Leading Supply Chain Design Vendors Enabling Retailers to Compete with E-Commerce Giants, Nucleus Research Value Matrix Finds

Llamasoft driving ease-of-use trend, giving retailers the flexibility and agility to quickly optimize supply chain and keep pace with competitors

BOSTON – February 17, 2015 – Supply Chain Design (SCD) is emerging as a priority for retailers as they seek to effectively compete with large e-commerce giants such as Amazon, the Technology Value Matrix for Supply Chain Design from Nucleus Research shows. New subscription-based Software as a Service (SaaS) tools from vendors such as Llamasoft are allowing retailers to proactively manage their supply chain and compete more effectively with much larger competitors.

“Until recently, only very large companies could afford to make investments in supply chain design tools and regularly evaluate the makeup of their network. SaaS offerings are changing the game and empowering even smaller retailers to punch above their weight class and keep their network agile,” said James Cooke, principal analyst at Nucleus Research. “With the right tools, companies can respond quickly to the competitive landscape and ensure their supply chains can satisfy the demands of both store and online customers. Retailers in particular won’t be able to grow their business without using these tools regularly.”

Usability Becomes a Priority

In today’s dynamic global marketplace driven by e-commerce, companies need to re-examine their supply chain design on a regular basis and reassess their sourcing, production, distribution and inventory holdings. Cloud-based solutions allow for faster run times for modeling, thus enabling companies to quickly compare alternative, more beneficial ways to leverage their supply chain.

SaaS applications are helping smaller retailers by delivering a new level of usability that makes it easier to change the supply change and respond quickly. In some cases, retailers are able to bring this function in-house and reduce staff needed to maximize their supply chain. The Value Matrix shows a number of vendors that are focused on usability are making significant gains in the value they deliver. These include Llamasoft, AnyLogic, Barloworld, Profit Point and Solvoyo.

The full Report is available at www.NucleusResearch.com

About Nucleus Research

Nucleus Research is a global provider of investigative, case-based technology research and advisory services that provide real-world insight into maximizing technology value. For more information, visit NucleusResearch.com or follow us on Twitter @NucleusResearch.