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How should we handle the sensitive issues of transparency and confidentiality with our Supply Chain partners?
It’s a tricky subject. Supply chain works efficiently if various partners share information in a transparent manner. However, we do encounter cases from time to time when some partners hesitate in sharing info. The reason cited most often is their need for confidentiality, which should be respected.
How do we manage the fine balance between transparency and confidentiality? Many teams end up compromising their real needs for timely information, which adversely affects the overall supply chain performance.
My experience suggests that instead of negotiating transparency and confidentiality, we should work on developing trust with our partners. Once they trust us, they would start sharing the requisite information needed for smooth supply chain operations. At the same time, we should respect their privacy and refrain from asking for sensitive information which could jeopardise their business interests.
A solid foundation built on trust finds the right balance between transparency and confidentiality on its own.