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I really liked ASCM's new CTSC program - Certified in Transformation for the Supply Chain!

The dynamic world of the supply chain requires constant adaptation and learning to meet the ever-changing business challenges. I recently studied the new APICS CTSC (Certified in Transformation for the Supply Chain) certification program, right after the launch stage by ASCM, as many other APICS instructors did. I definitely liked the program and I want to congratulate everyone who participated in its development, including a long-time instructor from Advance School. Below are some contents of this program that impressed me, even if the themes of the course go far beyond!

An Overview: Strategy, Strategic Analysis and Supply Chain Maturity

In the "Overview" section of the program, the in-depth analysis of strategic concepts transcends the surface. SWOT analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats a company may face during its transformation. Porter's competitive strengths, on the other hand, give an analytical lens for understanding the company's positioning in the market sector. The STEEPLE analysis offers further information on the macro-environment, exploring the impacts of social, technological, environmental, economic, political, legal and ethical aspects on the company.

Competitive advantage, core competencies and Value Proposition emerge as key concepts, adding significant value for those who wish to apply a strategic perspective to supply chain transformation. In this section, we also look at the 5 stages of supply chain maturity and how to make an assessment of the stage your company is in. The highest level is the Orchestrated Supply Chain, which fully leverages the concept of industry 4.0 to achieve a digital Supply Chain.

After this introduction, we begin to describe the concept of Transformation versus incremental improvement: the former can completely shift the cost curve of the Supply Chain, if well designed and implemented.

Digitalization and IT: Driving Transformation with Innovative Technology

The in-depth study of Digitalization and Information Technologies in the CTSC proves to be fundamental to face the challenges of the modern supply chain. The IT section of the program provides a detailed overview of how new technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics, are shaping the future of supply chain management. Students learn how to strategically integrate these technologies to improve operational efficiency and gain greater visibility across the entire supply chain. The practical structure of this section allows students to gain skills that are directly transferable in their business context.

Project Identification and Project Portfolio Management: Translating Strategy into Concrete Action

Project identification and Project Portfolio Management emerge as fundamental to translate strategy into action. The CTSC offers a structured approach that guides participants through the process of identifying improvement projects. Not only does this allow them to intelligently select the most relevant projects, but it also gives them a clear perspective on how these projects fit into the overall business landscape. The Project Management approach is emphasized, ensuring that participants not only understand the principles of project management theoretically, but are also able to apply them effectively. The hands-on section of this module is designed to ensure that professionals can successfully manage the complexity of multiple transformation projects at once.

Exploring the SCOR Model: Practical Application in Transformation Processes

An important part of the program is the exploration of the Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) Model.

This globally recognized model can be successfully used and integrated into practical application during supply chain transformation. The SCOR Model is described as a dynamic tool for evaluating, improving and optimizing operations throughout the supply chain. The model is not deepened, since this is a topic covered by the specific SCOR-DS course, but it is very often referred to to determine which areas to focus on and where to start a benchmark to identify the GAPs (see below for an example of a benchmark).

Change Management: Building Consensus and Engaging Stakeholders

Equally relevant is the section dedicated to Change Management. Supply chain transformation isn't just a matter of processes and technologies; it's also a question of people and skills. The CTSC addresses this in a structured way, highlighting the importance of Change Management for the overall success of the project. The program pays special attention to how to build consensus among team members and engage key stakeholders. Participants learn practical strategies for communicating effectively, managing resistance to change, and engaging stakeholders at all stages of transformation. Hands-on experience in Change Management provides students with the tools they need to navigate through the human complexities associated with supply chain transformation.

The Importance of Stakeholders: A Fundamental Pillar for Success

The program emphasizes that even if a project is technically sound, stakeholder engagement is critical to its success. Without proper support and involvement of key people inside and outside the organization, even the most advanced transformation can be doomed to failure. Through case studies and practical scenarios, the CTSC clearly demonstrates that change management is not just an adjunct to transformation, but an essential element. Learning how to engage stakeholders and build widespread consensus becomes a focal point of the program, providing students with a strategic advantage in the practical implementation of supply chain transformation.

Who is the program aimed at

I certainly see the program aimed at professionals in the Supply Chain or who interact with this area, and who already have a few years of experience. I am thinking of the following figures in particular: Supply Chain Managers (local, regional or global) and staff resources, Supply Chain professionals who work in continuous improvement, Logistics Managers, Procurement Managers, ERP and Supply Chain Consultants, Operations Directors, and all those who want to start a transformation journey, as Leaders or members of the Team, or who are already carrying it out, but want to do it better, by adopting international Best Practices.

Conclusion: A Best-in-Class Program to Invest In

In conclusion, the CTSC course not only offers a theoretical understanding of supply chain transformation but also integrates a practical perspective that resonates with real-world experience. With a focus on strategic concepts, digitalization, proactive project management, SCOR Model and Change Management, the CTSC positions itself as an important development program for a Supply Chain transformation, both as a Leader and as a Team member. The concepts expressed within the path, however, are also very useful for improvement projects with even limited perimeters of the Supply Chain, (for example, increase in stock turnover, logistics efficiency, stabilization of production program, etc.). The course, aimed at experienced Supply Chain professionals, maximizes benefits when carried out with Instructors with extensive transformation experience, who share concrete case studies and first-hand experience.

Article of DANIELE MELDOLESI, Board Member and Instructor of ADVANCE SCHOOL

Advance School, ASCM's Premier ELITE Partner, will make this training an unique experience or participants thanks to its team of the best APICS instructors, all Senior Managers with many years of experience in complex Supply Chain transformations. The starting dates of this new program will be announced shortly. For more information and enrollment, you can contact us at the email address info@advanceschool.ch