improve resource utilization across the supply chain?

Customer Satisfaction Focus

Lastly, customer satisfaction is a crucial element to consider, as it directly impacts revenue generation and brand loyalty. Key questions to explore include: How can the organization maintain or improve service levels to meet customer expectations? What tools and technologies will be used to monitor and respond to customer feedback?

In conclusion, determining the right set of questions is crucial in supply chain management. By focusing on strategic planning, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction, organizations can effectively address the most critical aspects of their supply chain and drive success in the long run. Overall, these fundamental questions will lay the foundation for a more efficient and profitable supply chain.

Technology and Supply Chain Integration

The development and evolution of technologies has had a significant impact on modern supply chain management processes. One of the most prominent technological advancements affecting supply chains is the Internet of Things (IoT). IoT has facilitated better monitoring and control of resources, optimizing inventory management and reducing operating costs.

Data Management and Analytics

Another area where technology has made a significant impact is data management and analytics. Modern supply chain management processes involve handling large amounts of data, generated by various stakeholders, such as manufacturers, suppliers, and customers. Advanced data analytics tools have facilitated the extraction of valuable insights from this data, leading to improved decision-making, planning, and forecasting.

Automation and Robotics

Technological advancements, such as automation and robotics, play a crucial role in streamlining supply chain operations. These technologies have led to the development of automated warehouses, equipped with robotic systems that assist in inventory management, sorting, packing, and loading. This not only accelerates the supply chain process but also minimizes human errors and labor costs.

Blockchain Technology

The adoption of blockchain technology is another emerging trend impacting supply chain management. Blockchain enables secure and transparent data sharing between stakeholders, creating trust and accountability in the supply chain. This technology significantly reduces the risk of fraud, enhances traceability, and expedites transactions.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies have transformed various aspects of supply chain management. AI-powered systems can analyze large amounts of data and identify patterns and trends, leading to smarter decisions and more accurate demand forecasts. AI and ML capabilities also improve logistics operations by optimizing routing and transportation of goods.

3D Printing

3D printing technology has also started making its mark on supply chain management. It enables manufacturers to produce complex products on-demand and in small quantities, reducing the need for extensive inventory and warehousing. This technology can also facilitate faster customization of products, catering to the increasing demand for personalized items.

Technology has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in shaping and improving modern supply chain management processes. These technologies not only enable efficiency, speed, and cost reduction but also facilitate sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. As a result, organizations that can adapt and integrate these technologies are more likely to succeed in an increasingly competitive and technologically advanced market.

Understanding the Job Role

To introduce yourself effectively in a supply chain interview, it is crucial to first understand the specific job role you are applying for. Supply chain management includes diverse functions, such as procurement, logistics, and inventory management. Research about the job requirements and align them with your skills and expertise to make a strong first impression.

Customizing Your Introduction

Begin by providing a concise overview of your professional background and expertise that is relevant to the position. Highlight your experience in the supply chain industry, with a particular focus on the skills that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the company's goals. Avoid providing a generic or vague introduction, and ensure that your response demonstrates your understanding of the unique requirements of the supply chain role.

Aligning Skills with Company Goals

In addition to discussing your professional background, discuss specific achievements that can showcase your expertise in the supply chain domain. This might include successful process optimizations, cost savings initiatives, or improvements in operational efficiency. Align your achievements with the company's strategic objectives and showcase your ability to solve problems and drive positive results.

Communicating Soft Skills

While it is important to emphasize your technical and industry-specific expertise, do not overlook the value of soft skills in a supply chain interview. Supply chain roles often involve cross-functional collaboration, and effective communication and teamwork skills are essential for success. Talk about instances where you have demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, and negotiation skills in a supply chain setting.

Showing Enthusiasm and Genuine Interest

Lastly, convey your enthusiasm and genuine interest in the company and the position through your introduction. Research the company's values, culture, and strategic goals to demonstrate that you are well-prepared and excited for the opportunity. By showcasing your passion and commitment to the position, you can make a strong and memorable impression in a supply chain interview.

To summarize, when introducing yourself in a supply chain interview, focus on understanding the job role, customizing your introduction, aligning your skills with company goals, communicating relevant soft skills, and showing enthusiasm and genuine interest in the position. These strategies will help you create a compelling and attention-grabbing introduction that sets you apart from other candidates.

