Great consultants deliver transformative, sustainable, and lasting change by combining deep industry knowledge with innovative strategies to drive continuous improvement and competitive advantage.

Interview with Shanaka Jayasinghe: Engaging External Consultants for Strategic Business Initiatives

Interviewer: Welcome, Shanaka Jayasinghe. As a leader in consulting with extensive experience, we're eager to understand the role of external consultants in helping Australian business executives and government officials make strategic decisions. In particular, how they contribute to designing and developing business cases for organisations stepping into new ventures or transformations.

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Thank you. It's an important topic, especially now as businesses and governments face unprecedented changes and challenges. External consultants with deep technical expertise and industry experience play a pivotal role in guiding these strategic shifts.

The Value of External Consultants in Strategic Planning

Interviewer: Can you elaborate on the value external consultants bring to strategic planning and business case development?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Absolutely. External consultants bring a fresh, outside-in perspective that can be crucial for organisations looking to navigate change or embark on new initiatives. They bring deep technical expertise and a broad view of industry trends and challenges, which can significantly enhance the quality and viability of strategic plans and business cases.

Addressing Growth and Network Redesign

Interviewer: How do consultants assist retailers in redesigning their network footprint for distribution, particularly in times of growth?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Growth often prompts retailers to reassess their distribution networks to ensure they align with changing business needs. Consultants can provide detailed analyses of current operations, market demands, and future growth scenarios to help design a network that is efficient, scalable, and aligned with the retailer's strategic goals. They can identify opportunities for consolidation, expansion, or reconfiguration to improve service levels, reduce costs, or enter new markets.

Adapting to Online Expansion and Automation

Interviewer: With the rise of online shopping, how are consultants helping businesses invest in new, purpose-built, and automated facilities?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: The shift to online retail has significant implications for supply chain and distribution strategies. Consultants help businesses understand these implications and guide them in investing in new technologies and facilities. This might involve designing automated warehouses, implementing advanced inventory management systems, or reconfiguring logistics networks to meet the unique demands of online retail.

Navigating Regulation and Legislation

Interviewer: Regulations and legislation can have a big impact on businesses. How do consultants help in adapting to these changes?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: New regulations or legislative changes can require significant adjustments in operations. Consultants help businesses understand these changes, assess their impacts, and develop strategies to comply efficiently and effectively. This might involve redesigning processes, investing in new technologies, or modifying supply chain structures.

Leveraging Technology in Supply Chains

Interviewer: In times of cost pressure and uncertainty, how important is it for businesses to leverage supply chain technology effectively?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Leveraging technology is more critical than ever. It can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, agility, and cost management. Consultants can help businesses identify and implement the right technologies for their specific needs, whether that's in logistics, inventory management, procurement, or other areas of the supply chain. They can also help integrate these technologies into existing operations to maximise their value.

Responding to Geopolitical Risks and Climate Change

Interviewer: How are geopolitical risks and climate change creating new challenges for businesses, and how can consultants assist?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Geopolitical risks and climate change are leading to more volatile and complex operating environments. Businesses need to be more resilient and adaptable to manage these challenges. Consultants can provide risk assessments, scenario planning, and strategy development to help businesses understand and mitigate these risks. They can also guide investments in sustainability and resilience, such as diversifying supply sources, enhancing flexibility, or reducing environmental impact.

The 'Cut Through' Advantage of Specialist Perspectives

Interviewer: You mentioned the 'cut through' that specialist perspectives bring. Can you expand on this?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Specialist consultants can quickly identify the core issues and opportunities within an organisation. They have the expertise and experience to cut through complexity and provide clear, actionable advice. This efficiency is invaluable in helping organisations move towards their desired state, particularly when time and resources are limited.

How Trace Supply Chain Consultants Elevate Business Strategies

Interviewer: With the importance of specialised expertise in navigating these complex transformations, how can Trace Supply Chain Consultants specifically assist Australian businesses and government officials?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Trace Supply Chain Consultants is an Australian-owned, capability-oriented consulting firm, uniquely positioned to assist organisations in enhancing their supply chain and business strategies. Our approach is centred around providing specialised expertise and leveraging advanced technologies to deliver tangible, measurable results for our clients.

