Freeing up resources and improving customer satisfaction

A.P. Møller-Mærsk has a fleet of more than 1,000 vessels operating in a complex global network. Every unit is a large workplace, and efficiency and operation across the fleet rely on more than 5,000 suppliers of everything from provisions to machinery spare parts.

The task – and the challenge facing A.P. Møller-Mærsk – was to simplify and improve the supply chain between consignees and suppliers.

A team of project employees was set up across A.P. Møller-Mærsk and Capacent. The work started by gathering information and data, generating the necessary knowledge to solve the case. Interviews with approximately 100 people covering vessel crews, onshore technicians, purchasers and suppliers resulted in 400 ideas and 40 charters showing the way to improving and simplifying purchase and delivery.

“As is often the case in business, complex situations call for simple solutions. Involvement of vessel crews around the world made it possible to create a more efficient system for the purchase and delivery process, based on the real needs of the customer,” says Jens Indahl, Chief Sales Officer, Capacent International..

The next step was to implement the charters. Shortly afterwards, the solution started to have an impact. The new system – involving e.g. a clear overview of the supply chain and a new standardised catalogue of goods – saved resources and improved customer satisfaction extensively.