Alstom unlocks supply chain excellence with Gordian

Challenge

Alstom Transport is a manufacturer of rolling stock and signalling systems. Various regional and national carriers use Alstom products. The site in Ridderkerk supplies and repairs spare parts for customers in the Netherlands. In addition, parts of new traction installations are built in this location for customers worldwide. Gordian and Alstom Ridderkerk have had a close relationship for years, with Gordian offering both structural and incidental support in the field of spare parts planning, supply chain optimization and logistics tooling. This collaboration results in an improved performance of internal processes and a better availability of (spare) parts.

Result

Interim supply chain manager

A shift in organizational focus from new construction to repair created the need to establish an improved supply chain. Improving performance towards customers is an important goal here. Gordian supplied an interim supply chain manager who streamlined the supply chain within Alstom. Initially, we focused on setting up a supply chain department that took over the coordination of the supply chain. Complex processes were mapped out and adjusted where necessary. We also looked at the responsibilities, as they shifted over the years from being in the proper places. KPIs have been actively researched to identify and address the real drivers of mis performance. These actions have led to an increase in the delivery reliability to customers.

Approach

Planning Services

In order to be able to meet new availability agreements with customers, Alstom was looking for structural support for stock planning with tooling and tactical planning capacity. Through Planning Services, Gordian provides various services to Alstom. Every month we use the Gordian Spare Parts Management tool Lanza to analyze exceptions, such as a peak in historical consumption or in the delivery time. We provided the entire range with new logistics parameters. In addition, Gordian helped the tactical stock manager in compiling a monthly KPI report, including setting out improvement actions. With a multitude of quantitative and qualitative analyses, Gordian contributed to the continuous improvement of Alstom’s logistics chain. Think, for example, of research into remediation or the analysis of SLA contracts

Tailer-made logistics tooling

Several processes were insufficiently supported by modern software solutions, both in the implementation and in the field of reporting, causing unnecessary delays and errors. In addition, management had insufficient insight into the performance of the processes for which they are responsible. Gordian supports Alstom in the optimal design of the ERP system and the development of tailor-made tooling, if this system cannot meet the stated need. Resulting in daily processes that are carried out without undue delay. Thanks to improved insight into performance, management can make timely adjustments and is back in control.

As a result of the collaboration, Alstom is able, where necessary, to quickly call on Gordian’s knowledge and capacity, both on a project basis and on a structural basis. This has now led to improved processes and performance in several areas.