Creating a supply chain map is a multi-step process with each step having a number of individual requirements. The map creator begins by determining what type of supply chain map is needed, process or strategic. With the type of map determined, information about the environment to be mapped is gathered. The gathered information is then put in the supply chain map format that best communicates to the end users of the map. Finally, the map should be distributed to end users with a method for feedback established.

A supply chain map is a representation on paper, using lines, words and symbols, of an existing business process or a strategy to develop a process. The process being mapped involves how a company’s product ultimately gets to consumers. Supply chain mapping has become increasingly important as companies outsource much of the manufacturing process. The goal of any supply chain map is to help a company evaluate and monitor the efficiency of its processes.

If a company does not yet have a supply process in place, a strategic supply chain map is the first requirement. The supply strategy to be mapped should reflect the overall strategy of the company. Information to be gathered includes where the supply process fits in the company’s tactics, how the supply process relates to the company’s values, how the supply process relates to the company’s goals and how the effectiveness of the process will be measured.

For those companies with an existing supply process, the process of creating a supply chain map typically begins at the end of the process, with the consumer. Working backward, the map creator notes each step the company takes to place the product in a consumer’s hands. Examples of these processes, working backward, include, shipping, packaging, safety testing, assembly and parts acquisition.

The degree of detail in either the strategic or process supply chain map varies with the end users of the map. It is typically best to begin with the end users in mind, understanding what information needs to be communicated to them, and then setting the parameters of the supply chain map based on that. In all facets of the mapping process, the goal of effective communication to the end users of the map typically guides the effort.

Once the strategic or process information is gathered, the data is mapped on paper, typically using lines to indicate flow of materials or processes and variously-shaped boxes to contain words describing what is happening to the materials at each stage of the process. Internal consistency should drive the types of lines, boxes and symbols used and, if necessary, a key should be included, much as with a road map. As an example, a single line can indicate the flow of goods from one supplier to the next while a double line might indicate the flow of goods from two suppliers to a third. Usually, the meaning of lines and shapes on the map is up to the map creator.

The purpose of a supply chain map is to help those at a company at both the strategic and process levels understand how products flow from conception to consumer. An effective supply chain map typically is designed to communicate clearly as a stand-alone document so that those working on one part of the process can understand all parts. Finally, the creation process of a supply chain map should also include a plan for distributing the document and receiving feedback.