Here's how we make a significant impact:

1. Specialised Expertise: Our team consists of seasoned consultants with deep industry knowledge and technical skills. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities within the Australian market and offer bespoke solutions tailored to each client's specific needs.
2. Advanced Technologies: We utilise the latest technologies with deep knowledge across integrated ERP solutions (e.g. SAP, Oracle, etc), best of breed systems (e.g. Kinaxis, GAINS systems, Relex, Coupa, Zycus, etc.) and low code/no code platforms. We also deploy proven methodologies alongside, including lean six sigma andcontinuous improvement practices to drive efficiency and innovation within client operations.
3. Focus on Tangible Results: Our goal is to deliver not just advice but actual outcomes that improve performance, reduce costs, and enhance resilience. We work closely with our clients throughout the entire process, from initial assessment and strategy development to implementation and ongoing support, ensuring that the changes we recommend lead to real, sustainable improvements.
4. Australian Orientation: Being Australian owned and operated, we have a vested interest in the success of local businesses and the Australian economy. Our strategies are designed with an understanding of local regulations, market conditions, and cultural nuances.

By partnering with Trace Supply Chain Consultants, organisations can confidently navigate their strategic transformations, knowing they have a team of experts committed to their success. Our combination of specialised expertise, advanced technologies, and a focus on tangible results makes us an invaluable partner for any business looking to enhance its operations and competitive advantage.

Distinguishing Great Consultants from Good

Interviewer: Finally, what distinguishes a great consultant from a good one?

Shanaka Jayasinghe: A great consultant combines deep expertise with a genuine understanding of the client's business and needs. They are not just problem solvers but also trusted advisors who can guide and support clients through complex and uncertain times. They bring not only technical skills but also strategic insight, creative thinking, and a commitment to delivering real value. Great consultants build lasting relationships and are considered an integral part of the client's success.

Interviewer: Your insights today have been incredibly valuable, Shanaka. It's clear that external consultants play a critical role in helping businesses and governments navigate strategic shifts and embrace new opportunities. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us.

Shanaka Jayasinghe: Thank you for the discussion. It's a pivotal time for businesses and governments, and the right guidance and support can make all the difference. I'm proud to be part of this dynamic and crucial field of work.

Cost Reduction Strategies

In today's competitive market, reducing costs in the supply chain is crucial for improving profitability and maintaining a competitive edge. By implementing effective cost reduction strategies, businesses can streamline operations, optimise inventory management, and negotiate better deals with suppliers, ultimately driving significant savings.

Process Optimisation

One of the most effective ways to reduce costs is by streamlining operations. This involves identifying and eliminating inefficiencies in the supply chain processes. Implementing lean practices, such as continuous improvement and waste reduction, can lead to significant cost savings and improved operational efficiency.

Streamlining Operations

Streamlining operations involves analysing and optimising each step of the supply chain process. This can include improving workflows, eliminating redundant tasks, and automating repetitive processes. By making operations more efficient, businesses can reduce costs and enhance productivity.

Implementing Lean Practices

Lean practices focus on eliminating waste and improving efficiency. This includes techniques such as value stream mapping, 5S, and Kaizen. By continuously improving processes and eliminating non-value-added activities, businesses can achieve significant cost savings and improve quality.

Inventory Management

Effective inventory management is critical for reducing costs. By improving demand forecasting and reducing excess inventory, businesses can minimise storage costs and reduce the risk of obsolescence. Techniques such as just-in-time inventory and vendor-managed inventory can help optimise stock levels and improve cash flow.

Reducing Excess Inventory

Maintaining excess inventory ties up capital and incurs additional storage costs. By improving demand forecasting and implementing inventory optimisation techniques, businesses can reduce excess inventory and free up working capital. This also reduces the risk of inventory obsolescence and waste.

Improving Demand Forecasting

Accurate demand forecasting helps businesses maintain optimal inventory levels. By using advanced analytics and historical data, businesses can predict future demand and plan inventory accordingly. This reduces the risk of stockouts and overstocking, improving customer satisfaction and reducing costs.

Supplier Negotiations

Building strong relationships with suppliers and negotiating better deals can lead to significant cost savings. Leveraging purchasing power and entering long-term partnerships with suppliers can result in favourable terms and discounts. Collaborative planning and joint cost reduction initiatives with suppliers can also enhance mutual benefits.

Leveraging Purchasing Power

Businesses with significant purchasing power can negotiate better deals with suppliers. This can include volume discounts, favourable payment terms, and reduced prices. By consolidating purchases and leveraging their buying power, businesses can achieve significant cost savings.

