Supply Chain Disruption: Key Strategies for CSCOs

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Supply chain disruption is inevitable. Be prepared.

Over the past several years, supply chain leaders have been beset by one disruption after another, including global wars, climate change events, energy shortages and hybrid work.

To help leaders comprehensively react to major supply chain disruptions, Gartner has assembled a three-piece toolkit, comprising:

  1. Checklist for Supply Chain Cost Management 

  2. List of 14 Tactics to Counteract Supply Instability

  3. Priorities for Supply Chain Response to High Inflation and Recession Risk

Download the toolkit to start mitigating supply chain disruption. 

Supply chain disruption is constant and impactful

Supply chain disruption is omnipresent and unpredictable. Disruptions can stem from natural disasters, pandemics, political instability, economic upheaval, cyberattacks, supplier threats and rapid changes in consumer demand. What differentiates great CSCOs is how they turn these supply chain disruptions into legacy-defining moments to secure the future supply chain

The key question is: Can you mitigate the next global supply chain disruption?

Insights and guidance for managing common supply chain disruptions

Raw material shortage

Thirty percent of CSCOs are shifting from a global to a regional supply chain model in response to trade barriers and calls to localize manufacturing. Download A New Role for CSCOs in Supply Sourcingto learn how top supply chains are adapting to postpandemic supply chain disruption.

Raw material price inflation

Balance efficiency with flexibility and agility, drawing on lessons learned from the U.S.-China trade war and COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the webinar, Supply Chain Strategies to Build Resilient Supply Networks.”

Logistics capacity shortage

B2B logistics is struggling to meet growing customer expectations for last-mile delivery. To succeed, it’s important to understand that customers expect excellence across many aspects of last mile (not just speed). Download 3 Logistics Transformations Needed for Better Last-Mile Deliveryto learn how to optimize last-mile delivery – a key driver of customer satisfaction, recommendation and repurchase decisions.

Global labor shortage

With employee turnover inevitable, leading organizations are reimagining supply chain talent strategies to translate turnover into a competitive advantage. Download the Embrace Supply Chain Turnover” report to get fresh ideas for improving talent mobility and reducing disruption after employees depart.

High inflation and recession risk

Prioritizing sustainable value is critical during times of economic uncertainty. Watch the webinar, Key Strategies to Advance Your Supply Chain Through Economic Disruptions to learn three key focus areas for CSCOs.

Global energy shortage and price surge

CSCOs must balance spikes in energy prices and security of supply risks with their ambitious decarbonization goals. Watch the webinar, Top 3 Approaches for Supply Chain Leaders to Address Energy Risks for lessons learned.

FAQ on supply chain disruption

What is supply chain disruption?

Supply chain disruption refers to unexpected events that interrupt the normal flow of goods and materials within a supply chain. These disruptions can be caused by natural disasters, pandemics, political instability, economic upheaval, cyberattacks or rapid changes in consumer demand. Such disruptions can lead to delays, increased costs and inefficiencies, impacting businesses and consumers alike.


How can CSCOs identify potential supply chain risks?

Chief supply chain officers (CSCOs) can identify potential supply chain risks by conducting risk assessments, analyzing historical data and monitoring global events. They should engage with suppliers to understand vulnerabilities; use technology like predictive analytics and AI to forecast disruptions; and regularly review and update risk management plans. Collaborating with cross-functional teams and staying informed about industry trends can help CSCOs proactively address potential risks.


What actions can be taken during a supply chain disruption?

During a supply chain disruption, immediate actions should include the following: 

Assess the impact on operations, communicating transparently with stakeholders and activating contingency plans. 

Prioritize critical supplies and identify alternative suppliers or routes. 

Use real-time data to make informed decisions and adjust inventory levels. 

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure coordinated efforts. 

Communicate with customers and partners on the situation and expected timelines for resolution.