From the course: Analysis and Reporting for Supply Chain Management

Supply chain reporting: Analyst expectations

From the course: Analysis and Reporting for Supply Chain Management

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Supply chain reporting: Analyst expectations

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- [Instructor] Reporting to leadership, that is what supply chain analysts do. Maybe it's this week, this month, or perhaps tomorrow, but they expect a report. And while a report from an analyst may sound like it's all about the numbers, look, if that's all you show up with, numbers and charts, well, you may not survive that meeting, because they're expecting more from you. So what will make you shine? What is it that they're expecting from you? More than that, what are they not expecting from you that will impress them, that will blow them away? Here are a few things top analysts consider as they prepare a report. First, let's consider your audience. Your boss will likely be there. Now, in your case, your direct boss may be a supply chain leader, but it's possible, if not likely, that leaders from finance will also be listening in. And don't forget to consider leaders in HR, marketing, and those that work directly with customers. Let me ask you something. Are you ready to provide a report that impresses this very diversified audience? Let me put it to you this way. You need to be. Next, consider the process. You'll be asked to analyze something specific. Inventory levels, last mile delivery, manufacturing quality. This isn't just numbers, this is something real, something that likely includes inventory, people, and money. So you need to be ready to explain the process in detail. Oh, and always remember the leaders in your meeting, they have so many other responsibilities. They might show up to your meeting distracted, stressed, and in a hurry, so be ready to quickly tell them what you're talking about and why it's important to them. Now, imagine your project is on inventory levels. This is your report. So you're sort of the expert during this report. Are you ready to explain why inventory levels are too high or too low? And can you help define the specific inventory goals for this product? How will we measure success? What are the risks? Are you starting to understand? This isn't just numbers, this is real life. And let me remind you again, your diversified audience, each person has different interests. Are your key metrics talking to the issues they care about? Okay, the audience is getting impatient. They want numbers, but in a way that's easy to understand. You need to be ready to tell your story using words, numbers, and pictures. You did it, you told your story, but if you did your job, the team will have questions. And if they were especially impressed with your presentation, you'll earn their respect and they'll want your opinions too. So be ready to answer questions and provide your professional opinion. Look, I know all of this sounds daunting, but this course will lay the foundation for you to get the job done. Whether it's the numbers, the storytelling, or the final presentation that concerns you, I'll provide some tips to help you deliver a high-quality supply chain analyst report.

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