**Effective Coordination**

One key attribute of supply chain management is effective coordination, which encompasses the integration and synchronization of various business processes and functions throughout the supply chain. Effective coordination allows organizations to optimize the flow of information, goods, and services, ensuring that customer demands are met in a timely and cost-effective manner. This attribute can be achieved through open communication, shared objectives, and collaborative planning among all supply chain partners.

**Risk Management**

Risk management is another crucial aspect of supply chain management, involving the identification, assessment, and mitigation of potential threats and disruptions. Risks may arise from a variety of sources, such as natural disasters, geopolitical instability, or technological failures and can significantly impact the performance, reliability, and resilience of a supply chain. Effective risk management strategies include contingency planning, proactive monitoring of global events, and implementing measures to minimize the impact of potential disruptions on supply chain performance.

**Flexibility and Adaptability**

A supply chain's ability to maintain flexibility and adaptability is essential for navigating changes in market conditions, technologies, and customer preferences. Flexible supply chains can quickly reconfigure operations to respond to unexpected challenges, such as supplier disruptions, changes in demand patterns, or new regulatory requirements. Adaptability encompasses a supply chain's capacity to evolve and grow in the face of new opportunities and changing internal and external circumstances. To ensure a high level of flexibility and adaptability, organizations must invest in robust information systems, agile processes, and ongoing training and development of supply chain personnel.

**Cost Optimization**

Finally, cost optimization plays a significant role in supply chain management, as organizations seek to deliver products and services at the lowest possible cost without compromising quality or customer satisfaction. Effective supply chain management enables cost optimization through streamlined processes, strategic sourcing, inventory control, and production efficiency. Organizations must continuously assess supply chain performance, identify areas of waste and inefficiency, and implement targeted improvements to achieve higher levels of cost optimization. A strong focus on cost optimization is crucial for ensuring the overall competitiveness of an organization in the global marketplace.

Addressing Demand Fluctuations

To overcome common supply chain management challenges, businesses must systematically address demand fluctuations. Accurate demand forecasting helps organizations optimize their inventory levels, reducing stockout and overstock situations. Companies can employ modern technologies, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, to analyze historical data and identify consumer demand patterns.

Improving Visibility and Communication

Effective communication and increased visibility allow for better coordination among supply chain stakeholders. Establishing a centralized information platform helps to streamline communication, enhance transparency, and reduce misunderstandings. Additionally, adopting collaborative communication tools ensures timely and reliable dissemination of pertinent information to all involved parties.

Adopting Risk Management Strategies

Developing and implementing comprehensive risk management strategies mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. Thorough assessment of potential risks, such as supplier bankruptcies, transportation delays, and political instabilities, enable businesses to preempt challenges before they escalate. Companies can also consider diversifying suppliers or investing in strategic stock to mitigate the impact of supply chain risks.

Leveraging Technology Solutions

Integration of technology, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and warehouse management systems (WMS), streamlines the supply chain processes. These solutions enable real-time tracking of inventory, orders, and shipments, ensuring seamless flow of information throughout supply chain operations. Additionally, embracing automation and digitization can lead to increased efficiency, reduced human error, and improved responsiveness to market changes.

Promoting Sustainability

Incorporating sustainability practices into supply chain operations leads to long-term efficiencies and cost savings. Companies can focus on reducing waste and excess production, improving transportation efficiency, and minimizing environmental impacts by embracing green initiatives. By implementing responsible sourcing practices, businesses can also build a more positive brand reputation for demonstrating ethical and sustainable supply chain management.

Collaborating with Suppliers and Partners

Developing strategic relationships with suppliers and partners fosters mutual trust and enables collaborative problem-solving. A strong partnership allows for better alignment of goals, improved negotiation, and shared risk management. Moreover, companies can jointly invest in research and development or adopt innovative strategies to drive supply chain efficiency and agility.

Conclusion

To tackle common supply chain management challenges effectively, businesses need to focus on enhancing demand forecasting, increasing visibility, mitigating risks, leveraging technology, promoting sustainability, and collaborating with partners. By adopting these strategies, companies can expect improved efficiency, reduced costs, and strengthened resilience in the face of supply chain disruptions.