Building Long-Term Partnerships

Building long-term partnerships with suppliers can lead to mutual benefits and improved supply chain performance. This includes collaborative planning, joint cost reduction initiatives, and shared risk management. Long-term partnerships also enhance trust and communication, leading to better outcomes.

Technology and Automation

Using technology to reduce costs is a key strategy in modern supply chain management. Technologies such as robotics, IoT, and advanced analytics can automate processes, improve efficiency, and reduce costs. Examples of cost-saving technologies include automated warehouse systems, predictive maintenance, and digital twin simulations.

Using Technology to Reduce Costs

Automation can significantly reduce labour costs and improve efficiency. For example, automated warehouse systems can handle tasks such as picking, packing, and sorting, reducing the need for manual labour. IoT devices can monitor equipment health and predict maintenance needs, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Examples of Cost-Saving Technologies

Digital twin simulations create virtual replicas of physical assets and processes. This allows businesses to test and optimise operations before implementing changes in the real world. Predictive maintenance uses IoT and data analytics to predict equipment failures and schedule maintenance, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

‍Strategies for Enhancing Transparency

To enhance transparency, businesses should establish clear policies and practices regarding information sharing. This includes setting up systems to track and report on sourcing practices, production processes, and logistics operations. Training employees and fostering a culture of transparency can also help ensure that transparency initiatives are successful.

Future Trends

The field of supply chain visibility and transparency is continuously evolving, with new trends and innovations emerging regularly. Staying updated on these trends can help businesses stay ahead of the competition and continuously improve their visibility and transparency practices.

Emerging Trends in Supply Chain Visibility

Trends such as the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced analytics are gaining traction in supply chain visibility. AI and machine learning can enhance demand forecasting, inventory management, and predictive maintenance, while advanced analytics can provide deeper insights into supply chain performance.

Predictions for the Future

As supply chains become more complex and globalised, the importance of visibility and transparency will continue to grow. Businesses that adopt innovative visibility and transparency strategies and technologies will be better positioned to navigate disruptions and maintain resilience.

Enhancing supply chain visibility and transparency is essential for improving efficiency and building customer trust. By leveraging real-time tracking, achieving end-to-end visibility, and promoting transparency, businesses can optimise their supply chains and respond effectively to challenges. Trace Consultants provides expert guidance in implementing these initiatives, ensuring your supply chain is both efficient and trustworthy.

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Back-of-House (BOH) Operations & Logistics: A Conversation with Emma Woodberry

Introduction: Why BOH Logistics is Critical for Operational Excellence

Behind every well-functioning hospital, stadium, or large facility lies a highly efficient back-of-house (BOH) infrastructure that ensures smooth operations. From patient care in hospitals to event execution at stadiums, BOH logistics underpins efficiency, safety, and service quality.

To explore these challenges and opportunities, we spoke with Emma Woodberry, an expert in BOH operations at Trace Consultants, about the key strategies that drive efficiency, risk mitigation, and operational scalability in BOH logistics.

How Hospitals Can Optimise BOH Logistics for Safe and Efficient Patient Care

Emma Woodberry:
Hospitals rely on seamless BOH logistics to ensure that critical supplies, equipment, and staff movement are managed efficiently. The goal is to prevent supply shortages, minimise delays, and optimise patient care delivery.

Key strategies for optimising hospital BOH logistics include:

• Centralised inventory and supply chain management – Ensuring real-time visibility and automated replenishment of critical medical supplies.
• Optimised materials handling and pathways – Designing clear movement pathways for linen, pharmaceuticals, equipment, and waste to prevent congestion.
• Leveraging automation and digital tools – RFID tracking and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) improve efficiency and reduce errors.

At Trace Consultants, we recently helped a major metropolitan hospital reconfigure its BOH logistics, reducing material movement inefficiencies while enhancing OTIF (On-Time In-Full) performance for critical supplies.

How Stadiums and Event Venues Must Plan for BOH Logistics for Seamless Event Execution

Emma Woodberry:
Large-scale venues have complex and high-volume logistics requirements. Without an optimised BOH strategy, events face supply shortages, bottlenecks, and service delays.

Best practices for stadium and event BOH logistics include:

• Dock-to-service point planning – Ensuring smooth movement of food, beverages, merchandise, and equipment from delivery zones to sales points.
• Real-time inventory and replenishment systems – Preventing stockouts by leveraging live tracking and predictive analytics.
• High-capacity waste management solutions – Handling high waste volumes efficiently during peak event times.

