Visualization and Optimization of Orientdig's Purchasing Supply Chain Data in Spreadsheets
Introduction
In today's global e-commerce landscape, data visualization has become critical for cross-border purchasing businesses like Orientdig. This report explores how spreadsheet-based visualization can transform raw supply chain data into actionable insights for better decision-making and operational efficiency.
Supply Chain Data Visualization in Spreadsheets
1. Supplier Network Mapping
Using spreadsheet pie charts and node-link diagrams, we map Orientdig's supplier ecosystem:
- Geographic distribution heat maps (using color gradients)
- Supplier performance dashboards (speed/quality scorecards)
- Relationship matrices showing product-category specialization
2. Procurement Process Flow
Gantt charts and timeline visualizations highlight:
- Order-to-delivery cycle times for different product categories
- Bottlenecks in purchase order approval processes
- Seasonal fluctuations in procurement volumes (line charts with trendlines)
3. Inventory Management
Interactive pivot charts reveal:
- SOH (Stock on Hand) vs. demand forecasting discrepancies
- ABC analysis of inventory turnover rates
- Warehousing capacity utilization heatmaps
4. Logistics Tracking
Geospatial mapping (through integration with mapping tools) and Sankey diagrams show:
- Shipping route efficiencies/delays
- Last-mile delivery performance metrics
- Carrier reliability comparisons
Identified Supply Chain Issues
| Category | Issue | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Procurement | 45% of POs require manual follow-up due to incomplete vendor data | +3 day average procurement cycle |
| Inventory | 28% of SKUs show >30 days excess inventory | $240K/year carrying cost |
| Logistics | 17% cross-border shipments face custom clearance delays | 42% customer service complaints |
Optimization Recommendations
1. Data Standardization
- Implement template-based data collection for uniform supplier information
- Create dropdown validation for key fields (lead times, MOQs etc.)
2. Dynamic Dashboard Development
- Build connected pivot tables with real-time API data feeds
- Implement conditional formatting for exception alerts
3. Automated Reporting
- Create macros for generating weekly performance scorecards
- Set up auto-triggered inventory replenishment signals
4. Collaborative Planning
- Shared cloud-based sheets with supplier performance tracking
- Comment threads for resolving supply issues
Expected Outcomes
Through these visualization and optimization initiatives, Orientdig can expect:
- 18-25% reduction in procurement lead times
- 15-20% decrease in excess inventory costs
- 30% improvement in on-time delivery rates
- Enhanced visibility across all tiers of the supply chain
The spreadsheet-based approach provides a cost-effective solution that can scale as Orientdig grows its cross-border purchasing operations.