Managing vendors and suppliers is becoming complex. No longer is the relationship between a company and its suppliers a linear one or a singular one. On the contrary, suppliers may use what can be termed a "supplier sphere of influence" often using sub-suppliers who, in turn, may use sub-suppliers. A relationship with one supplier often means an indirect relationship with multiple suppliers. And globalization has created a distance barrier that adds further complexity when managing geographically-disperse partners.

Coordination on all levels is required to manage costs, improve quality and increase speed to market. Lack of visibility into market trends, competitive threats or supply shortages can lead to increases in risk, cost and time. Polycom collaboration solutions help to spread information in real-time to improve decision making and to quickly react to market conditions.

Polycom can help improve operational efficiencies and business processes in the following areas:

Parts Manufacturer

Collaboration allows buyers to stay in close contact with suppliers, independent of geography. Parts can be inspected remotely. Train geographically disperse audiences on key components. Real-time information allows parts manufacturers to better manage supply and demand.

Assembler/Final Product Manufacturer

Many manufacturing locations are offshore today. Customer service and call center teams can use Polycom video collaboration to enhance traditional voice-only troubleshooting calls. Plus, repair or installation steps can be explained visually.

Distributor/Channel Partner

Channels can use collaboration to check on inventory levels, product availability and ship status. Forecasting can be discussed and qualified in more depth using face-to-face, interactive collaboration technologies. Market and competitive information can be shared real-time with distributors worldwide.

Final Customer/Consumer

Customer support is enhanced by using video collaboration for troubleshooting calls. Problems can be resolved quicker with the ability to visually inspect an issue. Installation steps are easier to explain. And, ongoing interaction with customers can lead to the identification of new product requirements.