For a major Australian sporting venue, we redesigned their BOH operations, reducing turnaround times and improving congestion risks, enabling faster restocking, and eliminating supply shortages during peak periods.

How Effective Master Planning of Hospitals Can Improve Operational Efficiency and Service Outcomes

Emma Woodberry:
BOH logistics must be embedded into hospital master planning to avoid inefficiencies and safety risks. Many hospitals struggle with congested service corridors, poorly located storage areas, and insufficient capacity planning.

Key elements of effective master planning include:

• Future-proofed logistics hubs – Ensuring BOH infrastructure can scale with hospital growth.
• Integrated service corridors – Designing clear pathways for the movement of materials, linen, and medical waste.
• Smart supply chain and storage systems – Using automated solutions to reduce manual handling risks and improve stock accuracy.

We recently supported a public hospital expansion project where a logistics-driven master planning approach improved storage efficiency and reduced interdepartmental material transfer times.

How Loading Dock and Central Stores Design is Critical to Safe, Scalable, and Efficient Operations

Emma Woodberry:
The loading dock and central stores form the nexus of all BOH logistics in hospitals, stadiums, and large facilities. A poorly designed dock or storage area can result in supply delays, safety risks, and space constraints.

Best practices for loading dock and central stores design include:

• Adequate capacity for peak demand – Ensuring sufficient dock bays, storage, and staging areas.
• Separation of BOH traffic flows – Preventing congestion by zoning different types of deliveries.
• Integrated automation – Using conveyor systems, robotics, and real-time inventory tracking to improve efficiency.

We recently worked with a large healthcare provider to redesign its loading dock and stores layout, improving delivery efficiency and reducing internal transport time for supplies.

How BOH Design is Key to Mitigating Risks in Safety, HACCP, Congestion, and Capacity

Emma Woodberry:
BOH logistics is a high-risk area due to the movement of food, medical supplies, hazardous materials, and waste. A poorly designed BOH system can lead to safety incidents, compliance failures, and operational inefficiencies.

Key risk mitigation strategies include:

• HACCP-aligned food handling processes – Preventing cross-contamination through structured food storage and transport systems.
• Traffic flow design to reduce congestion – Separating high-volume movement areas from patient and guest pathways.
• Capacity planning for peak demand – Ensuring sufficient storage and waste management facilities for surge periods.

By implementing risk-based BOH design strategies for a multi-site hospital group, we helped reduce food safety incidents and improved compliance with HACCP and infection control standards.

How Waste, F&B, Linen, Staff, and Consumables Drive BOH Demand

Emma Woodberry:
BOH logistics is shaped by a diverse mix of demand drivers, including:

• Waste management – Handling general waste, hazardous waste, and recyclables efficiently.
• Food & beverage (F&B) logistics – Ensuring timely delivery and safe storage of perishable goods.
• Linen and laundry operations – Managing clean and soiled linen movement in high-turnover environments.
• Staff movement and storage needs – Ensuring BOH spaces accommodate staff logistics, lockers, and equipment.
• Consumables and medical supply demand – Optimising replenishment cycles and reducing stockholding inefficiencies.

For a large integrated resort, we designed an optimised BOH flow that consolidated linen, waste, and F&B logistics, reducing operational redundancies and cutting costs by 15%.

How Trace Consultants Can Help

At Trace Consultants, we specialise in helping organisations:

✅ Optimise BOH Logistics in Hospitals – Redesigning supply chain processes for patient care efficiency.
✅ Enhance Stadium and Event Logistics – Implementing seamless BOH strategies for major venues.
✅ Develop Effective Hospital Master Planning – Embedding logistics efficiency into facility design.
✅ Improve Loading Dock and Central Stores Design – Ensuring capacity, safety, and efficiency.
✅ Implement Risk-Based BOH Design – Reducing congestion, safety hazards, and compliance risks.
✅ Streamline Waste, Linen, F&B, and Consumables Logistics – Enhancing BOH integration and efficiency.

With deep industry expertise and data-driven insights, Trace Consultants helps businesses unlock BOH efficiency, cost savings, and risk mitigation.

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BOH logistics is the backbone of operational efficiency across hospitals, stadiums, and large-scale facilities. Effective BOH design and planning reduce risks, improve service quality, and drive long-term cost savings.

For organisations looking to optimise BOH logistics, mitigate risks, and future-proof their facilities, now is the time to act.

Want to discuss how Trace Consultants can help improve your BOH operations? Get in touch today.

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