So as I sit on the plane coming home, it got me to thinking.  Does this same ecosystem scenario apply to supply chain globalization?  Can a change to its carefully laid out environment cause it to become out of balance? And....why am I thinking about this on my last day of vacation?!

As I think about the ecosystem I was admiring, one thought did come to mind.  It took many years of nature working together to bring it to its thriving life.  Supply Chain Globilization works in much the same manner.  All supply chain teams and processes need to be functioning well together to produce that beautiful sustainable environment.

So what foreign object could possibly disrupt this environment so carefully built? After reflecting on past experiences of my own and those shared with me, the foreign object was just that - the addition of a foreign country.

I have witnessed organizations quick to establish a presence in additional countries to accelerate global presence.  With that said, this presence is established without integrating into the global supply chain immediately.  The opportunity that presents itself when integration does begin is that of changing the global supply chain process to fit the new presence; or attempting to retrofit the new country presence into the current global supply chain process.    How does one keep the delicate ecosystem intact?

As I think back on the beautiful ecosystem I visited in the Rockies, the sign as I entered the area read, "Please do not disturb any of the foliage or water areas as failure to do so may result in damaging  or negatively changing this preserved ecosystem.". Hmmm, seems this could hold true for growing supply chain Globilization.  Though processes may need to be adjusted to integrate the new country presence into the supply chain, be careful to preserve its delicate environment.