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Essay / The importance of continuous improvement - 997
(Slack. et al, 2013) The roles of technology and talent are involved in continuous improvement. For the technology role, “if you think that costly technological changes are the gatekeepers to continuous improvement, think again” (Keller, 2011). Continuous improvement mainly focuses on quality, cost, delivery and services in business processes. Then, identify and improve the processes that contribute to these factors. There is no doubt that technology generally drives continuous improvement; however, the company can improve these processes without absolutely needing technology. The company could improve business processes through continuous improvement tools and techniques. The role of technology is essential in processes such as production, design and information system (Keller, 2011). On the other hand, talent seems more essential than technology. Gonsalvez (2014) states that although technology and talent are the key factors in the quest for continuous improvement, technologies are developing at a faster pace than companies able to adapt and perceive these new technologies. Knowledge of the supply chain by talent appears to be more important. Talent is needed to coordinate technology and knowledge and to effectively leverage this combination in the business (Gonsalvez, 2014). Being talented at supply chain management requires more than supply chain knowledge. “Modern supply chain management goes far beyond simply coordinating the physical movement of goods from one point to another. This encompasses sourcing expertise, supplier management, knowledge of international trade trends and regulations, information technology prowess and customer relationship management, to name just a few key aspects of discipline” (Bowman, 2013). Additionally, demanding skills are required to fill a supply chain management role. Supply Chain Management Isn't Just Math.