7 C's of Supply Chain Management

1. Connection

The first C, Connection, underscores the importance of establishing and maintaining strong relationships between various stakeholders within the supply chain, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.

2. Collaboration

Collaboration is essential for effective supply chain management, as it enables stakeholders to work together toward common goals, share information and resources, and reduce any potential risks and inefficiencies within the supply chain.

3. Coordination

Coordinating the various processes and activities within a supply chain is crucial to ensure the optimal flow of goods from production to consumption, as well as to maintain a balance between supply and demand.

4. Customization

Supply chain customization refers to the ability to adapt the supply chain processes and structures according to the specific needs and requirements of individual customers, thus increasing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

5. Communication

Effective communication among supply chain stakeholders is key to ensuring that relevant information flows smoothly across the entire supply chain network, enabling better decision-making, improved efficiency, and reduced risks.

6. Continuity

A strong focus on continuity enables supply chain stakeholders to maintain consistent and stable operations by minimizing interruptions and managing potential disruptions, such as natural disasters, political unrest, or economic volatility.

7. Control

Lastly, control is vital for successful supply chain management, as it involves monitoring and managing the performance of all aspects of the supply chain to prevent issues and ensure that performance targets are being met.

In conclusion, the 7 C's of supply chain management are crucial components in ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of a supply chain. By focusing on connection, collaboration, coordination, customization, communication, continuity, and control, organizations can optimize their supply chain processes, achieve competitive advantage, and deliver better value for their customers.

Exploring the Core of Supply Chain Management

My favorite supply chain interview question is, 'Can you discuss a time when you faced a significant challenge in the supply chain process, and how did you resolve it?' This question delves deep into the applicant's problem-solving skills and their experience in managing supply chain issues.

Practical Application of Knowledge

Answering this question entails describing a real-world situation, which showcases the interviewee's ability to apply their theoretical knowledge during a crisis. By doing so, it provides valuable insight into their practical experience and competence in handling adverse conditions.

Critical Thinking and Adaptability

The answer to this question also demonstrates the candidate's critical thinking and adaptability skills. It reveals how they are able to think on their feet, identify the root cause of the problem, and develop a creative solution while working under pressure.

Communication and Collaboration

Effective supply chain management requires strong communication and collaboration with various departments. The candidate's response to this question can provide a glimpse into their communication style and their ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve a common goal.

Continuous Improvement Mindset

Finally, this question promotes a growth mindset by allowing the candidate to reflect on the lessons learned from their experience. By understanding the importance of continuous improvement in supply chain management, they can show their commitment to learn and adapt to evolving challenges within the industry.

Core Knowledge Area 1: Supply Chain Strategy and Design

The first core knowledge area of supply chain management is strategy and design, which involves evaluating and selecting the most suitable supply chain configuration to support organizational goals. This process involves identifying key supply chain stakeholders, defining performance metrics, assessing potential risks, and utilizing simulation and modeling tools to analyze different scenarios and make informed decisions. This foundational knowledge area aims to improve supply chain efficiency, resiliency, and competitive advantage by optimizing and prioritizing resources across various stages of the supply chain, from procurement to distribution.

Core Knowledge Area 2: Supply Chain Planning and Execution

The second core knowledge area of supply chain management is planning and execution, which entails establishing and implementing plans to achieve the desired supply chain performance. This involves integrating and coordinating various supply chain functions, including demand forecasting, inventory management, production planning and scheduling, transportation planning, and order processing. To carry out these tasks, supply chain professionals rely on a combination of analytical tools, mathematical models, and real-time data, all aimed at balancing supply and demand, minimizing costs, and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and service.

Core Knowledge Area 3: Supply Chain Performance Measurement and Improvement

The third core knowledge area of supply chain management focuses on performance measurement and improvement, which entails monitoring, evaluating, and refining supply chain processes and systems to continually meet or exceed expectations. Key performance indicators (KPIs) act as quantitative and qualitative metrics, designed to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the supply chain. These KPIs include delivery lead time, on-time delivery rate, inventory turnover, and the total cost of ownership. By regularly analyzing and comparing these KPIs against benchmarks and industry standards, supply chain professionals can identify opportunities for improvement and implement targeted strategies to enhance overall supply chain performance.

