How to Integrate Sales and Operations Planning and Supply Chain Management

The first discussion post describes some of the positive results that arise from integrating sales and operation planning (S&OP). According to the post, sales in an abstract definition is the process through which products are transferred from the manufacturer to the consumer. On the other hand, operation planning involves the details, meaning the specific functions that must be done for a product to reach the consumer. People and processes have to be coordinated from the onset to get the raw materials, create the product, and take it to the market. Evidently, sales and operation planning have to be integrated for positive results. For instance, people working in the sales department will notify those in the production department of the demand, the preferences of consumers, among other details. As a consequence, a firm will avoid producing excess or products which are not needed by the consumers, thus preventing unnecessary losses. 

In regard to the second discussion post, supply chain management is a very vital factor in both the production and distribution process of a firm. It requires that all activities are coordinated. The most prominent thing in this discussion post is the need for efficiency and effectiveness. First, all departments ought to coordinate their activities. Secondly, there ought to be favorable communication and interaction among employees, regardless of their ranks. That means that the organizational culture should foster an enabling work environment, motivate employees, and eliminate bureaucratic structures. The presence of such an enabling environment improves work relationships, and ultimately the output. The overall result is that the organization will have good performance. Summarily, the two discussion posts emphasize that there should be integration of both people and processes. As much as departments should coordinate their activities, people also ought to have favorable work relationships. Evidently, integration is a very crucial factor to any progressive organization.