The importance of supply chain solutions relative to a company’s efforts to maintain and improve quality are almost impossible to underplay. When enacting quality improvement programs, any company would do well to examine its supply chain model and processes as a fundamental means of improving quality with suppliers, partners, and customers.

Within the last 10 years, the bar has risen for supply chains in the quest for the “perfect order.” Perfection is expected in the product, condition, quantity, documentation, and location. What are some common symptoms of a supply chain that is not operating at peak performance?

Here’s a look at seven “cardinal sins” of supply chain management that point to a lack of efficiency or quality, but also provide opportunities for improvement.

 …