Efficient Collaboration

One crucial aspect of successful supply chain management is efficient collaboration. Companies must work together seamlessly with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders. This coordination helps to prevent gaps in the supply chain that can result in delays or overstock.

Use of Technology

Incorporating technology into supply chain management is another success-driving factor. Companies can use digital tools and platforms to track and control inventory levels in real time, predict demand, coordinate with suppliers and improve delivery efficiency. The right technology can lead to significant time and cost savings, which are essential to maintaining competitiveness in today's business world.

Effective Risk Management

Thirdly, effective risk management is vital in supply chain management. Any disruption, either internal or external, can have considerable impact on the entire supply chain cycle. Therefore, companies need sophisticated risk assessment methods to forecast and mitigate potential risks. By doing so, firms can minimize disruptions or quickly bounce back when they occur.

In conclusion, efficient collaboration, the use of technology, and effective risk management are the three essential elements for successful supply chain management. With these components in place, companies can effectively manage their supply chains to ensure smooth operations and gain a competitive advantage.

Improved Supplier Engagement

Companies can maintain sustainability in their supply chain practices by enhancing supplier engagement. Including sustainability standards in supplier contracts can lay the foundation for responsible sourcing. This means forging strong relationships with suppliers, building capacity, providing support for good practice and rewarding adherence to sustainability criteria.

Adoption of a Circular Economy

Adopting the principles of a circular economy can also contribute to sustainable supply chain practices. In such a model, companies strive to eliminate waste and preserve resources by continually circulating products, components and materials at their highest value. This not only mitigates the depletion of resources but also reduces production costs and boosts competitiveness.

Incorporation of Technology

Utilization of technology is another viable method. Digitization, for instance, can provide complete visibility into supply chains, leading to more efficient and sustainable practices. Advanced technologies like AI and blockchain can offer enhanced traceability, transparency and accountability throughout supply chains.

Employee Training

Employee training on sustainability can also play a critical role. By incorporating sustainability into the company’s culture and values, it becomes an integral part of every business decision including those in supply chains.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Lastly, successful sustainability in supply chain practices requires collaboration with all the stakeholders. This includes governments, NGOs, industry associations, and communities. Such a collaboration supports the exchange of knowledge, fosters innovation and helps in shaping sustainability policies and standards.

In conclusion, maintaining sustainability in supply chain practices is a multifaceted approach that involves improved supplier engagement, adoption of circular economy principles, incorporation of technology, employee training and stakeholder collaboration. It is vital for corporations to shift to sustainable supply chain practices as they provide a competitive advantage and contribute to a healthier planet.

Assessing Strategy Effectiveness

Establishing clearly-defined goals is essential when evaluating the effectiveness of a supply chain strategy. These goals could encompass various areas such as reducing operational costs, improving product quality, or increasing customer satisfaction.

Identifying Key Performance Indicators

A step towards measurement involves selecting relevant Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Common KPIs include delivery time, order accuracy, and inventory turnover rate.

Benchmarking Success

Benchmarking against industry standards serves as an ideal method for gaiving performance. Comparing your KPI results with those of industry leaders offers a realistic evaluation of your supply chain's competitiveness.

Utilizing Technology

Employing technology solutions optimizes the process of assessing supply chain strategies. Advanced software can provide real-time data on all aspects of the supply chain, enabling informed decision-making.

Monitoring Regularly

Monitor performance constantly to capture any drawbacks or inefficiencies early. Regular assessments enable you to adjust strategies and implement improvements promptly when needed.

Surveying Customer Satisfaction

Finally, seek feedback directly from your end consumers. Customer feedback provides valuable insights into the end result of your supply chain's performance. Areas of dissatisfaction can pinpoint which aspects of your strategy may require amendments.

In conclusion, assessing the effectiveness of a supply chain strategy involves setting explicit objectives, determining relevant KPIs, benchmarking, leveraging technology, performing routine checks, and gaining customer feedback. Evaluation is not a single event but an ongoing process directed towards consistent optimization and competitiveness.