The pharmaceutical industry faces increasingly robust challenges in a scenario of high regulatory demands, constant digital transformation, in addition to the growing demand for operational efficiency. In the face of such challenges, the pursuit of excellence in service level, ensuring deliveries“on time and in full”(OTIF), and the optimization of investments in technology, emerge as determining factors for the competitiveness of the sector that, in 2023, generated R$ 142 billion in Brazil
The pursuit of on-time delivery is not just a matter of customer satisfaction, but a competitive advantage. The alignment between demand planning, inventory management and logistics processes become essential to achieve high levels of OTIF
Although there is no specific data on the OTIF deficit in the sector, companies that implement lean manufacturing practices and global production strategies have shown improvements in indicators such as inventory levels, OTIF deliveries and lead time reduction. For that, some practices can be adopted
- More accurate demand forecastingThe use of Artificial Intelligence and predictive analysis allows for anticipating consumption patterns, avoiding unnecessary stocks and supply shortages
- Supply chain improvementInvest in strategic partnerships and digital integration among suppliers, distributors and logistics operators reduce bottlenecks and improve the traceability of medications
- Automation and digitalization of processesTools like logistics control towers, IoT (Internet of Things) and blockchain enable greater visibility and control over the flow of products, minimizing failures and ensuring deliveries
Technology as a vector of transformation
The optimization of investments in technology should be guided by a strategic vision, contemplating from organizational structure to data security and process automation. Some key fronts deserve attention
- Organizational structure and agile squadsThe adoption of agile methodologies and the creation of multidisciplinary squads increase the capacity for innovation and rapid response to market changes, allowing greater efficiency in the execution of technology projects
- Data platform and cloud computingThe unification of data on robust and secure platforms, allied to cloud migration, allows for greater scalability, accessibility and strategic insights based on data analysis
- Cybersecurity as a priorityThe pharmaceutical sector deals with sensitive and high-value information. The implementation of strict security policies, including advanced encryption, continuous monitoring and training of employees, it is essential to mitigate cyber risks
- Process automation and artificial intelligenceFrom chatbots for customer service to robotic process automation (RPA) for administrative tasks, AI has the potential to reduce operational costs and increase productivity
The future of the pharmaceutical sector will be defined by the ability of companies to balance technological innovation with operational efficiency. Those that can align investments in technology with the pursuit of logistical excellence will be better positioned to face challenges and provide superior quality service. The commitment to innovation and digital transformation is not just a competitive differentiator, but an imperative for the survival and longevity of the business
