Project Abstract

The automotive industry is a complex and dynamic landscape, where the efficient management of supplier relationships is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. This project aims to investigate the current practices and challenges in supplier relationship management (SRM) within the automotive industry, and develop a comprehensive framework to optimize these processes. The primary objective is to enhance supply chain resilience, reduce costs, and improve overall operational efficiency for automotive manufacturers. Effective SRM is a strategic imperative in the automotive industry, as it enables companies to navigate the intricate network of suppliers, ensure timely delivery of high-quality components, and respond swiftly to market fluctuations. In today's highly globalized and interconnected automotive supply chains, the ability to manage supplier relationships effectively can make the difference between success and failure. However, the industry faces numerous challenges, such as complex supplier ecosystems, evolving customer demands, regulatory changes, and the need for technological integration. This project will begin by conducting a thorough analysis of the current SRM practices employed by leading automotive manufacturers. Through extensive industry research, interviews with key stakeholders, and the examination of real-world case studies, the project will identify the pain points, best practices, and emerging trends in SRM. Special attention will be paid to the impact of digital technologies, such as predictive analytics, blockchain, and Internet of Things (IoT), on supplier relationship optimization. Building upon the insights gained from the initial assessment, the project will develop a comprehensive framework for optimizing SRM in the automotive industry. This framework will encompass strategies for supplier selection, performance evaluation, risk management, collaborative planning, and continuous improvement. The framework will also address the organizational and cultural aspects of SRM, ensuring that the proposed solutions are aligned with the unique requirements and dynamics of the automotive industry. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed framework, the project will involve the implementation and testing of the model in a selected automotive manufacturing organization. This pilot study will provide valuable feedback and enable the refinement of the framework, ensuring its applicability and scalability across the industry. The anticipated outcomes of this project include 1. A detailed understanding of the current SRM landscape in the automotive industry, including the key challenges, best practices, and industry-specific requirements. 2. A comprehensive framework for optimizing SRM, incorporating the latest digital technologies and industry-specific strategies. 3. Empirical evidence of the effectiveness of the proposed framework through the successful implementation and evaluation in a real-world automotive manufacturing setting. 4. Recommendations for automotive manufacturers to enhance their SRM processes, improve supply chain resilience, and drive operational excellence. By addressing the critical issue of supplier relationship management in the automotive industry, this project will contribute to the broader body of knowledge in supply chain management and provide valuable insights for industry practitioners. The findings and the proposed framework will serve as a blueprint for automotive manufacturers to navigate the complexities of supplier relationships, unlock new opportunities for cost savings, and enhance their competitive positioning in the global market.

Project Overview